Mr Andrew Ballaro

Mr Andrew Ballaro
Urology
Central London


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Mr Andrew Ballaro Urologist in
London &
Brentwood

MBBS MSc(Urol) MD FRCS(Urol)

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Professional statement

Mr Andrew Ballaro is an expert consultant and lead urologist, specialising in the management of all urology problems, including blood in urine, urinary infections, prostate and bladder symptoms, and urological cancer diagnosis. He has particular interest in minimally invasive surgery and the comprehensive management of complex urinary stone disease, and is one of the highest volume stone surgeons in the London area. He consistently publishes some of the best results in the country for complex stone operations and offers mini and ultra-mini PCNL for kidney stones as a day case procedure. 

Mr Ballaro's extensive training began after graduating from The Royal Free Hospital Medical School, and undertaking his basic surgical training at Oxford. He was awarded a Fellowship from the Royal College of Surgeons of London, and went on to complete higher urological training on the North London Training Scheme. This was followed by advanced training in laparoscopy and complex stone surgery from national and international experts in his field. Mr Ballaro has a strong interest in education, currently teaching trainees at the London Deanery across many levels, in addition to being awarded a Hunterian professorship from the Royal College of Surgeons of England. He holds a Masters degree in Urology and an MD in Clinical Sciences from the Institute of Urology, and has published extensively on the subject of minimally invasive urological surgery. He is co-author of the latest edition of the popular medical student textbook 'Lecture notes in urology'.


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 Credentials

GMC: 4027768

 Professional experience

• More than 25 years of experience
• Consultant Urologist, Wellington Hospital (present)
• Consultant Urologist, Spire Hartswood (present)
• Clinical Lead (stone surgery), King George and Queens Hospitals (present)
• Clinical Lead for stone surgery, King George and Queens Hospitals (present)
• Consultant Urologist, Hospital of St John and Elizabeth (present)

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 Sub-specialties

• Kidney stones
• Surgery and prevention for kidney stones
• Bladder and prostate symptoms including prostatitis and cystitis
• Laser surgery

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 Teaching posts

• London Deanery Trainer (present)

 Education

• BSC(Hons), University College London (1989)
• MBBS, Royal Free Hospital School of Medicine (1993)
• FRCS, Royal College of Surgeons of England (1999)
• MSc(Urol), University College London (2001)
• MD, Clinical Sciences, University College London (2005)
• FRCS(Urol), Intercollegiate (2006)

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 Publications and conferences

• Multiple

 Prizes and awards

• Huntarian Professorship, Royal College of Surgeons of England.

 Professional membership

• British Association of Urological Surgeons
• European Association of Urologists
• Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of England

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Languages spoken

  • English

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Diseases, Medical Tests and Treatments

Bladder problems

Bladder problems can include urinary incontinence, infection, or more serious conditions like cancer.

Holmium laser

Holmium laser treatment for Hypertrophy or Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia uses laser energy to remove prostate tissue causing the blockage. Since the ho ...

Kidney stones (Urolithiasis)

Kidney stones are stones of varying sizes that are mainly made of salts found in body fluids. When the stones are formed or lodged in any part of the ...

Prostate

The prostate is an exocrine gland and part of the male reproductive system. This gland secretes prostate fluid which forms part of semen, during ejacu ...

Prostatitis

Prostatitis is the inflammation of the prostate, a male gland below the bladder that helps in the production of semen. It is one of the most common disorders of the male genitourinary system, caused, in most cases, by bacterial infection, either chronic or acute. Other inflammatory conditions of the prostate may be chronic nonbacterial prostatitis (producing perineal or pelvic pain) and asymptomatic inflammatory prostatitis (the symptoms are not obvious). The most common symptoms that can lead us to think that there is an inflammation of the prostate are associated with urinary disorders. When the cause is an infection, it is treated with antibiotics for several weeks to remove bacteria from the prostate. ...

