Urology
Urology is a medical field that deals with both surgical and non-surgical diseases of the urinary system and reproductive organs. The organs involved in urology include the kidneys, adrenal glands, ureters, bladder, urethra, and male reproductive organs like the testes, epididymides, vas deferens, seminal vesicles, prostate, and penis.
Urology encompasses the treatment of medical conditions, such as urinary tract infections and benign prostatic hyperplasia, as well as surgical conditions, including bladder or prostate cancer, kidney stones, congenital abnormalities, traumatic injuries, and stress incontinence.
Urologists diagnose and treat genital and urinary tract disorders. In the course of their work, they evaluate and medically manage disease conditions and perform reparative surgeries. The services they provide include assessing, managing or correcting the following:
- Voiding disorders
- Genital abnormalities
- Developmental sexual disorders
- Kidney stones
- Tumors of the urinary tract
- Urinary tract difficulties due to neurological disorders
Urological Diagnoses
During a urological consultation, the doctor takes a full medical history of the child and performs a physical examination. Diagnostic tests are typically performed as well, and may include:
- Urinalysis
- Blood tests
- Renal CT or MRI scan
- Pelvic ultrasound
Depending on the findings, additional tests may be required to confirm a tentative diagnosis.
Treatment of Urological Disorders
The urologist will formulate an individualized treatment plan for each patient, always trying the least invasive approach first. Treatment may be limited to ongoing monitoring or may include endoscopic, laparoscopic or robotic procedures. Most urological interventions can be performed on an outpatient basis.