Tests help identify the cause of urinary symptoms, evaluate abnormal results and guide treatment decisions. Not every patient requires every investigation.

01

Flexible Cystoscopy

A thin, flexible camera is passed through the urethra to examine the bladder and urethra.

It may be recommended for blood in urine, recurrent bladder symptoms or surveillance after bladder cancer treatment.

What to expect: Often performed with local anaesthetic gel. Temporary burning, minor bleeding or infection can occur.

02

PSA Blood Test

PSA is a blood test used in assessment of prostate cancer risk and monitoring selected prostate conditions.

An abnormal PSA result does not automatically mean prostate cancer. Interpretation depends on individual risk factors.

Explore Prostate & PSA Health →

03

Urine Analysis & Culture

Urine tests may detect blood, infection and other abnormalities.

Urine culture helps identify bacteria and determine suitable antibiotic treatment when required.

Common reasons: Urinary symptoms, recurrent infections, haematuria or preparation for surgery.

04

Urine Flow Test & Bladder Scan

Uroflowmetry measures the rate of urine flow when you empty your bladder.

A bladder ultrasound may measure urine remaining after voiding, called the post-void residual.

Common reasons: Weak stream, urinary retention and incomplete bladder emptying.

05

Urodynamic Studies

Urodynamics assesses how the bladder stores and empties urine.

Small catheters can measure bladder pressure, sensation and the relationship between pressure and urine flow.

Common reasons: Complex urinary incontinence, neurological bladder problems and selected emptying disorders.

06

Ultrasound, CT & MRI

Imaging helps assess the kidneys, bladder, prostate and other urinary tract structures.

Different scans are used for kidney stones, cysts, suspected tumours, obstruction and prostate investigations.

What to expect: Imaging is generally arranged through a diagnostic imaging provider.

07

Prostate MRI & Biopsy

Prostate MRI can help assess areas suspicious for clinically significant prostate cancer.

When appropriate, a prostate biopsy collects tissue samples for examination by a pathologist.

Important: Biopsy has potential risks including bleeding, infection and urinary retention. The approach and anaesthesia are discussed beforehand.

08

Semen Analysis & Hormone Tests

Semen analysis evaluates sperm concentration, movement and other characteristics relevant to male fertility.

Selected hormone tests may help assess sperm production or reproductive function.

Explore Men's Urology →

09

Bladder Diary & Symptom Scores

A bladder diary records fluid intake, urine volumes, urgency, leakage and night-time urination.

Symptom questionnaires can help measure severity and track improvement after treatment.

Common reasons: Overactive bladder, urinary incontinence and prostate-related urinary symptoms.

Prostate Treatment

01

Prostate Procedures

Procedures may be recommended when prostate enlargement causes significant urinary symptoms, obstruction or complications.

TURP — Transurethral Resection of the Prostate Endoscopic surgery for prostate enlargement

TURP is an operation used to improve urine flow when benign prostate enlargement obstructs the bladder outlet.

A surgical instrument is passed through the urethra to remove obstructing prostate tissue. No external surgical incision is usually required.

After surgery: A temporary urinary catheter is generally required. Patients may experience bleeding, urgency or discomfort during recovery.

Important risks: Bleeding, infection, urinary symptoms, urethral scarring, incontinence and changes to ejaculation, including retrograde ejaculation.

Learn About Prostate Conditions →

Other Treatments for Enlarged Prostate Medical and procedural alternatives to TURP

Treatment for benign prostate enlargement is individualised. Many men can be treated without surgery using monitoring, lifestyle changes or medication.

Other procedural options, including laser techniques and selected minimally invasive treatments, may be suitable in some circumstances.

Treatment choice: Depends on prostate size, symptoms, bladder function, medical conditions, patient priorities and procedure availability.

Urinary Catheters & Trial of Void Managing urinary retention and recovery of bladder emptying

A urinary catheter drains the bladder when a person cannot empty it normally.

A trial of void involves removing a catheter and assessing whether the patient can pass urine adequately.

