Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) is a good option for patients who prefer a non-surgical approach and is especially effective for stones smaller than 2 cm in diameter
What are kidney stones?
Kidney stones are like the small gravel you find on the street, on the roadside. The similar things form within the urinary tract, and they can be in the kidney or anywhere else in the tract. They are usually made of calcium in 90% of cases, and in 10% of cases, they are made up of uric acid.
Calcium stones are generally hard stones that can be easily seen on a simple X-ray. Uric acid stones are softer stones and will not be seen on an X-ray but can be detected on an ultrasound or a CT scan. In modern societies, 90% of the stones are 1 cm or less in size because patients have more access to health care and investigations are done more often to detect stones before they cause any complaints.
In developing and underdeveloped countries, where access to health care may not be so easy, sometimes stones are found that have reached very large sizes and can be much more than 1 cm in size.
How do we treat stones that are 1 cm or smaller in size?
In general, stones that are less than 5 mm in size can be treated well with just hydration. Hydration involves drinking sufficient water so that the urine is colourless or very pale yellow in color. The amount of water you drink depends on your amount of urine. Typically, you have to hydrate yourself sufficiently so that the urine is fairly colourless.
In addition to that, there are medications available that may help to expel these stones. Stones 6 mm or larger, up to 1 cm in size, can be treated very well without any invasive procedure. This procedure is called ESWL or extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy.
ESWL or extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy
The procedure is simple. It can be done as an outpatient procedure, and the patient does not lose any time from work. It involves lying down on the machine, and with the help of X-ray and ultrasound, the stone is brought into focus. Electromagnetic waves, or what we call shock waves, are focused onto the stone, and the stone shatters into very tiny pieces and powder and is passed easily by the patient.
The only side effect is that sometimes there may be little blood in the urine one or two times when the patient urinates. The success rate of this treatment, when the stone is in the kidney, exceeds 90%. In a few percentage of patients, a second session of treatment may be required.
In other words, the patient has nothing to lose by going through this procedure, as it is extremely safe. The only contraindication to this procedure is if the patient is pregnant or if the stone is blocking the urinary passage and causing infection.
Can this procedure be used in the tube coming out from the kidney and going to the bladder?
This tube is called the ureter. When stones enter the ureter, they can be painful because of the blocking of the urinary tract. But they can also be treated by ESWL (extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy) , although the success rates are lower, in the range of 80%.
As long as the stone can be localized by an x-ray or ultrasound, there is still a role for non-invasive treatment of these stones. Nowadays, worldwide, for some reason, most urologists tend to opt for invasive procedures like ureteroscopy and placement of stents for treating such stones.
In my opinion, the only indication for doing this procedure is the cost is higher when you do an invasive procedure. Unfortunately, the comfort of the patient is lower because the stent placed in the urinary system after such procedures can cause varying degrees of discomfort to the patient.
Also, these procedures need to be done under anaesthesia, and the patient may have to take 3 to 5 days off from work.
Can ESWL be used for stones larger than 1 cm?
When stones larger than 1 cm are treated by extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), sometimes the number of fragments that are formed may be so large that they may obstruct the kidney and pain. It can still be done for stones up to 2 cm, provided the patient accepts the fact that a stent has to be placed while doing this procedure.
Unfortunately, in modern urology, in most centres, the ESWL machine lies unused, and this is purely, I feel, due to financial reasons. Revenue generation is less, and that seems to be the priority very often.
In summary, there are ways and means to treat stones 1 cm or less with maximum comfort to the patient by the procedure of ESWL.
If you’d like to learn more about ESWL treatment in Dubai or the UAE, feel free to reach out to Al Zahra Hospital or stop by for a visit! They’ll be happy to help you with any questions you have.
November every year is considered as Men’s Health Month, it celebrates the health of men every year and I want to speak to you today on a very important aspect of men’s health. You may have all heard of an organ called the prostate gland, a small organ the size of a walnut below the urinary bladder through which the urinary passage flows and urine goes out when you pass urine. This organ is very important at younger ages to provide fluid which protects the sperm and helps in producing children. After 45 or 50 years of age, when you reach middle age, this organ gives you a few problems.
The normal problem is a normal ageing problem, just like we get grey hair when we grow older or get blood pressure or diabetes, the same way the prostate also enlarges. Sometimes it enlarges and squeezes the urine passage that goes through it and produces some difficulties in urination like reduced flow, increased frequency, getting up at night to pass urine and a feeling of incomplete evacuation.
More importantly, after the age of 60, one out of 14 men can get cancer of the prostate. It is the second most common site for cancer in the human body after the age of 60. I advise all men over the age of 50 to have a consultation lasting 15 minutes with their urologist to just assess their prostate and rule out the possibility of prostate cancer. Whether or not you have any symptoms regarding the prostate with your urination.
How common is prostate cancer?
As I said, it is a common cancer but it is more common in the Western world in white-skinned populations and in the African world. As we go to the Middle East and the Far East, the incidence of prostate cancer comes down. But if any family member or male family member in the family has prostate cancer, our chance of having prostate cancer increases exponentially.
So how do we decide whether we can prevent prostate cancer?
It is very simple. If you have a family history of prostate cancer, you should start checking yourself after the age of 45 every year. It involves a simple consultation with the urologist, a physical examination and a blood test called the PSA or prostate-specific antigen. Prostate-specific antigen levels increase in the blood in the presence of prostate infections and prostate cancer. When we combine it with a physical examination, we can have a high sensitivity of doubt whether the patient has prostate cancer.
