Prostate Cancer Recurrence: What Should You Know According to Dr. Jonathan Jay?

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • Prostate cancer recurrence can occur due to cancer cells left behind during treatment or because the cancer was initially diagnosed as less advanced than it actually was.
  • A rise in Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) levels and the use of PET/CT imaging scans are effective ways to diagnose recurrent prostate cancer.
  • Treatment options for recurring prostate cancer depend on the initial treatment and may include radiation therapy, surgical removal of the prostate, cryotherapy, or hormone therapy.

Cancer of the prostate affects a small gland that is situated just in front of the rectum and around the base of the urethra in men. It is the most common type of cancer in men, with those over age 50 facing the greatest risk. The good news is that prostate cancer is treatable. Treatment options include surgical removal of the prostate gland, radiation therapy, hormone therapy and chemotherapy. A combination of various treatment methods may be applied for full effect. Sometimes, however, even after treatment has been administered successfully, the prostate cancer returns. This is called a recurrence and it occurs with other types of cancer too.

Causes of Prostate Cancer Recurrence

Prostate cancer can recur for two main reasons.

1. A small clump of cancer cells left behind during the earlier course of treatment can grow into a larger number.

2. The cancer initially was diagnosed as being less advanced than it actually was. For instance, a patient might be diagnosed with cancer that is limited only to the prostate while in fact, the cancer might have advanced to the surrounding lymph nodes.

Diagnosis of Recurrent Prostate Cancer

Dr. Jonathan Jay with patientA major indicator of recurring prostate cancer is a rise in Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) levels. PSA is a protein produced by the prostate. A PSA test is always conducted as part of the preliminary work in the diagnosis of prostate cancer, whether initial or recurrent. Ideally, after successful treatment, PSA levels should go down and should stay consistently low. If the level starts to rise again, that is a red light that should be followed up with further testing.

Another test, which doctors agree is very effective in checking for recurrent prostate cancer, is the PET/CT imaging scan. Dr. Jonathan Jay, who has an office in Naples, FL, says the scan is effective because it has the ability to localize the cancer and map out its extent with great accuracy. Treatment of cancer usually depends on being able to tell exactly what part is affected. If this can be done, then it becomes easy to direct treatment at that specific area, which is what a PET/CT imaging scan does.

Treatment of Recurring Prostate Cancer

The form of treatment depends on what was initially administered. The following options are available:

1. If the prostate was surgically removed the first time, radiation therapy may be administered to treat the recurrent cancer;

2. If radiation therapy was administered the first time, a surgical removal of the prostate may be recommended. That decision depends on whether or not the cancer has spread outside of the prostate.

3. Cryotherapy. This treatment involves freezing the cancer cells to kill them.

4. Hormone Therapy. This may be used in combination with other methods. It is also used as a last option when the cancer has spread very far.

The management of recurrent prostate cancer depends on finding the cancer, which most likely would be detected in a post treatment screening. Men who have undergone successful prostate cancer treatment should attend regular screenings after the treatment is finished. Followup screening and checkups are important, and it is important to seek out a comfortable, patient centered treatment center, such as the Advanced Urology Institute. The staff at Advanced Urology Institute is very experienced in working with patients and helping with questions, diagnosis and treatment. They have the knowledge and technology to work with the patient through every step of the process. For more information, visit the Advanced Urology Institute website/

TRANSCRIPTION: 

Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in men, affecting about one in nine. While prostate cancer can be cured in some men, approximately one in three men will experience what is known as recurrent prostate cancer, which is prostate cancer that has come back after initial treatment. Now unfortunately, prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in men; about one in 41 will die from prostate cancer this year, and that’s according to the American Cancer Society.

The good news is that there are newer imaging techniques that can help locate recurrent prostate cancer. Being able to locate the disease in the body can really help doctors personalize care for patients living with recurrent prostate cancer. Here to help us understand more about this is Dr. Jonathan Jay and his patient Peter Irving. Welcome to both of you.

Thank you. Doctor, let me start with you. This is Men’s Health Month, so let’s start with prostate cancer and what it is.

Well, we’ll take a step back and start with what the prostate is because most people don’t understand what the prostate is. The prostate is a male reproductive organ, and one-third of the fluid that a man sees in his ejaculation comes from the prostate. The purpose of this fluid is to nourish and protect sperm until conception.

It’s treatable?

Yes, prostate cancer is treatable. Prostate cancer in its treatable stages is asymptomatic, so it’s very important for men to understand that they need to have an evaluation on a yearly basis starting at age 50, which would entail a rectal examination and a blood test called PSA.

Alright, so let’s bring in Peter. When were you diagnosed? What happened?

In 2008, I was diagnosed with cancer following a needle biopsy in which 12 out of 13 were positive. So you were doing a routine exam, Peter?

Just routine, and the PSA started to spike over a period of months. From what to what?

My normal was 1.5, let’s say, and this kept creeping up, and I think my general practitioner sent me to a urologist when it got to like four or five. But at that time, they still did not believe I had prostate cancer; things just weren’t what they thought they should be. That’s why I went to the urologist, and then I had the needle biopsy.

Which confirmed it?

Which confirmed it, and then I went and had surgery, had it removed, and followed with the same urologist. To be checked?

Yeah.

Alright, doctor, let me bring you in. If you could define PSA for us, please, and inform us of the levels that happened.

PSA stands for prostate-specific antigen; it’s a protein that’s excreted solely by the prostate, so it’s a great way of monitoring whether a patient has prostate cancer, develops prostate cancer, or has a reoccurrence of prostate cancer. The significance of PSA is what the PSA is in an individual. In Peter’s case, his PSA was one and increasing over time; that was indicative that something was changing and something was wrong.

Understood. So, Peter, you have the surgery, you’re living your life, and then you have recurrent prostate cancer?

Well, my PSA started to spike again, you know, in theory, you shouldn’t have any PSA.

Exactly. And I believe it was somewhere again in the ones, and then it kept rebounding and going up and up, and we watched it for four years. In 2016, they decided to do radiation therapy and hormone therapy together, and they concentrated on the spot they found through the new imaging, and today I’m zero.

That’s fantastic. Doctor, since he mentioned the new imaging, it’s a PET CT imaging test. Tell me, what is different about this test as opposed to what is always used, I guess, in a bone scan and CT, right?

Yes. So, what are the differences between what was used then and what he used?

We had to define the location and extent of this disease, so conventionally, how do we do that? CT scan is a test that has the ability to survey the body without making an incision; we can survey the body for soft tissue changes, we can detect enlarged lymph nodes, we can detect masses within the abdominal cavity. Bone scan surveys the bone for reoccurring disease. Now, think of this: with these conventional tests, you have to have a mass—a mass would be hundreds of thousands or millions of cells in one place—to be detected by these conventional studies. This newer CT PET scan has the ability to define the location and extent of prostate cancer, reoccurring prostate cancer, at an earlier stage and at a lower PSA.

And how does that make a difference then for the treatment?

It’s very important because we want to treat the disease; we need to define the extent and location of the disease, as that dictates our treatment options. So, as opposed to, let’s say, affecting other organs in the body, you’re minimizing the effects?

Absolutely. In Peter’s case, we were able to do a CT PET scan, localize reoccurrence to one area within the pelvis, and we were able to treat that, but we treated that with radiation or hormonal therapy. We were able to treat that without affecting any of the other organs around it.

Peter, you’re doing fine now, right? Everything is controlled?

A negative PSA test for two-plus years.

So, for our viewers out there, and we have lots of males, what would you say, what would be your final thoughts, your words of wisdom?

Just have a routine, probably at the age of 45.

45, 50, yes. Start getting your PSAs on a yearly basis, and it’ll make you feel much better. Absolutely. So not worrying about that.

Doctor, any final takeaways?

One of the important things is that prostate cancer is prevalent in our community, yes, but if found early, it’s a treatable medical condition, and all you have to do is a simple rectal examination and a blood test called PSA with your primary care physician. If something were to happen again in the future, would you suggest again this new imaging test to him?

Absolutely. If we saw increasing PSAs, the first thing that I would do is this new CT PET scan.

Alright, thank you so much, gentlemen, both of you for your time. Thank you, and I’m glad you’re doing fantastic.

REFERENCES: 

What Urology Procedures and Treatment are Performed at AUI?

 

Advanced Urology Institute offers a wide-range of services to prevent, diagnose, treat and care for patients with different urological conditions. Our team of urologists are surgical and medical specialists who treat patients dealing with urinary incontinence, kidney stones, urinary tract infections, sexual dysfunction, premature ejaculation, urethral stones, pelvic floor problems, kidney, prostate and bladder cancer, kidney transplants, vasectomies and traumatic urinary tract injuries. We are involved in the assessment of the structure, function and problems of the prostate, kidney, bladder, testes, penis, urethra and their associated glands.

A typical day at AUI

The consultations each day range from patients with voiding and sexual difficulties to victims of knife and gun violence with injuries to their genitourinary organs. We document and review the medical histories of these patients, order appropriate diagnostic tests, such as the PSA for screening prostate cancer, interpret results of the tests, make accurate diagnosis and develop individualized treatment plans. We typically use a wide range of equipment and instruments, including radiographic (X-ray) machines, MRI scans, CT scans, ultrasounds, fluoroscopes, catheters, cystoscopes, radium emanation tubes, and diathermy machines.

We administer treatment depending on the type of condition, severity of symptoms, area affected and patient preferences. Routinely, we perform brachytherapy, high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), photodynamic therapy, laser-based procedures, extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy, robot-assisted surgery and abdominal, pelvic and retroperitoneal surgery. We also may prescribe medication for certain conditions or recommend lifestyle and behavioral changes to improve treatment outcomes.

Treating kidney and urethral stones

For patients who come to our emergency department with excruciating flank pain or stone-related pain, we usually run various tests to diagnose the stone. A CT scan typically is used to confirm the presence, location and size of the stone. For small stones, patients are often discharged with pain medication and guided on fluid intake and what to do to ensure the stone is seamlessly passed. The patients also are given instructions on what to do with the stone once passed. For instance, we direct patients to bring the stones to AUI for analysis of chemical composition and determination of metabolic risk factors. With that information, we are able to recommend appropriate dietary measures for preventing stone recurrence, such as avoiding excess salt and animal protein and increasing fluid intake. For larger stones, we may opt to use more invasive treatments to break down or remove them from the urinary tract. The treatment approach depends on the type, size and location of the stone.

Prostate procedures

In men, the diagnosis and treatment of prostate-related conditions, such as BPH and prostate cancer, require various procedures. At AUI, we frequently administer the PSA (prostate-specific antigen) test to assess if there is a prostate problem in men with urinary symptoms such as pelvic pain, voiding problems and blood in urine. Through PSA screening, we are able to reduce the likelihood of advanced disease and the chances of prostate cancer death. But to maximize the benefits of the test and prevent undue harm, we are always careful to use the test in the right patients and at the right time.

We often use rectal and prostate ultrasound to examine the shape and size of the prostate gland. When a tumor is suspected, we may pass a flexible cystoscope or use CT or MRI scan to assess the nature and extent of the malignancy. To check for abnormal prostate cells or confirm prostate cancer, a prostate biopsy is commonly the go-to procedure. During the procedure, the patient is placed under a local anesthetic. The doctor extracts systematic biopsy cores from the area with the suspicious lesion or growth and sends them to the laboratory for diagnosis. Once BPH or cancer has been confirmed, appropriate treatment such as brachytherapy, TURP (transurethral resection of prostate) or prostatectomy (via laparoscopy or robot-assisted surgery) is set up.

Fertility procedures

At AUI, we see patients with a broad range of fertility issues, including those who want to prevent pregnancy permanently and those who have difficulty becoming pregnant. For men who can’t ejaculate healthy sperm, we offer sperm retrieval procedures like surgical sperm extraction and sperm aspiration to harvest their healthy sperm from the testes. These procedures are usually carefully timed to coincide with in-vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles or with the harvesting of the female partner’s eggs. And for men who can’t ejaculate because of spinal cord injuries and other problems, we offer procedures such as electro-ejaculation or the penile vibratory stimulation. The procedures use electro-stimulation and vibration to prompt ejaculation and enable collection of healthy sperm.

For patients who want to avoid pregnancy, we offer vasectomy and vasectomy reversal procedures. Conducted in the urologist’s office with only a local anesthetic, vasectomy is a quick, safe and effective way in which men can stop getting their partners pregnant. It is generally a permanent sterilization method and offers higher efficacy than tubal ligation performed in women. But for men who change their minds after they have undergone a vasectomy, we offer the reversal procedure as a way to try and restore fertility or to help a smaller fraction of men for whom vasectomy triggers ongoing pain.

Urologic oncology procedures

We have skilled and experienced oncologists at AUI who use a combination of equipment and procedures to diagnose and treat different urologic cancers. At AUI, our medical team offers a comprehensive assessment of all available cancer treatments and their expected outcomes, paving the way for their quick integration in our practice. For that reason, we are often the first cancer center in Florida to adopt the latest innovative cancer treatment and care approaches as soon as they are devised. When making cancer treatment decisions at AUI, urologists typically consider a number of psychological and clinical factors, including type and stage of the cancer, anticipated life expectancy, level of risk, overall health of the patient and personal preferences of the patient.

So whether we are dealing with kidney, prostate or bladder cancer, or with genital and pelvic cancers such as scrotal, penile and urethral malignancies, we ensure that the timing of treatment is just as precise and important as the treatment chosen. In some patients, we may opt for active surveillance (watchful waiting) to delay treatment and avoid related side-effects and risks. But to treat cancer, the options include local topical therapies, genital-preserving surgeries, genital reconstruction surgeries, radiation therapy, chemotherapy or hormone therapy.

Pediatric urology procedures

At AUI, we also offer treatment for a number of childhood conditions, particularly congenital ones. For example, children with undescended testes — where one or both testes haven’t descended into the scrotum — may benefit from our minimally-invasive robotic or laparoscopic procedures to correct the disorder. Surgery is our primary treatment option for most pediatric conditions and the da Vinci robotic surgery and laparoscopic surgery have become the standards of care at AUI. The minimally-invasive approaches are preferred for children because they are generally less painful, come with a shorter hospital stay, and require a shorter recovery time. We also offer circumcision to children in their first few days after birth as an elective procedure to remove the foreskin of the penis.

At Advanced Urology Institute, we offer multidisciplinary, patient-friendly, excellent urology care for our patients. So whether you are interested in seeing a urologist for conditions such as prostatitis, stress incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, recurrent urinary tract infection or urologic cancer, or for procedures like penile implant surgery, vasectomy and cystoscopy, you can rest assured of having a urologist you can trust at AUI. And we are not only focused on innovative, exceptional and superior treatments, services and outcomes, but also satisfactory patient experiences and sound, long-term patient-physician relationships. With our state-of-the-art facilities, advanced equipment, experienced medical professionals and a responsive, compassionate institutional culture, we guarantee top-notch, exceptional care to our patients in an environment where they feel comfortable and treasured.

For more information urological problems and how to prevent, diagnose and treat them, visit the Advanced Urology Institute website.

Robotic Surgery Effective in Partial Nephrectomy


Robotic partial nephrectomy involves using an advanced surgical robot to remove part of the kidney, usually the portion with a tumor. Initially, robotic surgery enjoyed tremendous success with surgical removal of the prostate (prostatectomy), but in recent years its usage in kidney operations also has yielded remarkable results. In fact, robotic partial nephrectomy has become the preferred treatment option for most patients with benign kidney tumors, small renal masses and early-stage cancer. During the procedure, tumors are removed with the least possible disruption of the rest of the kidney — a nephron-sparing approach that maximizes post-operative kidney function.

Why is the da Vinci surgical system suited for partial nephrectomy?

The da Vinci surgical robot provides superior maneuverability that is suited for the delicate slicing, cutting and stitching involved in the removal of a portion of the kidney. The surgical robot offers a three-dimensional view of the targeted area, allowing for a broader range of motion of the surgical devices. Urologists using the robot find it much easier to make the complex maneuvers required during the procedure.

Since it uses smaller incisions and doesn’t involve making cuts through bone or muscle, the da Vinci partial nephrectomy causes less scarring and minimal trauma to patients. The recovery time is typically only 2 weeks compared to the 6-8 weeks recovery time after open kidney surgery. Likewise, blood supply to the kidney is blocked for a shorter duration, leading to less overall blood loss and quicker recovery compared to laparoscopy.

How is the robotic partial nephrectomy performed?

During robotic partial nephrectomy, the surgeon makes a series of tiny incisions in your abdomen. The camera and robotic surgical instruments are inserted through these incisions. To create enough room for manipulation of the surgical instruments and enable easy access to the cancerous tissue, the abdomen is inflated with gas (carbon dioxide gas). The doctor then moves the colon away from the kidney and trims off the fat covering the kidney to expose the kidney surface.

With the kidney exposed, the surgeon halts the blood flow to the kidney temporarily to prevent potential bleeding as the tumor is cut and the remaining portion of the kidney sutured together. At the end of the procedure, the urologist reconstructs the kidney, restores blood flow and then inspects the kidney carefully to make sure there is no bleeding.

Who should undergo robotic partial nephrectomy?

The da Vinci partial nephrectomy is the surgical treatment of choice for patients with smaller kidney tumors, usually not bigger than 4 cm in size. However, even patients with tumors ranging from 4 cm-7 cm also may undergo the procedure if they are to be treated in certain areas. Similarly, robotic partial nephrectomy is appropriate in cases where removing the whole kidney could trigger kidney failure or the need for dialysis.

At Advanced Urology Institute, we perform hundreds of robotic partial nephrectomy every year with amazing results for our patients. The procedure takes a short time, reduces the problems caused by benign or small kidney tumors and is effective in helping patients recover from kidney cancer. The minimally-invasive nature of the procedure guarantees less scarring, minimal trauma and quicker recovery for our patients. But we always ensure that patients are closely monitored for post-operative pain and complications, accomplishing cancer-free and happier lives for our patients. For more information on treatment of kidney cancer and other urological problems, visit our “Advanced Urology Institute” site.

What is MRI with Transrectal Ultrasound Fusion-Guided Prostate Biopsy

Prostate cancer has a new standard of care in MRI-guided fusion biopsy with transrectal ultrasound. While a prostate biopsy has been the only way to get a definitive diagnosis of prostate cancer, it has only been working if cancer cells are identified in the sample tissue. But in some cases, such as when the tumor occurs at the top surface of the prostate or other unusual locations, a biopsy may not give a correct diagnosis. For instance, the standard TRUS (transrectal ultrasound) guided biopsy in which tissue samples are collected from the prostate in a systematic pattern gives a negative result with tumors located in unusual areas of the prostate. About 15-20 percent of tumor locations can be missed by the biopsy needle.

What makes the MRI-ultrasound fusion biopsy more definitive?

The MRI-ultrasound fusion approach is an improvement on the traditional 12-core TRUS, which involved taking biopsies from twelve prostate areas where the cancer is considered more likely to occur. With the TRUS biopsy, about 70 percent of men who have a negative biopsy result are not essentially free of the cancer. The MRI-ultrasound fusion technology blends the superior imaging capability of the high-definition multi-parametric (mp) MRI with real-time ultrasound imaging. There is better visualization of the suspicious areas of the prostate where the cancer may occur that may not be visible on ultrasound alone. The fusion-guided biopsy detects almost twice as many prostate cancers in all stages as the standard TRUS biopsy.

The ability of MRI-ultrasound fusion-guided biopsy to create a three-dimensional (3D) map of the prostate ensures that doctors are able to see the targeted areas of the prostate better and perform more precise biopsies. The technology uses a machine known as UroNav developed by Invivo, which is supplied with sophisticated software to produce super-detailed MRI images and fuse them with the ultrasound images generated by a transrectal probe administered on the patient in an outpatient setting. The resulting images enable the examining physician to direct biopsy needles with pinpoint accuracy and to easily access any lesions or suspicious areas revealed by MRI. The technology allows the urologist to hit the target spot more accurately and improves cancer detection rate. In fact, it is primarily used for men who have an ongoing suspicion of prostate cancer, such as those with consistently elevated PSA, but whose TRUS biopsy results are repeatedly negative.

Fewer biopsies, more accurate detection

The fusion-guided biopsy is a very targeted approach in which biopsies are performed only in highly suspicious areas of the prostate appearing in the MRI image. As a result, significantly fewer biopsies are done with the MRI-ultrasound fusion than with the traditional TRUS technique, minimizing the adverse effects that often accompany repeat biopsies. Multiple prostate biopsies can lead to complications such as bleeding, infection, urinary retention problems, sepsis or even death.

In spite of fewer biopsies, the MRI fusion approach increases the rate of detection of aggressive prostate cancer. The extensive MRI images obtained before the biopsy helps highlight both high-risk and intermediate-risk cancers often missed by traditional TRUS biopsy. With MRI-ultrasound fusion, the likelihood of detecting cancer increases as the grade of the tumor increases. The use of MRI fusion biopsy helps to avoid metastatic disease by finding cancer before it spreads to other areas of the body.

Improved cancer differentiation

Through MRI fusion, doctors are able to more accurately differentiate cancers that require treatment from the ones that should undergo watchful waiting (active surveillance). Fusion technology is able to show higher-risk cancers and does not highlight the insignificant low-grade tumors, making it less likely for urologic oncologists to over-treat indolent and low-grade cancers. A number of prostate cancers are low-grade, non-aggressive and do not cause problems at all and treating them through chemotherapy, radiotherapy or surgery can impair the quality of life or even cause death. MRI fusion effectively saves patients from the adverse effects of treating low-grade tumors. Fusion technology eliminates up to 50 percent of prostate cancer treatments that are unnecessarily administered on low-grade cancers.

At Advanced Urology Institute, we have adopted the MRI-ultrasound fusion biopsy and changed the way we screen, evaluate and diagnose prostate cancer. It has become our standard for detecting prostate cancer and we believe in the next few years it will be the gold standard for detecting the cancer. We are proud that it offers a higher detection rate, superior accuracy and reduces the rate of repeat biopsies — making our practice one of the best places for detection and monitoring of the cancer. It helps us deliver the best treatment outcomes for our patients.

If you think you are at high risk of prostate cancer or already have started experiencing some symptoms, let us show you how the precision of our high-definition MRI fusion machine, the expertise of our skilled physicians in MRI fusion biopsy and the know-how of our radiologists proficient in multi-parametric MRI imaging can help you. For more information on the treatment and diagnosis of prostate cancer, visit the “Advanced Urology Institute” site.

Advanced Urology Institute Working Together For You

Advanced Urology Institute is a leading urology practice that excels in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the female and male urinary tracts and problems of the male reproductive system. Designed to be a world-class urology center, AUI brings together a huge group of doctors who are specialists in various areas to offer coordinated, effective and top-notch urology services to their patients. From restoring fertility to curing cancer, addressing incontinence to treating kidney stones, the urology services offered by AUI touch every sphere of life and bring back smiles to the faces of all who come to us for help.

Satisfying patient experience

By centralizing the administration of urology services, the doctors are able to concentrate on delivering the highest quality service to patients from initial consultation to follow-up care. The unique partnership and collaboration of many doctors and several care centers ensures that every physician or center in AUI can broaden the scope of expertise and services provided to patients, resulting in a positive experience to meet the unique needs of our patients wherever they are. At Advanced Urology Institute, we invest our time and effort, skills and experiences to make our services better. We are dedicated to delivering life-saving medical and surgical urology care in a prompt, safe and affordable manner. For us, it is not merely our job. The wellbeing and health of our patients is our number one priority.

Innovative and cutting-edge techniques

Advanced Urology Institute is a pool of urologists from multiple subspecialties. We pride ourselves on expertise and ensure that all members of our team continue to undertake training in the latest specialized surgical and medical techniques. Our experienced urologists work collaboratively to deliver highly complex treatment and care individualized to the needs of our patients. And with our exceptional range of specialist urologists, we are able to deliver more complex and innovative surgical services not available anywhere else. As a group, we are able to pool our resources, enabling all our members to have access to better equipment, instruments and tools for managing urologic disorders. Each member of the team has more experts to seek help from and we frequently send patients to other colleagues among us with more expertise and experience. As a result, we do as good a job and deliver as great results as any other premier urology centers in the country.

Unparalleled range of services

At Advanced Urology Institute, we offer a broad range of life-improving, life-extending and life-saving services to patients of all ages. Those who come to AUI have access to every possible treatment option available. In fact, most of the patients we see usually come with issues that other institutions are not able to diagnose or treat. As a team, we are committed to delivering the right care to every patient the first time they come, guaranteeing the highest rate of treatment success. We also endeavor to provide individualized, comprehensive care for all urologic conditions and diseases, giving every patient the opportunity to tap into our collaborative and team approach to have their issues resolved. At AUI, we ensure that all our hospitals, clinics, health care facilities and physicians serve with integrity and unwavering commitment to excellence. We listen to every concern, tailor every evaluation, apply the right treatment and do what is best for the patient. As a team, we deliver beyond the expectations of our clients.

For more information, visit the “Advanced Urology Institute” site.

8 Easy Ways to Cleanse Your Kidneys

The kidneys are amazing little organs. Each day, they process about 200 quarts of blood, getting rid of excess water and waste products, removing toxins and keeping the body functioning smoothly. If the kidneys are not able to remove toxins and waste from the body, they will build up in the body and hinder the normal function of kidneys, liver and other organs, resulting in exhaustion, stomach pain, headaches, water retention and other problems. Buildup of toxins and waste also may lead to kidney stones, a mass of crystals or unprocessed minerals which can grow to the size of a golf ball. Kidney stones affect 10-15 percent of American adults, but also may be found in children as young as five.

Kidney stones causes and symptoms

There are many causes of kidney stones, such as dehydration, excessively acidic urine, urinary tract infections, buildup of waste and toxins in the kidneys, among others. The symptoms of kidney stones include excessive lower back, abdominal or urinary tract pain which may be sharp, mild or excruciating, severe vomiting or feeling nauseated, persistent urge to pass urine, and constant chills or sweating. While the symptoms vary depending on the size of the stones, unceasing pain and discomfort on the sides is a good reason to see a urologist. Kidney stones are easily curable if diagnosed early.

