Minimally Invasive BPH Treatments
Your physician can help you decide which treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is right for you. Minimally invasive treatments are a good option for many men. A few of the more common types of procedures include:
Transurethral Needle Ablation
The transurethral needle ablation (TUNA) is a minimally invasive procedure to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It uses radiofrequency waves to heat and destroy tissue of the enlarged prostate. After inserting a cystoscope through the urethra to reach the prostate, small needles are inserted through the scope to send high-frequency radiowaves to destroy the tissue. The procedure uses local anesthesia and is performed in the physician’s office. Doctors use shields to protect the urethra from heat damage. This procedure can be a good option for men with other medical conditions, weak hearts, or who need to avoid anesthesia.
Transurethral Microwave Thermotherapy
Used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), transurethral microwave thermotherapy (TUMT) uses an antenna to send microwaves through a catheter to heat and destroy prostate tissue. A minimally invasive procedure, the thermotherapy is performed on an outpatient basis in about an hour, without general anesthesia, using a cooling system to protect the urinary tract. Erectile dysfunction and incontinence are not typical side effects of TUMT. Microwave therapy does not eliminate BPH, but it does reduce urgency, urinary frequency, and straining. This procedure can be a good option for men with other medical conditions, weak hearts, or who need to avoid anesthesia.
Transurethral Electrovaporization
Transurethral electrovaporization (TUVP) is a minimally invasive procedure in which physicians use an electric current to destroy prostate tissue. It is used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). A doctor inserts a scope which passes over the prostate to destroy tissue and seal blood vessels to reduce the risk of bleeding. A short hospital stay may be needed. Men with larger prostates are candidates for this procedure.
Prostatic Stent Insertion
In this minimally invasive procedure used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostate stents are placed in the bladder neck and prostatic urethra. They keep the prostatic urethra from collapsing and allow urine to drain from the bladder. Placed in the narrowed area caused by the enlarged prostate, the stent expands like a spring to keep the urethra open for urine flow. There are two types of prostatic stents, temporary and permanent. Patients may notice mild discomfort and increased urination. This procedure is often used for men who are not candidates for surgery.
Other BPH Treatments