The next step is to evaluate a patient with a high PSA level. This involves a simple test called an MRI, which is very accurate in detecting suspicious prostate cancer. If the MRI looks suspicious and the PSA is elevated, we suggest that the patient undergoes a prostate biopsy, which currently with modern technology is a very simple process with very few side effects.
Why is it important to detect prostate cancer?
This is because, unlike other cancers where you have breast cancer, for example, where you have to have extensive chemotherapy, and radiotherapy with all the side effects to achieve a cure. Prostate cancer, if detected early, can be treated easily with good-quality surgery and good-quality radiation, giving long-term lifetime survival of over 30 years. It is very important to detect prostate cancer in an early stage. An early stage indicates that the prostate cancer is still confined to the organ. A late stage indicates that prostate cancer has spread either below the organ or to distant sides. If the prostate cancer is still confined to the organ, curative treatment is possible. The organ treatment includes surgical removal of the prostate or radiation for the prostate.
As far as surgical removal is concerned, in the past, it was open surgery, with large incisions, needing prolonged recovery, prolonged pain, and certain complications like bleeding needing transfusions. One technique of surgery for the prostate includes laparoscopic and robotic surgery. These surgeries involve procedures by which, through small little keyholes of 5 millimeters and 10 millimeters, the surgery can be completed. The patient can be discharged in three or four days from the hospital and he can get back to normal life with minimal pain and minimal side effects after three weeks.
For most patients who refuse surgery who are not fit for surgery, we advise radiation therapy. The process involves seven weeks of procedure with certain medications, but ultimately the results of surgery and radiation are very good and patients can have very long-term, happy, comfortable survival life of more than 25 to 30 years.
Our hospital in Alzahra is offering a package for cash-paying patients of 350 dirhams, whereby you can have a consultation, a physical examination, and a blood test, to early detective prostate, whether it is cancerous or not. All insurance companies cover screening for prostate cancer. So my advice is every November, please visit your urologist if you are over 50 years of age, and spend 15 minutes for your health and longevity.
The Best Urology Service in Dubai and UAE: Dr. H Sanjay Bhat, an Indian Urologist Available in Dubai
When it comes to finding top-notch urological care in Dubai and the UAE, Dr. H Sanjay Bhat, a highly skilled Indian urologist, stands out as one of the most trusted and sought-after specialists in the region. Renowned for his exceptional expertise, compassionate approach, and cutting-edge technology, Dr. Bhat provides comprehensive urology services that cater to a diverse patient base, ensuring that everyone receives the care they need. His ability to speak multiple Indian languages makes him especially accessible to patients from the Indian community and beyond.
Patient-Focused Care with a Personal Touch
Dr. H Sanjay Bhat’s dedication to his patients is evident in the glowing testimonials shared by those who have experienced his care firsthand. One patient, Aniket Patange, praised the meticulous cleanliness of the hospital and the professional yet compassionate approach of Dr. H Sanjay Bhat’s team during his surgery. The clinic’s exceptional standards and personalized care ensure that patients feel safe and well-cared-for, right from the moment they walk in.
For patients facing urological issues like kidney stones, Dr. Bhat’s expertise brings relief and peace of mind. Samir Lachgar shared his appreciation for the advanced medical technology that was used to treat his kidney stones, describing the process as not only effective but also a fascinating demonstration of modern medicine’s capabilities.
Advanced Techniques and State-of-the-Art Technology
Dr. Bhat’s clinic is equipped with some of the most advanced urological technology in the world, providing minimally invasive and highly effective treatments. The technology includes:
3D DEX Robotized Laparoscopy This cutting-edge system offers unmatched precision in laparoscopic surgeries, ensuring better outcomes and quicker recovery times for patients.
Aesculap Einstein 3D Vision Laparoscopy: Providing a detailed view of the surgical area, this advanced technology improves the accuracy and efficiency of complex procedures.
Laser Clinic: Equipped with the latest laser technology for treating kidney stones and other conditions non-invasively.
Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS): A minimally invasive method for treating kidney stones and other kidney conditions without requiring open surgery.
The clinic also offers specialized services in Uro-Oncology, Andrology and Infertility, Penile Prosthesis, Pediatric Urology, Neuro-Urology, Female Urology, Prostate Care, Incontinence Treatment, Reconstructive Urology, Endourology, Day Care Urology, Office Urology, and more. The Stone Clinic is particularly popular for its comprehensive approach to kidney stone management.
An Indian Urologist Who Speaks Your Language
As an Indian urologist available in Dubai, Dr. Bhat’s ability to communicate in multiple Indian languages, including Hindi, Tamil, and Malayalam makes it easier for patients from India and the surrounding regions to understand their medical conditions and treatment options. This language proficiency helps bridge any communication gaps and provides comfort to those who prefer discussing their medical concerns in their native language.
Comprehensive and Accessible Urological Care
Dr. Sanjay Bhat’s clinic goes beyond providing medical treatment. It aims to make the entire process, from diagnosis to recovery, as smooth and stress-free as possible. Preba Moodley, a patient who underwent a TURP procedure for prostate issues, praised Dr. Bhat’s thorough communication and professional care throughout the process. The doctor and his team ensured all questions were answered and every concern was addressed, making the experience seamless.
