Washington Regional Profile

Grand Rounds in Urology

Diseases where body cells grow abnormally and can spread.

Cancer

Problems with glands on your kidneys that make hormones for stress, energy, and blood pressure.

Adrenal conditions

Cancer conditions affecting the bladder, the organ storing urine.

Bladder cancer

Conditions affecting your bladder, kidneys, and how you urinate.

Bladder and Urinary Issues

Conditions where your body bleeds too easily or can't stop bleeding.

Bleeding Concerns

Problems that stop urine from flowing freely from your kidneys, bladder, or tubes.

Blockages in the Urinary Tract

Prostate problems that affect men's urination and health.

Prostate Conditions

Everyday health, wellness tips, and understanding how to manage your care.

General Health & Patient Education

Kidney Cancer

Cancers that start in the prostate gland, a male reproductive organ.

Prostate Cancer

Problems with bladder, bowel, pain, or pelvic organ support.

Pelvic Floor & Pelvic Health

Conditions causing accidental urine leakage or loss of bladder control.

Urinary Incontinence

Conditions affecting your kidneys and the tubes that carry urine.

Kidney & Ureter Conditions

Conditions from hard, stone-like deposits in kidneys and urinary tract.

Kidney Stones

Tests to find what's wrong or to check for health problems.

Screening and Diagnostic Procedures

Conditions that don't fit into other main groups. A mixed collection of health issues.

Other

Conditions affecting male organs, fertility, and sexual health.

Men's Reproductive Health

Health issues treated by operations and care for healing.

Surgical and Post-Surgical Care

Health conditions affecting sex organs, fertility, & sexual well-being.

Sexual and Reproductive Health

Medical procedures are planned steps healthcare professionals take to diagnose, treat, or manage various health conditions. These can include diagnostic tests like imaging, therapeutic interventions, or surgical operations, all aimed at improving your health.

Procedures

Nutrition and Diet refer to the foods and drinks you consume, which are vital for fueling your body's energy, growth, and repair. A balanced diet provides essential nutrients to support overall health, prevent illness, and manage existing conditions.

Nutrition and Diet

Conditions affecting body weight, eating, and how your body gets nutrients.

Weight and Nutrition

Conditions that doctors fix, remove, or repair using an operation.

Common Surgical Procedures

Conditions about getting pregnant, preventing it, and reproductive health.

Fertility and Family Planning

Symptoms are changes in how you feel or how your body works, such as pain, fever, or fatigue. They are your body's way of signaling an underlying health condition. Understanding your symptoms helps healthcare providers identify the cause and develop a personalized treatment plan.

Symptoms

Bladder Botox is a treatment used to help patients with overactive bladder or urinary incontinence when other treatments haven't worked. It involves regularly injecting Botox into the bladder muscle, which helps reduce frequent urges to urinate by relaxing the muscle. While generally safe, it may cause temporary urinary retention.

Bladder Botox

Bladder wall thickening occurs when the bladder's muscular wall becomes denser or stiffer, often due to conditions like bladder infections, inflammation, or urinary obstruction (such as from BPH). Symptoms can include frequent urination, discomfort, and difficulty fully emptying the bladder. Staying hydrated, avoiding irritants like caffeine and alcohol, and treating the underlying cause can help manage symptoms.

Bladder Wall Thickening

A penile prosthesis is a medical device surgically placed inside the penis to help men with erectile dysfunction (ED) achieve an erection. It is typically considered after other treatments for ED haven't worked (such as lifestyle modifications, medications, and injections). Lifestyle considerations, like maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine, can also play a role in managing overall health and well-being.

ED Penile Prosthesis

Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is when a man has trouble getting or keeping an erection for sex. It can be caused by physical and psychological factors including diabetes, heart disease, stress, or anxiety. Treatments involve lifestyle changes such as exercising, quitting smoking, or managing stress. There are also oral medications or injections. Ultimately, surgical treatment is possible if these options do not work for you. It's important to talk to a doctor to find the best approach for you.

ED General and Medical Treatment

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition in older men where the prostate gland enlarges, causing urinary issues. When medications aren't enough, surgical treatments can help relieve symptoms like difficulty urinating or a weak stream. Surgeries can range from less invasive options, like laser therapy, to more traditional procedures that remove part of the enlarged tissue. Recovery may involve temporary lifestyle adjustments, like avoiding strenuous activities, to ensure proper healing.

BPH Surgical Treatments

Bladder cancer is a condition where abnormal cells grow in the bladder, leading to potential symptoms like blood in the urine, frequent urination, or pain. A cystectomy is a surgical procedure to remove all or part of the bladder to treat this cancer. Recovery may involve lifestyle adjustments, like learning new ways to store and expel urine. Open communication with your healthcare team helps ensure the best care and support.

