Urology
Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is a
procedure frequently used to treat moderate to severe BPH (Benign
Prostate Hyperplasia or Obstruction). It was one of the most common
major surgeries performed on men age 65 and older but is rapidly
being replaced by
laser
prostatectomy (PVP) and other less invasive procedures.
Urology is the field of medicine that focuses
on the urinary tracts of males and females, and on the reproductive
system of males. In men, the urinary system overlaps with the
reproductive system, and in women the urinary tract opens into the
vulva. In both sexes, the urinary and reproductive tracts are close
together, and disorders of one often affect the other. The organs
covered by urology include the kidneys, ureters, urinary bladder,
urethra, and the male reproductive organs (testes, epididymis, vas
deferens, seminal vesicles, prostate and penis).
The discipline combines management of medical (i.e., non-surgical)
problems such as urinary infections, and surgical problems such as
the correction of congenital abnormalities and the surgical
management of cancers. Such abnormalities within the genital region
are called genitourinary disorders.
Urologists are also involved in the assessment and treatment of
incontinence. Urodynamics is the study of the pressure within the
urinary system and urologists often use diagnostic techniques such
as flow cystometry or ambulatory urodynamic profiles to determine
the best method of treatment for the patient. This could include
medical prescription (e.g. oxybutynin or multiple alpha-blockers) or
surgical intervention (e.g. urethral suspension/slings).
Other subfields of urology include urologic oncology, stone disease,
voiding dysfunction, pediatric urology, sexual dysfunction and male
infertility.
Urology is closely related to the medical fields of nephrology,
andrology, gynecology, proctology and oncology.
You would normally see a Urologist for the
following conditions and procedures: