Reconstructive urology is a specialized field focused on restoring normal function to the urinary tract. It is typically needed by patients who have suffered trauma, birth defects, or scarring (strictures) that block urine flow.

Common causes include inflammation, infection, trauma (like a straddle injury), or previous medical procedures like catheterization or surgery.

Urethroplasty is the gold standard for repair, with success rates often exceeding 80-90%.

Most patients stay in the hospital for 3-7 days, with a full adjustment period lasting 6 to 12 weeks.

In most cases, the catheter is temporary (1-3 weeks) to allow the surgical site to heal.

Yes, reconstructive urologists can perform adult hypospadias repairs to correct curvature and reposition the urethral opening.

A surgical procedure to increase bladder size using a piece of the patient's bowel.

A segment of small intestine is reshaped into a pouch and connected to the urethra so the patient can void naturally.

Risks include infection, bowel obstruction, or electrolyte imbalances. Regular follow-ups are essential.

Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting are typically restricted for 4-6 weeks.

A uro-oncologist is a urologist who has specialized training in managing cancers of the urinary tract and male reproductive system.

Early prostate cancer often has no symptoms, but signs can include frequent urination or blood in the urine.

No. High PSA can be caused by BPH, infection (prostatitis), or even recent physical activity.

For Stage I kidney cancer, the 5-year survival rate is often above 90%.

Usually treated with TURBT (removal via urethra) followed by intravesical therapy like BCG.

Monitoring low-risk cancer closely with PSA tests and biopsies, delaying treatment until growth is seen.

It uses drugs to help the body's immune system recognize and destroy cancer cells.

Yes, testicular cancer is highly curable even in advanced stages due to chemotherapy sensitivity.

Common side effects include hot flashes, fatigue, and loss of bone density.

When bladder cancer is muscle-invasive or high-grade cancer fails to respond to other treatments.

Increasing water intake and using alpha-blockers can help, but medical intervention is often needed for larger stones.

Stone pain is typically sharp, radiates to the groin, and comes in waves, unlike muscle strains.

Citrate in lemons can help inhibit stone formation, but it must be part of a comprehensive dietary plan.

ESWL uses sound waves from outside the body; laser treatment involves a scope to break the stone directly.

If accompanied by fever, vomiting, or if the patient only has one kidney.

Yes, chronic blockage can lead to hydronephrosis and loss of kidney function.

Recurrence can be due to metabolic disorders or dietary factors like high sodium intake.

Limit high-oxalate foods like spinach, nuts, and beets.

It is performed under general anesthesia, so no pain is felt during surgery. Post-op pain is managed with medication.

Usually 3 to 10 days to ensure the ureter remains open during healing.

It often offers smaller incisions, less blood loss, and a faster overall recovery.

No, it is a tool entirely controlled by the surgeon's hands from a console.

Enhanced visualization helps preserve nerves responsible for erectile function and continence.

Typically 3 to 5 small "keyhole" incisions.

The procedure cost may be higher, but shorter hospital stays often offset the total expense.

Risks are present but minimized by the high-precision "nerve-sparing" capabilities of the robot.

Desk jobs usually within 2 weeks; physical labor in 4-6 weeks.

It provides depth perception, allowing for more precise suturing and tissue dissection.

No, it requires specialized certification and often advanced fellowship training.

Yes, the precision and small incisions significantly reduce the need for blood transfusions.

Options include medication, lifestyle changes, or minimally invasive therapies like Rezum.

UroLift uses implants to pin back the prostate tissue rather than cutting it away.

It is "minimally invasive" as it uses natural body openings rather than incisions.

Yes, through cystolitholapaxy, where stones are broken by laser via the urethra.

It uses sterile steam to shrink enlarged prostate tissue.

Pelvic floor therapy, bladder training, and vaginal inserts are common options.

It is a visual exam of the bladder; numbing gel is used to minimize discomfort.

Reversal is a complex microsurgery and success depends on the time since the procedure.

Faster home recovery, lower cost, and lower infection risk compared to long hospital stays.

Most FDA-approved treatments are covered, though specific plan verification is necessary.