From Procedure to Confidence: Dr. Reid Graves on Inflatable Penile Prosthesis

Key Takeaways:

  1. Penile prosthesis boasts an extraordinarily high success rate and patient satisfaction rates.
  2. St. Pete Urology offers a supportive environment to help patients navigate the journey “from procedure to confidence”.
  3. Penile prosthesis can help restore confidence and improve quality of life.

Investing in personal health can often seem daunting, especially when it entails navigating complicated medical jargon and procedures. However, understanding the process can dramatically ease any apprehension, build confidence, and ultimately transform lives. We sit down with board-certified urologist Dr. Reid Graves, who practices at St. Pete Urology in St. Petersburg, FL, to dissect the details and benefits of inflatable penile prosthesis.

De-Mystifying Penile Prosthesis

“Hi, I’m Dr. Reid Graves,” he begins. His demeanor exudes confidence, and his words are imbued with optimism, quickly putting us at ease. He continues, “After the penile prosthesis is placed, men will come back to the office for their normal post-operative check within a couple of weeks.”

Forgoing the dense medical language, he breaks down the process into simple terms. He explains that men return for a routine check-up, which is followed by an educational session six weeks post-operation. The focus of this session? “We’ll start teaching them how to use the device and pump the device up and down so that they’re able to use it,” he explains.

Being taught how to use the device might seem scary, but the process is gentle, patient, and encouraging. And the commitment to mastering this device? It pays off exponentially.

The Success Rates of Prosthesis

The penile prosthesis, Dr. Graves tells us, boasts an extraordinarily high success rate, and it has done so for decades. He shares, “The penile prosthesis has been around for decades and in fact has an extraordinarily high success rate.”

Notably, it doesn’t just have a high success rate — it also has outstanding patient satisfaction rates. Dr. Graves addresses the hesitations that some men may have about this invasive procedure. But his tone is reassuring. He asserts, “While some people are wary and nervous about having such an invasive procedure done, for many men it’s the last option that they have and in fact it has very high success rates and satisfaction rates.”

And it’s not just about the procedure’s effectiveness — it’s about how it transforms lives, bestowing newfound confidence and restoring a sense of normalcy for men.

Confidence Restored and Life Transformed

The combination of Dr. Graves’s expertise, his team’s care, and the effectiveness of the penile prosthesis leads to a transformative journey for patients. After weeks of following the procedure and learning to use the device, patients can regain their confidence and resume their active lifestyle. Their personal health investment pays off, and the result is an improved quality of life.

Discover the Benefits of Penile Prosthesis at St. Pete Urology

If you’re considering inflatable penile prosthesis and looking for a trusted urologist in St. Petersburg, Florida, turn to St. Pete Urology. With their patient-centered approach and a team of experienced professionals led by Dr. Reid Graves, they offer a supportive environment that prioritizes your health and well-being. They are committed to helping you navigate the journey “from procedure to confidence” with compassion, understanding, and expert medical guidance. Choose St. Pete Urology for your penile prosthesis needs, and experience the transformative power of this procedure.

References:

  1. St. Pete Urology | Urologists in St Petersburg, Florida. (2020, September 14). St Pete Urology. https://stpeteurology.com/penile-implant-surgery-for-erectile-dysfunction/
  2. St Pete Urology. (2019, March 5). Treating Erectile Dysfunction with Inflatable Penile Prosthesis. St Pete Urology. https://stpeteurology.com/erectile-dysfunction-inflatable-prosthesis/
  3. Cavayero, C. T., & McIntosh, G. V. (2022, September 26). Penile Prosthesis Implantation. Nih.gov; StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK563292/
  4. Pietrangelo, A. (2017, July 6). What to Expect from a Penile Implant. Healthline; Healthline Media. https://www.healthline.com/health/erectile-dysfunction/penile-implant-surgery
  5. Galan, N. (2018, February 14). Penile implants: How they work and what to expect. Medicalnewstoday.com; Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/penile-implant

Advancements in Men’s BPH Treatment: UroLift Technology by Dr. Reid Graves

Key Takeaways:

  1. The UroLift technology is a minimally invasive device that staples the lobes of the prostate apart from each other, allowing for a much quicker recovery experience without a catheter.
  2. The UroLift technology is the only device that does not have the side effect of retrograde ejaculation, making it a viable treatment option for men grappling with BPH.
  3. St. Pete Urology is a leading urology practice offering state-of-the-art BPH treatment options, including the UroLift technology. Their commitment to delivering the best care to their patients makes them a trustworthy option for pursuing BPH treatment.

