Urology

Urology treats problems of the Urinary System (Kidney, Urethra and Bladder), and in the Male Genital System (Prostate, Testis, Penis). It also treats urinary incontinence in both sexes.

Some diseases due to their frequency need to be mentioned

Adenocarcinoma of the prostate (prostate cancer)

Clinical Practice internationally recommends periodic surveillance of all men aged 50 or more. In cases of family history (father or uncle with the disease) it is recommended that this surveillance begins at the age of 45 years. Blood analysis of PSA levels allows for an early diagnosis of prostate cancer thus increasing the rates of cure of the disease.
 

Overactive Bladder

Overactive bladder is a condition that significantly impacts the quality of life. This pathology is characterised by a sudden and frequent urge to urinate, often accompanied by episodes of incontinence. This clinical picture results from an involuntary contraction of the bladder muscle, even when the bladder is not completely full, causing discomfort and interfering with daily activities.

The causes of overactive bladder can be multifactorial. Among the known factors, neurological changes, conditions affecting the muscles or nerves of the bladder, and metabolic diseases such as diabetes are particularly notable. Ageing is also a risk factor, as it can contribute to a loss of tissue elasticity and a reduction in muscle control.

The most common symptoms include the frequent need to urinate, often more than eight times a day, as well as a significant increase in the number of times one wakes up to empty the bladder (nocturia). In more severe cases, urinary incontinence may occur, which is the involuntary loss of urine, an embarrassing and socially limiting condition.

The diagnosis is based on the patient’s description of symptoms. However, complementary exams such as urodynamic studies may be necessary to assess the function of the bladder. Other tests, such as urine analysis or ultrasound scans, help to rule out underlying causes like infections or kidney stones.

The treatment of overactive bladder is personalised and may include lifestyle changes, behavioural therapies, medications, and, in specific cases, surgical interventions. Initial strategies include bladder retraining, techniques to increase the interval between urinations, and pelvic floor strengthening through exercises like Kegel exercises.

Anticholinergic medications and beta-3 adrenergic agonists are frequently prescribed to reduce the overactivity of the muscle.
 

Benign Hyperplasia of the Prostate (Enlarged volume of the prostate)

The problem is common to most men, and increases in frequency with age. Obstruction of bladder due to an enlarged prostate may result in multiple symptoms with a negative impact on the quality of life of the patient. Treatment is currently very effective and solves the problem.

 

Urinary Lithiasis (Kidney or Bladder Stone)

It is a common problem and is related to the formation of “stones” of the urinary tract. They are mostly composed of calculi (more than 70% of the cases), but in some cases they are composed of uric acid crystals (10%) where treatment consists in dissolving the stones. Calculi must treated / removed, given the risk of impaired kidney function and urinary tract infection of varying severity.

 

Recurrent Urinary Tract Infection

A frequent cause of pelvic and urinary complaints in women. Its bacteriological diagnosis is mandatory. It must be differentiated from the non-specific inflammatory cystitis whose symptoms may be indistinguishable. The differential diagnosis with Bladder Carcinoma is mandatory in cases with hematuria (blood in the urine), smoking and / or with professional exposure.
 

Urinary Incontinence

Some degree of urinary incontinence is estimated to affect up to 40% of women over the age of 50 years. Its prevalence increases with age. After identifying the type of incontinence (Incontinence of Effort, Incontinence due to a Hyperactive Bladder, Mixed Incontinence), adequate treatment will permit effective and definitive control of urinary losses. Any prolaps associated with stress incontinence is treated at the same time during the surgery.

 

Sexual Dysfunction (erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation)

Mainly due psychogenic causes, a correct diagnostic is necessary to exclude or confirm organic disease (vascular, venous and neuropathic). Medical and surgical treatment make it possible to improve the quality of the erection and complaints of premature ejaculation.

One of the treatments available for erectile dysfunction is low-intensity shock waves, a non-invasive intervention with a great safety profile, and HPA was innovative in the southern region.
Its mechanism of action is due to the recovery of existing vascular lesions in the erectile tissue, that is, the possibility of revascularizing the tissues and the activation of myofibroblasts, with blood flow being fundamental for an erection.

Find out more here.

 

Congenital anomalies and other problems in children

Hypospadias, recurrent urinary tract infection and urinary reflux, absence of testicles (cryptorchidism and testicular ectopy), and Enuresis (involuntary urinary loss in the child) can be corrected, and Its late treatment may condition chronic genitourinary complaints. Early diagnosis and timely correction are essential in the comprehensive resolution of these diseases.

 

Fertility Control (vasectomy)

It is a simple procedure performed as an outpatient, under local anaesthesia and does not interfere with the man’s sexual function.

Urology and Related Examinations

/ Urology Out-Patient Consutation (Kidneys and Urinary Tract);

/ Andrology Out-Patient consultation (male sexuality);

/ Urinary Incontinence and Women's Urology Consultation;

/ Urodynamics;

/ Urological Ultrasound;

/ Bio-guided biopsies;

/ Urological Endoscopy;

/ Endoscopic laser surgery;

/ Extra Corporal Lithotripsy by Shock Waves;

/ Endotracheal Laser Lithotripsy.