When a man makes the decision that he does not want children, or has had all of the children he desires to have but does not want to rely on his partner to pursue permanent birth control, his doctor will most likely recommend the vasectomy. According to many Plano, Texas vasectomy doctors, it is common for men to fear the idea of a vasectomy; they associate the procedure with castration, or the loss of their masculinity. The truth, is that a vasectomy will not change your physical appearance, and will not prohibit a man from ejaculating. The vasectomy also does not affect a man’s sex drive, or any other testosterone driven masculinities. This procedure merely prevents the release of sperm.

What is a Vasectomy?

A vasectomy is usually performed by a urologist and is done by cutting and tying the vas deferens, or the tubes which allow sperm to combine with semen during climax. This procedure is extremely effective with very few risks or complications. It has been projected that only 15 out of every 10,000 men who receive a vasectomy still father children.  The procedure itself is very popular with more than half a million vasectomies performed in the United States last year. This form of male birth control is less expensive, and easier to receive than permanent female birth control procedures.

To perform a vasectomy a physician will numb the scrotum with a local anesthetic. The physician will then make one or two small incisions on the left or right side of the scrotum in order to cut, or tie the vas. The same procedure will be performed on the other side of the scrotum, and then the incisions will be sewn up.

Dr. Mark Allen, MD, a Plano, Texas vasectomy doctor and skilled urologist, “Vasectomy surgery has come along way in recent years. Most progressive urologists will offer the no-scalpel vasectomy procedure which offers a more minimally invasive approach with less pain and faster healing.”

With the no scalpel vasectomy, physicians are able to perform the surgery without a scalpel. During this procedure the physician will find the vas by feeling for it through the scrotum. Once found the physician will place a clamp on the vas and scrotum, and use a small tool to puncture and tie it. This procedure does not require stitches and produces very little bleeding. The pain associated with the no scalpel vasectomy procedure is less severe than with the original vasectomy procedure.

What to Expect After the Procedure

A male should fully recover from his vasectomy in about a week. He will be sore for the first few days and should rest for the first 24 hours following the procedure. There are very small risks of complications with a vasectomy. Some of the common risk factors include bruising, swelling and inflammation; these often follow the procedure but will go away in just a few days.  Infection is also a risk, but is not as common.

Though a vasectomy is a successful form of permanent male birth control it is important that a man does a follow-up visit with his physician to ensure that the surgery was successful before engaging in unprotected sex.  Testing will ensure that there is no more sperm in the semen.

Because the vasectomy is permanent male birth control it is important that a male is 100% sure that he does not wish to have a child. He should discuss other forms of birth control with his doctor, and speak personally and seriously with his partner before pursuing the surgery. There is a surgery to reverse the vasectomy but it is costly and not 100% effective. The vasectomy reversal is performed in a very similar way to the original procedure. But it is usually difficult to replace the vas properly, hence its rate of failure.

When a man is 100% sure of his desire for the surgery, the vasectomy is an excellent form of permanent birth control with a very high success rate, very few complications, and is more affordable than most permanent female birth controls. If you are considering a vasectomy get in touch with your doctor and schedule an appointment to discuss the pros and cons of the procedure.

Read more about Dr. Allen (Plano Texas Vasectomy Doctor and Urologist)

The percentage of men that suffer from Urinary Incontinence is estimated to be lower than the percentage of women who suffer from it, but it is as equally serious and embarrassing for both. Urinary Incontinence is the accidental leakage of urine. It is a condition that plagues men and women of all ages, but is most likely to begin occurring later in life. There are different reasons why a man may become incontinent, it could be situational or constant, but it does not have to be permanent.

Below is a list of the different types of Urinary Incontinence:

Stress Incontinence—This involuntary loss of urine occurs during an event that causes stress upon the body, through abdominal pressure. Examples of this are heavy lifting, running, jumping, sneezing and coughing.

Urge Incontinence- This is the involuntary loss of urine while trying to “hold it.” When a person has urge incontinence, the feeling of having to urinate is present, but the ability to effectively hold it is lost.

Overflow Incontinence- This involuntary, constant loss of urine, associated with “going” frequently, usually occurs often throughout the day and in small amounts.

All of these types of incontinence can be caused by a myriad of conditions that can lead to a medical diagnosis that will explain a man’s struggle with Urinary Incontinence.  Among the most common are:

• Diseases which may have caused nerve damage such as diabetes, Parkinson’s Disease and Multiple Sclerosis.
• Stroke
• Spinal Cord Injury
• Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or an enlarged prostate
• Cancer Treatment such as a Prostatectomy
• Cancer Treatment External Beam Radiation

If you are a man suffering from Urinary Incontinence, your first step is to see your Urologist. He or she will take you through a list of diagnostic tests to determine the cause of your problem. From here, he or she will be able to decide your best option for treatment. There is a list of treatments for urinary incontinence, and no reason why you must suffer from it for the rest of your life.

Conservative Urinary Incontinence Treatment For Men

Most doctors will begin with the most simple and least invasive procedures, such as discussions about planning your trips to the bathroom and psychotherapy. The next step may be a discussion about medication. There are a handful of medications on the market that have been found to be helpful in more severe cases of Urinary Incontinence.

If the less invasive and more conservative approach doesn’t fit with your situation, there are surgical procedures that can help. The surgery most commonly performed in the event of Urinary Incontinence is the placement of an Artificial Sphincter.  As is shown in the picture, this includes the use of a cuff, a pressure-regulating balloon, and a pump (located in the scrotum), which work together to prevent urine from leaking until you are ready to do so. When ready, you manually maneuver the pump which then allows urine to be drained from the bladder.

Other Urinary Incontinence Treatment for Men Include:

Male Swing: In this procedure, a piece of mesh cloth is used to lift the bladder so that Urine cannot escape until the male consciously chooses to relieve himself.

Urinary Diversion: If bladder must be removed because of nerve damage, or cancer, an artificial bladder may be created, and a Urinary Diversion used. The Urinary organs are replaced with others that can drain urine into a stoma, or a catheter.

Urinary Incontinence is inevitably embarrassing though it is as serious, and unavoidable a problem as most other diseases. You do not have to live with Urinary Incontinence forever. Make an appointment with your Urologist today, and look forward to a future without worry.

Each year, more than half a million people will visit an ER with a painful kidney stone.  Dr. Mark Allen, a Plano, Texas urologist (http://northtexasurologist.com) was interviewed for this article to shed some light on kidney stones and treatment options that are available today. This Q and A was designed as an informative document to help in the awareness and treatment, and prevention of Kidney Stones.

This Kidney Stone represents the hard mass of crystals that formulate the stone

A kidney stone is a crystallized mass caught within the urinary tract. When the chemicals found in urine are not strong enough to dissolve the stones they cannot pass through and out of the urinary tract causing a blockage and extreme pain for the patient.  In many cases, the stones will eventually pass, but in other cases, medical treatment will be needed in order to break up or remove the stones.

Q: How common are kidney stones?

Kidney stones are relatively common. Approximately 7% of all women and 14% of all men will develop kidney stones. Once an individual has developed a kidney stone they have a 50% chance of recurring stones.

Q: What are the symptoms of kidney stones?

The most common symptoms associated with a kidney stone include pain in the back, and blood in the urine. But other symptoms may include: nausea, fever, and chills, as well as cramping, testicular pain and pain in the abdomen.  Pain associated in the abdomen area is the prominent symptom of a kidney stone. It is a very distinct pain. Once a person has a kidney stone for the first time, they can easily recognize the pain each time the condition reoccurs.

Q: Who gets kidney stones?

Caucasian men are at the highest risk of getting kidney stones. This risk increases greatly between the ages of 40 and 70. Women can also get kidney stones but are at a decreased risk. Women over the age of 50 will be at a higher risk.  It is extremely common for children to also get kidney stones.  There is an increase in the United States of children getting kidney stones; diet and food/liquid in-take are the primary causes as many kids do not drink enough water and are eating foods that are high in salt and sugar.

Q: What treatment for kidney stones are available?

Most commonly a patient should be able to pass the stones by increasing their intake of fluids, but if this does not prove beneficial there are other medical options to help a patient pass their stones. If a stone does not, in fact, pass on its own, the following treatments can be applied:

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL for kidney stones), the Ureteroscopy Procedure and Percutaneous Nepheostolithotomy.

• ESWL stands for Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy. ESWL for kidney stones is a high intensity acoustic pulse, sent from the outside of the body to the inside, used to break up the stone. Through the process the stones are broken down into smaller particles and can then be easily passed through the urinary stream. This is a non-invasive procedure that has time and time again proven productive. Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy is one of the most frequently and widely used urological procedures to treat kidney stones. ESWL for kidney stones should be discussed with your urologist to see if it is the appropriate treatment for your specific kidney stone condition.

• Another minimally invasive procedure that is effective in eradicating kidney stones is a Ureteroscopy. During a Ureteroscopy procedure, incisions are not needed. Instead, a tiny scope is entered into the urethra and passed through to the bladder. If the stone is small it will gently be extracted through the end of the scope. If it is larger, then a laser may be required to dissolve the stone. The Ureteroscopy procedure varies according to the size of the stone and the severity of the pain.
  

  Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL for kidney stones) is a high intensity acoustic pulse, sent from the outside of the body to the inside, used to break up kidney stones.

• Finally, when all else kidney stone treatments have failed, a Percutaneous Nepheostolithotomy can be performed to remove a large kidney stone. This is treatment for kidney stones is a surgery performed in the hospital in which an incision is made in the back and then special instruments are used to enter the kidney removing the stones. A catheter is necessary to drain the bladder during recovery, until the incision has healed. This surgery is used for large kidney stones, or when a kidney stone has caused an infection.

Q: If I have a family history of kidney stones, does that mean I am likely to get them?

There is statistical evidence to suggest that kidney stones are genetic—but if they run in you family, it does not necessarily mean you will get them. Certain factors such as age, diet, lifestyle, smoking, etc. can make the occurrence more or less likely.

Q: If I’ve had kidney stones before, what can I do to prevent them from reoccurring?

Have a metabolic workup. A metabolic workup is a study of the factors that likely caused your kidney stones and will likely cause a reoccurrence. In this study the kidney stone, your diet, urine samples, and overall health are studied to determine the factors that will most likely cause another stone. This is of utmost importance. Statistics show that 70% of people who choose not to have a metabolic workup receive another stone in 5 to 10 years.

The severity of kidney stones varies from one person to another, but is always a plague to the recipient. If you believe you have a kidney stone, it is important to see your doctor immediately. You may be able to pass the stone yourself, but many options do exist for the treatment for kidney stones. The best way to prevent kidney stones is to maintain a healthy diet and drink plenty of water.

Prostate cancer is cancer that begins in the prostate gland. Prostate cancer is not commonly found in men less than 40 years of age, though it is not altogether impossible. Prostate cancer can strike any male for a number of varying reasons. Men who have had prostate problems in the past, who have a family history of the disease, and those who have poor dietary habits and who abuse alcohol may be at a higher risk.

The symptoms of prostate cancer appear differently from one victim to another. But symptoms that are most alarming, and may directly relate to the onset of prostate cancer is blood found in the urine and a burning pain while urinating.

When the above symptoms occur it is important to see your urologist. He will most likely biopsy the tissue from the prostate gland and report the results of the test via the Gleason grade. If the Gleason grade proves to be above the number 2, then it will be time to consider prostate cancer treatments. Different prostate cancer treatments are performed for different age groups and different stages of the disease. But common prostate cancer treatments include:

• Radiation Therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Hormonal Therapy
• Surgery

Surgery is the preferred prostate cancer  treatment because it removes the cancer from the body by removing the prostate (either all or parts of it). There are two types of surgeries performed for prostate cancer, in both the prostate is completely removed in the early stages of the diagnosis to prevent further complications or the spread of the cancer into other regions, radical prostatectomy and robotic prostatectomy. Robotic Prostate surgery has become the favored prostate cancer treatment among urologists and patients.

Robotic prostatectomy is the same surgery as a radical prostatectomy, except that it is robotically-assisted. This surgery is a minimally invasive removal of the prostate.

A urologist will perform the surgery with the help of computerized robotic controlled instruments and high resolution cameras. The tools eliminate the shakiness of the surgeon’s hands and perform the surgery with more preciseness then ever before.

A robotic prostatectomy has been proven to greatly reduce post-op recovery in terms of minimizing pain levels, blood loss, hospital stay, recovery time, and side effects of a radical robotic prostatectomy. This is because unlike the radical prostatectomy the robotic prostatectomy does not require a large incision opening.

In this surgery, a urologist will enter the abdomen of the patient through a few very small incisions. The urologist then guides the robotic small instruments through the holes in the abdomen with a very tight and precise “joystick.” This allows the doctor to turn with 90 degrees of articulation and 7 degrees of freedom. The doctor will remove the prostate gland and the surgery is complete. The small incisions will leave very small circular scars that may completely heal in time.

Experts also agree that another pro to the robotic method is the lack of damage to the bladder and sexual function. A couple of common complaints of a patient who has received a radical prostatectomy are the loss of control over his bladder and the loss of ability to receive or maintain an erection. These side effects and risks are decreased with a robotic prostatectomy.

While the number of men that are diagnosed with prostate every year is increasing, it is important to note that the number of men that will die from the disease decrease every year, thanks to advanced tests, treatment options and education about prostate cancer. It is important to research the symptoms of prostate cancer, but if you think you may be suffering from the symptoms associated with this cancer then you need to see your doctor at your earliest convenience.

According to Dr. Mark Allen (972.612.8037), a urologist in Plano, Texas, “Erectile dysfunction is a problem common in men as they age. It’s a silent problem that doesn’t have to be kept silent. There is treatment for erectile dysfunction and men should explore all of their options before settling on living with a condition they believe is helpless.”

Erectile dysfunction is termed as the inability to obtain or maintain an erection as is necessary for sexual satisfaction, also called impotence. The severity of the dysfunction varies from one man to another. One man may be able to achieve but not maintain an erection while another may not be able to obtain an erection at all. The variety of severity, and under diagnoses due to a man’s embarrassment about the issue make it hard to establish just how common erectile dysfunction is. But keeping these variables in mind, doctors have still estimated that erectile dysfunction affects 30 million men in the United States.

It is possible for erectile dysfunction to affect a man at any age, but it is pretty uncommon among men less than 40 years of age and only 5% of the national average reflects men of this age group. At age 45-50 the statistic jumps to 15%. Erectile dysfunction affects 20% of men 50-55, and 50% of men between 70-80 years of age.

Erectile dysfunction is an issue that occurs commonly as men age, but there are a few medical factors that can cause it to become more severe, or to strike at an earlier age. Urologists state that factors such as lack of physical activity, excessive alcohol intake, obesity, and smoking directly affect the onset and severity of erectile dysfunction.