Dr. Bhat’s patient-centric approach extends to quick response times, availability for emergency care, and tailored treatment plans. The clinic also offers telemedicine and video consultations, allowing patients to access expert advice from the comfort of their homes.
Why Choose Dr. H Sanjay Bhat?
Renowned Expertise: With years of experience and a deep understanding of various urological conditions, Dr. Bhat is known for delivering outstanding results.
Advanced Technology: From robotic surgeries to laser treatments, the clinic is equipped with the latest medical technology for optimal patient outcomes.
Multilingual Communication: Dr. Bhat’s ability to speak multiple Indian languages ensures clear and effective communication, making the clinic more accessible to patients from different backgrounds.
Comprehensive Services: The wide range of services covers all aspects of urology, from routine check-ups to specialized surgeries.
Patient Testimonials: The positive experiences shared by patients reflect the high level of care and expertise provided by Dr. Bhat and his team.
Comprehensive Urology Services for Everyone
Dr. Bhat’s clinic offers a wide array of urological services, including treatment for kidney stones, prostate issues, male infertility, and urinary incontinence. The clinic’s Stone Clinic provides state-of-the-art treatment options for kidney stones, from medication and laser therapy to minimally invasive surgical procedures. Other services include Prostate Clinics, Incontinence Clinics, and Reconstructive Urology for conditions requiring specialized surgical intervention.
Making Urological Care Accessible and Convenient
Patients can rest assured knowing that the clinic offers 24/7 emergency urology services, ensuring help is available whenever needed. Additionally, telemedicine options make it possible to consult with Dr. Bhat remotely, providing convenience for those who may have difficulty traveling to the clinic.
Conclusion
For anyone seeking the best urological care in Dubai and the UAE, Dr. H Sanjay Bhat, an expert Indian urologist, provides an unparalleled level of service. With his cutting-edge techniques, patient-centered approach, and multilingual capabilities, Dr. Bhat ensures that everyone, regardless of background or language, receives the highest standard of urological care. Whether you’re dealing with kidney stones, prostate issues, or require specialized surgical care, his clinic is the premier destination for comprehensive and compassionate urology services.
Experience the best in urology with Dr. H Sanjay Bhat, and see how expert care and advanced technology can make a difference in your health.
Dubai has become a top destination for medical care, attracting patients from around the world seeking advanced treatments. Dr.Sanjay Bhat, an Indian urologist based inDubai, is known for his expertise in treating complicated urological problems. The news has recognized him for performing life-saving surgeries and offering important advice on kidney health.
1.8kg Tumor Removed from a Filipino-American Patient
One of the most remarkable cases handled by Dr. Bhat involved Armand Castaneda, a 48-year-old Filipino-American who was flown from Baghdad to Prime Hospital in Dubai. Castaneda was diagnosed with renal cell carcinoma, a type of kidney cancer. What shocked the doctors was the size of the tumor — it weighed 1.8 kilograms, a rarity in such cases.
Dr. Bhat, who led the surgery on June 18, explained, “Renal cell carcinoma is common, but a tumor this large is unusual.” Thanks to Dr. Bhat’s swift action, he successfully removed the tumor and saved the patient’s life after Castaneda had been rushed to Dubai following symptoms of pain, blood in his urine, and blood clots
In another headline-making case, Dr. Bhat treated Rajashekar, a 50-year-old Indian expatriate who was suffering from abdominal pain. Initially, he thought it was a digestion issue, but tests revealed a 1.1kg tumor in his kidney. Dr. Bhat successfully removed the tumor through a minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery, which made the case even more special.
Rajashekar was shocked when he learned he needed surgery. “I never imagined it could be something so serious. I’m grateful for Dr. Bhat’s expertise in handling the situation,” he said.
In addition to his surgical expertise, Dr. Bhat also offers valuable advice on kidney health, especially during Ramadan when people fast for long hours. He stressed the importance of staying hydrated to avoid kidney issues like urinary tract infections (UTIs) and kidney stones. Many people opt for coffee, tea, or carbonated drinks, which can lead to dehydration, especially during Iftar, the meal to break the fast.
Dr. Bhat suggests drinking plenty of water during suhour (the pre-dawn meal) and avoiding diuretics like coffee and soda. “Citrus fruits are a great choice as they help keep the urine balanced and the kidneys healthy,” he advises.
Dr. Bhat also treated Jonathan, a UAE resident, who was suffering from constant fatigue and high blood pressure. After several tests, the doctors diagnosed Jonathan with Conn’s disease, a rare condition where a benign tumor on the adrenal gland causes an imbalance in hormones This condition is responsible for around 3% of high blood pressure cases worldwide.
Dr. Bhat successfully removed the tumor using a keyhole surgery technique, and Jonathan was back home just two days after the procedure. His case highlights how early diagnosis and expert treatment can make a world of difference.
Dr. Sanjay Bhat, aurologist from India working at Al Zahra Hospital in Dubai, is well-known for his expertise in handling difficult medical cases. He has saved many lives and has helped improve healthcare in the area. Dr. Bhat skillfully removes large kidney tumors and also offers practical advice for maintaining good health.His work has made a big difference for patients from around the world.
