There’s great news for men dealing with the symptoms of an enlarged prostate! Now there is an innovative, non-surgical treatment that can be done on an outpatient basis. It’s called UroLIFT, and KCUC is the most experienced provider in the area of UroLIFT treatment for enlarged prostate.
Dr. Jason Anast, one of our highly skilled urologists, completed his 400th UroLIFT procedure on August 29, 2024, making him the most experienced UroLIFT provider in the region. As a group, KCUC has performed over 1,100 minimally invasive UroLIFT procedures, more than any other group in the Kansas City Metro. We are proud to be a leader when it comes to offering UroLIFT. This procedure has significant advantages over traditional medications, procedures, or surgeries, making it a game-changer for men looking to improve their quality of life.
What Is BPH (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia)?
An enlarged prostate, or Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), is a common issue for men as they age. In the U.S., BPH affects 75% of men over 50 and 80% of men over 70. The prostate, a small gland located below the bladder and surrounding the urethra (the tube that carries urine out of the body), continues to grow as men get older. Because of its position around the urethra, this growth can lead to frustrating and sometimes embarrassing urinary symptoms. These may include:
- Frequent urinationUrgency
- Weak or slow urine stream
- Incomplete bladder emptying
- Leaking
While BPH isn’t life-threatening, it can severely impact a man’s quality of life.
How UroLIFT Works
UroLIFT offers a minimally invasive solution to the urinary problems caused by an enlarged prostate. The procedure begins with doctors inserting a device through the urethra to move the obstructive prostate tissue aside. Then, they implant small sutures, held in place by tabs, to hold the tissue back. Think of it like using tiebacks to pull curtains away from a window.
Typically, four to seven implants are placed into the prostate, depending on the severity of the blockage. Once the prostate tissue is held back, the urethra is no longer obstructed, and urine can flow freely again. Unlike other procedures, UroLIFT requires no cutting, heating, or tissue removal. It’s a simple mechanical solution to a mechanical problem.
Why Choose UroLIFT Treatment for Enlarged Prostate?
UroLIFT stands out because it offers immediate results with minimal side effects. Here are some key benefits of the procedure:
- One-time, outpatient treatment
- Immediate symptom relief
- Minimally invasive approach
- Fast recovery
- Mild to moderate side effects
- Minimal downtime
- Procedure duration: around 15 minutes
- Effective in about 90% of patients
- No tissue is removed or destroyed
- Preserves sexual function (avoids erectile and ejaculatory dysfunction)
Very Few Side Effects
Until UroLIFT, men’s choices were limited to medication or more invasive procedures (prostate resection, laser prostate ablation, and microwave therapy) or surgery that removed or destroyed tissue. These can cause side effects that aren’t desirable. The really good news is that UroLIFT treatment for enlarged prostate avoids erectile and ejaculatory dysfunction. Patient experiences may vary, but UroLIFT caused only mild to moderate side effects in most men, and those symptoms were gone in 2-4 weeks. As with any minimally invasive treatment, there is a small risk of infection or bleeding.
Long-Term Results Are Promising
While UroLIFT has been FDA-cleared since 2013, it is still relatively new, so the long-term results are still being studied. However, five years of clinical data on hundreds of patients show consistent, durable relief from BPH symptoms. It’s important to note that UroLIFT is most effective for men with moderate-sized prostates. It may not be suitable for men with very large or small glands, or those with a median lobe (prostate tissue extending into the bladder). Your urologist will evaluate your condition and let you know if you are a candidate for the procedure.