Regardless of what can be done to ward off the occurrence of erectile dysfunction, in some cases it is inevitable. The first and most important step to battling this issue is to see your urologist. You may be in early enough stages to treat your impotence with medication. Urologists commonly prescribe medication such as Viagra, Levitra, and Cialis, which are taken orally and may help receive an erection.

If the stage of your impotence is beyond medication then you and your doctor may decide to talk about implant treatment for erectile dysfunction. For patients with moderate to severe erectile dysfunction there is an option to receive a penile prosthesis.

A penile prosthesis is surgically implanted in a careful surgery and has been proven to help a man regain his ability to achieve an erection. There are currently two types of penile prosthesis, the semi-rigid non-inflatable, and the inflatable. The semi-rigid is a series of flexible rods that are surgical implanted to support the penis. With these rods, the man is able to manually place the penis in the upward position for intercourse, or downward for daily activities.  The inflatable prosthesis is more complex, but also more successful. With an inflatable penile prosthesis, a pump filled with liquid is placed inside the scrotum. Then a reservoir is placed inside the penis. When a man is ready to receive an erection his simply squeezes the scrotum, and the liquid is transferred to the reservoir inside the penis which causes an erection. When the man is ready to deflate the erections he presses a release valve which returns the liquid to the pump.

Urologist Dr. Allen has a number of penile prosthesis’ to choose from. After careful consideration the decision is between the two of you to decide which option is the best for you. A few of his most commonly used prosthetics are:

AMS Spectra—This is a non-inflatable penis implant. It is a sterile, non-pyrogenic, single-use implant. It includes a pair of cylinders surgically inserted into the penis which is manually positioned by the male. It is easy to use by the male or the partner. It is totally concealed within the body, and is the easiest surgical option. Its general complaint is that it remains firm no matter the position it is placed in.

AMS Ambicor—A 2-Piece Inflatable penis implant. Consists of a pair of reservoirs implanted in the penis, and a single pump bulb implanted in the scrotum. The pump is compressed to receive an erection, and the erection is bent to deflate the prosthesis. It is totally concealed within the body, and is more natural when flaccid then the non-inflatable implant.

AMS 700 Series—A 3-piece inflatable penis implant available in a variety of sizes and models. It consists of a reservoir that is placed within the abdomen, a pump places inside the scrotum, and a pair of cylinders placed inside the penis. This prosthesis is favored among recipients because it expands the girth of the penis, and it feels most like a natural erection when compared with other implants. It is also favored because when flaccid, it looks and feels most natural.

As with all medical procedures, there are advantages and disadvantages to each of these procedures. Your urologist and yourself are the only ones who can decide which, if any of these procedures are right for. Talk to your doctor today, and look forward to feeling more confident.

I Have Low Testosterone, What Does That Mean?

Dr. Mark Allen, MD, a urologist with North Dallas Urology Associates (http://northtexasurologist.com, 972.612.8037), hears the frustrations and complaints from patients that enter his Plano, TX urology office.  A little probing, and it doesn’t take long for Dr. Allen to diagnose the problem:  Have you recently noticed changes to your physique? Are you struggling with finding the energy to get through your daily routine? Has your sexual desire and stamina reached all time lows? Have you recently noticed that your daily tasks have become difficult to complete and hard to focus on?

If your answers to these questions are yes, and you are a middle-aged man, you may be suffering from Low Testosterone. In many cases, having an open discussion with your doctor about your symptoms can lead to possible treatment options (testosterone replacement).

What is Testosterone?

Testosterone is the male hormone that deciphers whether a fetus will have the reproductive organs of a male, or female. While it is the chromosomes of a fetus that decide the sex, it is Testosterone that builds male reproductive organs. Testosterone is released in large amounts in the body of a boy during his pubescent years, and provides him the ability to build muscle, deepen his voice, and creates his sexual desire. Throughout a man’s life it is the regular release of this male hormone that allows a man to maintain these masculine traits. After a male reaches 40 years of age his testosterone begins to decrease by about 3% a year, this is inevitable, and does not affect a man’s physique or lifestyle. An even larger loss of low testosterone in men, however, will cause undesirable side effects.

Low Testosterone in men only affects 1 in every 200 males under 60 years of age. But 20% of men 60 years of age and older suffer from a drastic decrease of these male hormones. Low Testosterone in men has been known to cause such symptoms as: anxiety and mood swings, difficulty concentrating, and a decreased ability to complete everyday intellectual tasks. A man suffering from Low Testosterone may notice weight gain around the lower abdomen or what is commonly referred to as the “beer gut.” When this weight is caused by Low Testosterone, and the male does not receive treatment, he may find it difficult to shed the pounds.

