Ephrem O Olweny, MD
Dr. Ephrem Olweny is a fellowship-trained urologist who specializes in the medical and surgical management of complex urinary stone disease, as well as in minimally invasive surgery for the treatment of malignant and benign diseases of the upper urinary tract and prostate; including but not limited to: benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), hematuria (blood in urine), kidney cancer, kidney stones, UPJ obstruction and upper urinary tract cancer.
He employs the full range of surgical techniques, from advanced robotic and endoscopic surgery to traditional open surgery where necessary, to achieve the best patient outcomes.
Dr. Olweny serves as the Medical Director of Urology at the Hackensack Health & Wellness Center in Clifton. He joined Hackensack Meridian Health from Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, where he was an Associate Professor of Urology, Chief of Endourology, and Director of Urology at Rush Oak Park Hospital.
His training is from some of the nation's most prestigious institutions. He earned his medical degree from Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, completed his urology residency at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), and pursued a highly specialized fellowship in Endourology & Minimally Invasive Urology at UT Southwestern Medical Center.
A dedicated scholar and educator, Dr. Olweny has co-authored more than 90 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters. His research is centered on understanding and optimizing patient-reported outcomes after minimally invasive surgery, as well as on surgical innovation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is an Endourologist?
An Endourologist is a urologist who has completed advanced fellowship training in minimally invasive surgical techniques. This specialty focuses on treating conditions within the urinary tract by using small cameras and instruments passed through the body's natural openings or through a tiny incision. This allows for the effective treatment of complex problems like large kidney stones, ureteral strictures, and tumors with less pain and faster recovery.
2. What are treatment options for large or complex kidney stones?
I specialize in advanced, minimally invasive treatments for all types of kidney stones. For large or complex stones, one of the most effective treatments is percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). This procedure involves making a small, keyhole incision in the back to directly access the kidney and remove the stones in a single session, which is often more effective than other methods for significant stone burdens. Under certain circumstances, robotic-assisted surgery is the most appropriate choice.
3. What is BPH, and what are the treatments for it?
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common, non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that can cause frustrating urinary symptoms in aging men. Treatment is tailored to your symptoms and can range from medications to minimally invasive procedures. I offer a variety of minimally invasive surgical options that are designed to relieve the blockage and restore normal voiding, thereby improving quality of life with minimal downtime.
4. What do you use robotic surgery for?
Robotic-assisted surgery is an advanced form of minimally invasive surgery that I use for complex ablative and reconstructive procedures for benign and cancerous conditions of the upper urinary tract . The robotics platform facilitates enhanced maneuverability and precision during instrument handling and enhanced visualization using high definition 3D optics, greatly expanding capabilities for complex surgical procedures. I perform robotic surgery for procedures such as nephrectomy (kidney removal), partial nephrectomy (removing a kidney tumor while preserving the kidney), pyeloplasty (repairing a UPJ obstruction), pyelolithotomy and others. Patient benefits include smaller incisions, less pain, and a quicker return to normal activities.
5. Where is Dr. Olweny’s office located?
Dr. Olweny sees patients at HMH - Urology Clifton inside the Hackensack Meridian Health and Wellness Center in Clifton, NJ.
6. How can I schedule an appointment with Dr. Olweny?
You can schedule an appointment with Dr. Olweny by booking online or calling his office at 973-230-6666.
Philosophy of Care
My treatment philosophy entails partnering with the patient to best comprehend the full burden of their urologic disease. I understand that these issues can be sensitive and prioritize creating an empathetic space where patients feel comfortable speaking openly.
By combining your personal needs and quality of life goals with the latest medical evidence, we can work together to create a tailored, state-of-the-art care plan.
My commitment is to ensure you feel fully informed and empowered to make the best decision for your health, providing sophisticated care that minimizes discomfort and helps you return to your life as quickly as possible.
