What Are the Latest Treatments for Enlarged Prostate?

An enlarged prostate, medically known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), affects a significant number of men as they age. If you’re seeking the latest treatment for enlarged prostate, it’s essential to understand the range of available options. This article delves into both traditional and cutting-edge treatments, highlighting minimally invasive procedures that offer effective relief with fewer side effects.

Understanding Enlarged Prostate (BPH)

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, commonly seen in aging men. As the prostate enlarges, it can compress the urethra, leading to urinary symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, weak stream, and incomplete bladder emptying. Understanding BPH is crucial for selecting the most appropriate treatment option.

Minimally Invasive Treatments for BPH

Recent advancements have introduced several minimally invasive treatments for BPH, offering effective symptom relief with reduced recovery times.

• Rezūm Therapy: This procedure uses steam to ablate excess prostate tissue. It’s performed in an outpatient setting and preserves sexual function.
• Aquablation Therapy: Utilizing a high-velocity water jet, Aquablation precisely removes prostate tissue under real-time imaging guidance. A study presented at the European Association of Urology Congress found that only 15% of men undergoing Aquablation experienced ejaculation problems, compared to 77% in the laser group.
• Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE): PAE involves blocking blood flow to specific areas of the prostate, causing it to shrink. It’s a non-surgical option suitable for patients who may not be candidates for traditional surgery.

Traditional Surgical Options

While minimally invasive treatments are gaining popularity, traditional surgical options remain effective for certain patients.

• Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP): Considered the gold standard, TURP involves removing prostate tissue through the urethra. It offers significant symptom relief but may have a longer recovery period.
• Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP): HoLEP uses a laser to remove obstructive prostate tissue. It’s effective for larger prostates and has a lower risk of bleeding.

Choosing the Right Treatment

Selecting the appropriate treatment for BPH depends on various factors, including prostate size, symptom severity, overall health, and personal preferences. Consulting with a urologist is essential to evaluate the most suitable option tailored to individual needs.

Advancements in medical technology have expanded the treatment landscape for enlarged prostate, offering patients a range of effective options. Minimally invasive procedures like Rezūm, Aquablation, and PAE provide symptom relief with fewer side effects and shorter recovery times. Traditional surgeries like TURP and HoLEP remain valuable for specific cases. If you’re experiencing urinary symptoms due to BPH, consult with the urologists at St. Pete Urology to explore the best treatment plan for you.

References:

• Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) – Diagnosis and treatment. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/benign-prostatic-hyperplasia/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20370093
• Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Rezūm Water Vapor Therapy: Procedure & Results. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/rezum
• Wikipedia contributors. (n.d.). Prostatic artery embolization. In Wikipedia. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prostatic_artery_embolization
• Wikipedia contributors. (n.d.). Transurethral resection of the prostate. In Wikipedia. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transurethral_resection_of_the_prostate