Perhaps the most common complaint among men suffering from Low Testosterone is erectile dysfunction, or the inability to receive and maintain an erection. The male testes produce testosterone, and when they produce a less than normal amount, the male is unable to receive an erection. It is also very common among men with Low Testosterone to complain of little or no sexual desire and/or sexual stamina. Though a loss of pride is not a direct symptom of Low Testosterone, it is no surprise that most men suffering from a loss of these male hormones suffer from this as well. In order to restore your pride, and achieve the successes of years passed, it is important to receive treatment to restore these male hormone levels.

What Causes Low Testosterone in Men?

While it is unavoidable that a man’s Testosterone will begin to decrease in his forties, there are a few things that cause lower than normal levels in men of all ages. Contributors to Low Testosterone are:

• Anti-Depressants/Anti-Psychotics
• Alcoholism
• Chemotherapy, Radiation treatments, and Cancer
• Disease and Illness
• Stress

The first step toward treating your low Testosterone levels is testing the hormones to see if this is indeed the problem. Is it low T? Talk to your doctor about a simple blood test that will provide him the information necessary to treat your Low Testosterone problem. If you would like to test your Testosterone from home, you may purchase a testing kit and do so.  If the test results prove that you are indeed suffering from Low Testosterone, do not be discouraged.

Dr. Mark Allen, MD, of Plano, TX notes that low testosterone levels can be replaced through various types of testosterone replacement therapy. One such therapy is the insertion of testosterone pellets. According to Dr. Allen, “Low testosterone can be treated with the insertion of testosterone pellets. These small, compressed, Tic-Tac sized pellets are injected under the skin (most often in the buttock just below the waistline). It is a very easy procedure and leaves a very minimal scar. The dose varies according to blood levels and other factors. Most patients will see improvement in their symptoms within a few short weeks.”

Low Testosterone does not have to change your life. With the proper testosterone replacement treatment, and with the care of your physician, it is possible to replace these lost male hormones, and regain your pride, and a sense of normalcy once again. Discuss your options with your doctor and decide what would be the best solution for you.

Dr. Mark Allen MD, a north Texas urologist (http://northtexasurologist.com) with North Dallas Urology Associates, often finds himself discussing issues with women during their visits to his Plano, TX office surrounding pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic floor reconstruction.

Ask the average woman about female pelvic health concerns like urinary incontinence or fibroids and she’s likely to have at least a basic knowledge of these conditions. Ask her about pelvic organ prolapse and she may look back at you with a blank stare.  These are conditions that are quite common in women, especially after childbirth, where a considerable amount of pressure has been placed on the pelvic region, but yet are rarely discussed until symptoms increase and begin to interfere with normal daily routines.

More than 30 million women suffer from pelvic organ prolapse, which occurs when pelvic structures, such as the bladder, uterus or rectum, bulge or protrude into the vaginal wall. Most women will complain of discomfort in this region and will often experience vaginal pressure, abdominal pain, urinary incontinence, painful intercourse and a constant feeling that something has “fallen”.

“In the case of a prolapsed bladder, it is common in women who have given childbirth or with the natural aging process,” says Dr. Allen. “The front wall of the vagina supports the bladder. After childbirth, or when a woman ages, this wall will naturally loosen and weaken. In some case, it will prolapse which means it is no longer supported and descends into the vagina. The result of a prolapsed bladder, are problems such as urinary difficulties and stress incontinence. In the case of other organs, the same incidences can occur.”

“When a woman experiences pelvic organ prolapse for the first time, it creates stress and confusion. The pain associated with prolapse is considerable,” says Dr. Allen.  “Often, women will refrain from exercise, sexual intercourse and will limit their overall physical activity because of the condition and the discomfort it causes. Many are afraid to use the restroom because it exasperates the prolapse.”

Types of Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Pelvic organ prolapse can occur in several ways. Vaginal vault prolapse can occur alone or along with a cystocele (dropping of the bladder into the vagina); urethrocele (sagging of the urethra into the vagina); rectocele (pushing of the rectum into the vaginal wall); or enterocele (bulging of the small intestine into the vaginal wall).  All of these conditions are treatable. A woman who experiences symptoms associated with these conditions should consult a medical professional. There are numerous treatment options available to consider.

Treatment Options for Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Treatments available for prolapse depend on the type of prolapse that is presented and its severity. Pelvic floor exercises called Kegel exercises or a vaginal pessary device placed into the vagina to support surrounding structures, are two traditional, non-surgical treatments.

There are now many surgical options available for women who suffer from pelvic organ prolapse. Surgical devices manufactured by American Medical Systems and new techniques have made considerable strides in recent years and physicians now can offer a number of long-term solutions. Many physicians will choose to use a mesh — either synthetic, biologic or both — to provide support for the organs necessary to restore nearby organs to their normal anatomical position.

“The mesh is a soft apparatus and has large pores designed to allow body tissue to grow into it, providing a framework of support,” explains Dr. Allen. “The use of surgical mesh is not new. It has been used in surgery for many years to help correct a prolapsed bladder (cystocele treatment) and other organ prolapses in the pelvic region. The use of the mesh proved to work successfully in many of my patients.”

