Reconstructive Urology
LOCATION: WVU Medicine - Ruby Memorial Hospital, Morgantown, WV
PRECEPTOR: John Barnard, MD
DURATION: 2 or 4 weeks
OFFERED: Continuously
MAXIMUM ENROLLMENT: 2
STATUS: Elective
Overview:
This elective introduces students to complex urologic reconstruction, including urethral stricture repair, incontinence surgery, and management of neurogenic bladder. Students will engage in clinic evaluations, operative procedures, and multidisciplinary planning. This rotation is suited for students interested in surgery, urology, and genitourinary reconstruction.
Patient Care:
Conduct comprehensive histories and perform focused exams for patients with urethral stricture, urinary incontinence, and neurogenic bladder. Interpret diagnostic tests including cystoscopy, urodynamics, and pelvic floor imaging. Discuss indications and techniques for urethroplasty, sling procedures, AUS placement, and complex reconstruction. Participate in perioperative care for male and female reconstructive cases. Counsel patients on realistic expectations and long-term outcomes.
Medical Knowledge:
Identify the pathophysiology and management of lower urinary tract dysfunction and genitourinary trauma. Explain surgical principles for tissue handling, graft harvesting, and reconstruction. Review guidelines on male stress incontinence, urethral strictures, and pelvic organ prolapse. Discuss complications and revisions in reconstructive surgery. Recognize gender-affirming and complex revision surgery concepts.
Practice-Based Learning:
Review operative videos and anatomical diagrams relevant to reconstruction. Present a case or topic at a urology conference or educational meeting. Reflect on surgical exposure and integrate feedback into skill development. Read foundational and emerging literature on reconstructive techniques.
Communication Skills:
Communicate effectively with patients about sensitive topics such as continence and sexual function. Collaborate with urology, colorectal, gynecology, and physical therapy teams. Present cases and operative plans during morning rounds and surgical briefings. Document procedures and postoperative plans clearly in the EMR.
Professionalism:
Display empathy and sensitivity in patient discussions. Maintain confidentiality and professionalism in all settings. Demonstrate commitment to patient-centered care.
Systems-Based Practice:
Explain access and insurance challenges in reconstructive surgery. Identify appropriate rehabilitation and follow-up resources. Participate in discussions on healthcare delivery models in surgical reconstruction.
METHODS TO ACHIEVE OBJECTIVES:
This is an in-person hospital-based rotation. Students will actively participate in: Outpatient Clinics: Evaluate patients with voiding dysfunction, incontinence, and strictures. Inpatient Rounds: Manage perioperative care for reconstructive urology patients. Surgical Exposure: Observe and assist in urethroplasty, AUS placement, and sling surgeries. Urodynamics Lab: Participate in performance and interpretation of studies. Didactic Sessions: Attend lectures and review surgical videos.
EXAMINATION PROCEDURES AND EVALUATION CRITERIA:
Formative Assessment:
A mid-rotation face-to-face evaluation will be conducted to review progress and provide constructive feedback.
Summative Assessment:
Final evaluation will include the standard elective student evaluation form and narrative that targets student’s completion of the rotation learning objectives.
PRIOR TO THE FIRST DAY OF THE ROTATION:
Please contact Morgan Myers, morgan.myers@hsc.wvu.edu at least 2 weeks prior to the start of the rotation.