Bladder Cancer - Cystectomy

Bladder cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow in the bladder, and local therapies focus on treating it directly within the bladder. Symptoms may include blood in the urine, frequent urination, and discomfort. Treatments often involve surgery, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy applied directly to the bladder. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, such as staying hydrated and avoiding smoking, can support treatment and recovery. Always talk with your doctor for guidance tailored to your situation.

Bladder Cancer - Local Therapies

An adrenal mass is a growth that forms on the adrenal glands, which are located above your kidneys and produce important hormones. These masses are usually benign (non-cancerous) and may not cause symptoms, but some can affect hormone levels, leading to weight changes, high blood pressure, or fatigue. Treatment depends on the type and size of the mass and may include monitoring, medication, or surgery. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help manage overall well-being.

Adrenal Mass

Kidney cancer occurs when cells in the kidneys grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor. Key symptoms may include blood in the urine, lower back pain on one side, and unexplained weight loss. While the exact cause isn't always known, risk factors include smoking and high blood pressure. Treatment often involves surgery, targeted therapies, or immunotherapy. Leading a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, can support overall well-being during treatment.

Prostate cancer is a disease where cells in the prostate gland grow uncontrollably. In its early stages, doctors may recommend "active surveillance," especially if the cancer is slow-growing. This approach involves regular check-ups like PSA tests and biopsies to monitor the cancer without immediate treatment. It's important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and exercise, which can support overall well-being during this period.

Prostate Cancer - Active Surveillance

PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) screening is a blood test used to help detect prostate cancer early. PSA is a protein produced by both cancerous and non-cancerous tissue in the prostate; high levels may suggest cancer but can also be due to other conditions. This screening is important for men, particularly those over 50 or with a family history. Discuss with your doctor to understand the benefits and limitations, and consider lifestyle changes like maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise for overall prostate health.

PSA Prostate Cancer Screening

A kidney cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms on or in the kidneys. These cysts are often simple and non-cancerous, usually causing no symptoms or harm. However, some people might experience back or belly pain, or notice blood in their urine if the cyst is large or bursts. Kidney cysts are often discovered during imaging tests for other issues. Maintaining healthy hydration and regular check-ups can help manage this condition.

Kidney Cyst

Urothelial carcinoma of the upper tract is a type of cancer that affects the lining of the kidneys or the tubes (ureters) that connect the kidneys to the bladder. The primary symptom is typically blood in the urine. Factors like smoking and chemical exposure can increase risk. Treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, or other therapies. This condition is often related to bladder cancer and may require evaluation of the bladder as well.

Urothelial Carcinoma of the Upper Tract

Blood in urine, known medically as hematuria, can be a sign of something serious but is often due to a less concerning reason. Common causes include urinary tract infections, kidney stones, or even exercise. However, evaluation for more serious conditions such as cancer is often indicated. Your doctor may recommend urine testing, cystoscopy, or CT urogram imaging.

Blood in Urine (Hematuria)

Ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) obstruction is a condition where a blockage occurs at the junction where the kidney meets the ureter, the tube that carries urine to the bladder. This can cause symptoms like back or side pain, urinary tract infections, and decreased kidney function. Often present from birth, it can be due to a structural defect. Treatment may involve monitoring or surgery if necessary. Staying hydrated and attending regular medical check-ups can be helpful for managing symptoms.

UPJ Obstruction

Schurhamer Transition from Penn

Treatments for prostate cancer, a common male cancer often without early symptoms, are highly individualized. Factors like age and family history influence risk. Approaches range from active surveillance to surgery, radiation, or hormone therapy, tailored to the specific case. A healthy lifestyle can support overall well-being throughout this journey.

Prostate Cancer Treatment and Surveillance

The PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) test is a blood test commonly used to screen for prostate cancer. While higher PSA levels can suggest prostate cancer, they can also be due to other prostate problems. It's vital to discuss with your doctor if screening is right for you, considering your age, health, and family history, to understand potential benefits and risks.

PSA, Prostate Cancer Screening

High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) is a non-invasive medical *procedure* that uses precisely targeted sound waves to heat and destroy diseased tissue, such as cancerous cells in the prostate or benign uterine fibroids. It offers an alternative to traditional surgery for certain conditions, often involving minimal recovery time. Lifestyle considerations post-HIFU vary based on the specific condition treated.

Focal Therapy - HIFU, Cryo, IRE

An adrenal mass is a growth found on one of your small adrenal glands, located above your kidney. Most are benign (non-cancerous) and found by chance, causing no symptoms. However, some may produce excess hormones or, less commonly, be cancerous. A doctor will evaluate it to determine its nature and guide appropriate care, which might include monitoring or removal.

Bladder cancer occurs when abnormal cells form in your bladder's lining. The most common symptom is blood in urine, sometimes with frequent or painful urination. Smoking is a key cause, along with certain chemical exposures. Treatment options often include surgery, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy, depending on the cancer stage. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, especially quitting smoking, is important for prevention and management.

