Urology combines the management of medical conditions, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia, and surgical conditions, such as bladder or prostate cancer. There are multiple presentations that require the involvement of a urologist, ranging from haematuria to scrotal lumps, so learning about these are essential for all surgical trainees
The kidney can be affected by calculi, which become symptomatic usually when they pass down into the ureters. Patients who develop infection of the renal parenchyma, termed pyelonephritis, can become very unwell very quickly, so knowing how to investigate these cases is essential.
Renal and bladder malignancy are fortunately less common cancers, however should still be learned about by all surgical trainees. Prostate cancer though is the most common cancer in men in most countries and forms a large part of the general urologists work.
Other important conditions to make sure you learn about include epididymitis, testicular torsion, testicular cancer, and Fournier’s gangrene
