The prostate gland is a small gland located just below the bladder. It surrounds the urethra, which is the tube that carries urine out of the body. The prostate gland produces fluid that nourishes and carries sperm during ejaculation.

What is an Enlarged Prostate?

An enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a common condition that affects men as they age. As the prostate gland grows larger, it can compress the urethra, making it difficult to urinate.

Symptoms of an enlarged prostate include frequent urination, urgency, weak stream, incomplete bladder emptying, and a feeling of incomplete voiding.

Minimally Invasive Treatments for Enlarged Prostate

While medication can often improve symptoms of an enlarged prostate, some men may require procedures to alleviate their symptoms.

There are several minimally invasive treatments available for BPH that can help relieve symptoms without the need for traditional surgery.

Transurethral Microwave Thermotherapy (TUMT)

TUMT is a minimally invasive technique in which microwaves are used to heat the prostate tissue. This causes the prostate tissue to shrink, relieving compression on the urethra and improving urine flow.

The procedure is typically done as an outpatient procedure and does not require general anesthesia. Most men experience significant improvement in their symptoms within a few weeks of the procedure.

Transurethral Needle Ablation (TUNA)

TUNA is a minimally invasive technique similar to TUMT, but instead of using microwaves, radiofrequency energy is used to heat and destroy prostate tissue.

As with TUMT, the procedure is typically done as an outpatient procedure and does not require general anesthesia. TUNA can improve urine flow and relieve symptoms, and typically has fewer side effects compared to traditional surgery.

Prostatic Artery Embolization (PAE)

PAE is a newer procedure that uses tiny particles to block the blood supply to the prostate gland. This causes the prostate tissue to shrink, relieving compression on the urethra and improving urine flow.

The procedure is typically done under local anesthesia and does not require an overnight stay in the hospital. PAE is still being studied, but initial results show that it can be an effective treatment option for men with BPH.

Laser Therapies

Laser therapies are minimally invasive procedures that use a laser to remove or shrink excess prostate tissue.

There are several types of laser therapies available, including photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP), holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP), and thulium laser enucleation of the prostate (ThuLEP). Laser therapies typically have fewer side effects than traditional surgery and can be done as outpatient procedures under local or general anesthesia.

Benefits of Minimally Invasive Treatments for Enlarged Prostate

Minimally invasive treatments for BPH offer several benefits over traditional surgery, including:.

Shorter recovery time
Reduced risk of bleeding and infection
Less pain and discomfort
Lower cost
Less need for general anesthesia

Is Minimally Invasive Treatment Right for You?

If you are experiencing symptoms of an enlarged prostate, talk to your doctor about whether minimally invasive treatment may be an option for you.

Your doctor will consider factors such as the size and shape of your prostate, your overall health, and your preferences when recommending a treatment plan.

Conclusion

Enlarged prostate is a common condition that can significantly impact a man’s quality of life. While medication can help alleviate symptoms, some men may require procedures to relieve compression on the urethra.

Minimally invasive treatments for BPH offer several benefits over traditional surgery, including a shorter recovery time, reduced risk of bleeding and infection, and less pain and discomfort. Talk to your doctor to determine if a minimally invasive treatment may be right for you.