Navigating the path of finding the right BPH treatment can be a labyrinthine task. Over the years, advancements have been made in the field, but with each progress comes a new set of challenges. That’s where the UroLift technology steps in. It is a minimally invasive device yoking the future of urology with the demands of the contemporary patient. Spearheading this revolution in BPH treatment is Dr. Reid Graves, a board-certified urologist based in St. Petersburg, FL.

Embracing New Technologies

Dr. Graves, of St. Pete Urology, eloquently elucidates how the UroLift technology is adding a groundbreaking dimension to urology. He says, “There have been new technologies that have recently come out with a device called the UroLift technology, which essentially is a stapling device that staples the lobes of the prostate apart from each other so that the patient can void through their prostate.”

This advanced device, in Dr. Graves’ own words, “is an exciting new advancement in the era of BPH treatment for a couple of reasons.” It’s minimally invasive technology with almost no blood loss. Moreover, patients can even return home without a catheter, dramatically enhancing their recovery experience.

Addressing Troubling Side Effects

Technological triumph is praiseworthy. However, the true gauge of new treatments is its capacity to relieve the side effects that previously afflicted patients. One such side effect, often linked with BPH treatment, is retrograde ejaculation. This occurs when the ejaculate reverses into the bladder during orgasm. It prevents patients from seeing their ejaculate during intercourse, a predicament that disturbs many men.

Fortunately, in the case of the UroLift device, as Dr. Graves informs us, “This new treatment, the UroLift device, is the only device which does not have this side effect.” This revelation solidifies UroLift’s standing as a viable treatment option for men grappling with BPH.

A Brighter Future for BPH Treatment

The advent of UroLift technology highlights the fact that even in a field as intricate as urology, there is always room for innovation. By creating a less invasive treatment option, the field of urology has proven its commitment to patient wellbeing once more.

Looking ahead, it’s clear that UroLift technology is leading the charge in transforming the face of BPH treatment. From its efficacy to the lack of troubling side effects, the device has emerged as a promising solution to an enduring problem.

Trust St. Pete Urology for Top-Notch Treatment

St. Pete Urology, a leading urology practice in St. Petersburg, Florida, continues to be at the epicenter of these advancements, offering state-of-the-art BPH treatment options. These include the groundbreaking UroLift technology, a testament to their commitment to delivering the best care to their patients.

Through the skilled guidance of Dr. Reid Graves, St. Pete Urology is creating a better tomorrow, one patient at a time. So, trust St. Pete Urology to guide you through the web of decisions. Their understanding, expertise, and dedication to patient care set them apart from the rest. This ensures that you receive the most targeted and effective BPH treatment.

References:
Transcription:

Hi, I’m Dr. Reid Graves and I’m a board certified urologist at St. Pete Urology. There have been new technologies that have recently come out with a device called the UroLift technology, which essentially is a stapling device that staples the lobes of the prostate apart from each other so that the patient can void through their prostate. Now this is an exciting new advancement in the era of BPH treatment for a couple of reasons. One, it is extremely minimally invasive with almost no blood loss and patients can even go home without a catheter.

In addition, one of the most troubling side effects for men with treatment of BPH is retrograde ejaculation. This is when the ejaculate goes backwards into the bladder when a patient is having an orgasm and they’re unable to see their ejaculate during intercourse. This is often something that bothers men and this new treatment, the UroLift device, is the only device which does not have this side effect. And so this is something that is a new exciting advancement in this field.