Second medical opinion

What is a second medical opinion? A second medical opinion is when you consult with a doctor that is not your regular doctor about a potential diagnosis and/or treatment plan. There is no legal right to a second opinion, however, it is rare for a doctor to refuse. Why would you get a second medical opinion? Patients may consider a second medical opinion if they are facing a new diagnosis or recommended treatment because sometimes this can feel confusing and a second opinion can put their mind at ease. In addition, there are certain situations where a second medical opinion is sought after: Potential treatment is risky and could be life-changing or the diagnosis is possibly life-threatening The diagnosis is not clear-cut If you are considering a new treatment approach that is experimental The aims of obtaining a second medical opinion are: To confirm whether a diagnosis is correct and/or appropriate. To confirm whether a suggested treatment is correct and/or appropriate. To compare information received from each doctor so that you can make an informed decision – sometimes a second medical opinion can rule out the need for a potentially unnecessary invasive procedure. Possible disadvantages of seeking a second medical opinion include: The process can delay the start of treatment. Logistically, seeing another specialist might be difficult and possibly time-consuming. It might be stressful to hear the same diagnosis again. How would you seek a second medical opinion? You can request a second medical opinion from your GP or consultant, but before doing so it is recommended that you ask for as much clarification and explanation about the initial diagnosis and treatment, before seeking a second opinion. Obtaining a second medical opinion does not mean that the second doctor will then take over – if that is what the patient decides, then this needs to be agreed formally between doctors and hospitals.  ...

Balanitis

Balanitis is an inflammatory disease that occurs on the surface of the glans and foreskin. The causes can be bacterial infection or irritation. The most common symptoms are: swelling; itching; erythema; pain; irritation; presence of vesicles; narrowing of the foreskin (phimosis); difficulty urinating; bleeding. Treatment usually includes topical antimicrobials or creams containing cortisone. In particularly severe cases, the patient will have to undergo circumcision surgery. ...

Benign prostate enlargement

The prostate is a male sex gland located below the bladder and above the rectum, and is responsible for producing the seminal fluid. TBPH occurs when there is an increase in the size of the prostate gland due to a hormonal imbalance in men: an increase in female hormones (oestrogen) over male hormones (testosterone). It usually occurs in men over 70 and some of the symptoms include: difficulty urinating, frequent urination, urgent feeling to urinate, need to press for emptying the bladder, etc. In severe cases, prostate hypertrophy can produce absolute inability to urinate, blood in urine or impaired kidney function. It is usually treated with medications (hormones) and, in more severe cases, surgery. ...

Bladder cancer

The bladder is a hollow organ in the lower abdomen whose main function is to store urine before it is expelled from the body. Bladder cancer occurs when cancerous cells grow in the inner membrane of this organ, and its symptoms are painful urination or lower back pain, frequent urination and blood in the urine. The main risk factors are smoking and exposure to certain chemicals, along with a family history of the disease. This type of cancer can be limited to the lining of the bladder, in which case it is called superficial, or spread through the lining of the bladder and even to nearby organs, in which case is called invasive. Treatment depends on the severity and type of cancer, but may generally include radiation therapy, chemotherapy and/or surgery. ...

Cholecystitis

Cholecystitis is the inflammation of the gallbladder. It may be acute or chronic and is usually caused by the presence of stones. It occurs because the bile gets trapped in the gallbladder irritating it....

Circumcision

Circumcision is the total or partial removal of the foreskin, which is the skin that covers the tip of the penis, by a surgical procedure. It is effective to correct disorders such as phimosis (which prevents the foreskin from being pulled back to uncover the glans) and paraphimosis (most often due to an inflammation of the foreskin). Circumcision is widespread universally, and many parents prefer to perform it on new-borns, not as prescription, but for cultural reasons. It is a very simple operation, which lasts only a few minutes, and does not require general anaesthesia. The recovery of the patient is also very fast, within a few days they can go back to their normal routine. ...

Cystectomy (bladder removal)

Cystectomy is the removal of the bladder. If the reason for the operation is bladder cancer, the bladder and all the surrounding tissue is removed. If the reason is a benign disease, only a portion is removed ...

