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Urology Glossary

Urology glossary.

Short, clear explanations of the terms you are most likely to meet in urology.

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Adrenal gland · Suprarenal gland: The adrenal glands are small hormone-producing glands that sit on top of each kidney. They produce hormones such as cortisol, aldosterone and adrenaline, which regulate the stress response, salt and water balance and blood pressure. Tumors of these glands may produce excess hormones and sometimes require surgery. Related page: Adrenal Tumours
Adrenalectomy · Adrenal gland surgery: Adrenalectomy is the surgical removal of an adrenal gland. It is performed for adrenal tumors that produce hormones or that raise suspicion of cancer because of their size or imaging features. It is mostly performed laparoscopically; some hormone-producing tumors require special medical preparation before surgery. Related page: Adrenal Tumours
Azoospermia · No sperm in semen: Azoospermia is the complete absence of sperm in the semen; diagnosis requires no sperm to be found in at least two separate centrifuged semen samples. It may be due to a blockage of the sperm ducts (obstructive) or impaired sperm production in the testicles (non-obstructive). The cause is investigated with hormone and genetic tests, and in many men sperm can be retrieved from the testicle using methods such as micro-TESE. Related page: Male Infertility

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BCG therapy · Intravesical BCG, Bacillus Calmette-Guérin: BCG therapy is a treatment in which a weakened form of the tuberculosis bacterium is instilled into the bladder through a catheter to stimulate the immune system against bladder tumors. It is used after TURBT in intermediate- and high-risk non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer to reduce the risk of recurrence and progression. A weekly induction course is usually followed by maintenance doses at set intervals. Related page: Bladder Cancer
Bipolar enucleation of the prostate · Bipolar enucleation, B-TUEP, TUEP: Bipolar enucleation of the prostate is an endoscopic operation in which bipolar energy is used to separate enlarged prostate tissue from its capsule in one piece and remove it from the bladder by morcellation. Like laser enucleation, it can be used for medium and large prostates. No incision is made and almost all of the tissue can be sent for pathological examination. Related page: Enlarged Prostate (BPH) Treatment
Bladder · Urinary bladder: The bladder is a hollow, muscular and stretchy organ in the lower abdomen that stores urine coming from the kidneys. As it fills, it signals the nervous system to create the urge to urinate, and its muscle contracts to empty urine into the urethra.
Bladder cancer · Bladder tumor, Urothelial carcinoma: Bladder cancer is a malignant tumor arising from the cells lining the inside of the bladder, and smoking is its most important risk factor. Its most common sign is painless, visible blood in the urine. Diagnosis is made with cystoscopy and TURBT; whether the tumor has invaded the bladder muscle determines the choice of treatment. Related page: Bladder Cancer
BPH · Benign prostatic hyperplasia, Benign prostatic enlargement, Enlarged prostate: BPH is the non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate that occurs with age. The enlarged prostate can narrow the urethra and cause a weak or interrupted stream, straining, frequent urination and waking at night to urinate. Treatment is chosen according to symptom severity, ranging from lifestyle advice and medication to surgery such as TURP or HoLEP. Related page: Enlarged Prostate (BPH) Treatment

