Objectives of the medicine residency training program are to train specialists in internal medicine and to prepare them for board certification. These objectives are achieved through close guidance by senior faculty in advanced clinical medicine, daily group rounds and formal training sessions, seminars and journal discussions. Urology cases are usually seen on the internal medicine service unless arranged as part of a specific clinical trial. Specialized diagnostic procedures are available for urology cases. Nuclear scintigraphy is available to best evaluate kidney function.
Urologists also use fiberoptic video scopes to look directly into the urinary bladder and urethra.
For problems such as urinary incontinence or straining to urinate, special studies of bladder and urethral function may be indicated. A cystometrogram evaluates bladder filling and contraction, whereas urethral pressure studies and electromyographic studies evaluate the strength and length of the urethra. The VTH has recently acquired a Storz Monolith SL20 lithotripsy unit. Inc. The lithotripsy is used for non-invasive dissolution of kidney and ureteral stones in people and has been adapted for animal use. The shock waves generated by the unit may also be applied to the treatment of gallstones, tumors, and chronic orthopedic conditions.