Looking for the top urology doctor in Dubai? You don’t need to look any further than Dr. H Sajay Bhat. Dr. Sanjay Bhat has over 25 years of experience and has earned a reputation for his expertise in diagnosing and treating various urological conditions such as kidney stones and prostate cancer. Many consider him to be the best Indian urologist in Dubai, and he works with a team of experts at Al Zahra Hospital in Dubai. They use advanced medical technologies to ensure patients receive top-notch care.
Top Urology Treatments in Dubai: Expert Care from the Best Urologists
Urology is the specialty that deals with all diseases of the urinary tract and adjacent organs like the adrenal gland. It involves the adrenal gland, the kidneys, the ureters (which are the passages of urine from the kidneys to the bladder), the urinary bladder, and in men, the prostate gland. It also includes the male and female genital tracts.
Nowadays, urology has become subspecialized. You have specialties like laparoscopy, endo-urology, urological oncology, female urology, functional urology, and kidney transplantation. Pediatric urology, which deals exclusively with children, is also now considered a subspecialty.
Modern technology has advanced significantly, making the treatment of diseases of the urinary tract much easier and more comfortable for the patient. Most conditions occur within the passages of the urinary tract, from the kidney down to the ureter, the bladder, the prostate, and the urethra. All these can be visualized by specialized, small, highly complex technological instruments, and almost every corner of the urinary tract can be accessed by these instruments.
One of the common conditions in urology is kidney stones and stones in other parts of the urinary tract. In the past, to treat kidney stones, we had to make large incisions, which took a very long time to heal. Patients could not return to work early enough and had a lot of cosmetic disabilities due to these cuts. Nowadays, stones in any part of the urinary tract can be treated safely with minimally invasive surgery through endoscopes. This is called endo-urology.
When we put a scope into the urethra, it is called urethroscopy; in the bladder, it is called cystoscopy; in the ureter, it is called ureteroscopy; and in the kidney, it is called flexible ureteroscopy or retrograde intrarenal surgery. A combination of these endoscopes and machines like lasers and lithoclasts are very effective in treating stones as well as tumours, obstructions, and enlargements of the prostate, and tumours in the ureter, kidney, and urinary bladder.
Sometimes if a stone in the kidney is too large, like more than 2.5 or 3 cm in size, the endoscope is passed through a small puncture in the skin of the patient’s back. This is called percutaneous endo-urology or going into the kidney system through the skin.
Children are also affected by most of the conditions that affect adults, like infections, stones, tumours, and more importantly, birth defects or congenital anomalies. These anomalies are some of the most common abnormalities children are born with. In fact, they are more common than abnormalities in any other system in the body. You can have obstructions to the flow of urine from the kidney called pelvic-ureteric junction obstruction causing hydronephrosis. You can have problems with the valve where the ureter joins the bladder, leading to backflow of urine into the kidney. This is called vesicoureteral reflux. You can have conditions where there is an obstruction to the urinary passage or urethra by valves called posterior urethral valves. These are some of the most common conditions.
In addition, phimosis, or the inability to retract the prepuce, is a very common condition in children. All these can be treated with minimally invasive techniques nowadays and hence it has become a subspecialty in urology where the instrumentation used is even smaller than what is used in adults. Hence, these children do not have to suffer major scars on their bodies, which may cause body image issues when they grow into teenagers and adults.
Female urology deals specifically with conditions related to the female urethra and genital tract. Some of the common conditions are urinary tract infections and inability to control urine, or incontinence of urine. Sometimes the incontinence may be due to weakness of the muscle control of the urinary passage. So every time the patient coughs or sneezes, they may lose urine. This is called stress urinary incontinence. Sometimes they have too much urgency due to an overactive bladder, and this is called urge urinary incontinence. Finally, they can have a combination of both. These can be treated by detailed investigation in the form of urine examinations, urine flowmetry tests, urodynamic estimation of the function of the urinary bladder, and endoscopy. They can be successfully managed by programs of physiotherapy, bladder training, medicines, and sometimes surgical intervention by minimally invasive techniques.
One of the rare complications of prolonged labour or gynaecological operations in difficult situations is an injury to the urinary bladder or to the ureter. When this happens, the urinary bladder or the ureter gets connected by an abnormal tract to the vagina. This results in continuous leakage of urine and is a very depressing condition where the woman is always wet and smells of strong-smelling urine. These are called ureterovaginal or vesicovaginal fistulae. Nowadays, after investigation, even these conditions can be treated successfully for these unfortunate women by minimally invasive means or laparoscopy.
What is laparoscopy? To give you a simple example, Asians and Indians tend to eat with their hands. So that is like doing open surgery, where you literally put your hands into the patient’s abdomen to operate. Whereas in the Far East, like in Japan and Korea, people eat with chopsticks. So basically, they don’t put their hands anymore into the abdomen, but through small holes, we put in the chopsticks and do the same job as we would do with our hands. So basically, laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgery, where small holes are made, between 5 and 10 millimetres in size, 3 to 4 in number, to perform the same surgery that could be done by making a big open incision. This procedure is now used for cancer surgery, for treating congenital abnormalities, to treat stones, to treat almost any problem with the adrenal gland, and even for major complex cancer surgeries.
The importance lies in that it helps early recovery, causes less pain, reduces the chance of infection and blood transfusion, and provides very good cosmetic results.
Many people are searching for kidney stone treatments in Dubai.
What are kidney stones?
