The Steam, Laser-Beam, Dream-Stream, Uro-Team

People often ask what happens behind the theatre doors. They usually know the surgeon’s name, but the work is done by a team.

I’m fortunate to work regularly with a group of theatre nurses, anaesthetists and support staff who know one another’s routines and are comfortable speaking up. Before an operation starts, we check the plan, the equipment and the details that matter for that particular patient. During the procedure, each person has a job to do, and clear communication helps us respond when a plan needs to change.

Our team has a motto: “Beat the Leak.” It makes us smile, but it also captures a serious part of my work as a urologist. For someone living with urinary incontinence, a leak can mean planning every outing around a toilet, avoiding exercise or worrying about an embarrassing moment. It is easy to underestimate how much that can affect daily life.

“Beat the Leak” is our reminder to listen closely to that experience and work towards better bladder control. The right approach depends on the cause of the leakage. It may involve pelvic floor physiotherapy, changes to daily habits, medication or a procedure. Surgery is appropriate for some people, but no operation can promise a dry outcome for everyone. We discuss the likely benefits, risks and alternatives with each patient before deciding on a plan.

The care continues after the operation. The recovery team helps patients through the first hours, explains what to expect at home and makes sure concerns reach the right person. Follow-up matters too: it gives us a chance to check healing, assess whether treatment has helped and decide if anything else is needed.

I value the skill and kindness of the people I work with in theatre. Our motto may be light-hearted, but the aim behind it is simple: to help each patient feel heard, well cared for and more confident in everyday life.

Dr Joseph “Jo” Schoeman

                     

Cool Hey! Keep an eye out for us at St Andrews War Memorial hospital and the Wesley Hospital