Dr. Reid Graves on Effective Treatments for Enlarged Prostates at St Pete Urology

Key Takeaways:

  1. Treatments for enlarged prostates require careful consideration of various factors to create a personalized treatment plan.
  2. TURP and GreenLight laser treatments are effective methods of managing an enlarged prostate.
  3. St Pete Urology provides expert care and quick recovery times for prostate enlargement treatments.

As men age, they may face the common yet uncomfortable issue of prostate enlargement. In St. Petersburg, FL, there’s a urologist who understands the intricacies of this condition – Dr. Reid Graves of St Pete Urology. In his words, “One of the things we take pride in here at St. Pete Urology is the management of patients with enlarged prostates.” So, what makes his approach so effective? Let’s dive in and explore Dr. Graves’ effective treatments of enlarged prostates.

Determining the Best Treatment

Treating an enlarged prostate isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, it requires careful consideration of various factors. These factors include the patient’s overall health, comorbid conditions, and potential complications from blood thinners, as explained by Dr. Graves. The goal, of course, is to create a personalized treatment plan that best suits each patient’s needs.

TURP and GreenLight Laser: Two Effective Treatment Options

There are many different treatment options available for managing an enlarged prostate. Two of the most effective methods, according to Dr. Graves, are TURP (transurethral resection of the prostate) and GreenLight laser prostatectomy.

TURP involves the use of a hot knife that is inserted through the urethra to cut out pieces of tissue from the prostate. This procedure can be invasive, but it often produces excellent results for patients with severe urinary symptoms or obstruction.

Alternatively, Dr. Graves also recommends the GreenLight laser prostatectomy. This procedure is unique because the laser used is absorbed by hemoglobin in the blood. This minimizes blood loss during surgery. Interestingly, Dr. Graves can perform this treatment on patients taking blood thinners. This makes it a versatile option for many men dealing with prostate enlargement.

The “Apple Core” Analogy

To help his patients understand the goals of these treatments, Dr. Graves uses the analogy of an apple. Imagine the prostate as an apple, and the core is the part where urine travels through. In order to improve a patient’s ability to urinate, the “apple core” must be removed to create more space for the urine to pass. Both TURP and GreenLight laser procedures can effectively achieve this goal by removing excess tissue from the prostate with precision and care.

Quick Recovery Times

One of the most striking aspects of Dr. Graves’ treatment methods is the speedy recovery time. With the GreenLight laser prostatectomy, patients can expect to have their catheter removed the day after the procedure, and it could even be a same-day surgery. This quick turnaround allows men to return to their regular activities with minimal disruption, making it an attractive option for those seeking relief from their prostate enlargement symptoms.

Choose St Pete Urology for Expert Care

If you or a loved one are dealing with the challenges of prostate enlargement, it’s crucial to find a skilled and compassionate urologist who will prioritize your needs and well-being. In St. Petersburg, FL, Dr. Reid Graves and the team at St Pete Urology are known for their dedication to providing the highest level of care to patients facing this common yet complex condition. Don’t leave your health in the hands of just anyone – trust the experience and expertise of St Pete Urology to guide you toward the most effective treatments for enlarged prostates.

References:
Transcription:

My name is Reid Graves and I’m a urologist at St Pete Urology. One of the things we take pride in here at St. Pete Urology is the management of patients with enlarged prostates. This is a very common problem as men age and oftentimes people will have difficulty urinating. If their symptoms are significant enough or they’re unable to urinate, oftentimes a surgery will be indicated. Determining which surgery is right for the patient depends on a variety of factors including their comorbid conditions, their health, and if they’re on any blood thinners. Some of the options include a TURP or transurethral resection of the prostate in which a hot knife is used through the urethra in order to cut out the pieces of the tissue in the prostate.

