As men age, they may develop a condition where the prostate gland enlarges and causes urinary problems. This condition is called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It affects nearly half of all men by age 50.
The prostate gland, which is normally about the size of a walnut, is located beneath the bladder. It encircles the urethra and can cause frustrating symptoms as it gets larger.
It’s important to note that BPH is not the same as prostate cancer and is not malignant or harmful, though it can be quite inconvenient and disruptive to everyday life.
Common symptoms of BPH include:
- waking up in the middle of the night to urinate
- frequent urination
- a weak urine stream
- difficulty starting to urinate
- dribbling or leaking urine
- the sensation that the bladder is not completely empty after urinating
These symptoms can significantly impact the quality of life for men suffering from BPH. Fortunately, there are treatment options available to manage this condition.
One innovative approach is called UroLift. Unlike methods that involve removing prostate tissue or relying on medication, UroLift is a minimally invasive procedure specifically designed to alleviate lower urinary tract symptoms.
What Is UroLift?
UroLift is a procedure that relieves BPH symptoms without requiring surgical removal of prostate tissue or ongoing medication usage. Instead, it employs implants to lift and hold the prostate tissue aside, relieving pressure on the urethra. With pressure on the urethra gone, urine can flow freely again, reducing BPH symptoms.
The procedure itself is relatively quick. It typically takes less than an hour to complete. It can be performed under either general or local anesthesia, depending on preferences and requirements.
Most patients who undergo a UroLift procedure experience a short recovery time and a quick return to their normal daily activities. Many report an immediate improvement in urinary symptoms.
Advantages of UroLift
- Lower Risk of Erectile Dysfunction: UroLift carries a lower risk of causing new, long-lasting sexual problems that can occur with other BPH therapies such as TURP, laser, and even medication. This preservation of function strongly benefits many men when considering treatment options for BPH.
- Quicker Recovery: Patients who undergo the UroLift procedure often have a fast recovery period. Most individuals can resume their activities soon after the procedure, and they notice prompt relief from BPH symptoms.
- Lower Risk of Complications: UroLift is a minimally invasive procedure that does not involve cutting, heating, or removing prostate tissue. This method reduces the risk of complications and side effects compared to surgical procedures.
- Lasting Results: Clinical studies have shown that UroLift relieves BPH symptoms for up to five years or even longer. This lasting effect can significantly improve quality of life without requiring invasive surgery or long-term medication.
- Cost Effective: UroLift is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, allowing patients to return home on the same day, reducing the inconvenience and costs associated with hospital stays.
How is UroLift Performed?
The UroLift procedure is straightforward. Before the procedure, your anesthesia preference and overall health will help determine whether local, regional, or general anesthesia is administered.
To access the prostate, a urologist inserts an instrument through the urethra. The UroLift implants are placed through the instrument, immediately lifting the prostate and relieving pressure on the urethra. Once the implants are in position, the device is removed, and the procedure is complete.
Consulting a Urologist
If you are experiencing BPH-related symptoms, scheduling an appointment with a qualified urologist is crucial. They can accurately diagnose your condition, discuss treatment options, and determine whether UroLift provides a solution for your situation. Factors such as age, prostate size, overall health status, and symptom severity will be considered before recommending any treatment.
BPH can significantly impact your quality of life; however, treatments like UroLift offer hope. If you’re struggling with BPH symptoms, schedule an appointment to discuss UroLift today!