Cystitis

What is cystitis? Cystitis is a urinary tract infection (commonly referred to as a UTI), and is an inflammation of the bladder. This inflammation usually occurs as a result of a bladder infection. Cystitis is more common in women than it is in men. It usually goes away in a few days, but in more complex or recurring cases, it may need long-term treatment.  What are the symptoms of cystitis? Symptoms include: A need to pee more frequently than ususal A burning/stinging sensation when peeing Cloudy urine Dark, or strong-smelling urine Pain in the lower abdomen Fatigue Feeling generally unwell In children: Vomiting Fever Feeling irritated A lack of interest in food/low appetite Feeling weak What causes cystitis? Cystitis is most frequently caused by a bacterial infection, which happens when bacteria from other areas of the body (e.g from in the bowel or on the skin) get into the bladder. Bacteria is thought to come through the urethra, which carries urine out from your body. Women have a shorter urethra, and it is closer to the anus in women, which means they more commonly experience cystitis. Bacteria can get into the bladder in several different ways: Through sex Through insertion of a tampon By using a diaphragm Insertion of a urinary catheter Wiping back to front when going to the toilet Cystitis can also be caused by a damaged or irritated bladder. How can it be prevented? Frequent cystitis infections can be difficult to deal with, but there are some measures which can help prevent cystitis from re-occurring or occurring frequently. For example, showering rather than bathing, and not using perfumed bubble bath/shower gel. Keep good sanitary habits, and wipe your bottom from front to back. Cotton underwear, and wearing trousers which are not too tight can help as well. Keep hydrated and drink enough water, but make sure to go to the toilet when you need to pee rather than holding it in. You should also make sure to empty your bladder after having sex. If you use a diaphragm, you may want to consider using a different method of contraception if you frequently get cystitis.   What is the treatment for cystitis? Usually cystitis goes away on its own in mild cases, and can be treated from home using self-help methods to ease symptoms. A hot water bottle, placed on the stomach or between the thighs can help to relieve pain or soothe, along with over-the-counter painkillers. Avoid sexual intercourse until the infection has passed. In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed, especially in recurring cases of cystitis. A doctor may prescribe a longer course of antibiotics, or continuous antibiotics for a number of months as a preventative measure.  ...

Cystocele

The cystocele is a protrusion or hernia in the bladder into the vaginal canal. It occurs when the muscle wall supporting the bladder is so weak that it is unable to hold it in its normal position, so the bladder tends to move downward. This weakness can cause urine to escape from the bladder when abdominal pressure increases, which is what happens when coughing or sneezing, for example. Cystocele is a relatively common disorder in women over the age of 40, and the likelihood increases with age, during menopause, after a particularly difficult birth and when there is obesity, among other reasons. In mild cases, the treatment consists of performing Kegel exercises, which strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor. Surgery is needed in severe cases or when such exercises fail. ...

Ectopic testes

An ectopy is an anomaly of the situation of an organ or a part of it. When we talk about testicular ectopy, we refer to the abnormal position of a testicle caused by the lack of descent. That is, the testis has taken a different path and has descended through the abdominal cavity until it is settled in the prepubic area, perineal position, etc., rather than in the scrotum. The difference between testicular ectopy and cryptorchidism (or hidden testicle) is that in the latter case the testicle has not fully descended, so it is not in its normal position within the scrotum either. In both cases, an early surgical treatment, starting at two years of age, can be performed to correct this anomaly. ...

Erectile dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction is the difficulty or inability to achieve or maintain a penile erection that will result in a successful sexual intercourse. It is also known as impotence, but this term is not used in the medical field anymore. It affects many men and increases with age, but to consider it an alteration, it is necessary that it happens persistently. The most common causes of erectile dysfunction can be both physical and psychological, or a combination of both. They can be of vascular type: men with high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes or who have been treated with radiotherapy. Neurological disorders (Alzheimer’s, for example) and hormonal (by utilising medication) in a lesser extent. There may also be effective causes: patients with severe depression or anxiety often have erectile dysfunction. The treatments besides medication, usually include changes in lifestyle, such as quitting smoking and exercising regularly. ...