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Calcium oxalate stone: Calcium oxalate stones are the most common type of kidney stone. Low fluid intake, high levels of calcium or oxalate in the urine and low urinary citrate, which normally inhibits stone formation, make them more likely to form. Prevention includes drinking plenty of fluids, limiting salt and animal protein and keeping a normal calcium intake; cutting out calcium completely is not recommended. Related page: Kidney Stone Treatment
Circumcision: Circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin (prepuce) that covers the head of the penis. Besides religious and cultural reasons, it is performed for medical reasons such as phimosis and recurrent foreskin infections. Children with a congenital penile anomaly such as hypospadias must be examined by a doctor before circumcision. Related page: Circumcision (Children and Adults)
Color Doppler ultrasound · Scrotal Doppler, Doppler ultrasonography: Color Doppler ultrasound is a radiation-free test that uses sound waves to show both tissue images and blood flow in the vessels. In urology it is used especially to diagnose varicocele, to assess blood flow in suspected testicular torsion and to examine testicular lumps. Penile Doppler is used to investigate vascular causes of erectile dysfunction. Related page: Varicocele
Cystoscopy · Bladder endoscopy: Cystoscopy is a procedure in which a thin camera (cystoscope) is passed through the urethra to look directly inside the urethra and bladder. It is used for blood in the urine, recurrent infections, follow-up of bladder tumors and urethral stricture. With a flexible cystoscope it can usually be done as an outpatient procedure under local anesthetic gel. Related page: Cystoscopy (Bladder Endoscopy)

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Digital rectal examination · DRE: A digital rectal examination is when the doctor gently inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to assess the size, consistency and surface of the prostate. It is a quick and usually painless examination. Finding a hard area or nodule in the prostate may warrant further tests even if the PSA is normal. Related page: Prostate Cancer
Double-J stent · DJ stent, Ureteral stent, JJ stent: A double-J stent is a thin, soft tube with curled ends placed between the kidney and the bladder. It is inserted temporarily after stone surgery or to keep urine flowing when the ureter is blocked by a stone, a stricture or external pressure. It is not permanent and must be removed or changed within the time set by the doctor, otherwise stones can form on it. Related page: Kidney Stone Treatment
Dysuria · Painful urination, Burning on urination: Dysuria is a burning, stinging or painful sensation when passing urine. The most common cause is a urinary tract infection; prostatitis, urethritis, sexually transmitted infections and stones can also cause it. Medical advice should be sought promptly if fever, flank pain or blood in the urine is present. Related page: Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

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Enuresis · Bedwetting, Nocturnal enuresis: Enuresis is involuntary wetting during sleep in a child older than 5 years. It is often associated with a family tendency, excess urine production at night, deep sleep and a small bladder capacity, and it is not something the child can control. Treatment includes adjusting fluid and toilet habits, alarm therapy and medication when needed; daytime symptoms call for a more detailed evaluation. Related page: Pediatric Urology
Epididymis: The epididymis is a coiled, narrow tube attached to the back of each testicle. Sperm produced in the testis mature and are stored here. Its inflammation (epididymitis) can cause pain and swelling in the scrotum.
Erectile dysfunction · ED, Impotence: Erectile dysfunction is the persistent inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual intercourse. It is closely linked to vascular health; diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and smoking are major risk factors, and it can be an early sign of cardiovascular disease. Treatment options include lifestyle changes, oral medication, penile injection therapy and, in advanced cases, a penile prosthesis. Related page: Erectile Dysfunction

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Free PSA · Free-to-total PSA ratio, fPSA: Free PSA is the portion of PSA that circulates in the blood without being bound to proteins, and it is usually assessed as a ratio to total PSA. A low free-to-total PSA ratio suggests a higher likelihood of prostate cancer than a high ratio. It is an additional test that helps with biopsy decisions, especially when PSA is only mildly raised. Related page: Prostate Cancer

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Genital warts · Condyloma, Condylomata acuminata, HPV warts: Genital warts are growths in the genital and anal area caused by low-risk types of the human papillomavirus (HPV). They are transmitted through sexual contact and can recur after treatment. Treatment options include creams, freezing (cryotherapy), cauterization or surgical removal; HPV vaccination helps prevent them. Related page: Genital Warts (Condyloma) Treatment
Gonorrhea · Gonorrhoea, Gonococcal infection, The clap: Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. In men it usually causes burning on urination and a yellow-green discharge from the urethra; in women it often causes no symptoms. It is treated with antibiotics and partners must also be treated; untreated, it can lead to epididymitis, infertility and urethral stricture.

