A vasectomy is the most effective form of birth control for men. The procedure, which is done under local anesthesia, involves the cutting of the vas deferens, the tube that connects the urethra to the testis where sperm is produced. This prevents the sperm from mixing with the semen which is produced for ejaculation. Semen without sperm will not cause fertilization. If a man has had a vasectomy, there is no chance of his partner getting pregnant from sexual intercourse. [Read Full Article…]
Vasectomy As A Form of Contraception
Vasectomy is a permanent method of contraception for the male reproductive system. It involves the surgical cutting and blocking of tubes located in the groin (vas) in order to prevent the movement of sperm from the testicles to the penis. It is an effective and safe birth control option. The chance of conception from sex with a man who has undergone the procedure is only one in 1,000. Even though the procedure is a routine operation in many surgical clinics around the globe, it is not widespread. In the United States, only about 500,000 vasectomy operations are performed annually. [Read Full Article…]
Artificial Sphincter for Male Incontinence
Male incontinence is rarely life-threatening, but it often hampers a normal lifestyle. It may result in damp undergarments, skin rashes, skin irritation, limited physical activity, reduced social contacts and relationships, and even male impotence or diminished interest in sex. The urologists at St Pete Urology can prescribe one of many different treatments for male incontinence, including medications, biofeedback techniques and exercise programs. However, for patients who do not respond to these treatments, the surgical implantation of an artificial sphincter is the best option. Urologists will carefully evaluate the patient before recommending an artificial sphincter. [Read Full Article…]
Common Causes of Testoterone Deficiency
Testosterone deficiency affects male sexuality adversely because of the important roles that androgenic hormones play in the body. For instance, normal levels of testosterone help in maintaining a healthy mood, sexual desire, fertility and normal energy levels. Depending on age, low testosterone levels can lead to male impotence, bone and muscle development abnormalities and underdeveloped genitalia. Testosterone deficiency has been reported in alarmingly high numbers of males. In the United States alone, over 13 million men experience testosterone deficiency, but less than 10% of these men receive treatment for the disorder. Many studies have revealed that diabetes, hypertension and obesity increase the risk of testosterone deficiency in men. [Read Full Article…]
Who is Dr Nicholas Laryngakis of St Pete Urology?
Dr Nicholas Laryngakis is an experienced urologist at St Pete Urology clinic in the Tampa Bay Area. He received his medical degree at University of Florida College of Medicine. He is known for his skill, professionalism, scholarship and leadership in the nationally recognized Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. To learn more about Dr Nicholas Laryngakis, call us at (727) 478-1172 or visit us in St Petersburg, Florida.
What is Overactive Bladder?
It is easy to guess what the term “Overactive Bladder” means. The bladder is generally associated with the containment of urine until it is passed out of the body. An overactive bladder results in the frequent, involuntary or unexpected release of urine and can cause someone to avoid social interactions they would normally have enjoyed.
What is Prostate Enlargement?
Prostate Enlargement or Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia is a common condition that affects men ages 60 and above. As men grow older the prostate gets larger thus constricting Urethra limiting the urine passage. For more info on Prostate Enlargement call us at (727) 822-9208 or visit our urologist at St Petersburg, FL.
Prostate Laser Vaporization
If a patient diagnosed with prostate enlargement is not responding to medication, surgery may be recommended. Prostate Laser Vaporization is an effective procedure for treating this condition. To learn more about prostate surgery, call us at (727) 478-1172 or visit us in St Petersburg, Florida.
Kidney Stone Promoters
The compounds that promote the formation of kidney stones originate from the bloodstream. These compounds get into urine because kidneys play a role in blood filtration and regulate the amount of urinary components that should be reabsorbed back into the bloodstream or released as waste through the urine.
Kidney Stone Inhibitors
Apart from the compounds that promote the formation of stones, urine is comprised of proteins and other substances that inhibit the formation of crystals. Examples of kidney stone inhibitors include magnesium, citrate, phytate, proteins, pyrophosphate and macromolecules. In addition to these components, urine volume also inhibits the formation of kidney stones such that larger urine volumes tend to be more dilute and less saturated. All of these inhibitors help in the removal of crystals before their attachment and growth along the kidneys.
How Kidney Stones Form
For the tiny crystals to grow into bigger stones, urine must undergo supersaturation caused by several factors such as a low volume of urine, a reduced concentration of the kidney stone inhibitors, a very high concentration of compounds that promote kidney stones, or a combination of all these factors.
Normally, there is a good balance between the kidney stone inhibitors and promoters, and the kidneys eliminate tiny crystals without any pain. Therefore, if the crystals are tiny and the urine is less concentrated to prevent supersaturation, the crystals will be eliminated from the body along with urine, through the bladder and ureters, without any problem. However, not everyone has the right balance between stone inhibitors and promoters. Lifestyle, genetics and other factors can increase the likelihood of kidney stone formation. Individuals who lack this balance can greatly benefit from medical treatment and diagnosis at St Pete Urology.
How Kidney Stones Form in the Kidneys
Kidney stones form when ions that have been filtered into the urine by the kidneys, such as calcium and oxalate, spontaneously join together to form a solid crystal mass. For more information on the formation of kidneys stones, call us at (727) 478-1172 or visit us in St Petersburg, Florida.