Living with Pelvic Organ Prolapse

It is important for women to understand that pelvic organ prolapse can be made worse by anything that puts pressure on the belly, such as obesity, constipation, pelvic region fibroid tumors and frequent coughing.  Cutting back on caffeine is also recommended because it acts a diuretic and can cause frequent urination. One should avoid heavy lifting or any other activity that puts stress on the pelvic muscles.

For those women who have more than one type of prolapse, all can often be repaired during one surgical procedure using a mesh for cystocele treatment, rectal or other. “The best news about pelvic organ prolapse is that women do not have to live with it or its associated pain and discomfort,” continues Dr. Allen. “New surgical options are available that are safe and highly effective.”

Dr. Mark Allen, MD is a Dallas-based urologist. He was interviewed for this article.

Dr. Mark Allen, MD, a urologist in Plano, TX, sees men everyday and counsels them

For couples contemplating a vasectomy as a form of permanent birth control, it is important to discuss all of the factors with your doctor so that you can make an informed decision as to whether or not the procedure is right for you. (photo courtesy of Mike Baird, Creative Commons, Flickr)

as they are faced with a very important decision–whether or not to have a vasectomy.

So consider this:  You are at a point in your life where you have healthy children, they are out of diapers, perhaps already in elementary school; life is normal and calm. Your wife uses birth control but wishes to stop using her current contraception method. It is an important time that many men and women will ultimately face—whether or not the man wishes to move forward and have a vasectomy. While it can be a tough, and sometimes an emotional choice for both the man and the woman, it is an effective and very common choice made by thousands of married couples each year. The more a couple knows about the vasectomy procedure and the effects of vasectomy, the more at ease they will become during the process.

Dr. Mark Allen, MD, a urologist who practices in the Plano, Frisco and Richardson, Texas areas, offers the following answers to some of the most common questions relating to a vasectomy.

What is a Vasectomy Procedure?

A vasectomy is a surgical procedure that provides a man with permanent fertility control; it has been successfully used for a number of years and has become one of the most common urological procedures in the U.S. with more than 500,000 vasectomies performed each year.  During the in-office, short procedure, the tube (known as the vas deferens) leading from each testicle is cut and sealed off. By sealing the vas deferens, sperm can no longer reach the prostate where it would normally mix with semen and potentially cause a pregnancy in his female partner.

Common Reasons to have a Vasectomy

• You want to enjoy sex without the worry of becoming pregnant
• You are done having children and/or do not wish for anymore
• Your partner has health issues that make pregnancy risky
• You and your partner do not wish to use standard birth control
• You want to save your partner the more extensive surgery involved in tubal ligation, as well as the extra expense

How Effective is a Vasectomy in Preventing Pregnancy?

A vasectomy procedure is very safe and much less expensive than female tubal ligation. Once a vasectomy has been performed, the patient must come back on more than one occasion as designated by the physician so that a semen analysis can be performed. These tests will determine the amount of sperm contained in the semen after the procedure. It may take a dozen or more ejaculations and up to two months before the semen is sperm free. Once the sperm is nonexistent in the semen—which is the point and overall result of a vasectomy—then fertilization and pregnancy cannot occur. According to WebMD, a vasectomy is a very effective allowing for a very high—99.85%–birth control effective rate.

Does a Vasectomy Change Sexual Intercourse for a Man?

No. After the vasectomy procedure is performed, and all of the necessary steps have been taken to ensure sterilization, a man will continue to have normal intercourse and will climax and reach orgasm just as before. The ejaculation that follows the orgasm will also look and feel normal. The only difference is that his semen will not contain sperm and he cannot father a child following a vasectomy.

Will a Vasectomy Change a Man’s Hormone Structure?

No.  There are no effects of vasectomy that change hormone structure. Even though a vasectomy will block the delivery of sperm, it will not and does not change hormone structure. This means that the secondary sex characteristics of a man such as facial hair, sex drive, libido, ability to have an erection and ability to climax and orgasm will not change after a vasectomy procedure.

Where Does the Sperm Go?

How do the effects of vasectomy handle the sperm? Most men will ask this question at some point during the vasectomy process. The truth is that the body simply absorbs unused sperm cells. After the procedure, while the testicals will continue to produce sperm, they will not be able to travel through the vas deferens and thus cannot leave the body in the semen. The body will naturally absorb sperm and there will be no side effects to the man.

What is a “No-Scalpel” Vasectomy?

The latest advancement in vasectomy procedures is the “No-Scalpel” vasectomy technique. In the traditional method, a scalpel is used to cut through the scrotum using incisions to cut the vas deferens. Sutures would then be used to close the incision site. Many doctors—as well as patients—favor and prefer the No-Scalpel method because unlike the traditional approach, a scalpel is not required and only one or two tiny punctures is made in the skin.

How Long Does the No-Scalpel Procedure and Recovery Take?

The No-Scalpel vasectomy procedure is performed in-office, with a local anesthetic, and most often only takes about 15-20 minutes. The procedure causes less discomfort than a traditional vasectomy and also allows for a shorter recovery time. The procedure is likely to produce slight discomfort, tenderness, and mild swelling in the first two or three days afterwards; the patient should rest and lay down vertically for the first couple of days to eliminate additional swelling and pain. Most patients will return to all usual activities within a week.