Kidney stones are like stones in any other part of the earth. If you go on the road and you look at a stone, a similar kind of stone forms in the human urinary tract. In the human body, 90% of stones are due to a combination of calcium , oxalate or uric acid or a combination of calcium, oxalate and uric acid. So, if you look at it from a chemistry point of view, when there is too much of a salt in a solution, the salt precipitates. In the same way in the kidney, if there is too much calcium or uric acid or oxalate compared to the amount of urine or water that is available in the system, it will precipitate. So, 90% of stones are either calcium oxalate, uric acid or a combination of both.
How do people form stones?
If there is too much calcium, oxalate or uric acid in the urine or the urine is too concentrated because the patient is working in very hot climates like labourers in the open or engineers in a ship engine room or policemen on the street or anybody who is sweating a lot, then, the urine is very concentrated. They start forming into crystals, the crystals grow into stones and the stones cause the problems. The human body also has a system to prevent calcium, oxalate and uric acid from getting together in forming a relationship. There are many substances in the urine like magnesium, citrate and some organic materials which prevent calcium ,oxalate and uric acid to get together and form an association.
If the level of magnesium and citrate in your urine is low and the level of calcium and uric acid is high, then there is more chance of you forming a stone. In summary, if you want to prevent stones even if you may not be a known patient with stones, the best way to prevent stones is to reduce calcium and uric acid in your diet and increase the fluid inatke. The simplest way of increasing your fluid is to drink sufficient fluid so that your urine looks like water. If you find that your urine is looking yellow, make sure you go and drink a few glasses of water to make it colorless again.
How do you reduce the calcium and uric acid in your diet? Make sure you do not eat too much red meat. Make your diet something like one day of red meat in a week, but that does not stop you from eating chicken and fish. So, as you do not eat too much shellfish, shellfish can also cause increase in uric acid and calcium.
Nowadays, especially in the Middle East, the summer has started. Temperatures are beyond 40 degrees. We do not realize it, but we are sweating more, we are breathing out more water in our breath. So, this is the time to increase the amount of fluid intake in our bodies. We live in air-conditioned environments in the Middle East. We think that our fluid requirements are adequate and get into a habit of drinking a lot of coffee and tea and aerated drinks rather than water. But, coffee and tea in excess is also a cause of calcium stones. So, please restrict your coffee and tea to two or three cups per day.
Make up with plain water or water containing citrus fruit like lemon, orange, water melon and pineapple. Fresh fruit juices of these, which you make at home, (not the readymade ones, which are full of sugar), will help you prevent any problem with your urinary tract from urinary infections to urinary stones. In summary, I would say that people living in the Middle East should make sure they are well hydrated, the urine looks just like water, whenever it looks yellow, hydrate more, increase your intake of citrus fruit, reduce your intake of red meat.You can have chicken and fish, don’t have too much shellfish and don’t have too much salted nuts
How do you diagnose kidney stone?
The history of the patient is most important. The patient will come with sudden onset of pain on one side of the abdomen, radiating to the groin with vomiting and difficulty in passing urine and nothing relieves his pain. He may even come in an ambulance. In such a situation, they go to an emergency department and the first thing that is done is to give them pain relief, which may need strong pain killer even like pethidine or morphine or tramadol .
Once the patient settles, the best way to diagnose the kidney stone or the ureteric stone is to do a CT scan. 90% of stones will pass with medical management. Stones that are less than 6mm can pass with medications to increase the size of the urinary passage. We also give pain killers and medicines to reduce the size of the stone, helping it to slip through.
Many people ask, how do I know I have a kidney stone?
The most severe form of pain in the human body is from kidney stones. Women patients tell me that the pain of a kidney stone is more than pain of delivering a baby. It usually starts on one side of your body from the back to the front, radiating to the groin and it is so severe that many patients come in an ambulance to the emergency department. You feel nauseated, you feel like vomiting, you feel like rolling on the ground, you feel like passing urine, you feel like passing stool, but nothing relieves your pain. And most often these are small stones which cause more problems. As they say, small people talk more.
Same way, the small stones cause more pain. Why do they do that? It is because the stone is always formed in the kidney which has a lot of space. But from the kidney, the passage down to the urinary bladder is only four millimeters wide. When these small stones go out of the kidney and go into the ureter (or the passage going down to the bladder), they block it. When it blocks it, the pressure of urine in the kidney builds up so high that it is the most unbearable form of pain.The patient wants to vomit because it reflexly affects his stomach and intestines. The whole abdomen goes into disarray.
How do we remove the stones from the urinary tract?
In 10% of patients with stones, the stones don’t pass. They are bigger in size and cause obstruction and infection in the urinary system. They cause deterioration in kidney function. And the patient needs repeated admissions due to pain. In these situations, urologists come into the picture to remove the stones from the urinary tract.
Suppose the stone is in the kidney. It’s not very painful. But if the stone is more than 6 millimeters in size, there is a high possibility that that stone will move out of the kidney into the smaller passages and cause severe problems. In such a situation, we have a procedure called ESWL, (extra corporeal shockwave lithotipsy). The patient lies on a table. And like a video game, we using ultrasound and x-ray will localize the stone. And we use high intensity ultrasound and sound waves to break the stone into small pieces so that they will pass out the kidney easily without any pain.
