Prostate enlargement is a progressive disease, which can lead to infection, blood in the urine, bladder damage and in some cases, even kidney damage if not properly managed or treated. This is why it is crucial for men experiencing this type of urological condition to manage this through active surveillance by a general practitioner, or active treatment by a specialist or in a hospital setting.

Modern Techniques to Diagnose Prostate Enlargement

In order to diagnose benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and find the right treatment plan, various tests are used by doctors to identify potential signs of prostate enlargement. These include: prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test; digital rectal examination (DRE) and urine flow study (urodynamic study).

• Digital Rectal Examination – involves a doctor inserting a gloved finger into the rectum to check the surface of the prostate. Swelling, hardening, lumps and other irregularities on the surface of the prostate may be a sign of cancer.
• Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test – a blood test used to measure the amount of PSA protein produced by the prostate. A small increase in the level of PSA indicates enlargement of the prostate while a significant increase in the PSA level may be a sign of cancer.

Urodynamic Study: A Sophisticated Diagnostic Procedure for BPH

Urodynamics is a sophisticated diagnostic procedure that enables in-depth analysis of the causes of urinary incontinence, prostatic obstruction and other associated bladder problems.The investigation has two stages. First, the patient voids into a flow meter, allowing measurement of a free flow rate. Then, pressure sensitive catheters are placed into the bladder and used to monitor bladder function during filling and emptying. Throughout the procedure, the lower urinary tract is visualised using ultrasound.

Urodynamic Study at Katelaris Urology

Urodynamic procedure performed by Dr Phillip Katelaris of Katelaris Urology will happen at the Urology Outpatient Clinic in Hornsby at 51 Palmerston Rd, Hornsby. Patients will be asked to attend with a full bladder.

Interpretation of the computerised urodynamic study is a specialised procedure and the information will therefore not be available on the day of your study. You will require a follow up appointment to discuss the results and management options. Management of bladder neck obstruction can take the form of certain medications or surgery to relieve obstruction.