What Is A Pediatric Urologist?
Children are not just small adults. They cannot always say what is bothering them. They cannot always answer medical questions and are not always able to be patient and cooperative during a medical examination. When a child has an illness or disease of the genitals or urinary tract (kidneys, ureters, bladder), a pediatric urologist has the experience and qualifications to treat your child. Pediatric urologists know how to examine and treat children in a way that helps make them relaxed and cooperative. In addition, pediatric urologists often use equipment specially designed for children.
If your pediatrician suggests that your child see a pediatric urologist, you can be assured that he or she has the widest range of treatment options, the most extensive and comprehensive training, and the greatest expertise in dealing with children and in treating children’s urinary tract disorders. As a pediatric urologist who has cared for thousands of children over my years in practice, I have devoted my practice to the urologic problems of infants, children, and adolescents.
WHAT KIND OF TRAINING DO PEDIATRIC UROLOGISTS HAVE?
Pediatric urologists are surgeons with:
- At least four years of medical school
- One year of surgical internship
- At least four additional years of residency training in surgical urology
- At least two additional years of fellowship training in pediatric urology
WHAT TYPES OF TREATMENTS DO PEDIATRIC UROLOGISTS PROVIDE?
Pediatric urologists are surgeons who can diagnose, treat, and manage urinary and genital problems in children ranging in age from infants through adolescence. Pediatric urologists generally provide the following services:
- Evaluation and management of voiding disorders, vesicoureteral reflux, and urinary tract infections that require surgery. For non-surgical issues, pediatric urologists can help develop a care plan in conjunction with a child’s pediatrician.
- Surgical reconstruction of the urinary tract (kidneys, ureters, and bladder) including genital abnormalities, hypospadias, and intersex conditions.
- Surgery for groin conditions in infancy, childhood and adolescence (undescended testes, hydrocele/hernia, varicocele).
PROVIDING THE BEST CARE FOR CHILDREN
When you and your child visit the Chesapeake Urology for Children office, you’re welcomed by staff who understand the unique needs of children. Something as simple as the bright colors and decorations that greet children in our waiting area helps diminish the anxiety some children feel when visiting the doctor. Our examination and waiting rooms help create a comfortable and nonthreatening environment. I’ve found that this type of friendly atmosphere, along with candid conversations, goes a long way in earning a child’s and family’s trust.