Another option is to use the GreenLight laser to perform a GreenLight laser prostatectomy. This laser is unique because the laser is absorbed by hemoglobin which is in the blood. This provides the patient with minimal blood loss during the procedure and we’re actually able to perform these procedures in patients that are on blood thinners. Essentially when patients have enlarged prostates, the prostate is like an apple. The apple core is the part where the urine travels through the apple. In order for us to allow patients to urinate better, we use our instruments to remove the apple core from the apple so that the urine can flow through the apple. We can use the GreenLight laser to perform this with a same day procedure or at the most patients will stay overnight one day and then we will remove their catheter the following day.

How Can a Prior Vasectomy Procedure Be Reversed with Vasectomy Reversal?

Key Takeaways:

  1. Men who have had a vasectomy can consider a vasectomy reversal procedure to restore fertility and have a chance of fathering a child again.
  2. A successful vasectomy reversal involves making small incisions in the scrotum to reconnect the vas deferens, and success rates can be improved by entrusting the reversal to a reputable urologist.
  3. Alternative options such as IVF remain viable if the vasectomy reversal is unsuccessful or not feasible.

First Steps: Determining Your Eligibility for Reversal

You may think it is impossible to start or expand your family after a vasectomy procedure. However, there is hope through a ground-breaking medical solution known as vasectomy reversal. Reid Graves, a reputable urologist at St. Pete Urology, asserts that men who have undergone vasectomy but now wish to have children again can consider this remarkable procedure. The need for a vasectomy reversal often arises when men form new relationships with partners who desire to have children. The cut vas deferens from the prior vasectomy renders them unable to conceive, creating this necessity.

Delving into the Procedure: How Vasectomy Reversal Works

Graves explains that, to achieve a successful vasectomy reversal, small incisions are made in the scrotum. These incisions bring the isolated ends of the vas deferens back together. Using advanced medical equipment such as a microscope or robotic technology, the urologist then meticulously sutures the vas deferens. This surgical intervention restores the natural pathway for sperm to travel from the testicles to the penis. Consequently, it allows the possibility of fathering a child once more.

Considering the Odds: The Success Rates

As with any medical procedure, there are no guarantees with vasectomy reversal. However, it is worth noting that the overall success rates are promising. A key determining factor of success lies in the expertise of the urologist performing the procedure, as well as their proficiency in utilizing advanced medical technology. By entrusting your reversal to a reputable urologist, you substantially increase your chances of welcoming a new addition to your family.

Weighing Your Options: The Benefits and Alternatives to Vasectomy Reversal

Beyond the possibility of fathering a child again, it offers the added benefit of minimal invasiveness. The small incisions made during the procedure are essential to reconnecting the vas deferens while reducing the risk of complications. In the event that your vasectomy reversal is unsuccessful or not feasible, assisted reproductive techniques such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) remain viable alternatives for having children.

Reclaiming Your Fertility at St Pete Urology

If you find yourself contemplating the possibility of a vasectomy reversal in St. Petersburg, FL, look no further than the experienced urologists at St Pete Urology. Dr. Reid Graves and his team of specialized professionals are dedicated to providing top-tier urological care and utilizing the latest advancements in medical technology for reversing your vasectomy.

Trust the experts at St. Pete Urology. They have built their reputation on ensuring that reversing your vasectomy is as seamless and successful as possible. Partner with a team that recognizes the deep-rooted desire to create or expand your family. They are eager to make it a reality for you. Schedule a consultation with St Pete Urology in St. Petersburg, FL, today. Take the first step toward reclaiming your fertility.

References:
Transcription:

My name is Reid Graves and I’m a urologist at St. Pete Urology. Sometimes men who have had vasectomies will meet a new partner that desires children and one of the complexities with this is since the vas deferens has been cut with the prior vasectomy they’re unable to have children. And when the patient’s partner wants a baby the only option is to try to reconnect these tubes back together. We can do that with what’s called a vasectomy reversal. In order to do this we have to make small incisions in the scrotum, explore the scrotum and then bring the little tiny vas deferens back out together and using a microscope or even with robotic technology we’re able to sew the vas deferens back together so that the sperm can then travel from the testicle back to the penis so that the person can have a child.

