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Radical Prostatectomy (Prostatectomy, Radical Prostatectomy, Radical Retropubic Prostatectomy, Radical Suprapubic Prostatectomy, Radical Perineal Prostatectomy, Nerve-Sparing Prostatectomy, RP, RPP, RSP) Procedure Overview What is a prostatectomy? A prostatectomy is a surgical procedure for the partial or complete removal of the prostate. It may be performed to treat prostatic cancer or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). A common surgical approach to prostatectomy includes making a surgical incision an...

Antegrade Pyelogram (Antegrade Nephrostogram) Procedure Overview What is an antegrade pyelogram? An antegrade pyelogram is a type of x-ray used to diagnose an obstruction of the upper urinary tract. During the procedure, a contrast dye is injected into a portion of the ureter (narrow tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder) closest to the kidneys called the renal pelvis. The flow of the contrast dye can then be observed with x-ray images as it moves from the kidneys into the ureters and u...

Computed Tomography (CT or CAT) Scan of the Abdomen (Abdominal CT Scan) Procedure Overview Computed tomography (CT or CAT scan) is a noninvasive diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of x-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images (often called slices), both horizontally and vertically, of the body. A CT scan shows detailed images of any part of the body, including the bones, muscles, fat, organs, and blood vessels. CT scans are more detailed than standard x-rays. In s...

Cystography (Cystourethrography, Voiding Cystography, Voiding Cystourethrography, VCUG) Procedure Overview What is cystography? Cystography is a diagnostic procedure that uses x-rays to examine the urinary bladder. Still x-ray pictures or fluoroscopy (a study of moving body structures - similar to an x-ray "movie") may be used. During cystography, contrast dye is injected into the bladder. Contrast refers to a substance taken into the body that causes the particular organ or tissue under study to be see...

Cystometry (Cystometrogram, CMG) Procedure Overview What is cystometry? Cystometry is a diagnostic procedure used to identify problems with the filling and emptying of the urinary bladder. This test measures the amount of volume/urine in the bladder compared with the bladder pressure and the person's perception of bladder fullness. Cystometry provides information about the muscle function, mechanics, and nerve response of the bladder and urinary tract. A normally functioning bladder sends messages to th...

Cystoscopy for Women (Cystourethroscopy) Procedure Overview What is cystoscopy? Cystoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that allows the physician to directly examine the urinary tract, particularly the bladder, the urethra, and the openings to the ureters. Cystoscopy can assist in identifying problems with the urinary tract, such as early signs of cancer, infection, strictures (narrowing), obstruction, and bleeding. A long, flexible, lighted tube, called a cystoscope, is inserted into the urethra (the tube...

Kidney, Ureter, and Bladder X-ray (KUB [Kidneys, Ureters, Bladder], KUB X-ray, Flat Plate of the Abdomen X-ray) Procedure Overview What is a kidneys, ureter, and bladder x-ray? A kidney, ureter, and bladder (KUB) x-ray may be performed to assess the abdominal area for causes of abdominal pain, or to assess the organs and structures of the urinary and/or gastrointestinal (GI) system. A KUB x-ray may be the first diagnostic procedure used to assess the urinary system. X-rays use invisible electromagnetic ...

Lithotripsy (Extracorporeal Shockwave Lithotripsy, ESWL, Shock Wave Lithotripsy) Procedure Overview What is lithotripsy? Lithotripsy is a noninvasive (the skin is not pierced) procedure used to treat kidney stones that are too large to pass through the urinary tract. Lithotripsy treats kidney stones by sending focused ultrasonic energy or shock waves directly to the stone first located with fluoroscopy (a type of x-ray “movie”) or ultrasound (high frequency sound waves). The shock waves break a large st...

Retrograde Cystography (Cystography - Retrograde) Procedure Overview What is retrograde cystography? Retrograde cystography is a diagnostic procedure that uses x-rays to examine the urinary bladder. X-rays are made of the bladder after it has been filled with a contrast dye. Contrast refers to a substance taken into the body that causes the particular organ or tissue under study to be seen more clearly. This examination allows the physician to assess the bladder's structure and integrity. During retrogr...