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Hematuria · Haematuria, Blood in the urine: Hematuria is the presence of blood in the urine; the urine may look red or brown, or the blood may only be detected on a urine test. Besides stones, infection and prostate enlargement, it can be a sign of bladder or kidney tumors. Visible, painless hematuria in particular should be investigated with ultrasound, CT and cystoscopy. Related page: Cystoscopy (Bladder Endoscopy)
HoLEP · Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate: HoLEP is an endoscopic prostate operation in which a holmium laser is used to separate the enlarged prostate tissue from its capsule, push it into the bladder and remove it by morcellation. It can be performed regardless of prostate size and is an alternative to open surgery even for very large prostates. It requires no incision; retrograde ejaculation is common afterwards. Related page: Enlarged Prostate (BPH) Treatment
Hydrocele · Fluid around the testicle: A hydrocele is a painless swelling in the scrotum caused by fluid collecting between the layers surrounding the testicle. It is common in babies and most resolve on their own within the first year; in adults it is usually persistent. It is evaluated with ultrasound to rule out an underlying cause, and surgery is recommended for large or bothersome hydroceles. Related page: Hydrocele
Hydronephrosis · Kidney swelling, Dilated collecting system: Hydronephrosis is the dilation of the kidney's collecting system caused by blocked urine outflow or urine flowing backwards. The main causes include stones, UPJ obstruction, vesicoureteral reflux, prostate enlargement and tumors. It is usually detected on ultrasound, and treatment is directed at the underlying cause.
Hypospadias: Hypospadias is a congenital condition in which the urinary opening is located on the underside of the penis rather than at its tip. It is often accompanied by a foreskin present only on the upper side and curvature of the penis. Repair is usually carried out in infancy; circumcision should not be done beforehand because the foreskin may be used in the repair. Related page: Pediatric Urology

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Kidney · Renal: The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located on either side of the lower back that filter the blood and produce urine. They regulate the body's fluid and salt balance and blood pressure, and produce hormones involved in red blood cell production. Urine collects in the renal pelvis and drains through the ureter to the bladder.
Kidney cancer · Renal cell carcinoma, RCC, Kidney tumor: Kidney cancer is a malignant tumor arising from kidney tissue, most commonly of the renal cell carcinoma type. Today most cases are found incidentally on ultrasound or CT performed for another reason; smoking, obesity and high blood pressure are risk factors. Treatment is mostly surgical, and kidney-sparing partial nephrectomy is preferred in suitable patients. Related page: Kidney Cancer (Kidney Tumour)

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Laparoscopy · Keyhole surgery, Laparoscopic surgery: Laparoscopy is a surgical technique in which a camera and fine instruments are inserted through several small openings in the abdominal wall. In urology it is used for operations on the kidney, adrenal gland, prostate and ureter. Compared with a large incision, it generally offers less pain, smaller scars and faster recovery. Related page: Laparoscopic (Keyhole) Urologic Surgery

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Micro-TESE · Microdissection TESE, Microsurgical testicular sperm extraction: Micro-TESE is an operation in which testicular tissue is examined under an operating microscope to find and remove the tubules most likely to contain sperm. It is the preferred method particularly in non-obstructive azoospermia. Sperm retrieved can be used for IVF with ICSI or frozen for later use. Related page: Male Infertility
Multiparametric MRI · mpMRI, Prostate MRI, PI-RADS: Multiparametric MRI is a magnetic resonance scan that examines the prostate in detail using several imaging sequences. Findings are reported with a scoring system called PI-RADS, which shows the location of areas suspicious for cancer. Current guidelines recommend MRI before biopsy when PSA is raised, with targeted biopsies taken from suspicious areas. Related page: Prostate Cancer