How Can Voiding Dysfunction Be Treated with Minimally Invasive Procedures? – Dr. Reid Graves

Key Takeaways:

  1. Voiding dysfunction is a common problem among men which can cause frequent trips to the bathroom, difficulty emptying the bladder, and interrupted sleep.
  2. Minimally invasive procedures, such as green light laser surgery, can provide relief from voiding dysfunction with less blood loss, recovery time, and hospital stays.
  3. It is important to seek help from an experienced urologist when considering treatments for voiding dysfunction. St. Pete Urology in St. Petersburg, FL is committed to providing quality care to those struggling with this issue.

Introduction: A Common Problem Faced by Many Men

You’re not alone if you’re struggling with voiding dysfunction. It is one of the most common complaints that men have when they seek the help of a urologist. Dr. Reid Graves, a board-certified urologist, practices at St. Pete Urology in St. Petersburg, FL. He is here to assist individuals grappling with this frustrating issue. Let’s explore how minimally invasive procedures can provide relief and improve your quality of life.

Understanding Voiding Dysfunction

Voiding dysfunction can impact men’s lives in various ways, such as frequent and urgent trips to the bathroom, difficulty emptying the bladder, and interrupted sleep. This condition occurs when there’s a problem with the connection between the bladder and the urethra. It’s often caused by an enlarged prostate. This creates challenges as men attempt to urinate, leading to a range of unpleasant symptoms. Dr. Graves emphasizes the importance of finding an effective treatment, stating, “There are many options for treatment in this often difficult area.”

The Wonders of Minimally Invasive Procedures

In the past, treatment options for voiding dysfunction often involved more invasive surgeries. Now, advanced technology has made minimally invasive procedures a reality. These options significantly reduce blood loss, recovery time, and hospital stays. Dr. Graves mentions one popular minimally invasive treatment, saying, “Some of the things patients might have heard of are minimally invasive laser procedures such as the green light laser surgery of the prostate.” He goes on to explain how this innovative procedure compares to the traditional TURP method. In the traditional approach, the inside part of the prostate is removed. This is to improve the connection between the bladder and the urethra.

Green Light Laser Surgery – A Game Changer

Green light laser surgery has revolutionized the way urologists treat voiding dysfunction. This minimally invasive procedure works by removing the obstructing prostate tissue with a laser, allowing for improved urinary flow. Dr. Graves highlights the benefits of this procedure, saying, “The laser allows less blood loss and less hospital stay, and often patients go home the same day.” The reduced recovery time and minimal discomfort make it a preferred option for many men dealing with voiding dysfunction.

Finding the Right Urologist for You

It’s crucial to choose a urologist who has extensive experience and training in treating voiding dysfunction, especially when considering minimally invasive procedures. Dr. Graves assures that at St. Pete Urology, they have had “extensive comprehensive urologic training and it’s one of the best urology programs in the country.” Trusting your care to a skilled and knowledgeable urologist is the first step toward finding relief from voiding dysfunction.

Don’t Suffer in Silence – Seek Help From St. Pete Urology

Voiding dysfunction doesn’t have to control your life. With the innovative and minimally invasive procedures available at St. Pete Urology in St. Petersburg, FL, you can get back to enjoying your daily activities without constant worry about your urinary health. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the experienced urologists at St. Pete Urology, where they’re committed to helping you find the relief you deserve.

References:

Transcription:

Hi, I’m Dr. Reid Graves and I’m a board certified urologist at St. Pete Urology.
One of the most common presenting complaints of men that present to a urology office is voiding dysfunction and trouble with urination. There are many options for treatment in this often difficult area for men to deal with and some of these are maximally invasive and but many of the options we have are minimally invasive.

Some of the things patients might have heard of are minimally invasive laser procedures such as the green light laser surgery of the prostate which is similar to what often people have heard of which is called a TURP where the inside part of the prostate is removed so that patients can void through their prostate which connects between the bladder and the urethra. The laser allows less blood loss and less hospital stay and often patients go home the same day. We had extensive comprehensive urologic training and it’s one of the best urology programs in the country.

