Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Treatment
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition as men age, characterized by the non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. As the prostate grows, it can compress the urethra, leading to bothersome "lower urinary tract symptoms" (LUTS) like a weak stream, frequent urination, and the inability to completely empty the bladder.
Treatment for BPH has evolved significantly, moving from a primary focus on oral medications to a wide range of minimally invasive surgical options. These newer techniques allow for the relief of urinary obstruction with fewer side effects and a faster recovery than the traditional "gold standard" of open surgery.
The first line of defense is often medication. Alpha-blockers work by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and bladder neck, making it easier to urinate. 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, on the other hand, actually work to shrink the prostate by blocking the hormones that cause it to grow. For many men, a combination of these two drugs provides significant relief. However, medication must be taken long-term, and some men experience side effects like dizziness or sexual dysfunction, leading them to seek more permanent surgical solutions.
Minimally invasive procedures have filled the gap between medication and major surgery. The Urolift system uses tiny permanent implants to "staple" the prostate tissue out of the way, opening the urethral channel without cutting or heating any tissue. This is a quick, outpatient procedure that preserves sexual function. Another option is Rezum, which uses water vapor (steam) to destroy the excess prostate cells. Over time, the body absorbs the treated tissue, and the prostate shrinks. Both of these options are highly effective for men with moderate symptoms who want a fast recovery and minimal downtime.
For men with very large prostates or severe symptoms, Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) remains a common and effective choice. During a TURP, the surgeon uses a specialized scope to remove the inner part of the prostate gland. Newer versions of this procedure use lasers, such as HoLEP (Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate), which can treat even larger glands with less bleeding and a shorter hospital stay. By offering a range of treatments tailored to the size of the prostate and the severity of the symptoms, urologists can now help men regain control over their urinary health and significantly improve their daily quality of life.