Introduction
UroLift is a minimally invasive procedure to manage the symptoms of bladder outlet obstruction due to an enlarged prostate or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The UroLift system has less side effects than the traditional surgical options to manage BPH. In particular, UroLift is not associated with retrograde ejaculation, a common side effect of most BPH surgical treatments, and therefore is often used in younger men who wish to preserve their sexual function.
Indications
The UroLift System is indicated for the treatment of symptoms due to urinary outflow obstruction secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH in men 45 years of age or older) with a prostate size less than 80cc.
Preoperative Instructions
A urine test will be performed to ensure the patient does not have an active urinary tract infection, as this will require treatment prior to the procedure. An ultrasound will also be performed so that the urologist can gain an understanding of the size of the prostate. Certain medications that promote bleeding such as warfarin, clopidogrel, rivaroxaban and apixaban will need to be stopped for certain period prior to the procedure to reduce the risk of significant bleeding. This procedure can still be performed if the patient is taking aspirin.
Procedure
The procedure is performed with the patient asleep under a general anaesthetic. A cystoscopy is first performed to assess the lower urinary tract and the shape of the prostate. Once it is determined that the prostate is suitable to be managed with the UroLift system the UroLift scope is passed into the prostate and the tiny implantable prostatic retractors are deployed to hold the prostate lobes apart. There is no need for a catheter to be placed at the end of the procedure and the patient is able to be discharged home the same day.
Postoperative Instructions
The patient is typically discharged home the same day with a review in approximately 8 weeks. During this time the patient may notice urinary frequency, urgency, dysuria and may also notice some blood in the urine. These symptoms all gradually settle down in the first few months, but some of these symptoms can persist for up to a year. Medications can be used to manage these symptoms whilst the patient waits for them to resolve.
Risks
The risks associated with UroLift are:
- Bleeding.
- Urinary frequency and urgency.
- Dysuria (burning or stinging when urinating).
- Urinary tract infection.
Treatment Alternatives
Treatment alternatives to UroLift for the management of symptoms secondary to BPH are:
- Medications.
- TURP.
- Greenlight Laser PVP.
Related Information
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP)
GreenLight Laser PVP of the Prostate