Kidney stones are hard mineral deposits that form inside the kidneys and may cause severe flank pain, nausea or blood in the urine. Evaluation may involve ultrasound, CT imaging and urine tests. Treatment depends on stone size, location and symptoms, ranging from medication and observation to minimally invasive stone removal procedures.
Retrograde intrarenal surgery is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat selected kidney stones. A flexible ureteroscope is passed through the natural urinary passage into the kidney, where laser energy may be used to fragment stones. Suitability depends on stone characteristics, kidney anatomy, infection risk and overall patient health.
Ureteroscopic lithotripsy is used to treat selected stones lodged within the ureter. A thin endoscope is passed through the urinary passage, allowing the surgeon to identify and fragment or remove the stone. Laser lithotripsy may be used when appropriate. Temporary ureteric stenting is sometimes required following the procedure.
Percutaneous nephrolithotomy is a surgical procedure commonly considered for large or complex kidney stones. Instruments are introduced into the kidney through a small incision in the back to fragment and remove stones. The approach depends on stone size, configuration and anatomy, with careful monitoring for bleeding, infection and other complications.
Bladder stones develop when minerals crystallise within the urinary bladder, sometimes because of incomplete bladder emptying. Symptoms may include lower abdominal discomfort, painful urination, blood in the urine and urinary difficulties. Treatment can involve endoscopic stone fragmentation or removal, along with management of the underlying cause to reduce recurrence.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that can interfere with urine flow. Symptoms may include frequent urination, weak urinary stream and incomplete bladder emptying. Treatment depends on symptom severity and may involve medication, monitoring or surgical procedures to relieve urinary obstruction.
Urinary tract infections occur when microorganisms infect parts of the urinary system, including the bladder or kidneys. Symptoms can include burning urination, urgency, frequent urination and fever. Recurrent or complicated infections may require urine culture, imaging and investigation of underlying urinary abnormalities. Antibiotic treatment is selected according to clinical findings.
Haematuria refers to blood in the urine, which may be visible or detected during laboratory testing. Potential causes include infections, kidney stones, prostate conditions and urinary tract tumours. Evaluation may involve urine analysis, imaging and cystoscopy when appropriate. Persistent or unexplained haematuria requires timely medical assessment.
Urinary incontinence is the involuntary leakage of urine. It can develop because of bladder dysfunction, pelvic floor weakness, prostate-related problems or neurological conditions. Assessment focuses on symptoms and underlying causes. Treatment may include bladder training, pelvic floor exercises, medication or selected procedures depending on the type of incontinence.
Male infertility may result from abnormalities in sperm production, reproductive tract obstruction, hormonal disorders or other medical factors. Evaluation can involve semen analysis, medical history, physical examination and selected hormonal tests. Treatment depends on the identified cause and may include medication, surgical intervention or referral for assisted reproductive techniques.
Erectile dysfunction is the persistent difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection sufficient for sexual activity. Contributing factors may include diabetes, vascular disease, medication effects and psychological conditions. Urological assessment helps identify relevant causes. Treatment options include lifestyle measures, medicines, counselling and selected specialist procedures where appropriate.
A hydrocele is a fluid collection around the testicle, while a varicocele is an enlargement of veins within the scrotum. These conditions may cause swelling, discomfort or fertility-related concerns. Evaluation involves examination and sometimes ultrasound. Surgery may be considered for selected symptomatic cases depending on clinical findings.
Minimally invasive uro-oncology uses laparoscopic or robotic surgical techniques for selected cancers affecting the kidneys, bladder, prostate or other urinary structures. The appropriate procedure depends on tumour type, stage and anatomical complexity. Surgical planning prioritises cancer control, preservation of function when possible and patient safety.
Kidney transplant care involves evaluating suitable patients with advanced kidney failure and monitoring their health after transplantation. Urological assessment may identify urinary obstruction, bladder problems or other conditions relevant to transplant planning. Post-transplant follow-up can include monitoring urinary complications, infections and graft-related concerns in coordination with the transplant team.