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Nephrostomy · Percutaneous nephrostomy, Nephrostomy tube: A nephrostomy is a thin catheter placed directly into the kidney through the back under ultrasound or X-ray guidance, draining urine into an external bag. It is used to urgently relieve a blocked, and especially an infected, kidney, and may also be used after PCNL. It is usually a temporary solution. Related page: Kidney Stone Treatment
Nocturia · Waking at night to urinate: Nocturia means waking from sleep one or more times at night to pass urine. It has many possible causes, including prostate enlargement, overactive bladder, excess urine production at night, drinking a lot in the evening, heart failure and sleep apnea. Keeping a bladder diary helps identify the cause. Related page: Enlarged Prostate (BPH) Treatment
Non-contrast CT · Low-dose CT, CT KUB, Stone protocol CT: Non-contrast computed tomography is a CT scan performed without intravenous contrast and is regarded as the most reliable imaging method for detecting kidney, ureteral and bladder stones. It shows the size, location and density of the stone (Hounsfield units, which give an idea of hardness), helping to choose the treatment. Low-dose protocols are used in suitable patients to reduce radiation exposure. Related page: Kidney Stone Treatment

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Orchiopexy · Orchidopexy, Undescended testis surgery: Orchiopexy is an operation in which an undescended testicle is located, brought down into the scrotum and fixed in place. To protect testicular development and sperm production potential, it is generally recommended between 6 and 18 months of age. The operation also makes it easier to monitor the testicle by examination. Related page: Pediatric Urology
Overactive bladder · OAB, Urge incontinence, Urgency: Overactive bladder is a condition characterized by a sudden, hard-to-defer urge to urinate (urgency), usually with frequent urination and waking at night to urinate, and sometimes urinary leakage. Diagnosis requires ruling out urinary tract infection and other causes. First-line treatment includes bladder training, fluid management, pelvic floor exercises and medication; botulinum toxin injections into the bladder or nerve stimulation may be used if these do not help. Related page: Urinary Incontinence