Retrograde Pyelogram (Retrograde Ureteropyelogram, Retrograde Pyelography, Retrograde Ureteropyelography) Procedure Overview What is a retrograde pyelogram? A retrograde pyelogram is a type of x-ray that allows visualization of the bladder, ureters, and renal pelvis. Generally, this test is performed during a procedure called cystoscopy - evaluation of the bladder with an endoscope (a long, flexible lighted tube). During a cystoscopy, contrast dye, which helps enhance the x-ray images, can be introduced...

Uroflowmetry (Urine Flow Studies, Urine Flow Test, Urodynamic Studies) Procedure Overview What is uroflowmetry? Uroflowmetry is a simple, diagnostic screening procedure used to calculate the flow rate of urine over time. The test is noninvasive (the skin is not pierced), and may be used to assess bladder and sphincter function. Uroflowmetry is performed by having a person urinate into a special funnel that is connected to a measuring instrument. The measuring instrument calculates the amount of urine, r...

Abdominal Ultrasound (Abdominal Ultrasonography, Abdominal Sonography, Abdominal Echography) Procedure Overview An abdominal ultrasound is a noninvasive (the skin is not pierced) procedure used to assess the organs and structures within the abdomen, such as the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, bile ducts, spleen, and abdominal aorta. Ultrasound technology allows quick visualization of the abdominal organs and structures from outside the body. Ultrasound may also be used to assess blood flow to abdominal or...

Abdominal X-rays (Flat Plate of the Abdomen, Abdominal Radiography, KUB [Kidneys, Ureters, Bladder] X-ray) Procedure Overview X-rays use invisible electromagnetic energy beams to produce images of internal tissues, bones, and organs on film. Standard x-rays are performed for many reasons, including diagnosing tumors or bone injuries. X-rays are made by using external radiation to produce images of the body, its organs, and other internal structures for diagnostic purposes. X-rays pass through body tissu...

Glossary - Genitourinary and Kidney Disorders | A | | B | | C | | D | | E | | F | | G | | H | | I | | J | | K | | L | | M | | N | | O | | P | | Q | | R | | S | | T | | U | | V | | W | | X | | Y | | Z | A [back to top] analgesic - any drug intended to alleviate pain. B [back to top] biopsy - a procedure in which tissue samples are removed (with a needle or during surgery) from the body for examination under a microscope; to determine if cancer or other abnormal cells are present. bladder - a triangle-sha...

Topic Index Anatomy of the Urinary System Overview of Genitourinary Disorders Overview of Kidney Disorders Glossary Urology is a surgical specialty concerned with normal and abnormal problems of the kidney, renal, pelvis, ureter, bladder, urethra, penis, and vagina in both genders. Urogenital or genitourinary (GU) are words that refer to the urinary and genital organs. Nephrology is the medical specialty concerned with the kidneys. According to the American Urological Association, about 6 percent of gir...

Hydrocele What is a hydrocele? A hydrocele occurs from an accumulation of fluid in the tunica vaginalis (a thin pouch that holds the testes within the scrotum). In the fetus, the tunica vaginalis is formed in the abdomen and then migrates into the scrotum with the testes. After the pouch is in the testes, it seals off from the abdomen. Hydroceles can be communicating or non-communicating. communicating hydrocele A communicating hydrocele occurs from the incomplete closure of the tunica vaginalis, so tha...

Inguinal Hernia in Children What is an inguinal hernia? A hernia occurs when a section of intestine protrudes through a weakness in the abdominal muscles. A soft bulge is seen underneath the skin where the hernia has occurred. A hernia that occurs in the groin area is called an inguinal hernia. Click Image to Enlarge What causes an inguinal hernia? A hernia can develop in the first few months after the baby is born because of a weakness in the muscles of the abdomen. As a male fetus grows and matures du...

Male Conditions Several disorders of the urinary tract only affect males. This is largely related to the male anatomy, as well as fetal development. Disorders that affect males may involve the penis, urethra, or testes. Listed in the directory are some male disorders, for which we have provided a brief overview. Overview of the Male Anatomy Circumcision Hydrocele Hypospadias Inguinal Hernia Micropenis Phimosis and Paraphimosis Posterior Urethral Valves (PUV) Testicular Torsion Undescended Testes (Crypto...

Megaureter What is megaureter? Megaureter (dilated ureter) is an abnormality of one or both of the ureters of a child. Ureters are the two funnel-shaped tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder. A megaureter refers to an expanded or widened ureter that does not function normally. The size of a megaureter is usually greater than 10 millimeters (three-eighths of an inch) in diameter. Complications associated with megaureter include reverse flow of urine into the kidneys and pooling of urine ...

