Urologists Can Provide A 45-Minute Office-Based Procedure To Treat Frequent Urination Caused By Enlarged Prostate by Dr. Perry Weiner, Thomas Jefferson Hospital, Philadelphia, Pa. (NAPSA)—Asa practicing urol- ogist, I see many men over the age of 50 who complain about having to make constant trips to the bathroom—especially at night. Most of my patients go on to describe additional symptoms, such as feeling the need to push or strain, a sense of incomplete bladder emptying and experiencing a burning sensation during urination. These symptoms are not sur- prising. They are theclassic signs of an enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)—a condition so common that it affects 60 percent of menoverthe age of 60. BPHis not life threatening nor is it a form of or a precursor to cancer. In fact, it’s manageable with the right treatment. This always comesasgreat relief to my patients, many of whom havesuffered for years from the discomfort, inconvenience and awkwardness of this condition. Many of the men I see in my practice suffer from moderate to severe symptoms of BPH. They also tend to be active and want a procedure that will relieve their symptoms without disrupting their quality oflife. Though there are many treatment options available, such as prescription medication and different surgical approaches, many of my patients have responded well to a minimally invasive heatbased procedure using the Prolieve System. The Prolieve System uses microwave technology, or heat, to reduce the enlarged prostate tissue that causes the urinary symptoms. I believe the quality-of-life benefits of the procedure set it apart. Patients can typically return to their everyday activities the Many men maytake moretrips for pleasure and fewer trips to the bathroom oncethey get their prostate troubles treated. very next day, since it’s an inoffice procedure performed in 45 minutes. It does not require general anesthesiaor incisions. It rarely requires use of a catheter post-procedure—an important consideration for active men. Unlike some prescription medications, it has few to no sex- ual side effects. I insert a catheter through the urethra into the bladder. A balloon containing circulating water is attached to the catheter. The microwave antenna inside the catheter heats the prostate, reducing the enlarged tissue, thus allowing urineto flow. The patient goes home the same day, usually without the need for a catheter, and typically has significant symptom improvement. As a urologist, it’s important to me that men who suffer from enlarged prostate fully understand the condition and the treatment options available. I encourage men andtheir loved ones to visit www.understandbph.com or call, toll-free, (877) 274-2273 to learn more about BPH, find information on office-based treatments and the Prolieve System, and find a local physician who specializes in treating enlarged prostates.