Suppose the stone has already passed out the kidney and entered into the narrow tube leading from the kidney to the bladder. The patient will be in severe pain. We treat the patient according to the size of the stone. Suppose the stone is 6 or 7 millimeters. We tend to treat the patient conservatively with painkillers, methods using medicines to increase the size of the tube so that the stone can slip out and methods to use medicines to dissolve the stone. But still in 50% of patients, the pain is not relieved and they need to have intervention.
How do we intervene in these patients who have stones in the ureter?
If the stone is very well seen on X-ray, we can still do a non-invasive treatment called ESWL. This treatment, which I mentioned earlier, is extra corporeal shockwave lithotripsy.
If the stone is not visible on X-ray or it is in a situation or the size is too large, we need to do invasive procedure. But it does not involve cutting your abdomen or your stomach open. This is all done through endoscopy. For the last 40 years, urology has evolved in such a way that most stones can be treated by endoscopy. We give you anaesthesia, we go through the urinary tract, we go into the ureter, we see the stone, we break it with a laser into small powder or dust and remove the stone.
What do we do with a large stone in the kidney?
Very rarely we see large stones in the kidney. Seeing large stones in the kidney is more common in underdeveloped nations, where patients don’t have access to health care. In advanced nations, for every small complaint, they have access to the health system. In underdeveloped nations, unless the symptoms are so severe, very often patients don’t reach the hospital.
For stones more than 2-3 cm we do minimally invasive surgery.
One method is to do Retrograde Intrarenal surgery (RIRS). Flexible endoscopes of small cailbre are passed into the kidney from the bladder and laser is used to completely fragment the stone.
Another method is called PCNL or percutaneous nephrolithotomy. We make a one-centimeter cut over the back of the patient under anaesthesia and directly enter the kidney with special equipment. The stoneis broken into small pieces with special equipment, we remove all the pieces and the patient stays in the hospital for one day before he is discharged.
Best kidney stone treatments in Dubai?
Many people are searching for the best kidney stone treatments in Dubai?. The Urology Department at the Al Zahra Private Hospital offers both pediatric and adult urology services. The department has five Urology Consultants available from 8 am to 8 pm, seven days a week. Urology Emergency Services are available 24 hours a day. The department consists of four Arabic Consultants and one Indian Consultant who speak multiple languages, including English, Arabic, Hindi, Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada, and Konkani.
The department is equipped with the latest equipment, including urodynamics, ultrasonography, transperineal biopsies of the prostate, Resume procedures for prostate surgery, and Thulium lasers for the treatment of prostate diseases and urinary stones.
In general, kidney and ureteric stones are the most common problems faced by most urologists in the world. It should be mentioned that once treated stones can recur. At least and annual check up with the urologist is mandatory.
In the last few decades, the field of Urological Oncology / urological cancershas seen significant advancements with the introduction of laparoscopy, minimally invasive techniques, and robot-assisted procedures. Furthermore, newer and advanced Oncological products such as chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunological modulators have been included, which have increased the survival rate and mitigated the side effects of chemotherapy. Urology’s cancer care has four main strategies: preventive, treatment-guided, metastatic, and palliative therapies. In the last two decades, all treatment strategies have experienced a steady breakthrough in Urology.
Q: What are some risk factors associated with urological cancers? A: Some common risk factors for urological cancers include age, gender (males have a higher risk), family history of urological cancer, inherited gene mutations, smoking, obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, multiple sex partners, chronic infections, and chronic kidney disease.
Q: What are the chances of having cancer if blood is found in urine? A: While non-cancerous diseases are more commonly the cause of blood in urine, a detailed evaluation is required to come to a conclusion. Tests including urine examination, history and physical examination, and a contrast-enhanced CT may be required to detect the elusive disease. Blood in urine may be due to tumors of the kidney, cancer of the ureter, cancer of the bladder, or cancer of the prostate.
Q: What are some common symptoms of urological cancers? A: Common symptoms of urological cancers include blood in the urine, changes in urination, pelvic pain, testicular swelling, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, lower back pain, lumps or swelling, erectile dysfunction, altered bowel habits, and frequent infections.
Q: What is bladder cancer? A: Bladder cancer, also known as urothelial carcinoma, begins when the cells in the lining of the bladder start to grow out of control. It may also occur anywhere in the urethra, renal pelvis, and ureters.
Q: What are the symptoms of bladder cancer? A: The most common symptom of bladder cancer is blood in the urine. Other symptoms include irritation when urinating, urgency, and frequency of urination, which are also common symptoms of a urinary tract infection.
Q: Who is at risk for bladder cancer? A: Smoking has been found to be the greatest risk factor for bladder cancer. Other risk factors include exposure to carcinogens in the environment. Workers in the rubber, chemical, and leather industries are at risk, as are hairdressers, machinists, metal workers, painters, textile workers, and firefighters.
Q: How is bladder cancer diagnosed? A: Doctors can use many tests, including ultrasounds, CT scans, and MRI scans to detect irregularities in the bladder wall, which would suggest a possible cancer. The urologist will also perform a cystoscopy to visually examine the bladder and may remove samples of any suspicious areas for biopsy. Urine cytology can be performed to detect cancer cells in urine. Other tests use urine-based markers to detect cells or substances in a urine sample that are relatively specific to bladder cancer.
Q: Are urological cancers treatable? A: Yes, urological cancers are often treatable, especially when diagnosed early. The treatment approach depends on the type of cancer, its stage, and individual factors such as overall health and patient preferences.
