By Eric C. Darby, MD, FACS
For many years, the gold standard of treatment for patients with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) was the transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) procedure. However, with new advancements in urologic technology, another treatment offers long-lasting benefits with little compromise.
Aquablation therapy is a minimally invasive robotic procedure that uses the power of water to remove prostate tissue. During the procedure, surgeons operate a robotically controlled, heat-free waterjet to remove prostate tissue, using ultrasound imaging and cystoscopy to create a surgical map. This ensures the entire problem area of the prostate is removed. The procedure is the first of its kind to utilize entirely heat-free waterjets to resect the prostate, leading to less irreversible complications for the patient (incontinence, erectile dysfunction, etc.).
Studies looking at the procedure’s effectiveness five years post-surgery found that Aquablation is as effective, if not more effective, than the TURP procedure. First, Aquablation cuts down time in the operating room. A prostate resection that once took two hours can now be completed in less than 30 minutes. Additionally, surgical mapping and robotic technology minimize human error, decreasing the chances of tissue growing back.
Aquablation therapy’s results speak for themselves. It’s a safe, effective, and durable procedure, remaining effective for over five years. Aquablation has little to no impact on erectile function, orgasmic function, sexual desire, and overall sexual satisfaction. Studies also show most patients who undergo the procedure retain ejaculatory function and avoid incontinence issues.
For many men with BPH, finding relief from their symptoms could lead to a loss of sexual or urinary function. Aquablation therapy requires no such compromise. It offers an advantageous alternative to other, more traditional BPH procedures with long-lasting results and fewer complications. Through advancements like this therapy, we’re working to better serve our patients and provide them with excellent care and outcomes.
Eric C. Darby, MD, FACS, is a Board certified urologist at TPMG Urology in Newport News, Va., with over 20 years of experience in urological care. Dr. Darby is a Diplomat of the American Board of Urology and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. mytpmg.com/specialties/urology
