All about the treatment options for BPH

Benign Prostatic Enlargement (BPE), also known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), is a common condition in aging men, characterised by the non-cancerous growth of the prostate gland. As the prostate enlarges, it can compress the urethra and interfere with urine flow, leading to bothersome urinary symptoms. When lifestyle changes and medications fail to provide relief, surgical intervention becomes a viable option.

Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) is the most widely used surgical treatment. In this procedure, a surgeon inserts a scope through the urethra to remove excess prostate tissue. TURP is effective in relieving symptoms and improving urinary flow, though it may be associated with side effects such as bleeding and sexual dysfunction.

Laser therapy, including Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP) and GreenLight laser therapy, offers a minimally invasive alternative. These procedures use high-powered lasers to remove or vaporize overgrown tissue, typically resulting in shorter hospital stays, less bleeding, and quicker recovery times compared to TURP.

Prostatic Urethral Lift (PUL), commonly known by the brand name UroLift, involves the insertion of tiny implants to lift and hold the enlarged prostate tissue away from the urethra. It preserves sexual function and is often performed in an outpatient setting.

Another emerging technique is Water Vapor Thermal Therapy (Rezum), which uses steam to ablate excess tissue. It's minimally invasive, with a lower risk of long-term complications.

In severe cases, open or robotic-assisted prostatectomy may be necessary, particularly when the prostate is very large or other procedures are not suitable.

Choosing the right surgical treatment depends on prostate size, overall health, and patient preference. Consulting a urologist can help determine the most appropriate and effective intervention.