Q: What is the difference between urology and oncology? A: Urology is a medical discipline that diagnoses and treats disorders of the urinary and male reproductive systems. Oncology is the medical discipline that focuses on preventing, diagnosing, and treating cancer.
Q: What does a urologic oncologist do? A: A urologic oncologist specializes in diagnosing, treating, and managing urological cancers. Their expertise lies at the intersection of urology and oncology.
Q: When should I see a uro-oncologist? A: You may consider visiting a uro-oncologist for a variety of reasons, such as to diagnose urological cancer, abnormal test results, family history of urological cancers, seeking a second opinion, managing ongoing treatment, or occurrence of moderate to severe side effects of the current treatment.
Q: What can I expect when I visit a uro-oncology specialist? A: When you visit a uro-oncology specialist for the first time, you can expect a comprehensive evaluation and discussion about your medical history, symptoms, and any relevant diagnostic tests.
Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, are a common health concern, especially among women. In this blog post, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of UTIs. We will also cover preventative measures to avoid recurrent UTIs.
What is a urinary tract infection (UTI) ?
A UTI is an infection in the urinary tract. Bacteria are the most common cause of UTIs. The body usually eliminates bacteria that enter the urinary tract before they cause any symptoms. However, sometimes bacteria overcome the body’s natural defenses and cause an infection.
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What are the signs and symptoms of a UTI?
Symptoms of a UTI vary by age, gender, and whether a catheter is present. Among young women, UTI symptoms typically include a frequent and intense urge to urinate and a painful, burning feeling in the bladder or urethra during urination. The amount of urine may be very small. As people age, they may feel tired, weak, shaky, and experience muscle aches and abdominal pain If your urine changes in color and smell, such as becoming cloudy, dark, or bloody, or develops a foul odor, it may indicate an infection. If you use a catheter, an infection may cause a fever that cannot be explained by any other reason.
How are UTIs diagnosed?
To determine if an individual has a urinary tract infection (UTI), a healthcare provider will ask about their urinary symptoms and perform a urine test to check for bacteria and white blood cells, which the body produces to fight infections. The individual will need to provide a “clean catch” urine sample by cleaning the genital area and collecting a “midstream” sample of urine in a sterile container. The laboratory will analyze the sample for bacteria. Usually, the results take 1 to 3 days to process.
How are UTIs treated?
Bacteria cause most urinary tract infections (UTIs), and doctors treat them with antibiotics or antimicrobials. The choice of medication and length of treatment depend on the patient’s history and the type of bacteria causing the infection.If the first antibiotic administered fails to work, the patient may require an extended course of treatment. Drinking lots of fluids and urinating frequently will speed healing. If needed, various medications are available to relieve the pain of a UTI.
How can recurrent UTIs be prevented?
Changing some daily habits may help a person prevent recurrent UTIs. Drinking lots of fluid can help flush bacteria from the system. Urination habits are also important. A person should urinate often and when the urge arises. Women and men should urinate shortly after sex to flush away bacteria that might have entered the urethra during sex. After using the toilet, women should wipe from front to back to keep bacteria from getting into the urethra. We recommend wearing cotton undergarments and loose-fitting clothes to keep the area around the urethra dry. For women, using a diaphragm or spermicide for birth control can lead to UTIs by increasing bacteria growth. Switching to a new form of birth control may help prevent UTIs.
In conclusion, UTIs are a common health concern that can cause discomfort and pain. However, they are treatable and preventable. By following the preventative measures outlined above, you can reduce your risk of getting a UTI. If you suspect you have a UTI, it is important to seek medical attention promptly to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.
Consider choosing Dr. H Sanjay Bhat, a highly skilled Senior Consultant Urologist in Dubai at Al Zahra Hospital Dubai in Al Barsha, if you’re looking for a good urology doctor in Dubai. He has expertise in several specializations, including Laparoscopic Urology and Uro-Oncology, Reconstructive Urology, Endourology, Pediatric Urology, Renal Transplant, Female Urology, and Urolithiasis. With his extensive experience and knowledge, Dr. Bhat provides advanced treatments and minimally invasive procedures for urological disorders, including cancers, kidney stones, and other urinary tract issues.He dedicates himself to providing his patients with comprehensive and focused care, ensuring their optimal health and well-being.
How to find a best urologist in Dubai ??. Urologists are medical specialists who are responsible for diagnosing and treating disorders related to the urinary tract and the surrounding area. They specialize in treating kidney and bladder problems, and for men, they provide treatment for issues related to the penis, prostate, seminal vesicles, and testes. When it comes to urological issues, it is important to choose the right urologist for your care. Although you can get a referral from your primary care provider, ultimately, the decision to choose the best urologist for you is a personal one.
Here are some tips on choosing the best urologist for yourself.
Check Your Insurance
Finding a urologist within your insurance network can help reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Get Referrals
If you are looking for a best urologist, your family, friends, co-workers, and primary care provider can provide referrals. By asking people you know, you should be able to compile a list of potential urologists. Once you have a list, you can start narrowing it down based on your criteria. Choosing a urologist from a list of referred doctors can help you find a highly recommended one who provides excellent service. This way, you can avoid inexperienced or unprofessional doctors and ensure that you receive quality care.