Micropenis What is micropenis? Micropenis is defined as a normally structured penis that is below the normal size range for an infant. Normally, the length of a newborn boy's penis is between 2.8 to 4.2 centimeters (1.1 to 1.6 inches) with a circumference of 0.9 to 1.3 centimeters (0.35 to 0.5 inches) . This measurement is taken by carefully stretching the penis and measuring from the tip of the penis to the base of the penis. A penis length of less than 1.9 centimeters (0.75 inches) is usually consider...

Neurogenic Bladder in Children What is a neurogenic bladder? Neurogenic bladder may also be called neuropathic bladder. The muscles and nerves of the urinary system work together to hold urine in the bladder and then release it at the appropriate time. Nerves carry messages from the bladder to the brain and from the brain to the muscles of the bladder telling them either to tighten or release. In a neurogenic bladder, the nerves that are supposed to carry these messages do not work properly, essentially...

Online Resources - Genitourinary and Kidney Disorders This Web was compiled from a variety of sources including the online resources listed below, but is not intended to substitute or replace the professional medical advice you receive from your child's physician. The content provided here is for informational purposes only, and was not designed to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Please consult your child's physician with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition. Th...

Overview of Genitourinary Disorders What does genitourinary mean? Genitourinary is a word that refers to the urinary and genital organs. Urology is the branch of medicine concerned with the urinary tract in both genders and the genital tract of the reproductive system in males. Nephrology is the branch of medicine concerned with the kidney. What is the urinary tract? The urinary tract includes the organ system primarily responsible for cleaning and filtering excess fluid and waste material from the bloo...

Phimosis and Paraphimosis What is phimosis and paraphimosis? Phimosis is a constriction of the opening of the foreskin so that it cannot be drawn back over the tip of the penis. This condition is a normal occurrence in the newborn boy, but over time the skin that adheres to the tip of the penis can be retracted as the foreskin loosens. By age 17, around 99 percent of males will be able to completely retract their foreskin. Phimosis can also occur if the foreskin is forced back before it is ready. This c...

Phosphorus Restriction Controlling phosphorus in your child's diet: Most children with renal failure need to limit the amount of phosphorus in foods they eat. The kidneys help remove excess phosphorus from your child's body. If the kidneys are not working well, excess phosphorus builds up in the bloodstream and can cause calcium to leave the bones. This can make your child's bones weak and easy to break. What foods are high in phosphorus? The following foods are high in phosphorous and should be restric...

Posterior Urethral Valves (PUV) What are posterior urethral valves? Posterior urethral valves (or PUV) are an abnormality of the urethra, which is the tube that drains urine from the bladder to the outside of the body for elimination. The abnormality occurs when the urethral valves, which are small leaflets of tissue, have a narrow, slit-like opening that partially impedes urine outflow. Reverse flow occurs and can affect all of the urinary tract organs including the urethra, bladder, ureters, and kidne...

Prune Belly Syndrome What is prune belly syndrome? Prune belly syndrome is also known as triad syndrome or Eagle-Barrett syndrome. It is characterized by a triad of abnormalities that include the following: absence of abdominal muscles undescended testicles - a condition seen in newborns whereby one (or both) of the male testes has not passed down into the scrotal sac an abnormal, expanded bladder and problems in the upper urinary tract, which may include the bladder, ureters, and kidneys Because of the...

Testicular Torsion What is testicular torsion? Testicular torsion is a twisting of the testicles and the spermatic cord (the structure extending from the groin to the testes that contains nerves, ducts, and blood vessels). The torsion causes decreased blood flow to the testes, essentially strangling them of oxygen and nutrients. This is a painful problem that usually occurs in boys 10 years and older. While it generally occurs in adolescent boys, it may also occur during fetal development or shortly aft...

Topic Index - Genitourinary and Kidney Disorders Genitourinary and Kidney Disorders Home Anatomy of the Urinary System Overview of Genitourinary Disorders Ambiguous Genitalia Exstrophy of the Bladder and Epispadias Male Conditions Overview of the Male Anatomy Circumcision Hydrocele Hypospadias Inguinal Hernia Micropenis Phimosis and Paraphimosis Posterior Urethral Valves (PUV) Testicular Torsion Undescended Testes (Cryptorchidism) Megaureter Neurogenic Bladder Prune Belly Syndrome Ureterocele and Ureter...