How Effective is a No-Scalpel Vasectomy?

A No-Scalpel vasectomy is equally effective as a traditional vasectomy. Both vasectomy methods rank among the highest procedures for protection from pregnancy.

Is a No-Scalpel Vasectomy Expensive?

The No-Scalpel vasectomy procedure can run anywhere from $500 to $1,300—however, many insurance programs will cover this cost. In some instances, all that might be required is a simple co-pay. Be sure to ask your insurance provider what costs are covered for a traditional vasectomy as well as a No-Scalpel vasectomy. It is important to note that the cost for a vasectomy is much less expensive than tubal ligation, which is the female sterilization method.

Can a Vasectomy be Reversed?

While procedures and surgeries do exist (vasovasostomy) to attempt to reverse a vasectomy, a successful reversal cannot always be guaranteed.  Therefore, when a man considers a vasectomy as a method of sterilization and birth control, he should consider it a permanent move.

So, When Considering a Vasectomy, Remember:

• Talk to your friends, discuss the procedure with your doctor and do your research. The more informed you are, the more comfortable you will be with the process.
• A vasectomy is a simple, safe procedure with very low risks and complications; there are limited side effects of vasectomy, while at the same time, it is a very effective procedure.
• Vasectomies are performed every single day in just about every urologist office in the U.S.  Most urologists perform several of these procedures in a single day.
• Results (complete sterilization) are not immediate; testing and additional analysis must be conducted and it may be weeks before sterility is complete.
• The No-Scalpel method is the preferred vasectomy method today.
• A Vasectomy does not change sex drive; the ability to perform or enjoy sex and it does not interfere with hormonal activity within the body.
• There is no guarantee that a vasectomy can be reversed later; a vasectomy should be considered permanent.

For more information on the vasectomy process, please contact Dr. Mark Allen, Plano, Texas Urologist, at 972.612.8037.

Are you a man experiencing the symptoms of erectile dysfunction? If so, there are treatment options available.

Dr. Mark Allen, MD, a Dallas, TX-based urologist (972.612.8037), offers erectile dysfunction treatment for men suffering from erectile dysfunction (ED)—also known as impotence—which is the inability of a man to achieve or maintain an erection that is firm enough for sexual intercourse. Erectile dysfunction is an on-going problem and often leads to a decrease in sexual desire; the condition can cause emotional stress and anxiety and can deeply affect a relationship.

Most men will experience some form of erectile dysfunction after the age of 40 and will not be psychologically affected by it. Frequently, men who have chronic erectile dysfunction are ashamed to discuss the condition with their doctors.

According to Dr. Mark Allen, MD, “It is important for men to reach out to their physicians to discuss their ED symptoms because many times there is an underlying medical problem such as diabetes, heart disease and certain prostate conditions that can be directly linked to the condition. While stress, anxiety and psychological or mental health issues can worsen the symptoms, in most cases, the problem is caused by something physical. There is a clear link between erectile dysfunction and these medical conditions.”

Erectile Dysfunction Treatment

There are many erectile dysfunction treatment options on the market today. The first step most doctors will take is to make sure any undiagnosed medical health problem is treated. In many cases, these problems can cause or worsen ED. In addition, patients on medications or drugs for other unrelated health conditions should consider decreasing the dosage if these drugs are proven to have harmful side effects.

Oral medications—such as Viagra, Cialis and Levitra—offer successful erectile dysfunction treatment for many men. These drugs enhance the effect of nitric oxide, which is a natural chemical produced by the body that relaxes the muscles within the penis. Each medication varies and is offered in different dosages.

If oral medications fail to work, there are some new erectile dysfunction treatment options that have proven to be successful. A penis pump, or vacuum devise, is available to help create an erection enlarging the penis manually through a hand-powered or battery-powered pump. This pump creates a vacuum that pulls blood into the penis resulting in an erection that typically lasts long enough for intercourse.

The newest erectile dysfunction treatment method being offered by urologists offers a 90% effective rate for men suffering from chronic impotence. The AMS penile implant devise for erectile restoration is offered for men who have exhausted all other treatment options.

The AMS penile implant treatment, performed as an out-patient procedure under general anesthesia, involves surgically placing inflatable cylinder devices into both sides of the penis. These devises consist of semi-rigid rods made from either polyurethane or silicone. Two additional pieces are also used: A reservoir containing liquid and a pump is also connected to the system and is placed under the loose skin of the scrotal sac, between the testicles. To inflate the prosthesis, a man simply presses on the pump that transfers liquid from the reservoir to the cylinders. When this occurs, an erection is the result. When sexual intercourse is over, pressing on the deflation valve will deflate the prostheses.