Frenuloplasty

A frenuloplasty is a surgical operation on the frenulum (the elastic tissue below the head of the penis that attaches to the foreskin), in cases where it is causing pain or discomfort when the man is aroused. This is usually because the frenulum is too short or sensitive. The frenulum may be removed or an incision is made in it, which is then stretched and stitched closed to effective elongate the frenulum. It usually takes around a month to heal, after which normal sexual activity is possible. ...

Gallstones

What are gallstones? Gallstones are hard lumps or stones, usually made of cholesterol or sometimes other substances like bilirubin that form in the gallbladder.   The gallbladder is a small organ situation underneath the liver which releases bile (produced by the liver but stored and concentrated in the gallbladder) into the digestive system to help the body breakdown fats into fatty acids for absorption. What are the symptoms? Gallstones don’t always produce symptoms and do not always need treating. In fact, the vast majority of people will not experience symptoms as the gallstones themselves do not cause pain. In certain circumstances however, a gallstone might become trapped, causing intense pain known as biliary colic. The pain usually starts in the upper right part of the abdomen and radiates to the shoulder. Further complications can arise whereby the gallbladder becomes inflamed - symptoms can include jaundice (a yellowing of the eyes and skin), fever, persistent pain, nausea and vomiting. What causes gallstones? The development of gallstones is thought to be due to too much cholesterol or bilirubin in the bile, leading to the formation of stones. In the majority of cases gallstones are made of cholesterol, however if the liver is producing too much bilirubin (often due to damage) this can result in the formation of stones also. Improper emptying of the gallbladder is also thought to cause stones, as the bile becomes too concentrated. How can gallstones be prevented? Risk factors for the development of gallstones include being overweight, a lack of exercise, a diet containing too much cholesterol and fat that is also low in fibre, and rapid weight loss. It stands to reason therefore that maintaining a balanced diet and a healthy weight can help to prevent the development of gallstones.  Other risk factors for the disease include liver problems and diabetes. What is the treatment? Gallstones don’t always need treatment and in many cases the best option is to monitor them and only treat them if symptoms appear. If, however they are causing complications it might be necessary to treat them immediatley. Additionally, patients who have conditions which increase the risk of complications, such as portal hypertension (high blood pressure in the liver), cirrhosis of the liver or diabetes may need more urgent treatment. In most cases, keyhole surgery is performed to remove the gallbladder, in an operation known as a cholecystectomy. Following the operation, patients can lead a normal life without the gallbladder as the liver will continue to produce bile.  ...

Interstitial cystitis

Cystitis is inflammation of the bladder. The term interstitial cystitis is used when the disease is chronic. It is much more common in women than in men, and the cause is unknown, although it is known to be not caused by bacterial or viral infections. People affected by this type of cystitis have a completely inflamed and painful bladder wall, which causes scars on the bladder or causes stiffness, which causes the inability to expand as it fills with urine. Symptoms vary widely, but often include impulses to urinate urgently, frequent urinating, and even pain during sexual intercourse. There is no definitive cure for interstitial cystitis, so treatments are usually focused on improving symptoms, and may include: diet, exercise to control the bladder, medications, physical therapy, etc. ...

Kidney cancer

Kidney cancer is a malignant tumour that involves the uncontrolled spread of cancer cells in the renal tubules. It is a disorder that affects, above all, adults over 50 and generally men. The most common risk factors are smoking, haemodialysis and other genetic reasons (the exact causes are unknown). The symptoms of a kidney tumour are usually the appearance of blood in the urine, pain in the lower back (near the diseased kidney), weight loss and gain of abdominal mass. However, most kidney tumours are asymptomatic, and are usually detected at random from an X-ray test performed for other reasons. It is a cancer that if detected in time can be cured, because of the body's ability to continue as normal with a single kidney, so the removal of the damaged organ will stop the cancer. However, in case of metastases (tumour spread to other organs), other specific treatments must be performed to halt the spread of cancer cells. ...