Possible next steps: Medication, repeat voiding assessment, further investigation or surgery for persistent obstruction.

Bladder Treatment

02

Bladder Procedures & Treatments

Endoscopic procedures may help investigate and treat bladder tumours, stones, abnormal tissue or selected bladder function problems.

Cystoscopy & Bladder Biopsy Investigation of suspicious bladder abnormalities

Cystoscopy allows direct examination of the bladder lining. A biopsy may be recommended when an abnormal area requires tissue diagnosis.

What happens: Tissue samples are collected and sent to a pathology laboratory for analysis.

Possible risks: Temporary bleeding, discomfort, infection and rarely injury to the urinary tract.

TURBT — Bladder Tumour Resection Endoscopic removal and diagnosis of bladder tumours

Transurethral resection of bladder tumour (TURBT) is performed to remove visible bladder tumour tissue and establish the diagnosis and extent of disease.

A surgical instrument passes through the urethra into the bladder. Tumour tissue is removed and examined by a pathologist.

After surgery: A urinary catheter may be needed. Further treatment or surveillance depends on pathology results.

Potential risks: Bleeding, infection, bladder injury and the need for additional procedures.

Explore Urological Cancer Care →

Intravesical BCG & Bladder Treatments Treatment placed directly into the bladder

Some non-muscle-invasive bladder cancers require additional treatment after tumour resection.

Treatments may include BCG immunotherapy or intravesical chemotherapy, delivered into the bladder through a catheter.

What to expect: Treatment is often given as a scheduled course, with ongoing cystoscopic surveillance when required.

Potential side effects: Burning, urinary frequency, discomfort, bleeding and infection-related complications. BCG can rarely cause serious systemic illness.

Bladder Botox Injections Treatment for selected overactive and neurological bladder conditions

Botulinum toxin may be injected into the bladder muscle to reduce troublesome urgency, frequency and urgency incontinence.

Treatment is performed using a cystoscope. The effects are temporary, and repeat treatment may be required.

Important risks: Urinary infection and incomplete bladder emptying, occasionally requiring intermittent catheterisation.

Treatment suitability depends on the type of bladder condition and previous management.

Bladder Stone Removal Cystolitholapaxy and endoscopic stone treatment

Bladder stones can cause urinary symptoms, infections or bleeding.

Cystolitholapaxy involves breaking up and removing stones using instruments passed into the bladder.

Follow-up: An underlying cause, such as incomplete bladder emptying or prostate obstruction, may also need treatment to reduce recurrence.

Stone Surgery & Treatment

03

Kidney & Ureteric Stone Procedures

Some stones can pass naturally. Others require a procedure because of their size, position, symptoms or complications.

Ureteroscopy & Laser Stone Treatment Endoscopic treatment of kidney and ureteric stones

Ureteroscopy uses a small telescope passed through the urinary tract into the ureter or kidney.

Laser energy can break a stone into smaller fragments, which may be removed or left to pass naturally.

After surgery: A temporary ureteric stent may be inserted. Some patients experience urinary frequency, pain or blood in the urine during recovery.

Potential risks: Infection, bleeding, injury or narrowing of the ureter, residual stones and further procedures.

Explore Kidney Stone Conditions →

Ureteric Stent Insertion & Removal Temporary drainage between the kidney and bladder

A ureteric stent is a thin flexible tube used to help urine drain from the kidney into the bladder.

It may be required for an obstructed ureter or after stone surgery.

Common symptoms: Urinary urgency, frequency, bladder discomfort, flank pain or blood in urine.

Important: Stents usually need planned removal or replacement. Patients should understand their follow-up date and who is responsible for arranging it.

Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) Surgery for larger or complex kidney stones

PCNL is a procedure used to treat large or complex stones within the kidney.

A small tract is created through the skin into the kidney to allow stone fragmentation and removal.

Recovery: Hospital admission is commonly required. Recovery depends on the complexity of treatment and any temporary drainage tubes.