Localized kidney cancer means abnormal cells are found only within the kidney. Often found early, symptoms might include blood in urine or back pain, with causes linked to smoking or obesity. Treatment frequently involves surgery, emphasizing the importance of a healthy lifestyle for overall well-being.

Kidney cancer, localized

Upper tract urothelial carcinoma is cancer that develops in the lining of the kidney or ureter (the tube connecting the kidney to the bladder). Key symptoms often include blood in the urine. While smoking and certain chemical exposures are common risk factors, treatment typically involves surgery, and lifestyle changes like quitting smoking are crucial.

Preparing for your prostate biopsy involves following specific instructions from your healthcare team, often including adjusting medications, dietary modifications, and bowel preparation. This diagnostic step helps evaluate prostate health. Understanding these steps can help you feel more comfortable and ready for the procedure. Your doctor will provide personalized guidance for your unique needs.

Preparing for your prostate biopsy

Testicular cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the testicles grow out of control. It's most commonly found in young and middle-aged men. Key symptoms include a lump or swelling in the testicle and a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum. Early detection has high treatment success rates, often involving surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy. Regular self-exams and prompt medical attention for any changes can help with early diagnosis and effective management.

Testicular Cancer

Prostate cancer is a common cancer affecting men. While its development is complex, lifestyle factors, especially diet, can play a role in risk and management. A balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can support overall health during and after treatment, complementing medical care.

Prostate Cancer and Diet

An MRI of the prostate is a detailed, non-invasive imaging scan using strong magnets and radio waves to create clear pictures of the prostate gland. It's often used to investigate concerns like elevated PSA levels or abnormal physical exams, or to further evaluate suspicious areas. This scan helps doctors identify potential issues, such as cancer or inflammation, guiding decisions for further tests or personalized care. Staying still during the brief procedure is key for clear results.

MRI of the Prostate

Diet and natural remedies explore how lifestyle choices, like a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats, can support prostate health, especially as men age. While some natural approaches and supplements are researched, it's crucial to discuss any remedies with your doctor to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your individual needs.

Diet and Natural Remedies - Prostate

Vasectomy is a highly effective, permanent form of male birth control. It's a minor surgical procedure that prevents sperm from reaching the semen, thus preventing pregnancy. This procedure does not affect sex drive, hormone levels, or ejaculation volume, offering couples peace of mind about family planning.

Vasectomy

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a common, non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate, causing urinary symptoms like frequent urges or weak stream. Medications are often the first treatment, working to relax bladder muscles or shrink the prostate to improve urine flow and relieve discomfort. Complementary lifestyle changes, such as managing fluid intake, can further support symptom management.

BPH - Medications

Vasectomy recovery typically involves mild scrotal pain, swelling, and bruising, usually lasting a few days. Resting, applying ice packs, and wearing supportive underwear can help manage discomfort. Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for about a week, and remember that sterility is confirmed with follow-up testing.

Vasectomy Recovery

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a common, non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, often causing urinary symptoms like frequent urination or weak stream. While aging is a primary factor, lifestyle choices such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and managing fluid intake can often help improve symptoms and support prostate health. Consult your doctor for personalized advice and treatment options.

BPH - Lifestyle, diet, exercise

Overactive Bladder (OAB) causes sudden urges to urinate, often with increased frequency or leakage. While causes vary, lifestyle choices are crucial for management. Dietary adjustments (e.g., avoiding irritants like caffeine, proper hydration) and regular exercise (especially pelvic floor exercises and weight management) are important first steps to help improve OAB symptoms.

OAB - Exercise and Diet

BPH surgery addresses bothersome symptoms of an enlarged prostate, like frequent urination or weak stream, when medications aren't enough. Various procedures remove or shrink prostate tissue to improve urine flow and enhance quality of life. Lifestyle adjustments, like dietary changes, can support recovery.

BPH - Surgery

Overactive Bladder (OAB) causes a sudden, strong urge to urinate, often with frequency or leakage, typically from nerve or muscle issues. Initial treatments involve lifestyle changes and medication. For severe cases not responding, surgical options like neuromodulation (a 'bladder pacemaker') or, less commonly, bladder augmentation, aim to help control bladder signals and improve quality of life.

Overactive Bladder - Surgical Treatment

Vasectomy Surgicentre Instructions

Overactive Bladder (OAB) causes a sudden, strong urge to urinate, often with frequent trips to the bathroom and sometimes leakage. Medications can help relax the bladder muscle and reduce these bothersome symptoms. These treatments are often used alongside lifestyle changes like managing fluid intake and bladder training to significantly improve daily comfort and control.

Overactive Bladder - Medications

The TREXIT Prostate Biopsy Trial is a research study, not a medical condition. It investigates new ways to perform prostate biopsies, which are procedures used to check for prostate cancer. These biopsies are crucial for diagnosing potential prostate issues.

