Enlarged prostate is a disease found in half of men over 60 years of age and 80% of men over 70. Enlarged prostate causes patients to have problems urinating such as frequent urination and incontinence, intermittency, and even urinary retention at times. These symptoms greatly affect the patient's quality of life. There are many ways to treat enlarged prostate. Having been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) since 2013, UROLIFT is one of the standard treatments for enlarged prostate in the United States. UROLIFT has now been approved by the Thai Food and Drug Administration since 5 February 2024.

What is UROLIFT?

UROLIFT is a minimally invasive treatment for enlarged prostate, widening the urethra affected by the swollen prostate. Before the procedure, the patient is given mild sedation. Then a device is inserted through the urethra to access the prostate. After that 4-6, the number depending on the size and severity of the disease, tiny implants made of medical grade stainless steel and highly flexible nitinol are left in place to lift or hold the enlarged prostate tissue out of the way, opening the urethra permanently. The procedure does not require any incision or piercing into any organs and takes only 30 minutes to an hour.

 

Who are suitable for UROLIFT?

• Those with moderate to large prostate glands not exceeding 100 grams in size.
• Those who can still urinate or with less than 350 cc of post-void residual volume
• Those old or in poor health with risk  for major surgery
• Those wishing to avoid the problem of erectile dysfunction

 

What are the benefits of UROLIFT treatment?

• Rapid solution to urination problems, with immediate results after surgery
• No need for a urinary catheter after surgery
• Minimally invasive
• Just mild sedation or spinal anesthesia required; no need for general anesthesia
• No sexual health effects
• No need for hospital stay
• Possible treatment for patients with high surgical risk

 

How to get ready for UROLIFT treatment

• Inform your doctor in advance of the medications, vitamins and herbal supplements taken regularly, as well as your underlying conditions and history of drug allergies
• No food or drinks for 8 hours before the procedure
• Arrival at the hospital at least 1 hour before the procedure, accompanied by a relative or friend
   

 

Self-care after UROLIFT treatment

Do only light easy activities for 2-3 days after the procedure. After that, you can resume normal daily activities but avoid strenuous exercise or sports for 1–2 weeks.

 

What are the risks of UROLIFT treatment?

Risks are few and any adverse effects are mild, e.g.

• Blood in the urine
• Frequent urination
• Urinary tract infection
• Possible but rare migration of the implants

The Urology Center, Bumrungrad Hospital, is the first in Thailand to use UROLIFT technology for enlarged prostate treatment. We have urologists with experience in using UROLIFT in the United States to treat patients with enlarged prostate, ensuring effective treatment outcomes for patients.


by  Dr. Atip Chatsudthipong