Vasectomy vs Tubal Ligation

Are you done having children or just feel sure you never want kids? If so, then you may consider having a permanent birth control (sterilization) procedure. For couples, sterilization can be performed on either a man or woman, with the procedure for men called a vasectomy while for women it is known as tubal ligation (getting your tubes tied). Sterilization is a common method of birth control, with more than 23 percent of all couples in the United States relying on it to stop having children.

What is tubal ligation? What is vasectomy?

Tubal ligation is a sterilization option for women. During the procedure, the fallopian tubes are sealed off or blocked to prevent ova (eggs) moving from the ovary via the fallopian tubes, preventing them from meeting with male sperm. A vasectomy is a sterilization option for men in which a man’s vas deferens tubes are blocked or tied and cauterized to prevent the transportation of sperm during ejaculation. While both vasectomy and tubal ligation are viable options, only one of the two procedures may be necessary when a couple chooses sterilization as a method of birth control. And often, vasectomy is the most preferred method of sterilization for couples because it is simpler, safer, cheaper, more reversible and more effective than tubal ligation.

Safety of vasectomy and tubal ligation

Both tubal ligation and vasectomy are extremely safe. However, tubal ligation involves hospitalization of women as the procedure is performed under general anesthesia. Tubal ligation is a more complex and lengthier procedure. On the other hand, a vasectomy, particularly the no-scalpel procedure, can be performed in as little as 10 minutes with the patient allowed to go home soon after operation. Vasectomy is less invasive and the doctor barely scores the scrotum skin. So when as a couple you are choosing between a vasectomy and tubal ligation, then the safety, convenience, minimal complications and short recovery time should make vasectomy the better option.

Risks of vasectomy and tubal ligation

Tubal ligation is typically a laparoscopic procedure that requires many hours or days of recovery. There also may be serious complications associated with general anesthesia, perforation of intestines or even infection. Tubal ligation also may cause long term side effects such as painful menstrual cycles and pelvic pain, though this occurs rarely. A vasectomy is a simple, minimally invasive outpatient procedure which takes less than one hour. It also does not have scientifically proven long-term risks or complications.

Efficacy of vasectomy and tubal ligation

Both vasectomy and tubal ligation are very effective. Studies examining the failure rates of vasectomy and tubal ligation have rated them among the most effective methods of birth control, with less than 1 in 100 chance of pregnancy after sterilization. However, because tubal ligation is more invasive and women have to stop using all forms of contraception after attaining a certain age, vasectomy is more appropriate.

Cost of vasectomy and tubal ligation

The costs associated with vasectomy and tubal ligation is quite different. A tubal ligation costs four times as much as a vasectomy. The average cost of a tubal ligation procedure is $2,000 or more while the average cost of a vasectomy procedure is $500, though the exact price varies from one surgeon to another. Nevertheless, if you have to pay for sterilization straight from your pocket, then a vasectomy may be more preferable as it is less expensive.

Reversibility of vasectomy and tubal ligation

Vasectomy and tubal ligation are considered permanent procedures. While a reversal of either is possible, the reversal procedures are quite expensive and without guarantee of success. While at least half of couples have reported successful pregnancy after a reversal of either type of sterilization, success rates depend on a number of factors, including the age, time since sterilization and type of surgery. So if you are not really sure that you do not want children, you should consider other birth control methods such as the implant (IUD) instead of sterilization.
Birth control is not the sole responsibility of women and their male partners should work with them to choose safer and more effective methods of birth control. A vasectomy has lower risks of complications, lower costs and more convenience than tubal ligation. However, before making a decision, it is important to speak with your doctor to obtain all the crucial information necessary for making an informed decision. At St Pete Urology, we help couples to make the right birth control decisions and to have access to safe and effective procedures. For more information, visit the “St Pete Urology” site.

Erectile Dysnfunction Treatment Options with Dr Reid Graves

Erectile dysfunction (ED, impotence) varies in severity; some men have a total inability to achieve an erection, others have an inconsistent ability to achieve an erection, and still others can sustain only brief erections.[Read Full Article…]