Urology

A message from our division chief

From treating common conditions with advanced technologies to leading research efforts alongside our academic colleagues at UT Southwestern Medical Center, the Urology division mobilizes diverse perspectives and expert knowledge to make life better for patients across the spectrum of case complexity.

As a national leader in minimally invasive and robotic surgery, each surgeon on our team is certified in the da Vinci Robotic Surgical System. We are home to one of the country’s highest volumes of laparoscopic and robotic surgeries for pediatric urology conditions.

Another key to our success in achieving positive patient outcomes is utilizing the expertise of our colleagues through a multidisciplinary approach. The Comprehensive Stone Center is the only program of its kind in North Texas, bolstered by partnerships from our nephrology and nutrition colleagues, as well as skilled nursing support. This includes treating the largest stones through mini percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) and extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), leading-edge treatments that allow our patients to recover quickly under the supervision of our highly specialized team.

The deep knowledge of the intricacies of urological conditions positions our team to be key experts in diagnosing little-known diseases. Hypotonia, ataxia and delayed development syndrome (HADDS) is a recently defined neurodevelopmental condition our team encountered through expert examination in pursuit of a diagnosis for a patient family. Through genetic testing and analysis of urinary dysfunction, our division led the patient’s family to the clarity of a diagnosis and comfort of specialized collaborative treatment, including support from our neurology, occupational therapy, gastroenterology and ophthalmology colleagues.

Acknowledging the lifelong impact of resolution and management of pediatric urological conditions, our division takes great pride in shaping healthy outcomes for our patients.

Craig Peters, M.D.

OUTCOMES

RESEARCH AND INNOVATION

Innovations in pediatric urology: 2024 year in review

This past year, urologists at Children’s Medical Center Dallas, part of Children’s Health, have led innovations transforming pediatric urology care. In partnership with UT Southwestern, we’re proud to share these advancements – which highlight our ongoing mission to make life better for children. Through groundbreaking clinical trials, new treatments and pioneering programs – we continue to be recognized among the nation’s best children’s hospitals.

Read about our latest innovations in pediatric urology below:

Early insights about urinary abnormalities in HADDS

Hypotonia, ataxia and delayed development syndrome (HADDS) is a neurodevelopmental condition still largely unknown across the medical community. Patients often have vesicoureteral reflux and other urinary abnormalities, similar to those of spina bifida. Treating these specific needs is critical to minimize the risk of urinary tract infection, kidney scarring and renal function deterioration. A case study at Children’s Health reveals the complex nuances of identifying and treating HADDS.

Preparing young adults with spina bifida for a future on their own

Patients with spina bifida often struggle to find specialized care when they leave the pediatric setting, risking acute renal issues later in life. Urologists at Children’s Health created the Transitional Spina Bifida program to extend care into young adulthood, connect patients with adult providers and prepare them to manage their own care as adults. The program includes personalized support for patients’ sexual health and a dedicated social worker to help them navigate medications, insurance and other challenges.

Learn more about innovations in pediatric urology at Children’s Health