Potential risks: Bleeding, infection, injury to nearby structures, residual stone fragments and additional procedures.

Shockwave Lithotripsy (SWL) External shockwave treatment for suitable stones

Shockwave lithotripsy uses focused energy delivered from outside the body to break suitable urinary stones into fragments.

Fragments are then passed in the urine. Additional treatments may sometimes be needed.

Suitability: Depends on stone size, location, density, anatomy and other clinical factors.

Treatment access may require referral to an appropriately equipped facility.

Urgent Drainage of an Obstructed Kidney Ureteric stent or nephrostomy in emergency situations

A blocked kidney with infection is a urological emergency.

Urgent drainage may involve insertion of a ureteric stent or a nephrostomy tube placed directly into the kidney.

Antibiotics and hospital treatment are also required when infection is present.

Definitive stone treatment is generally delayed until the infection has resolved.

Men's Urology Surgery

04

Men's Urology Procedures

Common procedures involving male contraception, foreskin conditions and scrotal problems.

Vasectomy Permanent male contraception

Vasectomy is a permanent form of contraception that interrupts the tubes carrying sperm.

It is generally performed as a day procedure. Local anaesthesia is commonly used, although arrangements vary.

After surgery: Minor swelling, bruising and discomfort can occur. Recovery instructions will be provided.

Important: Vasectomy is not immediately effective. Alternative contraception must continue until post-vasectomy semen testing has been reviewed and clearance confirmed.

Explore Men's Urology →

Adult Circumcision & Foreskin Surgery Treatment of tight foreskin, scarring and recurrent inflammation

Circumcision removes the foreskin covering the glans penis.

It may be recommended for persistent phimosis, recurrent inflammation or scarring-related foreskin disease.

Alternatives: Some patients may be suitable for topical treatment or another foreskin-preserving procedure.

Potential risks: Bleeding, infection, wound healing problems, altered sensation and cosmetic concerns.

Hydrocele Surgery Hydrocelectomy for symptomatic scrotal swelling

A hydrocele is a collection of fluid around the testicle.

Hydrocelectomy is an operation to treat a symptomatic hydrocele. Surgery is not always needed for small, comfortable hydroceles.

Recovery: Temporary scrotal swelling, bruising and discomfort are common.

Potential risks: Bleeding, infection, recurrence, haematoma, persistent pain and injury to nearby structures.

Epididymal Cyst Surgery Removal of selected symptomatic epididymal cysts

Most epididymal cysts are benign and can be observed.

Surgery may be considered when a cyst causes significant discomfort or other problems.

Important risks: Bleeding, infection, recurrence, persistent pain and injury to the epididymis, which can affect fertility.

Reproductive Microsurgery Varicocele repair, vasectomy reversal and sperm retrieval

Selected male fertility conditions may require specialised surgical treatment, including varicocele repair, vasectomy reversal or sperm retrieval.

These procedures require individual assessment of reproductive goals, clinical findings and available alternatives.

More detailed information is available through Dr Jack Crozier's specialist male reproductive medicine website.

Explore Specialist Male Fertility Care →

Will My Procedure Be Performed in a Clinic or Hospital?

The location depends on the procedure, required anaesthesia, equipment, clinical circumstances and hospital arrangements.

SETTING 01

Consultation & Diagnostic Tests

Some tests may be performed in a clinic or outpatient setting. Others are arranged through a pathology or imaging provider.

SETTING 02

Day Procedures

Some procedures can be performed with same-day discharge, depending on anaesthesia, recovery and individual health factors.

SETTING 03

Hospital Surgery

More extensive surgery, including some prostate, bladder and kidney operations, may require hospital admission and postoperative monitoring.

Patient Information

Preparing for Your Urology Procedure

Specific preparation instructions depend on your procedure, anaesthesia and medical history. Your treating team will explain what you need to do.

STEP 01

Understand Your Procedure

Discuss why the procedure is recommended, expected benefits, alternatives, complications and recovery arrangements.