Why you should cleanse your kidneys

There are several reasons why you should flush out toxins and waste from your body. For instance, cleansing your kidneys improves their function and reduces bloating. Likewise, cleansing your kidney improves your ability to process certain foods, absorb nutrients and convert food to energy, preventing fatigue. Flushing out waste and toxins prevents potential infection and reduce the risk for bladder problems. Similarly, cleansing the kidneys reduces the chances of having painful kidney stones, corrects hormonal imbalances and prevents skin breakouts such as acne, eczema and rashes.

Below are 8 easy ways to cleanse your kidneys

1. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is effective in preventing oxidative stress of the kidneys. It increases the levels of antioxidants in the body, balances blood sugar levels and reduces blood pressure, creating optimum conditions for kidney health. Apple cider vinegar contains citric acid which dissolves kidney stones. Frequent intake of apple cider vinegar also flushes out toxins from the kidneys.

2. Kidney Beans

Kidney beans not only resemble the kidneys but also remove waste and toxins from the kidney and flush out kidney stones effectively. Kidney beans are rich in Vitamin B, fiber and several minerals which help to clean the kidney and boost the function of the urinary tract.

3. Lemon Juice

Lemon juice is naturally acidic and increases citrate levels in urine, hence discouraging the formation of kidney stones. Lemon juice also filters blood and flushes out wastes and other toxins. Daily intake of diluted lemon juice reduces the rate of kidney stone formation and dissolves calcium oxalate crystals, which is the most common constituent of kidney stones. For people with kidney stones, combining lemon with olive oil ensures smooth passage of the stones.

4. Watermelon

Watermelon is a mild diuretic. It hydrates and cleanses the kidneys. It is also rich in lycopene, which improves cardiovascular health and ensures well-functioning kidneys. Watermelon also has large quantities of potassium salts which regulate acidity of urine and prevents stone formation. In fact, eating watermelon regularly is great for kidney health.

5. Pomegranate

Both the juice and seeds of pomegranate contain large amounts of potassium and therefore are effective in removing kidney stones. Potassium lowers acidity of urine, prevents stone formation because of its astringent properties, curtails crystallization of minerals, and flushes out toxins and waste from the kidneys.

6. Basil

Basil is an effective diuretic. It removes kidney stones and improves kidney functioning. Basil also lowers the level of uric acid in blood and improves kidney health. Its ingredients such as essential oils and acetic acid break down kidney stones and allow for smooth removal. Basil is also a pain killer.

7. Dates

When dates are soaked in water for 24 hours and then consumed after seeds are removed, they are effective in dissolving and flushing out kidney stones. Dates are rich in fiber, helping to reduce the risk of kidney stones. The magnesium ingredient in dates also cleanses the kidneys.

8. Dandelion

Consuming tea made using dried organic dandelion or fresh dandelion root (pulled from the ground) helps to cleanse the kidneys. Dandelion is a kidney tonic, but also stimulates bile production to improve digestion and minimize the waste reaching the kidneys.

Another effective cleansing agent for the kidneys is cranberry juice which supports the urinary tract, fights urinary tract infections and removes excess calcium oxalate. Beets and their juices contain Betaine which increases urine acidity, prevents build-up of struvite and calcium phosphate and reduces the chances of kidney stone formation. Other effective cleansing agents are coconut water, cucumber juice and cherries. For more information on preventing and treating kidney problems, visit the site, Advanced Urology Institute.

5 Most Common Signs of Urinary Tract Infection

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are infections of any part of the urinary system, such as kidneys, bladder, ureters and urethra. UTIs typically occur when bacteria access the urinary tract via the urethra and start to multiply in the bladder. While the urinary system is equipped to keep out the bacteria, the system’s defenses may sometimes fail and allow bacteria to take hold and multiply, resulting in a full-blown urinary tract infection. Abnormalities in the urinary tract that interfere with drainage of urine (such as enlarged prostate or kidney stones), foreign bodies in the bladder (such as tubes and catheters), diabetes, and immune-suppressing drugs and disorders increase the risk of urinary tract infections.

How common are urinary tract infections?

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are the most common bacterial infections in humans. In the United States, over 8.6 million hospital visits and more than 1 million hospital admissions are due to these infections. Women are at higher risk of having a UTI than men and account for more than 84 percent of all UTIs annually. In fact, every woman has over a 50 percent chance of developing at least one UTI in her lifetime, with the risk of recurrent UTI increasing significantly with each infection. Women have greater risk of getting UTIs because the urethra is shorter in women than in men, allowing bacteria to enter the bladder more easily and multiply. Sexually active women also have higher risk of UTI because anything placed inside the vagina increases the risk of infection.

5 most common signs of urinary tract infection

Urinary tract infections are easy to treat when detected early, but untreated or undiagnosed UTI may lead to kidney damage. To help detect UTIs and seek early treatment, it is important to familiarize yourself with their most common signs.

Often, the most frequent sign of a urinary tract infection is a noticeable change in urination, such as frequent urination, burning sensation when passing urine or strong-smelling urine.

The most common signs of a UTI include:

  1. Change in urine color
    Normal urine is clear and pale yellow in color. But when having a urinary tract infection, the urine may appear cloudy, red, cola-colored, bright pink or just darkened. When you see these changes, you should suspect a urinary tract infection and visit your urologist immediately for help.
  2. Strong-smelling urine
    Urine has its characteristic smell, but when you have a urinary tract infection the smell may be unusually strong. Make sure to speak with your doctor if your urine smells stronger than usual.
  3. Abdominal or back pain
    Along with a burning sensation when urinating, urinary tract infections may cause abdominal or pelvic pain, particularly around the pubic bone and in the center of the pelvis. Abdominal, upper back and flank (side) back pain also can indicate infection of the kidney. Speak with your urologist about the pain as soon as possible.
  4. Fever and chills
    In some cases, a urinary tract infection may cause a fever and chills. For instance, when having a catheter, fever may be the only sign of infection, but when the fever increases and is accompanied by fatigue, chills or mental problems, then a severe kidney infection may be suspected. Visit your doctor immediately if you experience these symptoms.
  5. Nausea and vomiting
    Because the urinary tract is closely associated with the digestive system, a urinary tract infection may cause nausea and vomiting. Make sure to talk to your doctor immediately, especially if the nausea and vomiting is accompanied by other UTI symptoms.Urinary tract infections cause relatively little harm, but they can be dangerous when left untreated. If you are diagnosed with an infection, the doctor will prescribe antibiotics taken for 2-3 days. Severe infections may require longer treatment, but antibiotics resolve most cases of UTIs.

It is also important to take steps to prevent or reduce the risk of UTI. The steps include:

  1. Drinking plenty of water daily.
  2. Using underwear made of absorbent cotton.
  3. Wiping from the front to the back.
  4. Urinating immediately after sexual intercourse.
  5. Avoiding birth control or feminine products that are inserted into the vagina.