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Partial nephrectomy · Nephron-sparing surgery, Kidney-sparing surgery: Partial nephrectomy is an operation in which a kidney tumor is removed with a margin of healthy tissue while the rest of the kidney is preserved. To protect kidney function, guidelines recommend it as the preferred option for small kidney tumors where technically feasible. It can be performed by open, laparoscopic or robot-assisted surgery. Related page: Kidney Cancer (Kidney Tumour)
PCNL · Percutaneous nephrolithotomy, PNL, Mini-PCNL: PCNL is an operation in which the kidney is accessed through a channel roughly the width of a pencil made in the back, and stones are broken up and removed. It is the first-choice method for large kidney stones and staghorn stones. Techniques with smaller instruments, such as mini-PCNL, are also used in suitable patients. Related page: Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL)
Penile prosthesis · Penile implant, Inflatable penile prosthesis: A penile prosthesis is a device implanted inside the erectile tissue of the penis that allows an erection on demand. There are inflatable (hydraulic) and malleable (semi-rigid) types. It is an option for advanced erectile dysfunction that does not respond to, or cannot be treated with, medication and other therapies. Related page: Penile Prosthesis (Penile Implant)
Peyronie's disease · Penile curvature, Induratio penis plastica: Peyronie's disease is the formation of a hard, fibrous plaque in the sheath surrounding the erectile tissue of the penis (tunica albuginea), causing the penis to curve, shorten or hurt during erection. The disease usually starts with a painful active phase, after which the plaque and curvature stabilize. Treatment depends on the phase; surgical correction may be performed for stable curvature that prevents intercourse. Related page: Peyronie's Disease (Penile Curvature)
Phimosis · Tight foreskin: Phimosis is when the foreskin is too tight to be pulled back over the head of the penis. In young children a non-retractable foreskin is normal (physiological) and should not be forcibly retracted. For ballooning during urination, recurrent infections or scarring (pathological phimosis), steroid cream treatment or circumcision may be recommended. Related page: Circumcision (Children and Adults)
Premature ejaculation · PE, Early ejaculation: Premature ejaculation is ejaculation that occurs sooner than the man or his partner wishes, within a very short time and without control, causing distress. There are lifelong and acquired forms; the acquired form may be associated with erectile dysfunction, prostatitis or thyroid problems. Treatment includes behavioral techniques, sex therapy, medication and locally applied numbing products. Related page: Premature Ejaculation
Prostate · Prostate gland: The prostate is a gland in men that lies just below the bladder and surrounds the first part of the urethra. It produces part of the fluid in semen. It can enlarge with age and obstruct urine flow, and it is also where prostate cancer develops.
Prostate biopsy · Transperineal biopsy, Fusion biopsy, Targeted biopsy: A prostate biopsy involves taking small tissue samples from the prostate with fine needles so they can be examined under a microscope for cancer. Today the transperineal route, through the skin between the scrotum and the anus, is preferred because of its lower infection risk. If MRI shows a suspicious area, MRI images can be combined with ultrasound for a targeted (fusion) biopsy. Related page: Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer · Prostate adenocarcinoma: Prostate cancer is a malignant tumor arising from the cells of the prostate gland and usually causes no symptoms in its early stages. Diagnosis involves the PSA test, digital rectal examination, multiparametric MRI and biopsy; the aggressiveness of the tumor is defined by the Gleason/ISUP grade. Treatment depends on the risk group, ranging from active surveillance in low-risk disease to radical prostatectomy and radiotherapy. Related page: Prostate Cancer
Prostatitis · Chronic pelvic pain syndrome, CP/CPPS: Prostatitis is inflammation of the prostate and has different types, including acute bacterial, chronic bacterial and chronic pelvic pain syndrome. Acute bacterial prostatitis causes fever, chills and painful urination and requires antibiotics. In chronic pelvic pain syndrome there is long-lasting pain in the groin, perineum and lower abdomen without a clear infection. Related page: Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
PSA · Prostate-specific antigen: PSA is a protein produced by prostate cells that can be measured in the blood. A raised PSA may suggest prostate cancer, but it can also rise with prostate enlargement, prostate inflammation, catheterization or recent ejaculation. PSA alone therefore does not make a diagnosis; it is interpreted together with age, examination and, if needed, MRI. Related page: Prostate Cancer
Pyeloplasty · Renal pelvis repair: Pyeloplasty is an operation to surgically repair a narrowing where the renal pelvis joins the ureter. The narrowed segment is removed and the ureter is reattached to the renal pelvis with a wide opening. It can be performed laparoscopically, robot-assisted or as open surgery and is the gold standard treatment for UPJ obstruction. Related page: UPJ Obstruction and Pyeloplasty

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Radical inguinal orchiectomy · Orchiectomy, Orchidectomy, Testicular cancer surgery: Radical inguinal orchiectomy is an operation in which the testicle is removed together with the spermatic cord through an incision in the groin when testicular cancer is suspected. It is not done through the scrotum, so that the tumor's spread pathways are not disturbed. It both confirms the diagnosis and is the first step of treatment; a testicular prosthesis can be placed at the same time if desired. Related page: Testicular Cancer
Radical nephrectomy · Nephrectomy, Kidney removal: Radical nephrectomy is an operation in which the entire kidney is removed together with its surrounding fat. It is mainly used for large or centrally located kidney tumors when partial nephrectomy is not possible. Today it is frequently performed laparoscopically. Related page: Kidney Cancer (Kidney Tumour)
Radical prostatectomy · Prostate cancer surgery: Radical prostatectomy is an operation to remove the whole prostate gland and the seminal vesicles to treat prostate cancer. It can be performed by open, laparoscopic or robot-assisted surgery; in suitable patients the nerves responsible for erection are preserved where possible. Urinary leakage and erection problems may occur after surgery and can improve over time. Related page: Prostate Cancer
Renal colic · Kidney stone pain, Ureteric colic: Renal colic is severe, wave-like pain, usually caused by a stone suddenly blocking the urinary tract, which may spread from the flank to the groin. Nausea, vomiting and blood in the urine may accompany it. When it occurs with fever, infection in a blocked kidney is suspected and urgent treatment is needed. Related page: Kidney Stone Treatment
Renogram · Renal scintigraphy, Diuretic renogram, MAG3 scan: A renogram is a nuclear medicine test that uses a small dose of radioactive tracer injected into a vein to show how much each kidney contributes to overall function and how quickly urine drains from the kidney. When performed with a diuretic (diuretic renogram), it helps distinguish whether a dilated kidney is truly obstructed. It is frequently used in treatment decisions for UPJ obstruction. Related page: UPJ Obstruction and Pyeloplasty
RIRS · Retrograde intrarenal surgery, Flexible ureteroscopy, Laser kidney stone surgery: RIRS is an operation in which a thin, flexible endoscope is passed through the urinary tract into the kidney and kidney stones are broken up or dusted with a laser. No skin incision is made, and it is usually performed under general or spinal anesthesia. It is mostly chosen for medium-sized kidney stones and when shock wave lithotripsy is not suitable. Related page: RIRS (Laser Kidney Stone Surgery)