STEP 02

Review Your Medications

Inform your team about blood thinners, diabetes medications, allergies, supplements and other prescribed treatments.

STEP 03

Complete Required Tests

You may need urine testing, blood tests, imaging or anaesthetic assessment before your procedure.

STEP 04

Plan Your Recovery

Follow instructions about fasting, transport, time off work, physical activity and support at home.

Important Medication Advice

Do not stop prescribed medications, particularly blood thinners or diabetes treatments, unless your treating team has provided specific instructions. Medication and fasting plans must be individualised to the procedure and anaesthetic.

After Your Procedure

Recovery & Follow-Up

Recovery varies considerably between procedures. Your hospital or treating team will provide specific discharge instructions.

01

Temporary Urinary Symptoms

Some endoscopic procedures can cause temporary burning, urinary frequency, mild bleeding or bladder discomfort.

Your treating team will explain which symptoms are expected and when to seek help.

02

Catheters & Stents

Some procedures require temporary urinary catheters or ureteric stents.

Ensure you know how the device is managed and when removal or exchange is planned.

03

Results & Review

Biopsy and pathology results may take additional time. Imaging or urine tests may also be required after surgery.

Follow-up appointments help review the results and determine whether further treatment is needed.

When to Seek Urgent Medical Care

After a urological procedure, seek urgent assessment for fever or chills, feeling seriously unwell, inability to pass urine, severe uncontrolled pain, heavy bleeding or clots, or a catheter that stops draining with increasing lower abdominal discomfort. Contact your treating team for procedure-specific advice. If symptoms are severe, attend an emergency department. Call 000 for a life-threatening emergency.

Common Questions

Urology Tests & Treatments FAQs

Do all urology tests require an anaesthetic?

No. Many tests, including blood tests, urine flow testing and ultrasound, do not require an anaesthetic. Flexible cystoscopy is often performed with local anaesthetic gel. Other procedures may require general or regional anaesthesia.

Is flexible cystoscopy painful?

Flexible cystoscopy may cause temporary discomfort or a pressure sensation. Local anaesthetic gel is commonly used. Temporary burning or minor bleeding may occur afterward.

Will I need to stay overnight after surgery?

This depends on the procedure, anaesthesia, medical conditions and recovery. Some operations are day procedures. Others require one or more nights in hospital.

What is a ureteric stent and will it need removal?

A ureteric stent is a small tube that helps urine drain between the kidney and bladder. Most temporary stents require planned removal or replacement. The date and method should be confirmed with your treating team.

What is the difference between TURP and TURBT?

TURP treats obstruction caused by enlargement of the prostate. TURBT removes bladder tumour tissue for diagnosis and treatment. Although both involve instruments passed through the urethra, they are different operations.

Can kidney stones be treated without surgery?

Yes. Some small stones can pass naturally with monitoring and appropriate medication. Surgery may be recommended for persistent pain, obstruction, infection, large stones or other complications.

Will I need a urinary catheter after surgery?

Some operations, particularly prostate and bladder procedures, require a catheter temporarily. Others do not. Your surgeon can explain whether one is likely to be needed and when it may be removed.

Should I stop blood-thinning medication before surgery?

Do not stop blood thinners without instructions from your treating team. The decision depends on the procedure and your risk of bleeding or thrombosis. An individual plan should be provided.

How long does recovery take after urology surgery?

Recovery depends on the procedure and your circumstances. Some patients return to usual activities quickly, while more extensive surgery can require several weeks of recovery. Follow the instructions provided by your surgical team.

Do I need a GP referral to see a urologist?

A valid referral is generally required to claim applicable Medicare specialist rebates. Your GP can provide the referral and arrange relevant initial investigations.

Explore Related Conditions

Find Information About Your Urological Condition

If you are unsure which test or procedure applies to you, start with the relevant condition or symptom information.

Southside Urology | Springwood

Need Advice About a Urology Test or Procedure?

Contact Southside Urology about an appointment to discuss your symptoms, investigations or treatment options.

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