Treating BPH with Aquablation

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) affects many men as they get older. It occurs when the prostate gland enlarges, pressing against the urethra and making it difficult to pass urine. While medication can often control symptoms, some men need a more lasting solution. Aquablation is a newer, minimally invasive surgical treatment designed to relieve urinary symptoms caused by BPH, using the power of water and advanced robotic technology.

What is BPH and how does it affect urination?

The urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body, is surrounded by the prostate gland. When the prostate grows larger, it can squeeze or block the urethra, leading to symptoms such as:

difficulty starting to urinate
a weak or interrupted flow
frequent urination, especially at night
a sudden urge to urinate
a feeling that the bladder has not fully emptied

These symptoms can significantly impact quality of life and may worsen over time if left untreated.

What is Aquablation and how does it work?

Aquablation is a robotic-assisted procedure that removes excess prostate tissue using a high-velocity jet of water. The water is delivered with great precision, guided by real-time ultrasound imaging and computer mapping. This allows the surgeon to remove the tissue that is causing the blockage while preserving important structures responsible for urinary control and sexual function.

Unlike traditional surgical methods, Aquablation does not rely on heat or electricity, reducing the risk of tissue damage and post-operative side effects. The precision of robotic guidance means the procedure can be tailored to each patient’s anatomy, improving both safety and accuracy.

What happens during the procedure?

Aquablation is performed under anaesthesia and typically takes less than an hour. The surgeon inserts a small device through the urethra, meaning no external incisions are needed. Using a combination of imaging and robotic control, the targeted prostate tissue is removed with the water jet.

Most patients stay in hospital overnight and go home the next day. A temporary catheter is often placed to help drain urine during the initial healing period, which usually lasts one or two days.

What are the benefits of Aquablation compared to other treatments?

Aquablation combines the precision of robotics with the gentleness of water-based therapy. The key advantages include:

reduced risk of sexual dysfunction and incontinence
shorter procedure time and hospital stay
fewer post-operative complications
quicker return to normal activities

Patients typically notice an improvement in urinary flow and comfort within weeks of the procedure.

Are there any risks or side effects?

As with all surgical procedures, there are potential risks such as temporary bleeding, urinary urgency or mild discomfort during recovery. These symptoms usually resolve as healing progresses. Serious complications are rare, and most men report a significant improvement in quality of life after Aquablation.

Is Aquablation right for everyone?

Aquablation is suitable for men with moderate to severe BPH who have not found relief with medication or other non-surgical treatments. It is particularly useful for larger prostate sizes, where traditional methods may carry greater risks.

A consultation with a urologist can help determine if Aquablation is the most suitable treatment based on prostate size, overall health and individual needs. For many men, it offers an effective, minimally invasive solution to regain comfort and confidence in everyday life.