Many people with urological symptoms will be able to get symptom relief without the need for surgery.
Simple things like drinking less tea, coffee or alcohol may be helpful for certain symptoms.
Other conditions may be treated with medication such as tablets, antibiotics or injections. These can be used for a number of conditions such as recurrent UTIs, an enlarged prostate, certain types and stages of prostate cancer or erectile dysfunction.
If non-surgical treatments do not give you adequate symptom relief, your urologist may discuss surgery with you as an option.
This will often involve a cystoscopy, where a thin tube with a camera (cystoscope) is passed through your urethra and into the bladder. Surgical tools can be passed down the tube if needed, allowing your surgeon to carry out a range of treatments such as removal of small stones from the bladder. A tissue sample (biopsy) can also be taken for further analysis if required.
A transurethral resection of a bladder tumour (TURBT) may be done out to determine the type of bladder tumour present.
A urethrotomy can be carried out to resolve problems that are caused by a narrowing in the urethra.
Stones in the kidney or renal tract can often be treated by extra-corporeal shockwave lithotripsy (ESWL) and laser treatment. Your consultant will discuss the best course of action depending on the size and location of your stone.
In men, surgery can be carried out to alter the size of the prostate in order to allow urine to flow more freely. A common operation is trans-urethral resection of the prostate (TURP).
Circumcision, vasectomy and vasectomy reversal can also all be carried out.
Your urologist will ensure you receive the right treatment for your specific symptoms and needs. Why not book your urology appointment online at The Highfield Hospital now?