Kidney infection

Pyelonephritis is a kidney inflammation that affects the renal parenchyma, renal pelvis and calyces. The symptoms include back pain, fever and chill although only 60% of the people who have these symptoms checked are confirmed to suffer from pyelonephritis. In addition, cystitis and kidney stones can also be a cause. The main cause of pyelonephritis is the passing of microorganisms through the ureters from the faecal flora. ...

Laparoscopy

Laparoscopy is a surgical technique used to inspect the abdominal cavity, allowing the surgeon not to make large incisions. During the procedure, a laparoscope,  which is a tube containing an optical system coupled with a light source, is inserted into the abdomen. The camera allows the doctor to inspect the pelvic organs from a monitor and, if necessary, to introduce other instruments through the same laparoscope to correct a problem. The advantages of laparoscopy are many, such as the patient requiring shorter hospitalisation and recovery time, fewer chances of infectious complications, less postoperative pain and no visible scars. Laparoscopy is used primarily in processes such as prostate cancer or some kidney diseases. ...

Lichen sclerosus

Lichen sclerosis is a disease that affects the skin of the genital and anal area. It is more common in women, especially after menopause. The disease initially manifests with small white pustules, which tend to grow over time. Circumcision is recommended for men, while for women it is recommended to apply topical creams that contain cortisone. Lichen sclerosis is not contagious. ...

Pearly penile papules

Pearly penile papules are a skin condition that affects the male genitals. It manifests itself in different rows formed by small bumps around the corona of the penis. It is important to get treatment quickly and avoid them lasting a lifetime. Treatment consists of different application techniques such as liquid nitrogen in order to freeze and remove them once they are in solid form; using CO2 laser or silver nitrate....

Pelvic pain syndrome

Pelvic pain syndrome is considered chronic if it lasts for more than six months, and must be assessed by a specialist as it can have multiple causes and possible treatments. ...

Peyronie

Peyronie's disease (also known as Peyronie's syndrome) occurs when a zone of fibrosis (scar) forms in the corpus cavernosum of the penis. This area loses elasticity, and by not stretching when the corpora cavernosa is filled in erection, the penis bends in the direction of the scar. This curvature can become painful and even prevent sexual intercourse. Although the average age of affected men is at 50 years, it can also occur in young people. The exact cause of this disease is unknown, but may be the result of a trauma when the penis is erect, such as during intercourse. There are studies that relate the Peyronie's syndrome to an alteration in the human immune system. In an early stage, the treatment involves taking medication, but if the disease progresses and the penis curvature continues, surgery may be necessary. Peyronie's disease (also known as Peyronie syndrome) occurs when the area of ​​fibrosis (scar) in the corpus cavernosum penis is formed. That area loses elasticity, and not stretch when the corpora cavernosa to fill in the erection, the penis is bent toward the scar. This curvature can become painful and even prevent intercourse. Although the average age of men affected is 50, also it occurs in young people. The exact cause of this disease is unknown, but can result from trauma when the penis is erect, such as during intercourse. Studies have linked the syndrome of Peyronie with an impaired immune system of man. In an initial phase, the treatment consists of drugs, but if the disease progresses and continues bowing of the penis, surgery may be necessary. ...

Phimosis

Phimosis is a disorder in which there is congenital or accidental narrowing of the preputial ring of the penis, which prevents it from being withdrawn to show the glans. It is common in children and may occasionally be caused by forced retractions of the foreskin at an early age. It can also be caused by an infection or by the scars that form after an injury. Phimosis can be corrected by a simple surgical procedure called circumcision, which involves removing excess skin surrounding the glans, leaving it permanently exposed. On the other hand, paraphimosis is when the foreskin cannot be placed above the glans. Generally, it causes pain and a little swelling, and usually occurs in children or elderly people who have not been circumcised. ...

Prostate biopsy

A prostate biopsy is a test to determine prostate cancer. Small samples of the prostrate are examined to see if there is benign or malignant growth. During the procedure, the doctor inserts a needle through the wall of the rectum and into the prostate. When removing the needle, a small cylinder of prostatic tissue is removed. The test lasts only 10 minutes and the patient will be prescribed antibiotics for before and after the operation to avoid a possible infection. ...