When you have to use such inserts, wash your hands and the vaginal area thoroughly before inserting a device.
Work closely with your urologist to prevent complications that may be caused by urinary tract infections. Remember doctors can help by prescribing appropriate antibiotics, but you also can take steps to prevent UTIs in the first place.

Vasectomy Poses Minimal Risk of Prostate Cancer

For men who are done having children, vasectomy is an effective method for birth control. As a surgical procedure that involves the cutting, blocking or sealing off tubes that transport sperm out of the testicles, vasectomy prevents the release of sperm during sex and is therefore a long-term form of birth control. About 1 in 7 men undergoes vasectomy after the age of 35 years. However, while the procedure is fairly simple and generally safe, it has sparked controversy about various long-term risks, particularly its link to prostate cancer (PCa). The prostate gland is located just behind the tubes and adds essential fluids to semen, so there has been a longstanding fear that vasectomy may cause prostate cancer.

Does vasectomy increase the risk of prostate cancer?

A 2014 Harvard research generated panic when it associated vasectomy with a 10 percent increase in the risk of prostate cancer and a 20 percent increased risk of the aggressive form of the cancer. But according to a recent report published online in the JAMA Internal Medicine, those numbers were probably overblown. Based on a comprehensive review and meta-analysis drawing on more than three decades of epidemiologic literature, the researchers in this study demonstrated that any risk posed by vasectomy, if at all existent, is too small to be of clinical importance.

The researchers reviewed and analyzed 53 studies, including 33 case-control studies involving 44,536 men, 4 cross-sectional studies involving 12,098,221 men, and 16 cohort studies involving 2,563,519 men. The analysis revealed no significant link between vasectomy and aggressive prostate cancer, whether high-grade cancer (Gleason score of 8 or more), advanced (normally T3-4, positive nodes or metastasis), or fatal prostate cancer (PCa). And when data from 6 case-control studies and 7 cohort studies considered to be of low risk according to the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale were analyzed, a non-significant 6 percent increased risk of prostate cancer was noted in the 6 case-control studies while the 7 cohort studies gave a weak but noteworthy 5 percent increased risk of prostate cancer.
From the data, the researchers calculated the absolute increase in lifetime risk of prostate cancer for those who have undergone vasectomy. It was found that vasectomy has an absolute lifetime risk of prostate cancer of just 0.6 percent and may only be responsible for 0.5 percent of prostate cancer cases in the population. This led to the conclusion that the association between vasectomy and prostate cancer is at most trivial, clinically insignificant and should not stop the use of the procedure for long-term contraception.

Vasectomy is Safe

This study affirms that vasectomy is unlikely to substantially increase the risk of having any type of prostate cancer. It also affirms that there is no difference in development of prostate cancer between those who undergo vasectomy and those who do not. In fact, the small risk of low-intermediate tumors reported is attributed to the fact that men who get vasectomies also tend to take PSA tests for prostate cancer, which can detect early-stage disease.

If you are looking for a safe and effective form of birth control, do not let fears of prostate cancer discourage you. Vasectomy does not increase your risk of the cancer. And while more research on the causes of prostate cancer is still ongoing, you can lower your risk by maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, eating a low-fat diet, increasing vegetable intake, decreasing dairy intake, and quitting smoking. Talk to your urologist about what is right for you depending on your medical history.

The Truth About Testicular Cancer

Testicular cancer develops when abnormal cells grow out of control in a man’s testes (testicles), which are found inside the scrotum. The testes are male sex organs that produce hormone testosterone and make and store sperm. Compared to other cancers, testicular cancer is quite rare occurring in 1 man per 100,000. Nevertheless, it is the most frequent cancer among American males ages 15 to 35 and is more frequently found in white males than Asian or African men. It is important to note that not all testicular lumps are cancer and a man may have other conditions such as testicular microlithiasis, epididymal cysts and appendix testis, all of which may be painful but are non-cancerous. Testicular cancer is very much treatable and can be treated even after spreading beyond the testicle.

Causes

While the exact causes of testicular cancer are not known, the cancer generally occurs when healthy cells of the testicle become altered. Testicular cells usually multiply in a systematic manner to keep the body functioning normally. However, abnormalities in some cells may abruptly cause uncontrollable multiplication, resulting in a surplus of new cells in the testicle. The accumulation of new cells results in a testicular mass or lump. Almost all testicular cancers start in germ cells (testicular cells producing immature sperm).

Risk factors for testicular cancer include:

  • Cryptorchidism (undescended testicles): Development of the testicles occurs in the fetal abdomen and the developed testes move down into the scrotum before birth. A man whose testicles never descended in this manner is at greater risk of having testicular cancer than those whose testes descended normally. The risk is still high even if the testes have been surgically relocated into the scrotum.
  • Abnormal testicle development: Disorders that hinder normal development of testicles, like Klinefelter syndrome, increase the risk of this cancer.
  • Age: Testicular cancer is common in teens and young men (ages 15 to 35). Nevertheless, it may still occur in older men.
  • Family history: If your father or brother has had the cancer, you have an increased risk.
  • Personal history of testicular cancer: If you have had the cancer treated in one testicle, you may develop it in the other testicle.
  • Race: The cancer is more frequent in white males than in black or Asian males.
  • Infertility: Men who do not produce sperm when ejaculating have a greater risk.

Signs and symptoms

Knowing the symptoms of testicular cancer can help you to seek treatment when the cancer is still at an early stage. The most common indicators are:

  • An enlargement or lump in either testicle.
  • Accumulation of fluid in your scrotum.
  • A dull pain or ache in the groin or abdomen.
  • The scrotum becomes increasingly heavy.
  • Discomfort or pain in the testes or on the scrotum.
  • Tenderness or enlargement of male breasts.
  • Lower back pain.
  • In rare cases, testicular cancer can spread and affect other organs resulting in coughing, difficulty swallowing, breathing difficulties and swelling in the chest.

Diagnosis of testicular cancer

A man may detect enlargement or lumps in his testicles through self-examination. A doctor can notice a lump in a testicle during routine physical examination. When an enlargement or a lump is detected, the doctor will suggest a few tests to confirm or rule out testicular cancer. The tests commonly requested are a testicular ultrasound and blood tests for tumor markers. Surgery to remove a testicle for analysis and classification of the cancer also may be performed.

Removal of a testicle is usually done to classify the cancer since it is the type and stage of cancer that determines treatment and prognosis. Testicular cancer is divided into two types, seminoma and nonseminoma. Seminoma cancer can be found in all age groups, but is more frequent in older men. The cancer is less aggressive than nonseminoma. Nonseminoma cancer tends to develop in younger men and teens and is characterized by rapid growth and spread.

