Expert Insights

Screening Guidelines for Prostate Cancer

October 15, 2014  |  Prostate Cancer  

Approximately 15% of men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer over the course of their lives. It’s vital that all men be aware of the risks and be vigilant about screening. What are the recommended prostate cancer screenings? Prostate cancer screening includes the prostate exam and PSA blood test. Screening begins at age 55, and […]

Robotic Kidney Cancer Treatment

October 10, 2014  |  Kidney Cancer  

Cancer fighting technology is continually evolving and, at Austin Urology Institute, we’re always striving to provide the best and most advanced care. One of the foremost examples of this commitment is our Da Vinci robot, which is capable of treating kidney cancer in unprecedented ways. We use the Da Vinci robot to perform a partial nephrectomy. […]

Are Kidney Stones Hereditary?

October 8, 2014  |  Kidney Stones  

Yes! So the next time you feel that twinge of pain, go ahead and blame your relatives. Kidney stones are hereditary. If your parents or other family members have had kidney stones, you are also at risk to have them. With family history, it is important to alter your diet to prevent stones. This includes […]

Common Vasectomy Questions and Concerns

October 6, 2014  |  Men's Health  Vasectomy  

Despite being a fairly common and simple procedure, there’s a lot of misinformation about vasectomies floating around. If you’re fuzzy on the details, this Q&A clears up some common misconceptions. If I get a vasectomy now can it be reversed? A vasectomy may technically be reversed, however the success rate of a reversal is about […]

Vasectomy vs Tubal Ligation

October 1, 2014  |  Vasectomy  

When your family reaches the perfect size and you’re considering long-term birth control solutions, you want one that’s easy, spontaneous and, most importantly, effective. Two of the more popular options are vasectomy for men and tubal ligation for women. The procedures are often seen as equivalent, but the male vasectomy is a simpler, less expensive, […]

Protect Yourself with Health Screenings

September 11, 2014  |  Men's Health  

Prostate Cancer Awareness Month is doing a wonderful job of raising awareness about the need for regular prostate cancer screenings, but it’s important to maintain year-round vigilance for all of the different health risks posed by age. This chart provides a holistic look at all of the things men need to look out for at […]

When do kidney stones pass?

August 18, 2014  |  Kidney Cancer  Kidney Stones  

  Kidney stones pass once they are out of the kidney, traveling down the ureter to the bladder. Stones that are <5mm can usually pass on their own. Some patients may choose conservative treatment and observe their stones, rather than go through a surgical procedure. This usually includes stones that are less than 6mm, not […]

Prostate Exam FAQs

August 14, 2014  |  Prostate Cancer  

Do prostate exams hurt? The prostate is located deep in the pelvis in between the bladder and rectum. In order to access the prostate for an exam, a finger is inserted into the rectum. This is referred to as a “digital rectal exam,” and allows for evaluation of size and masses of tumors. Also, the […]

8 Signs You Are At Risk for Kidney Stones

August 14, 2014  |  Kidney Stones  

Kidney stones have a higher chance of developing based on poor diet, certain medications and genetics. What are some common indicators? 1. Low water intake or decreased hydration 2. High caffeine intake such as coffee, soda, tea, energy drinks (>2-3 beverages per day) 3. Obesity 5. Poor diet 4. Family history 5. High intake of […]

When do kidney stones require surgery?

August 12, 2014  |  Kidney Stones  

Surgery on kidney stones should be reserved as an option for cases where observation has failed. Surgery may be needed if a stone: – does not pass after a reasonable period of time (usually about 1-2 weeks) – Causes constant and intractable pain – Causes persistent nausea and vomiting – Is too large to pass […]

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