Community Connection: Urology Services at McKenzie Health

Urology Services are Thriving at McKenzie Health

by Dr. Robert Bates, Urologist at McKenzie Health

For those who are unfamiliar, urology is a surgical subspecialty that deals with diseases and conditions of the urinary tract. It includes conditions such as urinary tract infection, leaky urine, frequent urination, kidney stones, male infertility, vasectomy, and a myriad of cancers of the kidney, bladder, prostate, and testicles.

The urologist can manage many urological issues in the office, while others may require surgery. The Specialty Clinic at McKenzie Health accepts patients who self-refer as well as patients referred by other physicians and hospitals throughout Western North Dakota and nearby Eastern Montana.

Patients suffering from kidney stones can be treated right here in Watford City using the latest technology and most up to date techniques including minimally invasive endoscopic laser surgery done through natural openings, without actually making any incisions. Shockwave treatment is also available locally to treat large kidney stones. 

For men and couples who do not wish to have children (or additional children), we provide a “no scalpel” vasectomy. The patient arrives at the clinic on their appointment day, watches a video, speaks to the urologist and then has the procedure, returning home the same day. The whole process takes less than 30 minutes, and most patients report minimal discomfort and returning to work and other activities within 48 hours. 

 Difficulty urinating due to prostate enlargement is a common problem as men age. A simple blood test called a PSA helps the urologist determine if they need to investigate further. Naturally, ruling out prostate cancer is of the utmost importance. One of the very special services offered at McKenzie Health is Fusion Biopsy of the Prostate. This procedure is performed on men with an abnormal/elevated PSA level and assists the urologist in finding prostate cancer at an early stage. A fusion biopsy combines MRI and ultrasound images to help pinpoint potential problem areas in the prostate. The urologist uses a small needle to biopsy these locations. A fusion biopsy is more likely to detect cancer than either an MRI or ultrasound alone. 

 As men age, many experience a decreased or low testosterone level, which is quite treatable. A simple blood test will reveal a patient’s testosterone level and, in most cases, the urologist can treat this with supplementation and monitoring. 

 Another significant part of the urology practice involves treatment of urinary frequency, urgency, and urinary incontinence in women.  Many women with these problems can be helped with a combination of medications and physical therapy, and, on occasion, surgery.  

 Our office staff includes nurses, a physician assistant, and me, a board-certified urologist. We are supported by wonderful staff at McKenzie Health, who are dedicated to the personal and professional care of our patients. 

 Welcome to urology, it would be my pleasure to care for you.