Reconstructive Urology
Reconstructive urology is a surgical subspecialty that deals with the restoration of normal function and appearance of the urinary tract and male genitalia. It involves repairing or replacing damaged or congenitally malformed structures within the urinary system and reproductive organs. Reconstructive Urology differs from regular Urology as it usually involves open surgery and requires more general and plastic surgery skills.
Common conditions that may require reconstructive urological procedures
- Urethral strictures (narrowing of the urethra)
- Urethral injuries
- Urinary fistulas (abnormal connections between the urinary tract and other organs),
- Pelvic organ prolapse
- Hypospadias (a congenital condition where the opening of the urethra is on the underside of the penis instead of the tip)
- Erectile dysfunction
- Complications from previous surgeries
Reconstructive Urology surgeons at BKC may focus their surgical activities, with the goal of improving patients’ quality of life and restoring normal urinary and reproductive function. Some common surgical interventions in Reconstructive Urology include:
- 1. Urethroplasty: This procedure is performed to repair strictures or narrowing of the urethra, which can result from trauma, infection, or other causes. Urethroplasty involves reconstructing or widening the urethral passage to restore proper urine flow.
- Genitourinary Fistula Repair: Fistulas are abnormal connections between organs, such as between the bladder and the vagina or rectum. Reconstructive surgery is often necessary to repair these fistulas and restore normal urinary and reproductive function.
- Penile Implant Surgery: For men with erectile dysfunction who have not responded to other treatments, penile implant surgery may be an option. This involves surgically inserting inflatable or semi-rigid implants into the penis to enable erections.
- Hypospadias Repair: Hypospadias is a congenital condition where the opening of the urethra is located on the underside of the penis instead of at the tip. Surgery is performed to reposition the urethral opening to the tip of the penis and correct any associated abnormalities.
- Bladder Reconstruction: This may be necessary in cases of bladder exstrophy, bladder augmentation, or other congenital or acquired conditions affecting the bladder. Reconstruction may involve various techniques to enhance bladder capacity and function.
- Testicular Implant Surgery: Following testicular loss due to injury, cancer, or other reasons, testicular implants can be surgically placed to restore the appearance of the scrotum and maintain self-esteem.
- Vaginal Reconstruction: In cases of vaginal agenesis or other congenital or acquired conditions affecting the vagina, reconstructive surgery may be performed to create or restore vaginal function and anatomy.