UroLift for BPH, which is also known as prostatic urethral lift, provides men who have an enlarged prostate a new treatment option. The UroLift system is the first FDA-approved permanent implant that can increase urine flow or relieve blocked urine flow for men who are over 50 and have an enlarged prostate, aka benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
Enlarged prostate affects about one-third of men over age 50 and about 70% of men by age 70. Symptoms of BPH include frequent urination, frequent nighttime urination, urinary urgency, incontinence, having to wait for the urine stream to begin, urine that starts and stops, dribbling, and a weak urine stream.
Previous conventional treatment options include medications, many of which have severe negative sexual side effects, and surgery. Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is the standard treatment, but UroLift offers a less-invasive option for patients. The UroLift system is less invasive than surgery and may offer relief to men who cannot take medication for their BPH.
The system works by pulling back prostate tissue from pressing on the urethra. The UroLift procedure may be performed under local or general anesthesia, and it does not cause sexual dysfunction, retrograde ejaculation, or permanent erectile dysfunction.
There were two clinical studies including 274 BPH patients. The men were implanted with two or more Urolift sutures. Physicians were able to successfully insert UroLift in 98% of the patients in both studies. Patients experienced a 30% increase in their urine flow. Patients reported a decrease in their BPH symptoms and better quality of life for the two years after they received treatment.
There were no reported serious adverse effects of the UroLift. Minor side effects may include pain or burning when urinating, frequent urination, not being able to completely empty the bladder, blood in the urine, and incontinence.
Who Is a Candidate for UroLift for BPH?
Patients who are candidates for treatments such as laser or TURP may be candidates for UroLift. UroLift may be a better choice for men who do not want to have surgery, are looking for a less-invasive procedure, want to preserve their sexual function, and are looking for a faster recovery from surgery. If you think this is a treatment that could help your condition, talk to your doctor about UroLift for BPH.