Dr. Mark Allen, MD, offers the AMS devise to his patients. There are several devises to choose from but they each offer the same result. “To most, a penile implant is not visibly noticeable from the outside of the body. That is a big plus for my patients because it looks natural. For men who have had inactive, unsatisfying sex lives, the penile implant devise offers a permanent, long-term solution. The devise does not alter a man’s ability to reach orgasm and ejaculation is not affected. More than 85% of my patients who have had the penile implant procedure have experienced great success and a return of normalcy to their success lives,” says Dr. Mark Allen.

While modern treatments are proving to offer effective remedies for erectile dysfunction, it’s important for men to do their part as well. Certain lifestyle choices are directly related to impotence. If you smoke, quit. If you are overweight, choose a healthier lifestyle and get regular exercise. Drinking too much or taking certain drugs can also worsen erectile dysfunction. Psychological problems in a relationship can cause anxiety, depression and stress—these factors increase the symptoms associated with erectile dysfunction.

Whether the cause of your erectile dysfunction is physical, psychological or both, there are options for you. Make an appointment with your doctor today and learn which erectile dysfunction treatment is right for you.

About the writer:

Kristy Theis is the Medical Content Editor for eMedicalMedia and is a Dallas-based freelance communications writer. Dr. Mark Allen, MD, contributed to this feature.

The Calypso 4d Localization Radiation System | GPS for the Body | Radiation Treatment for Prostate Cancer | Plano, Dallas, Frisco

Author: Kristy Theis

Through a simple PSA blood test, Dr. Mark Allen, MD (972.612.8037), a urologist with North Dallas Urology Associates, was able to quickly diagnose Michael* with prostate cancer. As an active 48-year old husband, father and president of a mid-size manufacturing plant, the diagnosis came as a complete shock. With no real symptoms, Michael’s prostate cancer was caught early, however, because it was a more aggressive tumor, the ‘watch and wait’ recommendation that is at times given to younger patients was not an option.

“The news was very difficult for me to accept. We just sent our youngest daughter off to college and as new empty nesters, my wife and I were ready to travel and begin a series of remodeling projects around our house. Instead, I was in for a fight against cancer. I began my long and in-depth search for the right treatment that would allow me to live my life as I knew it before the diagnosis.”

After consulting with his Dallas-based urologist and a variety of oncologists, Michael opted for radiation therapy using the Calypso 4D Localization System. Reluctant to have surgery, Michael learned through a team of oncologists that radiation therapy can be equally as effective as surgery in treating patients with prostate cancer.

The Calypso 4D Localization System is quickly becoming the treatment of choice for thousands of men faced with prostate cancer. It offers a therapeutic approach that cures the cancer while allowing them to remain active and fully functioning.

Dr. Mark Allen, MD, a urologist with North Dallas Urology Associates, treated Michael for his prostate cancer. Dr. Allen, who is one of the only doctors in the Dallas/Fort Worth market who offers the Calypso treatment, said, “Most of my prostate cancer patients want two things: they want reduced side effects as a result of the cancer treatment and they want to keep their quality of life. The Calypso radiation technology uses real-time tracking which is immensely important because it enables us to deliver high amounts of radiation directly to the tumor while sparing all other organs from any exposure. This reduces the side effects which improves their quality of life.”

For Michael, incontinence and a decrease in sexual activity were huge concerns in regards to the side effects he might suffer from surgery or other radiation therapies. While there is no guarantee with any prostate cancer treatment or procedure in eliminating or reducing known side effects, the Calypso has a notably high success rate in serious treatment-related symptoms.

How the Calypso 4D Localization System Works

For Michael, and millions of other men diagnosed with prostate cancer, there are a few facts to know that will come as a surprise in terms of radiation therapy. The organs within the body move naturally; during radiation therapy a doctor cannot accurately predict which way these organs will move. If the organs move during radiation treatment, they risk receiving the radiation that is not meant for them.

The Calypso system is known throughout the medical community as the GPS for the body. With a tiny beacon that is inserted into the tumor, the physician is able to align the radiation directly and precisely to the tumor. This precise and real-time tracking has clinically been proven to raise the quality of life and reduce the side effects associated with prostate cancer radiation therapy.

For Michael, Calypso radiation therapy treatment proved to be a successful treatment option for his cancer. Sexual activity has remained active and as normal as possible and there are no out-of-the-ordinary urinary-related side effects associated from the cancer treatment.

Dr. Allen continues to see an increase in cancer patients who—if given the choice—choose the Calypso over other common forms of treatment. “I give all of my patients the pros and cons to each treatment options. Depending on where they are in their life, how active they are and the kind of lifestyle they lead ultimately helps us to narrow down the treatment procedure. For many of my patients who are in the same situation as Michael, the Calypso is a great and accurate prostate cancer treatment alternative.”

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/medicine-articles/the-calypso-4d-localization-radiation-system-gps-for-the-body-radiation-treatment-for-prostate-cancer-plano-dallas-frisco-2696672.html

About the Author

Kristy Theis is a Plano, Texas-based communications freelance writer specializing in b2b, consumer and vertical trade copy suitable for both print and Internet. She has over 14 years experience in the fields of marketing, PR and copywriting and currently serves as the content editor for emedicalmedia.com.