March 1, 2023

Diseases and Disorders of the Urinary Tract System

What is Urolift and How Does It Treat BPH?

How Does the Urolift System Work?

UroLift is a minimally invasive procedure that treats symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), a condition characterized by prostate gland enlargement. The UroLift system uses small implants to lift and hold the enlarged prostate tissue, opening the urethra and relieving urinary obstruction. It is the only BPH treatment that does not require heating, cutting, or removal of the prostate tissue. It's typically an outpatient procedure done with local anesthesia, and patients usually return home the same day without a catheter.

What is BPH and How is BPH Diagnosed?

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), also known as an enlarged prostate, is a common condition affecting men's prostate glands. The prostate gland is a walnut-sized gland located below the bladder that surrounds the urethra (the narrow tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body). BPH occurs when the prostate gland undergoes non-cancerous growth, resulting in the enlargement of the gland. This enlargement can cause the prostate to press against the urethra, impacting urine flow.

While BPH is not life-threatening, it can significantly impact a man's quality of life and require medical intervention. The condition can cause physical discomfort, disrupt sleep patterns due to nocturia, and lead to emotional distress and frustration. Also, urinary retention can lead to serious complications such as infections and kidney damage.

Diagnosing BPH involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and tests such as a digital rectal examination (DRE), prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test, and imaging studies. Once diagnosed, the management of BPH depends on the severity of symptoms and the impact on the individual's life. Treatment options range from lifestyle modifications and medication to surgical interventions such as the UroLift procedure or transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP).

What are the Symptoms of BPH?

BPH symptoms can vary wildly among individuals, but here are the most frequently experienced symptoms:

1. Increased frequency of urination: Individuals with BPH may experience the need to urinate more frequently, both during the day and at night (nocturia).
2. The urgency to urinate: There may be a sense of urgency where the individual feels a strong and sudden need to urinate.
3. Weak urine flow: BPH can cause a weakened or reduced force in the urine stream, making it difficult to start urination or maintain a steady flow.
4. Difficulty starting and stopping urination: It may take longer for the urine to start flowing, and there may be difficulty in completely emptying the bladder, resulting in dribbling or a sensation of incomplete bladder emptying.
5. Straining during urination: Increased effort may be required to initiate or maintain urination.
6. Frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs): BPH can increase the risk of urinary tract infections due to incomplete bladder emptying.
7. Urinary retention: In severe cases, BPH can cause complete blockage of urine flow, leading to acute urinary retention, which requires immediate medical attention.

While these symptoms are often associated with BPH, they can indicate other conditions, such as urinary tract infections or prostate cancer. If you experience these symptoms, consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis.

If you're considering UroLift for an enlarged prostate, chat with us to find a urologist who performs this minimally invasive procedure.

What Causes Someone To Develop BPH?

The exact cause of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is not fully understood, but some factors increase the chance of developing BPH. It primarily occurs due to age-related changes in the prostate gland, hormonal imbalances, and genetic factors.

Here are some of the most common factors that can contribute to the development of BPH:

1. Hormonal changes: BPH is strongly associated with hormonal changes, particularly the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) by an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase. DHT promotes the growth and proliferation of prostate cells, leading to the enlargement of the gland.
2. Increasing age: BPH is commonly seen in older men, and the risk of developing BPH increases with age. An estimated 50% of men in their 60s and up to 90% of men in their 70s and 80s will experience BPH.
3. Genetic predisposition: There is also evidence to suggest that genetics play a role in the development of BPH. A man with a family history of BPH has a higher risk of developing the condition.
4. Lifestyle factors: Certain lifestyle factors, such as obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, and poor diet, may contribute to the development or progression of BPH. These factors can influence hormone levels and overall prostate health.
5. Other medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease, have increased BPH risk.

While the exact cause of BPH is not entirely preventable, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing weight, and seeking appropriate medical care can help minimize the risk and manage the symptoms of BPH. Regular check-ups with a healthcare professional can help monitor prostate health and detect potential issues early on.

What are the Advantages of UroLift?

The UroLift procedure offers several advantages as a treatment option for men with symptomatic Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH).

UroLift is a minimally invasive procedure performed at an outpatient facility. Unlike traditional surgical treatments for BPH, it does not require surgical incisions or prostate tissue removal. UroLift typically involves minimal downtime and a faster recovery than traditional surgical interventions. Most men can resume normal activities within a few days after the procedure.

Most patients experience significant improvement in urinary symptoms soon after the UroLift procedure, including increased urine flow, reduced frequency and urgency, and improved bladder emptying. Studies also show that the improvements in urinary symptoms remain several years after the procedure and reduce the need for long-term medication use otherwise needed for BPH management. This can be advantageous for individuals who prefer to avoid medication's potential side effects or may have concerns about long-term medication use. Using local anesthetic rather than generalized anesthesia greatly decreases the risk of life-threatening complications that come with sedation.

Unlike other treatment options for BPH, such as surgical procedures like transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), UroLift typically preserves sexual function. It does not involve cutting or removing prostate tissue that can potentially impact sexual function or cause ejaculatory problems. This provides a tremendous improvement in the quality of life of BPH patients.

It's important to note that the advantages of UroLift may vary depending on individual factors and the specific characteristics of each case. Consulting with an experienced urologist will help patients determine the most suitable treatment approach for BPH based on individual needs and preferences.

What are the Risks of the Urolift System?

The risks associated with the UroLift system are generally lower than traditional BPH surgeries. Still, they may include temporary urinary difficulties, urinary tract infection, mild discomfort, blood in the urine, and, less commonly, retrograde ejaculation (semen entering the bladder instead of exiting through the penis during ejaculation).

The most common side effect of UroLift is a temporary burning sensation while urinating that may last for a few days after the procedure and typically resolves without intervention.

Recovery from Urolift

Recovery from the UroLift procedure is rapid, with many patients experiencing symptom relief within a few days. They may experience further improvement in symptoms over the following weeks. Regular follow-up with the urologist is essential to monitor progress and address concerns.

Recovery from UroLift enlarged prostate treatment is typically faster and more straightforward than traditional surgical interventions. The procedure is generally performed in an outpatient setting, and most patients can return home the same day. It does not involve a hospital stay or an extended recovery period. Following the UroLift procedure, most men experience minimal downtime and post-procedure pain. They can resume their normal activities and return to work within a few days, depending on their comfort level and the advice of their healthcare provider.

What Follow-up Care is Needed after a UroLift Procedure?

Individuals need to follow the post-procedure instructions provided by their healthcare provider closely. These instructions may include avoiding strenuous activities, following a prescribed medication regimen, and maintaining good hydration. Regular follow-up appointments with the urologist are essential to monitor progress, address concerns, and ensure proper healing after enlarged prostate treatment.

Follow-up care may include checking urinary flow rates, assessing symptom improvement, and adjusting necessary medications. If any complications or unexpected symptoms arise during recovery, contact the healthcare provider promptly for guidance and assistance.