Ureterocele and Ureteral Duplication What is a ureterocele? A ureterocele involves the kidney, ureter, and bladder. A normal ureter is one that transports urine from the kidney to the bladder. When a child has a ureterocele, the portion of the ureter closest to the bladder becomes enlarged because the ureter opening is very tiny and obstructs urine outflow. As the urine flow is obstructed, urine backs up in the ureter tube. What is ureteral duplication? Children who have a ureterocele may also have an u...

Urinary Tract Infections (UTI) What are urinary tract infections (UTI)? Urinary tract infections describe a health problem that results from a bacterial infection along the urinary tract. The urinary tract consists of two kidneys that remove liquid waste from the blood in the form of urine. Two narrow tubes called ureters carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder. The urine is stored in the bladder (a triangle-shaped, hollow organ). When the bladder is emptied, the urine travels through a tube called ...

Vesicoureteral Reflux (VUR) What is vesicoureteral reflux (VUR)? Vesicoureteral reflux occurs when urine dwelling in the bladder flows back into the ureters and often back into the kidneys. The bladder is the hollow, muscular organ that stores urine before urination occurs. The bladder has three small openings; two connect the ureters where urine is drained down from the kidneys, and one connects the bladder to the urethra where urine exits the body. The ureters are funnel-shaped tubes that carry urine ...

Ambiguous Genitalia When a child's gender is in question at birth, because genitals may not appear clearly male or female, the child is said to have ambiguous genitalia. Ambiguous genitalia can be a traumatizing experience for parents. What are ambiguous genitalia? Early in fetal development, the tissue that will become the gonads (ovaries or testes) is undifferentiated and has the potential to become either ovaries or testes, depending on the genetics of the fetus. Humans have 46 chromosomes in each ce...

Circumcision What is circumcision? Circumcision is a surgical procedure to remove the skin covering the end of the penis, called the foreskin. In many cultures, circumcision is a religious rite or a ceremonial tradition. It is most common in Jewish and Islamic faiths. In the United States, newborn circumcision is an elective procedure. The National Center for Health Statistics estimates that about 65 percent of newborn boys undergo circumcision. However, this number varies among socioeconomic, racial, a...

Exstrophy of the Bladder and Epispadias What is exstrophy of the bladder? Exstrophy of the bladder is a complex combination of disorders that occurs during fetal development. The disorder usually involves many systems in the body, including the urinary tract, skeletal muscles and bones, and the digestive system. Bladder exstrophy means that the bladder is essentially inside out and exposed on the outside of the abdomen. Because the bladder and other structures are exposed to the outside of the body, uri...

Undescended Testes (Cryptorchidism) What is cryptorchidism (undescended testes)? Cryptorchidism (or undescended testes) is a condition seen in newborns when one or both of the male testes have not passed down into the scrotal sac. Ten percent of cases are bilateral (involve both testes). Cryptorchidism is more commonly seen in premature males because the testes do not descend from the abdomen to the scrotal sac until the seventh month of fetal development. What causes undescended testes? Undescended tes...

Urinary Incontinence (Enuresis) What is urinary incontinence (enuresis)? Urinary incontinence (enuresis) is the medical term for bedwetting. Incontinence is accidental or intentional urination in children who are at an age where they should be able to have control of their bladders. Girls usually obtain bladder control before boys do. Incontinence may be diagnosed in girls over the age of five and in boys over the age of six who are still having urinary control problems. There are different types of bed...

Hypospadias What is hypospadias? Hypospadias is a malformation that affects the urethral tube and the foreskin on a male's penis. The urethra is the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body. Hypospadias is a disorder in which the male urethral opening is not located at the tip of the penis. The urethral opening can be located anywhere along the urethra. Most commonly with hypospadias, the opening is located along the underside of the penis, near the tip. What causes hypospadia...

Recognizing Urologic or Gynecologic Problems Signs and symptoms that may require medical attention: There are many different gynecological problems that could occur during adolescence. Mothers should be sure to talk with their daughters about all of the normal changes that will be occurring in the body during this time of physical maturation and development, so that any abnormal changes can be examined right away. Be sure to discuss the following: Vaginal bleeding and discharge are a normal part of your...