Testicular cancer stages

When testicular cancer has been diagnosed, it is then important to determine the stage (extent) of the cancer. For a doctor to assess how far the cancer has spread in or outside a testicle, blood tests and computer tomography (CT) scan are requested. The results of these tests help the doctor to categorize the cancer in stages and to offer appropriate treatment. The stages include:

Stage I: Cancer that is restricted to the testicle.
Stage II: Cancer that has spread out of the testicle into the lymph nodes of the abdomen.
Stage III: Cancer that has spread to various body parts, such as liver, bones, brain and lungs.

Testicular cancer treatment

The appropriate treatment for the cancer depends on many factors, including your general health, stage and type of cancer, and your preferences. For instance the doctor may opt for surgery to remove the affected testicle or nearby lymph nodes. Alternatively, the doctor may use radiation, high-powered beams of energy, like X-rays, to treat the cancer. Another option is chemotherapy, where specific drugs are used to destroy cancer cells. For more information on testicular cancer, visit the site, Advanced Urology Institute.

Where is the best place to get a vasectomy reversal in Florida?

All men who undergo a vasectomy are counseled to consider the procedure a permanent form of male sterilization. However, a number of factors such as loss of child or remarriage may call for vasectomy reversal. If you are a man who had a vasectomy in the past but are now considering a reversal, it is important to remember that the procedure is complex and requires specialized expertise and experience to perform successfully.

Where is the best place to get a vasectomy reversal in Florida?

While there are many qualified vasectomy reversal doctors and facilities in Florida, one of the best places to undergo the procedure is Advanced Urology Institute. This multi-dimensional urology practice has locations throughout Florida, including well-equipped clinics in Panama City, Daytona Beach, Blountstown, Perry, St Augustine, Daytona Beach, Port Orange, Tallahassee, Carrabelle, Orange City, Palm Coast, Oxford and other towns, bringing highly qualified and board certified urologists closer to those in need of their medical care. Advanced Urology Institute surgeons perform hundreds of vasectomy reversals every year with a remarkable success rate. The urologists are highly trained in their surgical technique and perform all procedures in accredited clinics with board-certified anesthesiologists who ensure maximum comfort during surgery.

Initial Consultation

A vasectomy reversal at Advanced Urology Institute means access to exceptional treatment and care at a center with an international reputation that offers vasectomy reversal as a specialization. You can schedule surgery over the phone, have your pre-operative appointment with a urologist the first day, and undergo the operation the next day. During the initial consultation, the urologist will review your history, personally perform a complete examination, and request any necessary tests such as blood studies, semen analysis and ultrasound exam. The urologist will discuss all options currently available, and the relative success rate of each, and will help you make the right choice.

Affordable Cost

The total cost for a vasectomy reversal at Advanced Urology Institute is less than $7,000. These charges include hospital, surgical and anesthesia fees, but exclude post-op semen analysis. You may have a secondary blockage in the epididymis (where sperm is stored behind the testicle) in which case the urologist will examine the fluid coming out of the proximal vas for sperm to rule out a blockage. When there is no blockage, the urologist will proceed with vasovasostomy, a simple vasectomy reversal procedure in which the vas deferens is sewn back together. In case of a blockage, there will be no sperm and the vas deferens will have to be connected directly to the epididymis at the point above the obstruction. This is done through vasoepididymostomy, a more complex vasectomy reversal procedure in which the doctor attaches the vas deferens straight to the back end of the testicles. There will be no additional charges for the complex reversal as the urologist will decide on the appropriate type of reversal at the time of surgery.

Book Your Appointment

Vasectomy reversal at Advanced Urology Institute is an outpatient procedure that is completed in one day. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled the day after the operation and you will return to routine work after 3-4 days. Sexual activity may be resumed after 2 weeks. If you have been considering a vasectomy reversal, be sure to call Advanced Urology Institute and request an appointment for more information.

3 Effective Ways to Treat Peyronie’s Disease

Peyronie’s disease is a type of erectile dysfunction that leads to both physical and emotional scarring. It is caused by penile tissue damage resulting in the formation of scar tissue called plaque. Depending on the location and size of the plaque, the penis may bend downward or upward or become indented. The bending may occur suddenly (almost overnight) or happen gradually, beginning with soreness and lumps that develop into a hardened scar. While Peyronie’s disease is most often found in middle-aged men, it can occur at any age.
Here are 3 effective ways to treat Peyronie’s disease:

Medications

Drug therapy is helpful for most men who are affected by Peyronie’s disease, especially during the acute phase. For instance, oral Vitamin E will make the plaques smaller and help to straighten the bent penis. Potassium Amino-Benzoate (Potaba), Tamoxifen, PABA, Colchicine and Carnitine are also effective during the acute phase of the disease. Likewise, during the early stages of the condition, drugs for erectile dysfunction, such as sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis) and vardenafil (Levitra), may be beneficial.

As an alternative to oral medications, injecting certain drugs directly into the plaque can bring relief, particularly for men in the acute phase of the disorder who are not sure whether they want to undergo surgery. For example, verapamil injections disrupt the protein responsible for the formation of lesions in Peyronie’s disease, thus helping to relieve acute symptoms. Interferon injections prevent swelling and control scarring, while collagenase injections break down the plaque and are recommended for treating men with a penis curve of more than 30 degrees. Injection therapy may be administered using a combination of above drugs plus hyaluronidase, betamethasone or prostaglandin E1. Another method of applying these drugs is iontophoresis (electromotive administration/EMDA), where the drug is applied on the penile skin and then pushed through the skin using a low electric current.

Radiation Therapy

During radiation therapy, high-energy rays are targeted at the plaque to relieve the pain. The disadvantage of radiation therapy is that it relieves the pain on the bent penis without having a direct effect on the plaque which causes erectile dysfunction. Instead of radiation therapy, a man may opt for shockwave therapy, a form of mechanical treatment that uses a lithotripter device (such as those used for breaking up kidney stones) to break down calcified plaques or scarring. Other mechanical devices that can be used to treat the disease are low-dose radiotherapy and vacuum-based machines.

Surgery

Surgery for Peyronie’s disease is reserved for men suffering from severe, disabling penile disorder that makes it difficult to have sex. Before the surgery, the urologist will check the blood flow in the penis by injecting a drug to make it stiff and also examining the penis using ultrasound. The tests are used to assess the penis before deciding the type of surgery that is ideal. There are three basic ways through which the urologist will fix the disorder surgically. First, the urologist can remove the plaque and replace it with a tissue patch, helping to stretch the penis and restore its original length. Secondly, the surgeon may change or remove part of the tunica albuginea from the penis area opposite the plaque, an operation known as the Nesbit procedure. Lastly, the urologist may perform penile prosthesis implantation, a procedure recommended for men having both Peyronie’s disease and erectile dysfunction.

