Urological Surgery

Lesson Objectives

By the end of this topic, learners should be able to:

1. Identify common urological surgical conditions and their indications.

2. Understand surgical techniques for kidney, ureter, bladder, and prostate surgeries.

3. Recognize post-operative complications and nursing priorities.

4. Apply perioperative care principles specific to urological surgery.

 Key Glossary Terms

1. Nephrectomy

• Definition: Surgical removal of a kidney

• Types:

  • Partial nephrectomy – removal of part of the kidney

  • Radical nephrectomy – removal of the entire kidney, often with adrenal gland and surrounding tissue

• Indications: Renal tumors, trauma, severe infection

• Post-Op Considerations: Monitor renal function, urine output, vitals, infection

2. Cystectomy

• Definition: Surgical removal of part or all of the bladder

• Indications: Bladder cancer, severe trauma, neurogenic bladder complications

• Post-Op Considerations: Urinary diversion care, infection prevention, fluid balance

3. Prostatectomy

• Definition: Surgical removal of part or all of the prostate gland

• Types:

  • Transurethral resection of prostate (TURP) – for benign prostatic hyperplasia

  • Radical prostatectomy – for prostate cancer

• Post-Op Considerations: Monitor urinary output, catheter care, bleeding, infection

4. Ureteric Surgery

• Definition: Surgery on the ureters to relieve obstruction or remove stones

• Indications: Ureteric stones, strictures, tumors

• Post-Op Considerations: Monitor urine output, stent care, infection

5. Post-Operative Complications

• Urinary tract infection (UTI)

• Hematuria

• Urinary retention or obstruction

• Wound infection

• Bleeding and anemia

6. Nursing & Medical Student Focus

• Nursing: Catheter care, monitor urine output and color, infection prevention, fluid balance, patient education

• Medical Students: Understand urological anatomy, surgical indications, techniques, and post-op complications

7. Urological Surgery Mnemonics

• “URINE” for post-op monitoring:

  • U – Urine output

  • R – Redness or hematuria

  • I – Infection signs

  • N – Nephro-renal function

  • E – Electrolyte balance

• “BLADDER” for post-cystectomy care:

  • B – Bleeding

  • L – Leakage (urinary diversion)

  • A – Analgesia

  • D – Drain care

  • D – Diet/fluid balance

  • E – Education

  • R – Regular monitoring

 Tables

Table 1: Common Urological Surgeries

Table 2: Post-Operative Nursing Care in Urological Surgery