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Semen analysis · Spermiogram, Sperm test: A semen analysis examines the number, movement (motility) and shape (morphology) of sperm in a semen sample according to World Health Organization criteria. The sample is usually collected by masturbation into a sterile container after 2–7 days of sexual abstinence. Because sperm values naturally vary, an abnormal result is usually confirmed with a repeat test. Related page: Male Infertility
Shock wave lithotripsy · SWL, ESWL, Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy: Shock wave lithotripsy is a treatment in which shock waves focused from outside the body break up kidney or ureteral stones, without any incision or endoscope. The stone fragments pass in the urine over the following days. The size, location and hardness of the stone and the patient's body build affect the outcome; it is not used in pregnancy or in certain bleeding disorders. Related page: Kidney Stone Treatment
Spermatic cord · Funiculus spermaticus: The spermatic cord connects the testicle to the abdomen and contains the sperm duct (vas deferens), the testicular artery, the testicular veins and nerves. Widening of its veins causes a varicocele, and twisting of the cord causes testicular torsion.
Staghorn stone · Staghorn calculus, Coralliform stone: A staghorn stone is a large kidney stone that fills the branches of the kidney's collecting system, giving it the appearance of a deer's antler. It is frequently associated with recurrent urinary tract infections. Because untreated it can lead to loss of kidney function and serious infections, the goal is usually complete clearance, most often with PCNL. Related page: Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL)
Stress urinary incontinence · SUI, Stress incontinence: Stress urinary incontinence is leakage of urine with activities that increase abdominal pressure, such as coughing, sneezing, laughing, lifting or exercise. In women it is linked to weakening of the pelvic floor and urethral support after childbirth and with age; in men it is mostly due to sphincter weakness after prostate surgery. Treatment starts with pelvic floor exercises; if these are not enough, sling operations or, in men, an artificial urinary sphincter are options. Related page: Urinary Incontinence

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Testicular cancer · Testicular tumor, Germ cell tumor: Testicular cancer is a tumor that mostly affects young adult men and arises from the sperm-producing cells of the testicle. Its most common sign is a painless hard area or lump in the testicle; a history of undescended testis increases the risk. Ultrasound and blood tumor markers are used for diagnosis; treatment begins with radical inguinal orchiectomy and may be followed by chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Related page: Testicular Cancer
Testicular torsion · Torsion of the testis, Spermatic cord torsion: Testicular torsion is the twisting of the testicle around the spermatic cord, cutting off its blood supply, and is an emergency. It typically occurs in adolescence and presents with sudden, severe testicular pain, swelling, nausea and vomiting. The first hours are critical to save the testicle; emergency care should be sought without waiting for the pain to settle, and surgery should be performed if torsion is suspected. Related page: Pediatric Urology
Testis · Testicle, Testes: The testes are two organs inside the scrotum that produce sperm and the male hormone testosterone. They need a temperature slightly cooler than the body for healthy sperm production. A firm, painless lump noticed in a testicle always needs urological assessment.
TURBT · Transurethral resection of bladder tumor, TUR-B: TURBT is an operation in which a bladder tumor is removed by resecting it with an endoscope passed through the urethra. It is both a treatment and provides the pathological diagnosis, showing the tumor type and whether it has grown into the bladder muscle. For accurate staging the specimen should include bladder muscle; some patients need a second resection a few weeks later. Related page: Bladder Cancer
TURP · Transurethral resection of the prostate: TURP is an operation in which prostate tissue that obstructs urine flow is shaved away in small pieces with an electrical loop passed through an endoscope in the urethra. No skin incision is made. It has long been regarded as the standard surgical treatment for medium-sized prostates; retrograde ejaculation (semen going into the bladder) is common afterwards. Related page: Enlarged Prostate (BPH) Treatment

