MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

A procedure in which radio waves and a powerful magnet linked to a computer is used to create detailed pictures of the inside of the body. Some of the inherent advantages of this type of scan over CT are that there is no radiation dose with the scan and there are fewer problems with allergy to the dye (contrast) given during some scans.

Metastases

Are secondary cancer growths occurring away from the site of the primary cancer.

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Nephrectomy

Is removal of the kidney. This can usually be performed as keyhole surgery.

Nephrocalcinosis

This describes the presence of calcium salts deposited within the renal tissue (usually visible on xray), which can result in deterioration in renal function.

Nephrostomy

This involves a needle being placed into the collecting system of the kidney in order to relieve any obstruction or blockage. A tube is then placed into the kidney under local anaesthetic to allow it to drain.

Nocturia

This means getting up at night to pass water (more than once). More than 50% of men over the age of 80 have to get up more than twice during the night and this can cause problems with sleep disturbance. There are many causes of nocturia including benign prostate enlargement.

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Orchidectomy

This involves the surgical removal of the testicle.

Oligospermia

Is defined as a sperm count of less than 20 million per ml of ejaculate. The cause is often unknown but it is associated with the presence of a varicocoele.

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Paraphimosis

This occurs when a man with a tight foreskin retracts the foreskin which becomes stuck back over the head of the penis (glans penis) and cannot be then returned to its normal position. The penis then becomes very swollen and this usually requires the attention of a Urologist.

Partial nephrectomy

This involves the removal of part of the kidney for a small renal tumour or occasionally for benign kidney conditions. Only renal tumours less than 4cm in diameter would be considered for this type of surgery and the position of the tumour within the kidney is important when considering this operation. It can be performed as an open or keyhole procedure.

Pelvi-ureteric junction obstruction (PUJ obstruction)

Is an obstruction to the top of the ureter (proximal ureter) at the junction with the renal pelvis that results in obstruction of flow. It occurs more commonly in men and often involves the left kidney. It is usually congenital and can occur due to a narrowing of the ureter or due to kinking by blood vessels traveling to/from the lower kidney.

PCA3

Is a genetic probe urine test used in the diagnosis of prostate cancer. It usually only useful in men who have had previous prostate biopsies which were negative together with a slightly raised PSA test.

Prostatitis

This means inflammation of the prostate and is a very common condition in men under the age of 50. There are numerous causes and the symptoms vary but often is associated with discomfort in the lower abdomen and bottom area. It may be associated with stress and heavy lifting and the treatment depends on the likely cause.

PSA

Is a blood test which measures the level of a glycoprotein called prostate specific antigen in the blood stream. Higher levels of PSA can be associated with the presence of prostate cancer.

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