Prostate cancer

Prostate cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow in the prostate, the male sex gland that lies beneath the bladder, and above the rectum, and is the responsible for producing seminal fluid. It is one of the most common cancers in men, and the chances of getting it increase with age. In its initial stage, it presents symptoms such as: difficulties and pain when urinating, frequent urination, inability to urinate, blood in the urine, painful ejaculation, pain in the lower back and pelvis that does not disappear over time, involuntary weight loss, etc. Treatment options depend on the stage of the cancer and the patient's health, but usually include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. ...

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a set of infectious diseases caused by different microorganisms. They all have in common that they are spread, most of the time, through sexual intercourse. More than 20 STIs are known, including chlamydia and lymphogranuloma, gonorrhoea, genital herpes, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), genital warts caused by human papillomavirus, syphilis and trichomoniasis. Although most STDs affect both men and women, women have the most serious health problems. Not all STDs can be cured: those caused by bacteria, such as chlamydia, are treated with antibiotics, but in those that are caused by viruses, such as genital herpes, treatment is limited to alleviating the symptoms. ...

Short frenulum

The frenulum of prepuce of penis is the fold of the skin in charge of attaching the underside of the glans with the inner surface of the foreskin. Its function is to help to contract the prepuce on the glans. Short frenulum is when the frenulum is so short that it restricts the movement of the foreskin, which causes discomfort during sexual activity. One of the consequences is that it can get torn, causing pain and some bleeding, which is not a medical emergency, but if it gets complicated it requires medical treatment. There are different methods for this: from the use of creams with corticosteroids and exercise for the manual extension of the frenulum, to repair plastic surgery (fenuloplasty), elimination (fraenectomy) or circumcision. ...

Testicular biopsy

Testicular biopsy is a surgical technique which is used to obtain a sample of testicular tissue through an incision in the scrotum. The objective of this procedure is to diagnose a type of disease, or be a therapy for assisted reproduction. In the former case a sample of testicular pulp is taken to assess testicular function and to discover if testicular tissue produces spermatozoids or not. It can also be done for a genetic study or meiosis. Regarding the therapeutic objective, the biopsy is carried out to extract immature spermatozoa, if any, for assisted reproduction and freezing of a spare sample for subsequent reproduction cycles. Before carrying out the biopsy, the man undergoes both a physical examination and a hormonal analysis, to establish if this test is required. ...

Testicular cancers

  Testicular cancer occurs when cancer cells in the testes, which are oval glands that produce sperm and the hormone testosterone in men between 15 and 35 are formed. It can occur in one or both testicles, and is more common in young men and those who had an abnormal testicular development and undescended testicle at birth, or if there are genetic background. Symptoms of testicular tumors are: a lump in the testicles or groin, pain and tenderness in the breast area. The main causes of the appearance of testicular cancer are genetic, because the testicle has not moved properly from the abdomen into the scrotum during their training. Furthermore, it also occurs in patients who have been subject to aggressive or toxic for long periods because of their work substances. This type of cancer has a cure statistics more than 90% if it is found early and treated by chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery. Testicular cancer occurs when cancer cells form in the testes. Symptoms of testicular tumors are: a lump in the testicles or groin, and pain and tenderness. The main causes of the appearance of testicular cancer are genetic, because the testicle has not moved properly from the abdomen into the scrotum during their development. If found early, testicular cancer can be treated with chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery.    ...