Consider Gender
If you are male and uncomfortable discussing reproductive health with a female doctor, consider choosing a male urologist for care. This way, you can have the peace of mind that your doctor will understand your concerns and provide the best possible care. understanding of men’s health issues and could make you feel more comfortable.
Research Credentials and Experience
Check for board-certification when choosing a urologist. This will tell you that the doctor has the knowledge, training, and experience to provide urologic care and treatment. Other than board-certification, experience is an important consideration. Choose a urologist with at least a decade of experience, considering the greater the experience in treating a specific condition or performing a procedure, the better the results.
Check Reviews and History
It’s important to note that board-certification doesn’t always guarantee that a urologist has a clean record in terms of disciplinary issues and malpractice claims. It is advisable to conduct your own research before selecting a urologist. You can use resources such as Google reviews and myacare.com to help find the right doctor. When reading reviews, it’s a good sign if you come across many positive experiences with the doctor.
Good Communication Style
When looking for a urologist, it’s important to find someone you can communicate with easily. If you prefer English, choose a urologist who speaks the language well. Your urologist should be your partner in achieving good urologic health. A doctor who doesn’t show interest in patients and has poor communication skills can cause problems over time. To find out if a doctor communicates well, schedule appointments with more than one before choosing one
Male Urologist in Dubai
Dr. Sanjay Bhat is considered the best urologist in Dubai. He received his MS from JIPMER, Pondicherry in 1991, where he was awarded the best all-round graduate and B.S Sen gold medals. He then completed his M.Ch in Urology at the prestigious Christian Medical College in Vellore. Later, in 2000, he founded the Department of Urology at The Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences in Kochi, Kerala, which has become one of the best in the country. In October 2014, he established the Department of Urology and Renal Transplant at The Rajagiri Hospital, Kerala.
Dr. Sanjay Bhat is an expert in advanced urological laparoscopy, endourology, pediatric, and reconstructive urology. Dr. Sanjay Bhat is a renowned specialist in advanced urological laparoscopy, endourology, pediatric, and reconstructive urology. He is widely acknowledged for his exceptional skills in performing laparoscopic adrenalectomies, which is the largest series of its kind, laparoscopic live related kidney retrieval for transplant, and laparoscopic radical prostatectomy. He also holds credit for performing the first-ever laparoscopic right-sided kidney retrieval in India, as well as laparoscopic partial nephrectomy for tumors.
Dr. Sanjay Bhat is also an expert in urethral reconstruction in hypospadias and after trauma, upper tract Endourology (PCNL, RIRS), Uro-oncology, and Pediatric Urology.
Looking for the best urologist in Dubai? Dr. Sanjay Bhat Hatangadi is a highly accomplished urologist, with over thirty years of experience in the field. He is widely recognized for his expertise in urology and has been associated with some of the most prestigious medical institutions in India and the Middle East.
Dr. Sanjay Bhat Hatangadi is an experienced urologist who has worked in various hospitals across India and Dubai. He served as the Professor and Head of Urology at Rajagiri Hospital and Amrita Medical College in Kerala from 2001 to 2019, where he supervised the urology department and provided training to new urologists.
During his tenure, he participated in multiple research projects and published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals. After leaving Rajagiri Hospital, he joined Prime Hospital Dubai as the Head of Urology, where he managed a team of urologists and the hospital’s urology department until March 2022. His leadership skills and expertise in urology played a crucial role in the growth and development of the department. Currently, Dr. Sanjay Bhat holds the position of Consultant Urologist at Al Zahra Private Hospital Dubai. In this capacity, he provides expert advice and treatment to patients with complex urological problems.
His areas of specialization include Adult and Pediatric Laparoscopic and Reconstructive Urology/Uro-oncology, Prostate Disease Management, Stone Disease Management, Upper and Lower Urinary Tract Endourology, Incontinence and Female Urology, and Adrenal Surgery Laparoscopic. Dr. Sanjay Bhat Hatangadi is fluent in multiple languages, including English, Hindi, Kannada, Malayalam, Tamil, Konkani, and has a basic understanding of Arabic with a focus on urology-related terminology. This enables him to communicate effectively with patients from diverse backgrounds and provide personalized care.
Dr. Sanjay Bhat Hatangadi holds several qualifications, including MBBS, MS General Surgery, DNB General Surgery, FRCS General Surgery, MCh Urology, and FAGE Medical Education. He has published 41 articles in peer-reviewed journals and has received various awards, including the Best Outgoing Medical Student in 1987, the BS Sen Gold Medal for General Surgery, and the Howard Eddy Gold Medal for Royal Australasian College of Surgeons FRACS Part-1 South East Asia.
Looking for the best urologist in Dubai? Dr. Sanjay Bhat Hatangadi is a member of several professional organizations, including the Urological Society of India, Association of Southern Urologists, Urology Association of Kerala, and Emirates Urology Association. He continues to attend conferences and workshops to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in his field.
Dr. Sanjay Bhat Hatangadi is available for full-time consultations at Al Zahra Hospital, Al Barsha 1, Dubai. He has held various academic positions, including Assistant Professor Urology at KMC Hospital Manipal, India, Registrar Urology at Armed Forces Hospital Oman, Professor Urology at Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences and Rajagiri Hospital, Kerala, India, and Consultant Urology at Prime Hospital Dubai. With his extensive experience, vast knowledge, and compassionate approach, he is one of the most sought-after urologists in the region.
