UroLift®
The UroLift® System is a minimally invasive treatment for enlarged prostate.
It’s fairly common for men age 60 and older to have an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia). It becomes a problem if urinary functions are affected. Alpha blockers like tamsulosin (Flomax) and other medications are usually recommended for mild to moderate symptoms. If such treatments aren’t effective, surgery is sometimes discussed.
How UroLift® Works
The UroLift® System treatment involves the placement of an implant with a device called the UroLift® Delivery Device into the lobes of the prostate gland. When inserted, the device pushes the prostate’s lobes apart. Doing so eases pressure on the urethra to restore the normal flow of urine. A small needle comes out of the device to permanently place implants into the prostate. The insertion device is then removed so the implants can keep the urethra open. It’s typically an in-office, outpatient procedure.
UroLift® Results Post-Placement
Men generally experience relief from symptoms within a few weeks following the placement of the implants.
Some patients may notice blood in their urine, burning sensations when urinating, discomfort in the pelvic area, or an inability to control urination urges. However, these issues are usually temporary.
The treatment works on more than 90 percent of men with an enlarged prostate who are considered good candidates for UroLift®.
If the procedure isn’t effective, the implants can be removed if other treatment options are attempted.
Choosing UroLift®
Most men with urinary symptoms linked to an enlarged prostate are possible candidates for the UroLift® System. In order to positively determine whether or not a patient is a good candidate for this minimally invasive option, a thorough examination and evaluation will be done. This process typically includes a physical exam, a review of medical history, and blood and urine tests to check for related urinary tract infections. Image testing may also be done to rule out other possible structural problems. Even men who are less than ideal candidates may see improvements with BPH symptoms with this treatment. A ureteroscopy is sometimes done to view the urinary tract. A similar procedure known as a cystoscopy may be done to view the bladder and prostate.
For preferred candidates for this procedure, UroLift® can be an appealing alternative to more invasive options, such as a prostatectomy. If the treatment is effective, patients may not have to take other medications to manage their prostate condition, which could minimize potential issues with side effects sometimes experienced with the long-term use of BPH-related drugs. Men opting for UroLift® treatment may also benefit from:
- Minimal downtime after the treatment
- Fairly reliable and consistent results
- No need for catheter use after implants are inserted
- No disruption to sexual functions
Considerations
There’s evidence suggesting the UroLift® system is generally safe and effective for most patients with lower urinary tract symptoms related to an enlarged prostate.
If this minimally invasive treatment doesn’t sufficiently manage BPH symptoms, a urologist may suggest tissue removal procedures, removal of all or part of the prostate, laser therapy, treatments using microwaves or radio waves, or techniques like embolization that may reduce the size of the enlarged gland.