Ultrasound

What is ultrasound? Ultrasound is a diagnostic imaging procedure that allows you to see organs and soft structures inside the body. At present, they can be 2D, 3D or four-dimensional images. Ultrasound is a non-invasive technique, in which radiation is not used and thanks to this, it is used to visualise developing foetuses. What does an ultrasound scan consist of? It is carried out using high frequency sound waves emitted through a transducer that captures the echo of different amplitudes which occurs when they ‘bounce’ off the organs. These signals, once processed by a computer, give a series of images. Why are ultrasounds carried out? With this procedure you can clearly differentiate the shape and size of each structure inside the body. In medicine it is used to see the heart, kidneys, liver and blood vessels, among other organs. In addition, ultrasounds are also carried out on patients who are pregnant. Another function is the study of different tissues of the body such as the blood flow of arteries and veins to detect arteriosclerosis and blood clots. Ultrasounds also allow the analysis of the thyroid gland and other soft structures of the neck as well as tendons, ligaments, muscles and joint structures, and mammary glands. Preparation for Ultrasound Usually, you do not need any type of preparation for having an ultrasound. In cases where the area to be examined is the abdomen, the specialist may tell you to drink three glasses of water approximately one hour before the test. How does it feel during the ultrasound? During the ultrasound, the patient will lie on a table or stretcher with the area to be analysed exposed. The specialist will apply a transparent gel that will allow the movement of the roller built into the transducer. During the scan the expert will interpret the images and determine which shots are correct according to each case. The only slight discomfort that can be felt is the gentle pressure that the specialist applies when passing the transducer over the body area. The gel applied can also feel quite cold when applied. Meaning of abnormal results The types of images that are considered abnormal are: Congenital anomalies An alteration to tissue due to trauma or injury Cysts ...

Urethra surgery

What is urethra surgery? The urethra is the tube that takes urine from the bladder out of the body. In men, the urethra is about 20 cm in length, running from the bladder, through the length of the penis to the opening at the end. Along the way, it passes through the prostate gland and past junctions with the seminal ducts from the testes, meaning that in men it is used for ejaculation as well as urination. In women, the urethra is shorter, running from the bladder to an opening above the vagina, and is only used for urination. As with all parts of the body, the urethra can be afflicted with various illnesses and injuries, some of which require surgery.   Why is urethra surgery done? Urethra surgery may be done to resolve urinary problems in the patient, to remove scar tissue that is causing pain or inconvenience, or to reconstruct the urethra following serious injury. There are various procedures that can be performed on the urethra depending on the condition or injury.   Urethra surgery procedures Some of the most common surgical operations on the urethra are: Urethral strictures – a narrowing of the urethra, usually due to scarring of the tissue lining the tube. Strictures can be the result of inflammation, injury or trauma, infection, damage left by previous surgery, or one of many other reasons. Often the cause it not clear. More common in males than females, urethral strictures will not go away on their own, and if they cause significant pain or affect the individual’s quality of life (such as urination problems or recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs)), surgery may be recommended. Sling surgery for incontinence – urinary incontinence occurs when the urethral sphincter, which controls urination, loses control of when the urethra opens during certain movements or actions that put pressure on the bladder, such as sneezing. By surgically implanting a sling made of mesh or tissue that lifts and supports the urethra, urinary control can be restored. ...

Urethritis

Urethritis is inflammation of the urethra, the tube through which urine is eliminated. Usually it causes an infection by germs that are spread through sexual contact. Some of its symptoms are burning, painful urination and purulent discharge. It can last a few weeks or even months, and is also called urethral syndrome....

Urinary incontinence

Urinary incontinence is the inability to control the bladder, which means that you can not always hold urine. It can affect anyone, but is most common in people over 50 years. Most control problems occur because the muscles that keep the bladder are too weak or too active. If they are weak, small amounts of urine to perform actions such as laughing or coughing are lost, which is known as stress incontinence. On the contrary, if they are too active, you can have an urgent need to go to the bathroom while having little urine in the bladder (urge incontinence or overactive bladder). Other causes include prostate problems and neurological damage. The treatment of urinary incontinence depends on the cause and type, but in general usually includes simple exercises, medicines and special devices. Surgery may be helpful at times. ...

Urodynamic testing

Urodynamic testing is a test to know how the lower urinary tract is functioning, that is, how urine is stored and eliminated. It is used to diagnose pathologies such as urinary incontinence, neurological diseases that affect the urinary tract, urinary tract infections, etc. The test consists of several parts. First, the patient must urinate in a container called a flow meter, which allows measuring the amount and speed of urine. A probe is then placed through the urethra with the aid of an anaesthetic gel that reaches the bladder and is used to measure its pressure and fill it with sterile saline solution. Finally, the patient must urinate with the probe placed, which is then removed. It is a simple procedure that takes about 30 minutes. ...

