endourologists

Endourology is a subspecialty of urology that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the urinary tract and male reproductive system through minimally invasive endoscopic techniques. Endourologists are urologists who have advanced training or fellowships in endourology, enabling them to perform procedures through natural orifices or small percutaneous access rather than open surgery.

Common procedures include cystoscopy and ureteroscopy for evaluating the bladder and ureters; percutaneous nephrolithotomy and retrograde intrarenal surgery for kidney stones; laser and electrosurgical techniques such as holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) and transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) for benign prostatic hyperplasia; transurethral resection of bladder tumors (TURBT); and the management of ureteral strictures and renal stones with intrarenal lithotripsy. Endourologists address stone disease, tumors, obstruction, and certain functional disorders, emphasizing minimally invasive approaches.

Training typically includes completing a urology residency followed by a dedicated endourology fellowship or equivalent exposure. Certification and specific credentials vary by country or region, reflecting differing training pathways within urology.

Techniques and equipment rely on rigid and flexible endoscopes, cameras, irrigation systems, and energy sources such as lasers and electrocautery. Percutaneous access requires imaging guidance and careful tract development to minimize complications, while intraluminal procedures emphasize precision and visualization.

Outcomes in endourology often favor reduced invasiveness, shorter hospital stays, and quicker recovery. The field has expanded with advances in miniaturized scopes, improved imaging, and new energy modalities, broadening the range of conditions that can be treated endoscopically.