Analgesic Nephropathy Click Image to Enlarge What is analgesic nephropathy? An analgesic is any medicine intended to alleviate pain. Over-the-counter analgesics include the following: aspirin acetaminophen ibuprofen naproxen sodium Some conditions make taking these common painkillers dangerous for the kidneys. Taking one, or a combination of, these drugs regularly over a long period of time may increase the risk of kidney problems. Analgesic nephropathy is a chronic kidney disease that gradually leads t...

Anatomy of the Urinary System Click Image to Enlarge How do the kidneys and urinary system work? The body takes nutrients from food and converts them to energy. After the body has taken the food that it needs, waste products are left behind in the bowel and in the blood. The kidney and urinary systems keep chemicals, such as potassium and sodium, and water in balance and remove a type of waste, called urea, from the blood. Urea is produced when foods containing protein, such as meat, poultry, and certai...

Bladder Cancer What is bladder cancer? Bladder cancer occurs when there are abnormal, cancerous cells growing in the bladder. According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), 70,980 cases of bladder cancer will be diagnosed in the US in 2009. Bladder cancer affects men about three times more often than women, and it occurs in Caucasians twice as often as in African Americans. The risk of bladder cancer increases with age - over 70 percent of people who are diagnosed with it are older than 65. Click Image...

Cystocele (Fallen Bladder) What is a cystocele? Cystocele is the name for a hernia-like disorder in women that occurs when the wall between the bladder and the vagina weakens, causing the bladder to drop or sag into the vagina. What are the results of a cystocele? In addition to discomfort, the resulting dropped bladder can cause two kinds of problems to occur, including the following: urine leakage incomplete emptying of the bladder The dropped bladder stretches the opening into the urethra, and urine ...

Glossary - Urology | A | | B | | C | | D | | E | | F | | G | | H | | I | | J | | K | | L | | M | | N | | O | | P | | Q | | R | | S | | T | | U | | V | | W | | X | | Y | | Z | A [return to top] analgesic - any drug intended to alleviate pain. anus - opening at the end of the digestive tract where bowel contents leave the body. B [return to top] balloon urethroplasty - a thin tube with a balloon is inserted into the opening of the penis and guided to the narrowed portion of the urethra, where the balloon ...

Hematuria (Blood in the Urine) What is hematuria? Hematuria is the presence of red blood cells (RBCs) in the urine. Often, the urine appears normal to the naked eye, but examination under a microscope shows a high number of RBCs. In gross hematuria, the urine is red or the color of cola, which can be seen with the naked eye. What causes hematuria? Most of the causes are not serious, but, because hematuria may be the result of a tumor, or other serious problem, a physician should be consulted. Many peopl...

Topic Index Anatomy of the Kidneys and Urinary System Kidney Disorders Urinary System Disorders Glossary Urology is the branch of medicine concerned with the urinary tract in both genders, and with the genital tract or reproductive system in the male. Urogenital is a word that refers to the urinary and genital organs. The medical specialty of Obstetrics and Gynecology specializes in the reproduction (genital) system of females. Nephrology is the medical specialty concerned with the kidneys. According to...

Impotence / Erectile Dysfunction Click Image to Enlarge What is erectile dysfunction (ED)? Impotence, or erectile dysfunction, is the inability to achieve an erection, and/or dissatisfaction with the size, rigidity, and/or duration of erections. According to the National Institutes of Health, erectile dysfunction affects up to 30 million men. Although in the past it was commonly believed to be due to psychological problems, it is now known that for most men erectile dysfunction is caused by physical pro...

Interstitial Cystitis What is interstitial cystitis (IC)? Interstitial cystitis (IC) is complex, chronic disorder characterized by an inflamed or irritated bladder wall. It can lead to scarring and stiffening of the bladder, decreased bladder capacity, and glomerulations (pinpoint bleeding). IC may also be known as: painful bladder syndrome frequency-urgency-dysuria syndrome What causes IC? The cause of IC is still unknown and patients do not respond to antibiotic medication. Researchers are investigati...

Male Factor Infertility Click Image to Enlarge What is infertility? Infertility is defined by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) as a disease of the reproductive system that impairs the body's ability to perform the basic function of reproduction. Although conceiving a child may seem to be simple and natural, the physiological process is quite complicated and depends on the proper function of many factors, including the following, as listed by the ASRM: production of healthy sperm by ...

