Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), commonly known as an enlarged prostate, is a non-cancerous growth of the prostate gland.
The prostate is a small gland located just below the neck of the bladder. The urethra, which carries urine as it exits the body, passes through the prostate gland.
BPH is a common condition that affects many men as they age. It can lead to uncomfortable urinary symptoms such as:
- Frequent urination
- A weak urine stream
- Difficulty starting urination
- Urgency to urinate
- Feeling like the bladder is not empty after urination
- Waking up at night to urinate
- Straining to urinate
- Urine leakage
- Sexual dysfunction
If you have any of these symptoms, it is a good idea to consult your doctor. The correct diagnosis and treatments for BPH can lessen or eliminate symptoms.
Understanding Minimally Invasive Procedures
Minimally invasive treatments for BPH are procedures that are less intrusive compared to traditional surgical methods. They typically involve:
- Smaller incisions
- Less pain or discomfort
- A quicker recovery time
- Less damage to surrounding tissue
- Reduced postoperative complications
Minimally invasive BPH approaches aim to reduce symptoms with the least amount of discomfort and disruption to your life.
Treatments for BPH
1. iTind
The iTind is a temporary implant procedure where a device is placed in the prostate to reshape it. During the five to seven-day treatment, the implant opens up the obstructed pathway that affects urine flow. The device is removed after about a week, and you can expect to see your symptoms improve quickly.
The iTind is anesthesia-free and can be done in an office setting. The treatment requires no heating or removal of prostate tissue, preserves sexual function, and presents minimal side effects.
2. Rezūm
Rezūm uses water vapor therapy to treat BPH. During this procedure, natural water vapor is delivered into the enlarged prostate tissue. This causes the problematic cells to die and shrinks the size of the prostate.
Rezūm is a quick, in-office procedure. It allows men to retain sexual function and has shown significant improvement in symptoms and urine flow rates. Incisions are not required, general anesthesia is unnecessary, and the majority of patients resume their usual activities in just a few days.
3. UroLift
With UroLift, tiny implants are used to lift and hold the enlarged prostate tissue out of the way, thus improving the urine flow. It doesn’t involve cutting, heating, or removal of the prostate tissue.
The UroLift Delivery Device is inserted through the obstructed urethra to access the enlarged prostate. UroLift is known for its minimal downtime and preservation of sexual function. Recovery is quick, and the procedure offers a low risk of side effects.
4. GreenLight Laser Therapy
GreenLight Laser Therapy uses a laser to remove the excess prostate tissue blocking the urethra, improving urine flow. It is performed under anesthesia. A guided scope with a small fiber is used to quickly and gently vaporize prostate tissue.
This treatment option allows for a quick relief of symptoms and improved urine flow. Results are often long-lasting.
Which Treatment Is Right for Me?
If you’re experiencing symptoms, consider discussing these minimally invasive treatments for BPH with your urologist.
Your doctor will discuss the benefits and risks of your treatment options and they will help you choose a treatment that addresses your needs, which can pave the way for effective symptom control and a quick return to your routine.
The path to relief begins with a consultation with one of our urologists. Call 843.347.2450 today to schedule an appointment.