Dr. Philippe Zimmern
4 videos • 1,210 views • by Live UTI Free In this four-part interview series, Philippe Zimmern M.D., a Professor of Urology at University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, introduces us to bladder fulguration for UTI. Dr. Zimmern starts off by taking us through the background of fulguration and why he was inspired to get into the field. Biopsies allowed him and his research team to investigate where bacteria may “hide” within bladder tissue, adding insight into why UTIs may become recurrent or chronic. A procedure typically aimed at people with resistance or allergies to antibiotics, bladder fulguration is usually a straightforward procedure performed under anesthesia. A very low current is applied to suspected infection sites in the bladder to burn them off. Secondly, Dr. Zimmern shares that he typically examines patients six months after fulguration to determine whether visible lesions remain. If there are visible lesions at this point, he may wait another three months or so to decide whether they have progressed to the point that repeat procedures are needed. Fulguration is applicable to the majority of the bladder, but Dr. Zimmern exercises caution with the bladder neck and urethra since scarring there could cause problems like stricture. Next, Dr. Zimmern discusses what successful bladder fulguration looks like. Approximately 60-80% of his patients will see success based on endoscopic success (not seeing any visible lesions at cystoscopy) and reduction in UTI frequency at six months post-procedure. The chance of success will depend on factors like type of bacteria and the extent of the infection. He also shares his view that early cystoscopy can improve fulguration outcomes, since he is more likely to catch an infection before it spreads more widely. In the final part of the interview, Dr. Zimmern takes us through the possible risks involved with fulguration. For example, there is a risk of increased infection due to the cystoscopy and the fulguration process itself. To combat this, he typically prescribes a low-dose prophylactic antibiotic based on the patient’s culture and antibiotic sensitivities. Dr. Zimmern shares some tips for recovery, including taking AZO (pyridium) for pain-relief and avoiding any foods known to personally trigger symptoms. Finally, he shares some information about the costs involved, including for international patients wishing to travel to the US to see him for fulguration. About Dr. Zimmern Philippe Zimmern, M.D., is a Professor of Urology at UT Southwestern Medical Center and the recipient of the Felecia and John Cain Distinguished Chair for Women’s Health in Urology in honor of Dr Philippe Zimmern. His expertise covers urinary incontinence, prolapse, and urinary tract infections. After his Urology training in France, a fellowship at UCLA, and a second Urology training at UCLA, Dr. Zimmern joined the faculty at UT Southwestern in 1995. He is a past President of the Society for Urodynamics and Female Urology (SUFU). Dr. Zimmern co-directs a two-year endowed fellowship program in female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery (FPMRS). He has been a visiting professor in many countries, co-authored nearly 400 publications, 29 surgical movies, and 67 book chapters, and co-edited four textbooks on FPMRS topics. He is FPMRS certified and a member of FACS. He received the inaugural Leaders in Excellence Award at UT Southwestern (2019). Check out the playlist for the entire interview: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list... What is Bladder Fulguration for UTI?: https://youtu.be/SQWwTQFkyL8 What Type of Patient Might Bladder Fulguration Help?: https://youtu.be/cV1cxeVp0hE Success Rate of Bladder Fulguration for UTI: https://youtu.be/pZrUpkmF0eM Bladder Fulguration Risks, Recovery and Costs: https://youtu.be/rwvH5ZlIA2c Find out more about cystocopy and urological procedures: https://liveutifree.com/what-is-a-cys... Check out Anna’s story as she navigated the challenges of a chronic, embedded UTI: https://liveutifree.com/embedded-uti/ Read more about different treatment options for recurrent UTI: https://liveutifree.com/uti-treatment/ About Live UTI Free Live UTI Free is a patient advocacy and research organization. We do not endorse specific treatment approaches, clinicians or diagnostics methods. The content of this video does not provide medical advice. It is intended for informational purposes only. The medical and/or nutritional information is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen. https://liveutifree.com/ Post-production: Melissa Wairimu https://melissawairimu1.wixsite.com/l...