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Undescended testis · Cryptorchidism, Undescended testicle: An undescended testis is a testicle that has not moved down into the scrotum after birth and remains in the groin canal or the abdomen. Some descend on their own in the first months; for those that do not, surgery (orchiopexy) is recommended to reduce the risks of infertility and testicular cancer and to make monitoring easier. Hormone therapy is not routinely recommended to bring the testicle down. Related page: Pediatric Urology
UPJ obstruction · Ureteropelvic junction obstruction, PUJ obstruction: Ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) obstruction is a blockage of urine flow where the renal pelvis joins the ureter, causing dilation of the kidney (hydronephrosis). It is often congenital and is sometimes detected on prenatal ultrasound; in adults it may present with flank pain, infection or stones. Kidney function is assessed with a renogram, and when needed it is repaired with pyeloplasty. Related page: UPJ Obstruction and Pyeloplasty
Ureter: The ureter is the thin, muscular tube that carries urine from each kidney to the bladder. Its muscle contractions move urine in one direction only. It is the most common place for a stone leaving the kidney to get stuck, which can cause severe flank pain (renal colic).
Ureteroscopy · URS, Ureterorenoscopy: Ureteroscopy (URS) is a procedure in which a thin endoscope is passed through the urethra and bladder into the ureter to break up ureteral stones with a laser or remove them. It requires no skin incision. A temporary double-J stent may be placed at the end of the procedure if needed. Related page: Kidney Stone Treatment
Urethra: The urethra is the channel that carries urine from the bladder out of the body. In men it is longer, passes through the middle of the prostate and the penis, and also carries semen. Because it is short in women, urinary tract infections are more common in women.
Urethral stricture · Narrowing of the urethra: A urethral stricture is a narrowing of the urethra caused by scar tissue, leading to a thin stream, straining and a feeling of incomplete emptying. Previous injury, catheters or endoscopic procedures and infections are among the main causes. Depending on its location and length, it is treated with endoscopic incision (urethrotomy) or urethroplasty. Related page: Urethral Stricture
Urethroplasty · Urethral reconstruction, Buccal mucosa graft urethroplasty: Urethroplasty is an open surgical repair of a urethral stricture. In short strictures the narrowed segment can be removed and the ends joined; in longer strictures tissue from the inside of the cheek (buccal mucosa graft) is often used to widen the channel. In recurrent strictures it aims to give a more durable result than endoscopic incision (urethrotomy). Related page: Urethral Stricture
Uric acid stone · Urate stone: A uric acid stone is a type of kidney stone that forms when the urine is persistently acidic and contains a high concentration of uric acid. Gout, obesity, diabetes and a diet rich in animal protein are risk factors. It may not be visible on a plain X-ray, and an important feature is that it can often be dissolved without surgery by treatment that makes the urine more alkaline. Related page: Kidney Stone Treatment
Urinary frequency · Frequent urination, Pollakiuria: Urinary frequency is the need to pass urine more often than usual during the day. It may be due to a urinary tract infection, overactive bladder, prostate enlargement, diabetes, a bladder stone or simply high fluid intake. A bladder diary allows the frequency and voided volumes to be assessed objectively.
Urinary retention · Inability to urinate: Urinary retention is the inability to empty the bladder completely or adequately despite it being full. Acute retention presents with lower abdominal pain and an inability to pass any urine, and is an emergency requiring a catheter. In men the most common cause is prostate enlargement; some medications, constipation and neurological conditions can also cause it. Related page: Enlarged Prostate (BPH) Treatment
Urinary tract infection · UTI, Cystitis, Pyelonephritis: A urinary tract infection is an infection of the urinary tract, usually by bacteria; when limited to the bladder it is called cystitis, and when it reaches the kidney, pyelonephritis. Cystitis causes burning, frequent and urgent urination, while pyelonephritis causes fever, chills and flank pain. Urinalysis and urine culture are used for diagnosis; in recurrent infections underlying causes such as stones or obstruction are investigated. Related page: Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
Urine culture · Urine culture and sensitivity: A urine culture is a laboratory test in which bacteria causing an infection are grown from a urine sample and tested to see which antibiotics they are sensitive to. It is important for an accurate diagnosis and the right choice of antibiotic. The sample should be a clean-catch midstream urine collected into a sterile container. Related page: Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
Urodynamics · Urodynamic study, Pressure-flow study: Urodynamics is a detailed test that assesses bladder and urinary tract function by measuring pressures during bladder filling and emptying through thin catheters. It is used to determine the type of incontinence, to distinguish bladder outlet obstruction from a weak bladder muscle and to investigate neurological bladder problems. It is generally performed when surgery is planned or the diagnosis is unclear. Related page: Urinary Incontinence
Uroflowmetry · Urine flow test, Flow rate test: Uroflowmetry is a simple, painless test in which the patient urinates into a special device that measures the urine flow rate and voiding time. Conditions that obstruct flow, such as prostate enlargement or urethral stricture, may give a low flow rate and a flattened flow curve. Results are usually interpreted together with an ultrasound measurement of urine left in the bladder after voiding. Related page: Enlarged Prostate (BPH) Treatment

