Aquablation for BPH

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition affecting many men as they get older. Also known as an enlarged prostate, BPH can cause urinary symptoms such as frequent urination, difficulty starting or stopping urination, and a weak stream. While there are several treatment options available, aquablation therapy is one of the latest techniques and is gaining attention for its precision, effectiveness and reduced risk of side effects.

aquablation-for-bph

What is aquablation therapy?

Aquablation is a minimally invasive surgical treatment for BPH that uses a high-pressure water jet to remove excess prostate tissue. The procedure is robotically assisted and guided by real-time imaging, allowing the surgeon to precisely target the area to be treated without using heat. This reduces the risk of damaging surrounding structures, such as those responsible for sexual and urinary function.

How is the procedure carried out?

Aquablation is performed in hospital, typically under general or spinal anaesthetic. A small instrument is inserted into the urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder), so no incisions are needed. Using ultrasound guidance, the surgeon maps out the exact area of the prostate to remove. A robotically controlled water jet then removes the tissue. The procedure usually takes less than an hour.

Often, most patients stay overnight. A catheter is usually needed for three days afterwards to help drain the bladder while it heals.

Who is aquablation suitable for?

Aquablation is generally offered to men with moderate to severe symptoms of BPH who haven’t responded well to medication or who wish to avoid long-term drug treatment. It may be particularly beneficial for men with larger prostates, where other surgical techniques may not be as effective.

Before deciding on aquablation, patients usually undergo a thorough assessment with a urologist, which includes:

A physical examination and symptom review
Urine flow tests
Imaging of the prostate
Blood tests to rule out other conditions

What are the benefits of aquablation?

Aquablation offers several advantages:

Precision – the procedure is highly accurate, reducing the risk of damage to nearby nerves and tissues
Preservation of sexual function – a lower risk of issues such as erectile dysfunction or retrograde ejaculation compared to traditional surgery
Quick recovery – most patients experience symptom relief soon after the procedure, with minimal discomfort
Effective for large prostates – aquablation is safe and successful even in men with larger prostate glands

Are there any risks or side effects?

As with any surgery, there are some risks. These may include temporary blood in the urine, urinary tract infections or the need for a short-term catheter. However, serious complications are rare. Your urologist will explain all risks in detail based on your personal health profile.

What happens after the procedure?

Most men experience a noticeable improvement in urinary symptoms within a few weeks. Follow-up appointments are important to monitor progress and address any concerns. Some men may still require temporary medication as part of the healing process.

A modern option for BPH relief

If you’re living with urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate, aquablation may be a suitable solution. It combines the latest robotic technology with a gentle, non-thermal approach for effective treatment and fewer side effects. A consultation with a specialist urologist can help determine whether it’s right for you.