How Aquablation Treats Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (Enlarged Prostate)
As many as 14 million men in the United States suffered from lower urinary tract infections caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia or an enlarged prostate in 2010. To better understand benign prostatic hyperplasia, it is essential to learn about the two main growth periods a man goes through over a lifetime.
The prostate is part of the male reproductive system that sits below the bladder and in front of the rectum. It is the size of a walnut and weighs about an ounce. The prostate produces fluid for semen and plays a vital role in a man's fertility. As a man goes through early puberty, the prostate doubles in size. The second growth phase occurs around age 25 and continues throughout most of a man's life.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia occurs when the prostate gland becomes so large that it presses against and pinches the urethra, prompting the bladder wall to become thicker. Over time, the bladder may weaken and lose its ability to empty. The urine remaining in the bladder can cause problems associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia, such as lower urinary tract infections. The cause of benign prostatic hyperplasia is unknown.
Some of the lower urinary tract infections that may indicate a benign prostatic hyperplasia are:
- Urinary frequency—urination eight or more times a day
- Urinary urgency—the inability to delay urination
- Trouble starting a urine stream
- A weak or interrupted urine stream
- Dribbling at the end of urination
- Nocturia—frequent urination during periods of sleep
- Urinary retention
- Urinary incontinence—the accidental loss of urine
- Pain after ejaculation or during urination
- Urine that has an unusual color or smell
Enlarged prostate symptoms do not usually appear before age 40, but symptoms may increase with age. Benign prostatic hyperplasia affects 50% of men between the ages of 51 and 60 and up to 90% of men older than 80.
Men aged 40 years and older with a family history of benign prostatic hyperplasia are at risk for developing this condition. Other risk factors include medical conditions, such as obesity, heart and circulatory disease, Type 2 diabetes and erectile dysfunction.
How Long Does It Take To Recover From Aquablation?
As with most benign prostatic hyperplasia procedures, you will wake up with a catheter that allows you to pee. The doctor will remove the catheter before discharge to check if you can empty your bladder. You may be asked to stay another night in the hospital or go home with a catheter for a few days if you still cannot urinate. However, many patients leave the hospital without having to wear a catheter. Following surgery, you may experience mild burning during urination for a couple of weeks, but it can be managed through pain medications.
