New Treatments for Prostate Enlargement

Are you in a Leaky Boat with millions of other men?

As many as half of men over 65 have some enlargement of their prostate gland, which is also known as Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy or BPH. This may mean frequent trips to the bathroom especially at night. Most men are surprised that there are millions of other men going to the bathroom frequently especially at night. The fact is, since enlarged prostates affect over 1/2 of men over 65, it’s normal.

But just because it’s common, doesn’t mean you have to live with it. Most men are hesitant or embarrassed to discuss this with their healthcare provider because of concerns about side effects of treatment options and because many don’t know that there’s anything that can be done.

Is there hope?

I recently spoke with Dr. Edward Karpman, from El Camino Hospital about new treatments for men with BPH. As he related to me, of all the types of surgeries being done in the US today, many people are surprised that the most common is for is cataracts and close behind is surgery on the prostate

What treatment is best?

Dr. Karpman explained that men need to see a urologist for a thorough evaluation to determine which type of treatment would be best. There are several new treatments available that have fewer side effects, including fewer sexual side effects and these new innovative treatments are helping improve men’s quality of life, reduce their trips to the bathroom and helping them avoid getting up at night as frequently to visit the bathroom.

Urolift procedure

This is considered minimally invasive because there is no cutting or removal of tissue. Using a cystoscope, a very thin scope that can be placed into the urethra, a urologist can identify the area of blockage.

The UroLift, which is a new FDA-approved treatment works by pulling the prostate away from the urethra. The concept behind how UroLift works is brilliant. Using small hooks with tension the prostate is pulled back and away from the urethra almost the way you pull back a curtain with a tie back. Here’s a video of how the Urolift procedure is done.

Green Light XPS Laser treatment for BPH

The Green Light XPS Laser treatment for BPH is a great option with high success rates for most men with enlarged prostates. This video from YouTube describes the Green Light XPS Laser.

More treatments in development

Stay tuned and check back for more information as new technologies are being developed all the time for this all too common issue.

Bottom Line

If you or someone you care about has been hesitant to seek information or help for frequent urination, don’t delay and don’t let fear prevent you from getting the information you need. Talk to a urologist about what might be best.

Disclosure: I am working with El Camino Hospital to help bring awareness of health issues to the community, including men’s health issues.