Prostate is a gland presented in a male’s body. When this gland gets larger in size this condition is called BPH. The prostate of large size can block the bladder neck and the part of the urethra that passes through the prostate, leading to urinary flow issues. Millions of men over 50 suffer from Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) . BPH brings its own symptoms like frequent urination, weak urine stream, or difficulty starting urination or nighttime urgency. With lifestyle changes and medication these symptoms can be manageable for some people , but in some cases an individual seeks a surgery procedure to eliminate the discomfort and symptoms to live a daily hassle free life. There are different procedures that may help.
The good news is that now there are several minimally invasive procedures for BPH available. If we talk about old traditional surgery procedures, many men fear that. As that old traditional procedure comes with its own side effects, it has an invasive impact on mind. Now, new technologies bring quick and accurate outcomes with minimal invasiveness.
BPH Treatment
We know that the prostate gland is an organ, it is comparatively hard to access for surgery or operation. If we look into the BPH history, open operations such as perineal, retropubic and sacral, performed with large incisions. Many patients fear those As these cause bleeding complications, impotence, scarring and mineral salt disturbance. Traditionally for benign prostatic hyperplasia BPH, the procedures are mostly performed with transurethral endoscopy with electrocautery wire loop cutting of prostate tissue.
After the procedure ,some patients might experience extra bleeding. In order to stop the bleeding to cause further problems, a special tube catheter is inserted into the bladder. Catheter helps in washing out the blood and reduces the risk of clots from forming.
Types of Minimally Invasive BPH Treatment
With advancement in medical technologies, there are many new emerging technologies for BPH that led to development of various minimally invasive procedures for BPH. which offers reduced risks and quick recovery. Minimally invasive BPH procedures offer a compelling alternative to TURP. Here are some of the leading techniques
Laser Therapy
Many laser techniques are available for BPH treatment. Laser methods use targeted laser energy to destroy prostate tissue with precision as compared to traditional surgery.
Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP)
HoLEP is a very effective procedure to remove extra prostate tissue with the help of holmium laser.
Green Light Laser Therapy
Green Light Laser therapy vaporized enlarged prostate tissue. It utilizes a high powered laser.
Thulium Laser Therapy
This therapy uses thulium laser to remove tissue precisely. Like HoLEP
Heat-Based Therapies
Transurethral Microwave Thermotherapy (TUMT)
Applies microwave energy to heat and shrink prostate tissue.
Transurethral Radiofrequency Ablation (TURFA)
It uses radiofrequency energy to heat and destroy excess tissue.
Mechanical Procedures
UroLift System
A minimally invasive procedure using implants to lift and hold the prostate tissue out of the way.
Prostatic Urethral Lift (PUL)
Similar to UroLift, using implants to reshape the prostate and relieve urinary obstruction.
Robotic Waterjet Procedure
This cutting-edge technology utilizes a robotic arm to guide a waterjet device that removes excess prostate tissue. Robotic waterjet treatment offers similar benefits to laser procedures, including faster recovery and potentially fewer side effects.
Water Vapor Therapy for BPH (WVTT):
This procedure uses controlled bursts of water vapor to gently remove excess prostate tissue. WVTT boasts a lower risk of sexual side effects compared to TURP and typically requires minimal downtime.
Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE)
This is a newer, minimally invasive technique that involves blocking blood flow to the prostate, causing it to shrink. While PAE shows promise, it’s still under research, and its long-term effectiveness is not yet fully established.
Choosing One Of the Right BPH Procedures
Choosing the right BPH operation involves several factors:
- Severity of symptoms: studies also shown that more invasive procedures may be recommended for severe symptoms.
- Health Conditions: Health conditions also play a crucial role some procedures are not suitable for certain health conditions.
- Personal Preferences and Lifestyle: It also depends on the individual as some might want a quick recovery time, some may prioritize procedure’s effectiveness.
Selecting the right BPH procedure also depends on Individual factor
- Age and overall health
- Prostate size and shape
- Personal preferences and values
An urologist could guide better, considering both medical history and lifestyle preferences.
Benefits of Minimally Invasive Procedures
Minimally Invasive procedures have some certain benefits. Some of these are given below.
Reduced risk of complications
As in minimal invasive procedures, surgeons take care of bleeding and tissue trauma. In this way it eliminates the causes of potential complications.
Faster recovery times (often same-day or next-day discharge)
Patients are most likely considered as outpatients. It allows patients to recover at home at their own convenience.
Less post-operative pain
Patients don’t have to suffer a lot of pain after a procedure for BPH. It helps them to get back on their usual life track.
Improved urinary flow and symptom relief
Studies show these minimal invasive procedures provide significant symptom relief and improve quality of life. Also eliminates discomforts in urinary flow.
Preserves sexual function
These procedures avoid nerve damage, maintain blood flow and precisely remove tissue. That minimizes the risk of any harm to erectile tissue and sexual performance.
Why you should avoid traditional Prostate surgery
Although it is effective , (call it a traditional prostate surgery or prostatectomy) involves removing the enlarged prostate portion through an incision in the abdomen. This is effective in some cases but contains many risks like :
- It can cause blood loss, which can further cause complications.
- There are always chances of infection
- Urinary incontinence
- Some damage tissue can cause erectile dysfunction
- Takes longer recovery times.
The need for minimally invasive alternatives has driven innovation in prostate surgery.
Maintaining Prostate Health Post-Surgery
After any BPH surgery, lifestyle changes should be made to support long lasting health benefits. One should follow the following steps to keep in best fit.
- Regular exercise
- Balance diet
- Regular check ups
- screenings
Conclusion
An enlarged prostate can be a frustrating condition, but it doesn’t have to control your life. Minimally invasive BPH procedures offer effective treatment with faster recovery times and potentially fewer side effects compared to traditional surgery. By working with your doctor, you can explore the options that best suit your needs and regain control of your urinary health. Remember, early diagnosis and intervention are key to managing BPH effectively. Don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with your doctor to discuss your concerns and explore the best course of action for you.