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Varicocele · Scrotal varicose veins: A varicocele is an enlargement of the veins that drain blood from the testicle (the pampiniform plexus), similar to varicose veins in the leg, and occurs mostly on the left side. It often causes no symptoms but may cause a dull ache or heaviness that worsens with standing. It is one of the treatable causes of male infertility and is assessed by physical examination while standing and color Doppler ultrasound. Related page: Varicocele
Varicocelectomy · Microsurgical varicocelectomy, Varicocele surgery: Varicocelectomy is an operation to treat enlarged testicular veins (varicocele) by tying off these veins. The microsurgical subinguinal technique, performed under an operating microscope just below the groin, is preferred because recurrence and complications such as hydrocele are less common. Not every varicocele needs surgery; it is recommended in situations such as infertility, pain or impaired testicular growth in adolescents. Related page: Varicocele
Vasectomy · Male sterilization: Vasectomy is a permanent method of male contraception in which the tubes carrying sperm from the testicles (vas deferens) are cut and sealed. It is usually a short procedure under local anesthesia and does not affect testosterone production, sex drive or ejaculation. Sterility is not immediate; another method of contraception must be used until a semen analysis confirms that no sperm remain. Related page: Vasectomy (Permanent Male Contraception)
Vesicoureteral reflux · VUR, Vesicoureteric reflux: Vesicoureteral reflux is the backward flow of urine from the bladder up the ureters toward the kidneys and is mostly detected in childhood. It can increase the risk of febrile urinary tract infections and permanent kidney damage (scarring). Diagnosis is usually made with a voiding cystourethrogram; treatment ranges from observation and preventive antibiotics to endoscopic injection or open or laparoscopic surgery. Related page: Pediatric Urology