Conclusion

Since Peyronie’s disease varies extensively in how it affects patients, the treatment chosen should be carefully selected according to an individual’s condition. Most importantly, treatment should aim to preserve sexual function. If you are suffering from the disease, it is important to work closely with a urologist in order to get the right resources, prompt diagnosis and correct treatment, and to prevent the disease from turning into a crisis. For more information on dealing with Peyronie’s disease and erectile dysfunction, visit Advanced Urology Institute.

Why Walnuts Make Men More Fertile

Are you a man struggling to have children and looking for a way to boost your fertility? If so, consider eating a handful of walnuts every day. According to a study conducted by the University of Delaware, eating a walnut-enriched diet boosts sperm quality and aids in preventing male infertility. Working with two groups of mice, one fed on a walnut-enriched diet and the other fed on a control diet for 9 weeks, the researchers found that the group fed walnuts had a significant improvement in sperm quality.

How Do Walnuts Work?

Walnuts reduce lipid peroxidation, a form of cell damage that interferes with sperm membranes and harms sperm cells. Sperm is made of polyunsaturated fatty acids which are liable to damage by lipid peroxidation. Walnuts are the only tree nut made of mostly polyunsaturated fatty acids and will therefore effectively replenish sperm cells. In fact, just 1 ounce of walnuts contains 13 grams of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in 18 grams of total fat. By preventing sperm damage and replenishing sperm cells, walnuts help to improve sperm morphology, motility and vitality.

First Study on Walnut Efficacy

The study by the University of Delaware was based on a previous study by the UCLA Fielding School of Public Health and School of Nursing. According to the first study, which was based on a randomized control trial at UCLA, eating 2.5 ounces of walnuts each day (about 30 walnut halves) significantly improves the motility, morphology and vitality of sperm in men. During the research, more than 100 healthy young men eating their usual Western-style diet participated in monthly calls to share what they ate throughout the study. At the end of the study, it was clear that walnuts improved sperm quality, though more research was necessary to verify the role of the nuts.

Second Research Study by the University of Delaware

When the University of Delaware conducted its study, it was designed to reveal the mechanism by which walnuts had improved sperm quality in the UCLA study. Two groups of male mice, one consisting of healthy male mice and the other of genetically predetermined infertile male mice, were fed on either a walnut-enriched diet or a controlled diet for 9 to 11 weeks. At the end of the study, significant improvements in sperm morphology and motility were observed in mice consuming 20% of their daily calories from walnuts (equivalent to 2.5 ounces daily in humans). Most interestingly, even infertile mice had a remarkable boost in sperm morphology and both groups showed noteworthy reduction in peroxidative damage. The researchers concluded that walnuts improve sperm quality by reducing peroxidative sperm cell damage, though recommending further studies to determine which specific nutrients in walnuts are responsible for this improvement.

Walnuts are Beneficial for Sperm Health

Fertility in men is determined largely by sperm quality and quantity. For instance, if the number of sperm ejaculated is very low or the sperm are of poor quality, it may be difficult or even unlikely for pregnancy to occur. Since one-in-five infertility cases are solely due to the male partner and about one-in-twenty men suffer from some form of fertility problem related to low numbers of sperm ejaculated, using a healthy and proven method of improving sperm morphology, vitality and motility is a good way to begin addressing fertility problems. Enriching your diet with walnuts can be an effective first step in resolving your fertility issues and, if needed, there are many other treatments for infertility using medications or surgery. For more information on dealing with male infertility, visit Advanced Urology Institute.

Advanced Urology Institute – Urologists Working Together for You

Video: Advanced Urology Institute – Urologists Working Together for You


We believe that medical care is best delivered between an independent physician and a willing patient. When the physician is not in control, bad medicine (profit driven) results. [Read Full Article…]

 

How Are Genetics Transforming Our World? Dr. Saumil Karavadia Explores the Latest Advancements

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • The Human Genome Project has laid the foundation for understanding the genetic factors behind diseases and cancers, including those related to urology.
  • Genetic research is opening up new possibilities for targeted cancer therapies, including gene suppression and amplification techniques.
  • The Advanced Urology Institute, as the largest urology practice in Florida, is at the forefront of applying these genetic advancements in patient care.

Introduction

Advancements in genetics are revolutionizing the field of medicine, particularly in the area of urology. In a recent talk, Dr. Saumil Karavadia, a leading urologist in Ocala, FL, highlighted how these breakthroughs are providing new ways to diagnose, treat, and even prevent diseases and cancers. This article delves into Dr. Karavadia’s insights, shedding light on the future of urology and the impact of genetic research on patient care.

 

Mapping the Human Genome: A Pivotal Achievement

Dr. Saumil Karavadia, of Advanced Urology Specialists, emphasized the importance of the Human Genome Project, which successfully mapped the human genome. This groundbreaking accomplishment has paved the way for a deeper understanding of the genetic factors behind various diseases and cancers.

By identifying the genes that play significant roles in the development of cancer, researchers can now focus on ways to suppress these genes and develop targeted therapies. Dr. Karavadia believes that this knowledge will play a crucial role in cancer treatment in the coming years.

 

Gene Suppression and Amplification: The Future of Cancer Treatment

According to Dr. Karavadia, one of the most promising areas of genetic research involves manipulating genes that contribute to cancer development. By suppressing harmful genes and amplifying beneficial ones, it is possible to inhibit cancer growth and improve patient outcomes.

For instance, scientists are now able to pinpoint the specific genes that drive cancer progression and devise targeted therapies to counteract their effects. This personalized approach to medicine has the potential to revolutionize cancer treatment, moving away from the traditional one-size-fits-all therapies.

 

The Role of Advanced Urology Institute in Advancing Urologic Care

As the largest urology practice in Florida, the Advanced Urology Institute is committed to staying at the forefront of medical advancements. With a team of highly skilled specialists like Dr. Saumil Karavadia, the institute is well-equipped to provide patients with cutting-edge treatments based on the latest genetic research. By embracing these breakthroughs, the Advanced Urology Institute continues to lead the way in providing high-quality, personalized care for patients with urologic conditions.

TRANSCRIPTION:

My name is Saumil Karavadia, I’m with Advanced Urology Specialists.

We have mapped the human genome, so that certainly has been a big forefront development into finding out the genetics behind all these diseases and cancers.

And when you find out that certain genes play a big role in the cancer development, you can certainly suppress them. You can also amplify the good genes that shut off the cancer growth, and that will certainly play a big role in treating cancer in the future.

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