Procedures
Laparoscopic Robotic Surgery
Since December of 2002, surgeons in the section of Urology have incorporated a robotic surgical system called daVinci by Intuitive Surgical into multiple urologic procedures. Robotic laparoscopic kidney removal (nephrectomy), reconstruction of narrowing in the ureter (pyeloplasty), removal of the adrenal gland (adrenalectomy), removal of the prostate for cancer (radical prostatectomy), and removal of the bladder for bladder cancer (radical cystectomy and ileoconduit) are all currently performed by the surgeons of the section of Urology. Currently, the robot is used mostly for laparoscopic radical prostatectomy and laparoscopic radical cystectomy. The advantages of the robotic surgery include 3-D visualization, elimination of surgeon’s tremor, increased degrees of freedom with the laparoscopic instruments, and an ergonomic sitting position at the surgical console reducing fatigue during surgery for the main surgeon.
Botox Injection for Hyperactive Bladders
Dr. Gregory Bales of the University of Chicago Hospitals was one of the first urologists in the country to use Botox® to treat the symptoms caused by overactive bladder. When pharmaceutical agents fail, Botox® is being shown to reduce urinary urgency, frequency, and urge incontinence in many who suffer from these symptoms.
Botox® is administered in the operating room under conscious sedation anesthesia. First, a camera is inserted into the urine tube (urethra) so that the bladder’s interior surface can be fully seen by the physician. Without making any incisions, small injections of Botox® are delivered to the bladder’s muscular wall. The procedure takes about 30 minutes.
Patients can go home the same day, expect to feel little or no discomfort, and resume all normal activities right away. About two-thirds of patients notice a calmer bladder within 2-7 days after receiving Botox®. The effects of Botox® typically last 6-9 months. When the effects wear off, Botox® may be safely readministered over and over again.