About
Dr. Michael Lawrence Pianezza is a dedicated Urologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the urinary tract in men and women, and the male reproductive system. Practicing at a urology clinic or hospital department in Sudbury, ON, he is an integral part of the local medical community. He provides comprehensive care for a wide range of urological issues, including kidney stones, prostate conditions, bladder problems, and male reproductive health concerns. His practice adheres to the rigorous standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring high-quality, ethical, and patient-centered care. The facility where he works is equipped with modern facilities to provide comprehensive urological care for adult patients of all genders.
Dr. Pianezza graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Ottawa (Canada) and has over 17 years of experience practicing as a Urologist since 2007. He is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), reflecting his extensive training and expertise in urological care. His certifications and ongoing professional development ensure that his practice remains aligned with the latest advancements and guidelines in urology.
Dedicated to delivering patient-centered care, Dr. Pianezza utilizes advanced and minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate, emphasizing evidence-based practice. He is committed to comprehensive patient education, ensuring that his patients understand their conditions and treatment options fully. In addition to English, Dr. Pianezza speaks Italian, facilitating effective communication with a diverse patient population in Sudbury. His approach is compassionate, personalized, and focused on achieving the best possible outcomes for his patients.
Dr. Michael Pianezza addresses a wide range of urological conditions, including:
Female Pelvic Health & Urinary Conditions
- Pelvic Organ Prolapse (Cystocele - Bladder Prolapse): When the bladder drops (prolates) from its normal position in the pelvis and pushes on the wall of the vagina.
- Urge Urinary Incontinence / Overactive Bladder: Sudden, intense urge to urinate followed by involuntary loss of urine.
- Urethral Syndrome / Chronic Urethritis: Symptoms of urethral irritation or inflammation without evidence of bacterial infection.
Urologic Cancers
- Testicular Cancer: Cancer that develops in the testicles, a part of the male reproductive system, most common in young men.
- Kidney Cancer (Renal Cell Carcinoma): Cancer that originates in the kidneys, with renal cell carcinoma being the most common type in adults.
- Bladder Cancer: Cancer that begins in the cells of the bladder, most commonly in the urothelial cells lining the inside of the bladder.
Prostate & Male Genital Conditions
- Erectile Dysfunction (ED): The inability to get or keep an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse.
- Testicular Pain, Masses & Swelling (e.g., Epididymitis, Orchitis, Hydrocele, Varicocele, Testicular Torsion): Various conditions causing discomfort or changes in the testicles or scrotum, requiring urological evaluation.
- Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) / Enlarged Prostate: Non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, common in aging men, causing urinary symptoms.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific urological concerns, please consult with Dr. Michael Pianezza.
- Minimally Invasive Urologic Surgery (Laparoscopic & Robotic-Assisted): Performing complex urological surgeries using small incisions and advanced technology for reduced recovery time (e.g., for prostate, kidney, bladder conditions).
- Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL): Non-invasive procedure using shock waves to break kidney stones into smaller, passable fragments.
- Low Testosterone (Hypogonadism) Management: Diagnosis and treatment of low testosterone levels, including hormone replacement therapy.
- Penile & Urethral Cancer Management: Diagnosis and treatment strategies for less common urogenital cancers.
- Cystoscopy (Diagnostic & Therapeutic): Minimally invasive procedure using a thin, lighted scope to examine the bladder and urethra, with capabilities for biopsy or minor treatments.
- Medical Management & Prevention of Kidney Stones: Dietary counseling, medication, and metabolic evaluation to prevent stone recurrence.
- Laser Surgery for Urological Conditions: Employing various laser technologies for treatments such as BPH (e.g., HoLEP, GreenLight), kidney stones, and bladder tumors.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Pianezza for care relevant to your needs.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and relevant urological care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
Dr. Pianezza's practice is located within a leading urology department in Sudbury's Downtown area, conveniently accessible to residents of Minnow Lake, Ramsey Lake Area, and nearby neighborhoods. The clinic is situated near Cambrian College and the New Sudbury Centre, making it easily reachable for students and shoppers alike. Public transit options are available through GOVA Transit (Greater Sudbury Transit), providing affordable and reliable transportation. The facility is wheelchair accessible to accommodate patients with mobility needs, and parking is available at or near the facility for added convenience.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Pianezza, a Urologist, covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Urologist like Dr. Pianezza, as well as most diagnostic tests (e.g., cystoscopy, urodynamics) and provincially insured surgical procedures, are generally covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Some newer technologies, medications, or elective procedures (like cosmetic urology or certain non-insured infertility treatments) may not be covered or may require special authorization. It's always recommended to discuss coverage specifics with Dr. Pianezza's office or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Pianezza, a Urologist?
- Yes, for most urological consultations and treatments covered by provincial health plans in ON, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to see a Urologist like Dr. Pianezza. This ensures your care is coordinated and appropriate. Some specific services, like vasectomy in certain private clinic settings, might occasionally be accessed directly, but for general urological assessment or provincially insured care, a referral is the standard pathway.
- What are kidney stones and how does Dr. Pianezza treat them?
- Kidney stones are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. They can cause severe pain when they pass through your urinary tract. Treatment depends on the stone's size, type, and location. Small stones may pass on their own with increased fluid intake and pain medication. Larger stones or those causing significant symptoms might require procedures like Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) to break them up, ureteroscopy with laser to remove or break them, or percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) for very large stones. Dr. Pianezza will also work with you on strategies to prevent future stones.
- What treatment options are available for erectile dysfunction (ED) with Dr. Pianezza?
- Erectile dysfunction (ED) has various treatment options available. After evaluating the potential causes, Dr. Pianezza may discuss lifestyle modifications, oral medications (like PDE5 inhibitors), vacuum erection devices, injection therapy (intracavernosal injections), or in some cases, surgical options like penile implants. The best treatment depends on the underlying cause of ED and individual patient factors and preferences.
- What can be done for urinary incontinence?
- Urinary incontinence (loss of bladder control) is a common and often treatable condition. Treatment depends on the type of incontinence (stress, urge, mixed, overflow). Options may include lifestyle changes (e.g., fluid management, bladder training), pelvic floor muscle exercises (Kegels), medications, medical devices (like pessaries for women), nerve stimulation, or surgical procedures (such as sling surgery for stress incontinence). Dr. Pianezza can help determine the cause and best treatment plan for you.
2120 Regent Street South
Sudbury, ON P3E 3Z9
Phone: (705) 222-6444 | Fax: (705) 522-0018
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Pianezza is a licensed Urologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. A referral from a family physician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Pianezza for services covered by the provincial health plan.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Pianezza-Michael-Lawrence/0190198-77722