Opening the floodgates: why UroLift is the solution to BPH
Written by:
Professor Francis Chinegwundoh MBE
Urologist
Published: 14/11/2018
Edited by: Cal Murphy
UroLift is an attractive option for men with an enlarged prostate gland (also known as BPH) who are experiencing urinary difficulties. It is suitable for most men where tablets are not effective in improving the urinary flow. Renowned consultant urologist Professor Francis Chinegwundoh explains:
What is BPH?
As men age, commonly, the gland called the prostate, which sits under the bladder and has a space in the middle for the urine to pass through, enlarges and squeezes the urethra or ‘waterpipe’. This enlargement is called benign prostate hypertrophy or BPH. Men may experience a slow urinary flow and a need to pass urine more frequently including at night.
What is the UroLift procedure?
The UroLift procedure is an innovative way of dealing with the prostate gland; it does not require any cutting of the prostate nor any removal of tissue. It is what we term ‘minimally invasive’. It may even be done under local anaesthesia.
The urologist places tiny implants to hold the prostate lobes apart, like open curtains on a window, to relieve the compression on the urethra. This allows the urine to flow normally again.
Advantages of UroLift
There are certain advantages to UroLift over other methods of treating the enlarged prostate. It does not cause any new problems with erections or with ejaculation, meaning fertility is not impaired and a normal sex life can continue. Furthermore, it is a day case procedure. A catheter is not necessary. The procedure only takes 20 minutes, which is shorter than other operations, with a short recovery time. It generally takes two weeks for the symptoms of BPH to improve.
Clinical data has shown that the UroLift system is safe and effective in relieving urinary symptoms due to BPH. The effect is durable.
Side effects of UroLift
Possible side effects include passing some blood in the urine, a burning sensation whilst voiding, urgency, and pelvic pain. Most symptoms are mild to moderate and settle in two to four weeks.
If you are interested in the UroLift procedure, contact your doctor or a specialist. Professor Chinegwundoh offers this treatment – you can book an appointment by visiting his profile.