Urogenital injuries

A trauma is an injury to an organ or tissue due to external actions or causes. Urogenital traumatisms refer to lesions produced in the genital and or urinary tract. In this case, the organ that is most frequently damaged is the kidney, followed by the bladder, urethra, testicles and ureters. In addition, there are two types of urogenital trauma. On the one hand, there are the so-called closed traumas, which are the most common, and include injuries caused by falls from heights, traffic accidents, sports injuries and direct blows on the external genitalia. On the other hand, open traumas, which are caused mainly by stab wounds, gunshot or fire injuries and by abdominal surgery. ...

Vaginal prolapse

What is vaginal prolapse? Vaginal prolapse, also called pelvis organ prolapse (POP), is when the muscles that support the organs in the pelvis weaken and one or more of the organs begins to bulge into and even out of the vagina. Organs that can prolapse in this way include: Bladder Uterus Urethra Rectum (end of the bowel)   Prognosis of vaginal prolapse While not life-threatening, vaginal prolapse can be very uncomfortable or painful.   Symptoms of vaginal prolapse Pelvic organ prolapse can cause the following symptoms: A heavy feeling in the pelvis A feeling of fullness in the vagina A lump protruding from the vagina Discomfort or numbness during intercourse Problems with urination – you may feel like you haven’t emptied your bladder or may need to go more often.   Medical tests to diagnose vaginal prolapse If vaginal prolapse has occurred, but hasn’t been serious enough to cause any symptoms, it may be picked up by chance during another internal examination, like a cervical screening. If your doctor suspects a vaginal prolapse, he will need to perform an internal pelvic examination, which is done in a similar way to a smear test.   What are the causes of vaginal prolapse? A group of muscles and tissues known as the pelvic floor sits above the vagina and supports the organs in the abdomen such as the bladder and the colon. Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the pelvic floor weakens and can no longer hold up these organs. This weakening may be caused by: Pregnancy and childbirth – particularly if the baby was big, after a long and/or difficult birth or after a multiple birth Heavy lifting Pressure from being overweight or obese Chronic constipation Chronic lung disease or similar conditions that cause constant coughing Menopause   Treatments for vaginal prolapse The first line of treatment is pelvic floor exercises designed to strengthen the muscles in the pelvic floor so that they can support the bladder, uterus, and other organs properly. This, combined with lifestyle changes, such as losing weight and giving up smoking can be enough for some patients. Other patients may require a pessary – a device that is inserted into the vagina to hold the prolapse in position. If the prolapse is severe, surgical options may be considered. The ideal treatment depends on the case and should be discussed thoroughly and decided on by you and your doctor.   Which type of specialist treats vaginal prolapse? Gynaecologists and urologists specialise in dealing with conditions affecting the vagina, including pelvic organ prolapse. ...

Varicocele

A varicocele is a varicose vein tumour formed by an (unusually swollen vein) or a group of varices, usually located in the scrotum or in the spermatic cord. It usually develops during the course of puberty, most often on the left side of the scrotum, and although it is usually not harmful, in some people it can damage the testicles or decrease sperm production. If testicular varicocele causes infertility, surgery, called varicocelectomy, which involves cutting the affected veins for blood flow is performed. An alternative to surgery is varicocele embolisation, which makes a much smaller incision and involves placing a catheter into the vein. ...

Vasectomy

Vasectomy is the total or partial removal of the man's vas deferens, which are the tubes that carry the sperm out of the testicles. What it does is obstruct the sperm canal, and therefore prevent sperm from coming out of the testicles. That is why it is an effective method for birth control, since women cannot get pregnant, but it is not recommended in the short term, because for a time there is still sperm stored. It is a simple ambulatory surgical procedure, in most cases, and local anaesthesia is used. Recovery takes less than a week. After a vasectomy, the man can continue to have orgasms or ejaculate semen. ...

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