Urology apps: overview of current types and use

INTRODUCTION: In recent years numerous applications have been developed with different purposes, aimed both at simplifying the lives of doctors and patients also within the urological field. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In January 2020 we conducted a search in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. RESULTS: A total of 521 apps were reviewed, an increase of 8 times as compared to the last complete available review of eight years ago. Most of the urological apps are geared towards the patient and provide information and services to improve the understanding and treatment of different diseases. Some of these apps also get the patient directly in touch with healthcare staff allowing for an improvement in doctor-patient communication. CONCLUSIONS: Although the usefulness of many of these tools is undoubted, the problem of scientific validation, content control and privacy are not yet solved.