[Microwave therapy for diseases of the genitourinary organs]

Microwave energy had become a valuable component in the electromagnetic spectrum. Because of its unique energy source, the microwave radiation can penetrate several centimeters into biologic tissue. The energy is absorbed and converted into heat within the tissue. Clinical applications of microwave irradiation fall into two categories; thermotherapy and hyperthermia. Microwave therapy has generated great interest in the field of urology because of its safety, efficiency, and its simplicity as a surgical tool. This review analyses the fundamentals of the science of microwave energy as a therapy and presents an in-depth discussion of its theoretical principles, unique characteristics, appropriateness of application, and its potentiality as a long-term modality for the treatment of urologically-related diseases.