Improving Patient Care Through Research and Innovation
Our team of experts in the University of Rochester Medical Center’s Urology Department is distinguished by its dedication to patient care supported by research and innovation.
Our work begins at the laboratory bench, where basic research expands our understanding of urologic conditions. It continues through clinical trials that test the efficacy of new treatment approaches. Then it finds its practical application at the patient’s bedside, where we offer the most advanced and comprehensive patient care available, including the area’s only pediatric urological services. In addition, our urologists are among the nation’s leaders in pioneering and practicing laparoscopic prostatectomy. Currently, they do robotic laparoscopic prostatectomies, using the most advanced computer controlled robotic technology: the da Vinci® Surgical System.
Usually, patients are referred to a urologist by their primary care physicians, though of course, if you have symptoms related to a urological condition or if you are looking for a second opinion from an expert, you may want to call us directly.
Do You Need a Urologist?
The following general symptoms may indicate a urologic condition that needs treatment:
- Urinary difficulties, including:
- blood in the urine (hematuria)
- pain when you urinate
- changes in urinary pattern
- frequent need to urinate (urinary frequency and urgency)
- inability to urinate
- weak or hesitant urinary stream
- incontinence (difficulty holding urine; leaking; etc.)
- Pain in the lower abdomen
- Frequent urinary tract infections (UTI)
- Male sexual problems, such as
- infertility
- impotence or erectile dysfunction
- mass in your testicle
- Infertility problems
You would also want to see a urologist if you had a diagnosis of disease in the urinary tract or male reproductive organs, such as kidney, bladder or prostate cancer, kidney stones, or interstitial cystitis, or if you wanted a vasectomy, vasectomy reversal, or circumcision, or if you have been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis or Parkinsonism.
If You Need a Second Opinion
Within the Urology Department, you’ll find a specialist for every adult and pediatric urological disorder, disease or condition. They’re always available for a second opinion. And because they are specialists, with expert knowledge of the latest research and treatment advances, their opinions can be especially useful. In fact, they’ve usually participated in that research. That’s why we’ve become a regional center for second opinions. Learn more about second opinions, including when you should consider getting one.
Urologic Clinical Trials
Clinical trials are how we learn more about the causes and prevention of disease, and evaluate the effectiveness of new forms of treatment. As a leading research institution, the University of Rochester Medical Center ’s Urology Department conducts many important clinical trials. Learn more about clinical trials, including how you can participate in them.