Understanding Urology
Understanding Urology and the People Involved in Your Care
Urology is the medical and surgical specialty concerned with the urinary tract in people of all genders and the male reproductive system. A urologist may assess symptoms involving the kidneys, ureters, bladder, urethra, prostate or testes.
I’m Dr Joseph “Jo” Schoeman, a urologist practising in Brisbane. This page explains the types of concerns that may lead someone to see a urologist, what an appointment may involve, and how the wider team contributes when an operation is needed.
When might someone see a urologist?
People are referred for many reasons, including blood in the urine, recurrent urinary tract infections, kidney stones, difficulty passing urine, urinary leakage, prostate concerns or a suspected cancer of the urinary tract or male reproductive organs. These symptoms have different possible causes. An assessment helps determine what, if any, investigation or treatment is appropriate.
Urological conditions affect people of different ages and genders. Risk factors vary by condition and may include age, medical history, family history, medicines and lifestyle factors. Having a risk factor does not mean that a person will develop a particular condition.
What happens at an appointment?
I usually begin by discussing your symptoms, medical history, medicines and what matters most to you. Depending on the concern, an examination or tests such as a urine test, blood test, imaging or bladder function study may be useful. Not everyone needs every test.
Once we have enough information, we can discuss the options. These may include monitoring, changes to daily habits, medication, a procedure or referral to another clinician. The choice depends on the diagnosis, the expected benefits and downsides of each option, and your preferences. If an operation is being considered, we discuss its risks, alternatives, recovery and the possibility that symptoms may persist or recur.
The theatre team
An operation involves a team, including anaesthetists, theatre nurses and other hospital staff. Each has a role in preparation, the procedure and recovery. I regularly work alongside theatre colleagues, though the individuals involved may differ between procedures.
One informal motto among the team is “Beat the Leak.” It reflects our interest in helping people troubled by urinary leakage. It is a light-hearted phrase, not a promise of cure. Leakage can have several causes; many people can start with non-surgical care, and outcomes from any treatment vary.
If you have a urological concern, your GP can help decide whether a referral to a urologist is appropriate. For appointments with my rooms, call (07) 3371 7288. Fax: (07) 3870 5350.
This page is general information. It cannot replace an assessment or predict the result of treatment for an individual.
