ObjectivesTo assess the practice of testicular prosthesis insertion (TPI) related to orchidectomy in one geographical region and to identify the difference in the rates of insertion among different age groups.Patients and methodsMales who underwent orchidectomy between 1989 and 2009 were identified from data collected from Scottish Morbidity Records. Patients were classified into six age groups. The TPI rate and relation to original orchidectomy were analysed according to different age groups.ResultsIn all, 3364 patients underwent orchidectomy in the 20-year period of the study. The most common indications for orchidectomy were atrophy, undescended testes, torsion, and tumour. In the same period, 530 patients had a TPI, with 59.4% of them (316 patients) having TPI at initial surgery, 17.3% (92) as a second surgical procedure, and 22.8% (122) having the TPI without prior history of orchidectomy. Among patients who underwent TPI, postpubertal males were more likely to have simultaneous insertion at the time of orchidectomy than prepubertal males (83% vs 32%; odds ratio 10.44, 95% confidence interval 5.23–20.82; P < 0.01).ConclusionYounger males are more likely to have TPI at a later date. Paediatric urologists should be mindful of the possibility of concurrent TPI at the time of initial scrotal/groin exploration.

Guidewires are commonly used in clinical practice over a wide range of specialties. Their use has become more popular as a result of advances in endourology and interventional radiology, as well as in angiographic procedures. While there are many papers regarding individual guidewires and certain technical aspects, for the interested clinician there is little to give a generalized overview within the literature. This paper aims to review guidewires in terms of their make-up, applications and potential complications. Technical points are described, as well as rescue methods for complications, in the hope of preventing future litigation for those reading the paper.

A single episode of haematospermia is usually benign. Flexible cystoscopy and abdominal ultrasound appear valueless. Assessment should consist of clinical examination (including testicular), DRE and PSA testing. It can safely be managed in the community and only referred in the presence of, abnormal examination, elevated PSA or recurrent symptoms.

No abstract

Contrast-enhanced computed tomography urography has become possible because of the development of multidetector technology, which has evolved to try and increase its diagnostic efficacy and reduce the radiation exposure. This review outlines the applications of computed tomography urography in day-to-day urology practice.