TREXIT Prostate Biopsy Trial

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a common, non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that affects aging men. It can cause urinary symptoms like frequent urination, a weak stream, or difficulty emptying the bladder, as the prostate presses on the urethra. Lifestyle changes and various treatment options are available to manage symptoms and improve comfort.

BPH - Overview

Overactive Bladder (OAB) is a common condition causing a sudden, strong urge to urinate, often leading to frequent bathroom trips day and night, and sometimes accidental leakage. This occurs when the bladder muscles contract involuntarily. Lifestyle adjustments like managing fluid intake and diet, along with bladder training and various medications, can effectively help manage symptoms and improve daily life.

Overactive bladder

Directions to SurgiCentre

Kidney cysts are common, fluid-filled sacs that can form in the kidneys. Many are harmless, cause no symptoms, and require no treatment. Others may need monitoring or intervention if they grow large, cause pain, or affect kidney function. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle generally supports kidney health.

Kidney cysts

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Preparing for a cystoscopy involves following your doctor's specific instructions to ensure a successful examination. This common procedure uses a thin, lighted tube to view the inside of your bladder and urethra, often to investigate urinary issues, blood in urine, or recurring infections. Your preparation may include medication adjustments or fasting; always discuss specific guidance with your healthcare team.

Preparing for cystoscopy

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), or enlarged prostate, is a very common, non-cancerous condition where the prostate gland grows with age. This growth can press on the urethra, causing urinary symptoms like frequent urges, a weak stream, or waking up at night to urinate. It's often managed through lifestyle adjustments, medications, or, in some cases, minor procedures to help you feel more comfortable.

BPH, Enlarged Prostate

Kidney stones are hard deposits that form in your kidneys, often causing severe back or side pain and sometimes blood in the urine. They can be linked to dehydration or diet. While painful, many pass with increased fluids, or medical procedures may be needed for larger stones. Staying well-hydrated is crucial for prevention.

Kidney stones

Post-prostatectomy recovery is the healing process following surgical removal of the prostate, often for cancer. Patients commonly experience temporary urinary changes, like leakage, and challenges with erectile function. This journey requires patience, pelvic floor exercises, and ongoing medical support to improve comfort and restore quality of life.

Post-Prostatectomy Recovery

Ureteral stents are thin, flexible tubes placed in the ureter (the tube connecting the kidney to the bladder) to help urine drain from the kidney to the bladder. They are often used to relieve blockages, such as from kidney stones, or after surgery. While in place, it's common to experience increased urinary frequency, some bladder discomfort, or mild flank pain, especially during urination. Staying well-hydrated is important. Stents are temporary and will be removed by your doctor.

Ureteral Stents

UPJ Obstruction is a blockage where your kidney connects to the ureter, the tube that carries urine to the bladder. This can cause urine to back up, leading to symptoms like side pain, nausea, or infection. It can be present from birth or develop later, and treatments are available to ensure proper kidney drainage and health.

UPJ obstruction

Advanced kidney cancer means the disease has spread from its original site in the kidney to other parts of the body. Symptoms may include fatigue, pain, or unexpected weight loss. Management focuses on slowing disease progression with treatments like targeted therapy or immunotherapy, and prioritizing your overall well-being.

 Kidney cancer, advanced

Blood in the urine, or hematuria, means blood is present, either visible (pink/red/brown) or microscopic. While often caused by treatable conditions like infections or kidney stones, it's crucial to see a doctor to identify the underlying cause and determine the best approach. Staying well-hydrated can sometimes help prevent certain contributing factors.

Blood in the urine

Cancer is a disease where the body's cells grow abnormally and uncontrollably. Symptoms vary widely depending on the type and location, but common treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. While causes are complex, healthy lifestyle choices like diet and exercise can influence risk and overall health.

Cancer basics

Male incontinence is the unintentional leakage of urine, often due to weakened bladder muscles, prostate issues, or nerve damage. It's a common and treatable condition, manageable through lifestyle changes, exercises, medication, or other medical interventions. Discussing symptoms with a healthcare provider can help find effective solutions to improve quality of life.

Incontinence, male

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is when a man has difficulty getting or keeping an erection firm enough for sexual activity. This common condition can be caused by physical factors like diabetes or heart disease, psychological stress, or lifestyle choices. Effective treatments and lifestyle changes, such as healthy diet and exercise, can often help improve ED.

Erectile dysfunction

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Overactive Bladder (OAB) is a common condition causing a sudden, strong urge to urinate (urgency), often leading to frequent bathroom trips and sometimes accidental leakage. It happens when bladder muscles contract involuntarily. Management often involves lifestyle changes, pelvic floor exercises, and sometimes medication, helping improve comfort and daily life.

Ben Schurhamer, MD

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