Urethral stricture
What is a urethral stricture? A urethral stricture is a narrowing of the urethra, the tube responsible for carrying urine from the bladder to the outside of the body. This narrowing can obstruct the flow of urine, leading to various urinary problems. Urethral strictures typically result from scarring caused by injury, infection, […]
Transrectal ultrasound scan (TRUS)
What is a TRUS scan? An ultrasound scan uses high frequency sound waves to create an image of an area of the body. A transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) is a widely used diagnostic test to examine the prostate gland which lies at the front of your bottom (rectum). It involves the insertion of a […]
Nephrectomy for kidney cancer
Understanding surgery for kidney cancer at Birmingham Urology Centre What is a nephrectomy? Nephrectomy is the surgical removal of a kidney. It is the primary and usually the most effective treatment for kidney cancer, especially if the cancer is localised and has not spread. Understanding the different types of nephrectomies, what […]
Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL)
What is PCNL? Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is a surgical procedure designed for the removal of large or complex kidney stones, typically when less invasive treatments such as shock wave lithotripsy are inadequate. The process involves a small incision in your back to directly access your kidney. Through this incision, a nephroscope (a […]
Shockwave lithotripsy
What is shock wave lithotripsy (SWL)? Shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) is a non-invasive medical procedure used to treat kidney stones that are too large to pass naturally. It employs high-energy shock waves to break the stones into smaller fragments that can be passed out of the body through urine. How does […]
Prostate cancer
What is the prostate? The prostate is a gland located underneath the bladder and surrounding the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body. It is usually the size of a walnut and grows larger with age. The prostate helps to make semen, the fluid that carries sperm. Understanding […]
Radiotherapy
What is radiotherapy? Radiotherapy is a cancer treatment that utilises high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells by targeting tumours. It can be used with the intent to cure cancer or to manage the condition and alleviate symptoms. Radiotherapy continues to evolve, improving the treatment experience. The latest techniques target cancer more precisely, […]
Chemotherapy
What is chemotherapy? Chemotherapy is an anti-cancer drug. There are many kinds of chemotherapies – some kill cancer cells outright, while others stop them from growing and multiplying. In recent years, chemotherapy has seen significant improvements. Newer chemotherapies are more effective and are delivered to cells in smarter ways, making them easier […]
Urethrotomy
What is a urethrotomy? A urethrotomy is a surgical procedure performed to treat urethral strictures, which are narrowings of the urethra that obstruct the flow of urine. This condition can lead to significant discomfort and urinary problems. During a urethrotomy, a specialised instrument called a urethrotome is used to make an incision […]
Epididymal cysts
What are epididymal cysts? Epididymal cysts, also known as spermatoceles, are fluid-filled sacs that develop in the epididymis, a small, coiled tube located at the back of the testicle. These cysts are typically benign and contain a clear or milky fluid that may contain sperm. They are generally painless and often discovered […]
