UroLift procedures- What do I need to know?

A prostatic urethral lift is a minimally invasive procedure that can help men with enlarged prostates and those suffering from benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

The system known as UroLift is a means of relieving prostate obstruction without incision or removal of tissue. UroLift provides quick symptom relief and rapid recovery times. UroLift was approved by the UK National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) as an “effective, safe and cost-effective” means of treating lower urinary tract symptoms in men, particularly compared to other surgical and drug treatments.

What does UroLift involve?

The UroLift procedure involves placing tiny implants via a small needle to lift and hold enlarged prostate tissue to increase the opening of the urethra. This allows for a better flow of urine.

UroLift aims to relieve bothersome urinary symptoms such as difficulty urinating, a weak stream, frequent urination and urgent feeling of needing to “go”. A large real-world clinical trial published in the Journal of Endourology concluded that the technique can improve sleep, reduce the number of medications taken to treat symptoms and improve your overall quality of life. It also avoids any associated complications with sexual function.

The procedure itself has the patient sitting comfortably on a table with their legs slightly raised. A thin tube is inserted into the urethra with a small camera attached to ensure the accurate placing of the implants. Several tiny implants are placed until a sufficient opening for urine to pass easily is achieved.

How long does a UroLift procedure take?

UroLift is typically undertaken as day surgery. The procedure itself usually takes place in less than an hour. After the treatment, almost all patients will be able to travel home on the same day.

Is a UroLift procedure painful?

A UroLift procedure is undertaken under local or general anaesthesia to minimise discomfort.

After the procedure, you will be asked to urinate so that the doctor can monitor your progress. As with most surgical techniques, you can expect some discomfort around the site of the procedure. General pain or a burning sensation is to be expected for a few days after.

Swelling of the urethra is also common, and your medical team may ask you to apply ice to the area and keep the pelvis elevated by lying down when possible to alleviate this.

There is a chance of infection in the area, but with UroLift, the risk is very low. You will be asked to seek further medical advice if you notice a fever, significant redness or a hot sensation around the surgical site, worsening pain or a greenish tint to urinary discharge.

If you’re looking for urology services in Harrogate, call the professionals at Harrogate Urology today.