Neurogenic Bladder Click Image to Enlarge What is a neurogenic bladder? The muscles and nerves of the urinary system work together to hold urine in the bladder and then release it at the appropriate time. Nerves carry messages from the bladder to the brain and from the brain to the muscles of the bladder telling them either to tighten or release. In a neurogenic bladder, the nerves that are supposed to carry these messages do not work properly. Complications of a neurogenic bladder: The following proble...

Online Resources - Urology This Web was compiled from a variety of sources including the online resources listed below, but is not intended to substitute or replace the professional medical advice you receive from your physician. The content provided here is for informational purposes only, and was not designed to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Please consult your physician with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition. This page contains links to other World Wide ...

Overview of Urogenital Disorders What does urogenital mean? Urogenital is a word that refers to the urinary and genital organs. Urology is the branch of medicine concerned with: the urinary tract in both genders. the genital tract or reproductive system in the male. Urologists are physicians who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions related to the urinary tract and the male reproductive system. Other health professionals who treat urinary or urogenital problems include primary care phy...

Peyronie's Disease Click Image to Enlarge What is Peyronie's disease? Peyronie's disease is characterized by a plaque, or hard lump, that forms on the erection tissue of the penis. The plaque often begins as an inflammation that may develop into a fibrous tissue. Peyronie's disease was first described in 1743 by a French surgeon, François de la Peyronie. It was classified as a form of impotence. However, now impotence is recognized as one factor associated with Peyronie's disease, but is not always pres...

Topic Index - Urology Kidney and Urinary System Disorders Home Anatomy of the Kidneys and Urinary System Kidney Disorders Overview of Kidney Disorders Analgesic Nephropathy End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) Glomerulonephritis Glomerulosclerosis Goodpasture Syndrome Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome Immunoglobulin A (IgA) Nephropathy Kidney Cancer Kidney Stones Kidney Transplantation Nephrotic Syndrome Polycystic Kidney Disease Renal Vascular Disease Urinary System Disorders Overview of Urinary/Urogenital System Di...

Urinary Conditions There are many disorders of the urinary system that require clinical care by a physician or other healthcare professional. Listed in the directory below are some, for which we have provided a brief overview. Anatomy of the Urinary System Urinary Incontinence Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) Interstitial Cystitis

Urinary Incontinence What is urinary incontinence (UI)? Urinary incontinence (UI) is the loss of urine control, or the inability to hold your urine until you can reach a restroom. According to the National Association for Continence, approximately 25 million adult Americans experience temporary or chronic urinary incontinence. UI can strike at any age. Women over age 50 are the most likely to develop UI. Urinary incontinence may be a temporary condition, resulting from an underlying medical condition. I...

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) Click Image to Enlarge What are urinary tract infections (UTIs)? Urinary tract infections are a serious, but common, health problem that affects millions of people each year. With the reason remaining unclear, women are especially prone to urinary tract infections. What causes urinary tract infections? Normal urine is sterile and contains fluids, salts, and waste products. It is free of bacteria, viruses, and fungi. An infection occurs when microorganisms, usually bacteri...

Urogenital Disorders There are many disorders of the urinary system that require clinical care by a physician or other healthcare professional. Listed in the directory below are some of the conditions, for which we have provided a brief overview. Overview of Urinary/Urogenital System Disorders Bladder Cancer Cystocele (Fallen Bladder) Hematuria (Blood in the Urine) Impotence / Erectile Dysfunction Interstitial Cystitis Male Factor Infertility Neurogenic Bladder Peyronie's Disease Prostate Disease Benign...

Vesicoureteral Reflux Click Image to Enlarge What is vesicoureteral reflux (VUR)? Vesicoureteral reflux occurs when urine dwelling in the bladder flows back into the ureters and often back into the kidneys. The bladder is the hollow, muscular organ that stores urine before urination occurs. The bladder has three small openings; two connect the ureters where urine is drained down from the kidneys, and one connects the bladder to the urethra where urine exits the body. The ureters are funnel-shaped tubes ...

Erectile Dysfunction / Impotence What is erectile dysfunction (ED)? Impotence, or erectile dysfunction (ED), may result from the total inability to achieve erection, an inconsistent ability to achieve an erection, or the ability to only sustain a brief erection. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), up to 30 million men are affected by ED, depending on the definition used. Although in the past it was commonly believed to be due to psychological problems, it is now known that for most men...