Kidney stones are hard mineral deposits that form within the kidneys and may cause severe back pain, blood in the urine, nausea or urinary obstruction. Treatment depends on the size, location and composition of the stones. Options include observation, medication, shock wave lithotripsy and endoscopic stone removal.
Direct Visual Internal Urethrotomy is an endoscopic procedure used to treat selected urethral strictures. A small instrument is passed through the urethra to incise the narrowed area and improve urinary flow. It may be suitable for certain short strictures, although recurrence is possible and further treatment may be required.
Testicular surgery may be considered for conditions such as suspicious testicular masses, selected injuries and other disorders requiring surgical assessment. The procedure varies according to the diagnosis and may involve exploration, tissue preservation or removal when medically necessary. Appropriate imaging and specialist evaluation help determine the treatment approach.
Ureteroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to examine and treat stones within the ureter or kidney. A thin instrument is introduced through the natural urinary passage. Laser energy may be used to fragment stones, allowing removal or natural passage of smaller pieces. Temporary ureteric stenting may sometimes be necessary.
PCNL is a surgical technique commonly considered for large or complex kidney stones. A small access tract is created through the back into the kidney, allowing instruments to break and remove stones. The procedure is generally performed under anaesthesia and requires assessment of stone characteristics, infection risk and kidney function.
RIRS is a flexible endoscopic procedure used to manage selected kidney stones. The surgeon passes a flexible ureteroscope through the urinary tract into the kidney, where laser energy may fragment the stone. It avoids a skin incision, but suitability depends on stone size, anatomy, infection status and other clinical factors.
ESWL uses externally generated shock waves to break suitable urinary stones into smaller fragments. These fragments may subsequently pass through the urine. It is a non-incisional treatment, although multiple sessions may be needed. Effectiveness depends on stone size, density, location and individual anatomical factors.
TURP is an endoscopic surgical procedure used to relieve urinary obstruction caused by benign prostate enlargement. Instruments introduced through the urethra remove obstructing prostate tissue. It may be considered when symptoms remain troublesome despite medication or when complications occur. Recovery and possible side effects should be discussed before surgery.
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate that can cause weak urine flow, frequent urination, urgency and difficulty emptying the bladder. Management may involve lifestyle changes, medication or surgical treatment. The choice depends on symptom severity, prostate size and associated urinary complications.
Urinary tract infections occur when microorganisms infect parts of the urinary system. Symptoms may include burning urination, increased urinary frequency and lower abdominal discomfort. Diagnosis may involve urine examination and culture. Treatment depends on the suspected organism, infection severity and patient factors, with antibiotics prescribed when appropriate.
Urethral stricture is a narrowing of the urethra, often caused by scar tissue. It may produce a weak urinary stream, straining, recurrent infections or urinary retention. Treatment options include selected endoscopic procedures and urethroplasty. The most appropriate method depends on the stricture's length, location and previous treatments.
Urinary incontinence refers to involuntary urine leakage and may occur because of bladder dysfunction, pelvic floor weakness, prostate-related conditions or neurological problems. Evaluation helps identify the underlying type and cause. Treatment may include bladder training, pelvic floor exercises, medication or selected surgical interventions.
A hydrocele is an accumulation of fluid around a testicle that causes swelling of the scrotum. Small, painless hydroceles may only require observation. Persistent, large or uncomfortable hydroceles may require surgical treatment. Examination and ultrasound may help distinguish a hydrocele from other causes of scrotal swelling.
A varicocele is an enlargement of veins within the scrotum and may be associated with discomfort, reduced testicular size or male fertility problems. Management depends on symptoms and clinical findings. Observation, microsurgical repair or embolisation may be considered for selected patients following appropriate specialist assessment.
Cystoscopy is a diagnostic procedure in which a thin instrument with a camera is introduced through the urethra to examine the bladder and urinary passage. It may be recommended for blood in the urine, recurrent urinary problems or suspected bladder abnormalities. Some minor treatments can also be performed during cystoscopy.