Features
Reflections on 20 years as an Army Reserve doctor: live a life less ordinary
It seems a very short time ago that my predecessor recruited me into my regiment as a surgical senior house officer during a varicose vein operation in a cottage hospital in Stroud, informing me that I would be only the...
Guide to gaining approval for a clinical study
This article focuses on gaining approval for clinical research involving NHS patients, although the principles can be applied to other types of research. It can be quite a daunting process for the uninitiated applicant. Often it can be made less...
What to expect when meeting a statistician
There are a growing number of statisticians working closely with medics from all specialties. They have different training but they are driven by the same goal: to perform high quality evidence-based clinical research [1,2]. In a perfect world we would...
An MA in medical education – is it for you?
I have recently completed a three-year MA in medical education at the University of Winchester, which has been an edifying experience. The following article may appeal to readers who are considering such a venture. I have been a consultant for...
Theatre utilisation in urology theatres at a UK tertiary referral centre
Introduction The efficient use of operating theatres is important to ensure optimum cost-benefit for the hospital and to clear waiting lists. The key elements in the efficient use of operating theatres are: effective management and good communication, trained staff, appropriate...
Metastatic spinal cord compression – a review
Introduction Metastatic spinal cord compression (MSCC) is an oncological emergency that, unless diagnosed early and treated appropriately, can lead to significant morbidity and mortality, including paralysis and bladder and bowel dysfunction. MSCC can be defined as spinal cord or cauda...
Inpatient care of patients with established spinal cord injury - what a general urologist needs to know
Introduction Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating, life-changing condition, which is currently irreversible. Depending on the level of the spinal cord affected (and whether the lesion is complete or incomplete), patients may subsequently develop reduced voluntary motor function, sensory...
