Optilume is a minimally invasive treatment designed to ease the symptoms of a common and challenging urological condition: urethral strictures. Because this condition causes frustrating symptoms, it can damage urinary health, affecting comfort and everyday life.
About Urethral Strictures
A urethral stricture occurs when the urethra becomes narrowed due to scar tissue. This can happen for several reasons, including:
- Previous injury to the pelvic area or urethra
- Inflammation or infections that lead to scarring
- Surgeries involving the urinary tract
- Catheterization
Common urethral stricture symptoms are:
- A noticeable reduction in urine flow
- A burning or stinging sensation during urination
- The inability to fully empty the bladder
- Frequent infections
Without treatment, urethral strictures can worsen, causing major urinary problems and damage to the bladder or kidneys. It can also make everyday life harder by interrupting work, making it challenging to travel, or disrupting sleep.
How Does Optilume Help?
Optilume is a standout treatment because it doesn’t just address your symptoms. It also addresses the root cause of the problem. It offers an innovative way to:
- Ease urinary symptoms
- Support better urinary function
- Help you live more comfortably
Optilume uses balloon dilation to open the urethra and clear obstructions. It also delivers drugs directly to the site. This combined approach relieves symptoms and helps prevent recurring issues, offering longer-lasting results.
What Happens During the Optilume Procedure?
The Optilume procedure is usually done with local anesthesia and light sedation to keep you comfortable. This means you’ll stay awake during the procedure but won’t feel much discomfort.
A specialized balloon catheter is inserted into the urethra and guided to the site of the narrowing or obstruction. Once in place, the balloon is inflated to gently dilate or widen the narrowed area. The balloon is coated with paclitaxel, a medication that stops the formation of scar tissue, keeping the urethra open and functional over time.
This unique combination of mechanical and medicinal therapy ensures immediate and lasting relief.
Most men experience minimal downtime after the procedure and can return to normal activities within a few days. You may notice some mild discomfort, but this typically resolves quickly.
Your urologist will schedule follow-up visits to ensure the treatment has been effective and to monitor your progress.
Why Do Men Choose Optilume?
A minimally invasive procedure
Optilume is designed to be a simple outpatient procedure. This means you can go home the same day instead of staying overnight in a hospital. Most men recover quickly, experiencing only minor discomfort. It’s minimally invasive, requiring no large incisions or a long recovery. It tends to be a much gentler option than traditional surgery.
Provides effective symptom relief
If you’ve been struggling with urinary symptoms caused by urethral issues, Optilume can provide significant relief. Clinical studies show that many men experience better urinary flow and fewer bothersome symptoms after treatment.
Offers long-lasting results
One unique feature of Optilume is the addition of paclitaxel, a medication delivered directly to the treated area. This helps prevent the buildup of scar tissue that often causes urinary problems to return. Optilume treats the cause, not just the symptoms. It offers lasting benefits and reduces the need for repeat treatments. For many, it’s the perfect middle ground between medication and more invasive procedures.
There is a low risk of sexual side effects
Unlike some treatments that might impact your sexual health, Optilume is different. It has a very low risk of affecting erectile or ejaculatory function. This means you can get relief from urinary symptoms without having to worry about compromising your intimate health.
Optilume FAQs
Who is a good candidate for Optilume?
Optilume is ideal for men with moderate to severe urethral stricture symptoms. It may be a good choice for those who want to avoid invasive surgery or long-term medications. Your urologist will perform a thorough evaluation to determine if this treatment is suitable for you.
How does Optilume compare to traditional surgical options?
Unlike traditional surgery, Optilume is minimally invasive. It avoids the risks and longer recovery times often associated with procedures like urethroplasty.
Are there any risks or side effects associated with Optilume?
While Optilume is generally safe, some patients may experience mild discomfort, slight bleeding, or urinary urgency shortly after the procedure. Serious complications are rare. Your urologist will discuss any potential risks with you beforehand.
