Guest Author
Brian Helfand, MD, PhD
Endeavor Health Medical Group
The statements in this blog are those of the individual surgeon and are based on his personal clinical experience with Aquablation therapy. Results may vary, and individual outcomes are not guaranteed.
For men facing bothersome urinary symptoms due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), there are various treatment options to consider. The first step for many men involves medication, often prescribed by urologists as a first response. However, while these medications can provide some symptom relief, they often come with drawbacks. Many men find that medications only make a small improvement, and they can come with side effects like lightheadedness or sexual dysfunction, including reduced ejaculate volume during orgasm.1 These side effects can be frustrating and lead many men to discontinue their medications, ultimately feeling stuck in a cycle of unresolved symptoms.
This is where Aquablation therapy stands out as a unique and effective option. Unlike medications, which may offer limited relief, or other surgical options with extensive recovery times, Aquablation therapy provides a personalized, minimally invasive treatment tailored to each man’s specific prostate size and shape. Performed in an operating room under general anesthesia, Aquablation therapy combines ultrasound imaging with robotic precision to safely remove the problematic prostate tissue while preserving important anatomy critical for sexual function.
The procedure itself is straightforward. Using a camera inserted through the urethra, a high-velocity waterjet is guided by real-time imaging to precisely target and remove excess prostate tissue. The entire process is designed to minimize damage to surrounding tissues, ensuring a recovery experience that’s quick and relatively comfortable.2,3 Most patients only require a catheter for a day or less post-surgery, and they are able to resume their usual activities almost immediately, though minor adjustments like increased fluid intake and anti-inflammatory medications may be recommended to ease mild symptoms during recovery.
What makes Aquablation therapy particularly appealing is the rapid improvement in urinary symptoms.2,3 Many men notice an immediate improvement in urine flow and a decrease in the urgency and frequency of bathroom trips. Unlike traditional surgical procedures, Aquablation therapy patients in my experience often report very high satisfaction levels thanks to the quick recovery and substantial symptom relief. In fact, Aquablation therapy has some of the highest satisfaction rates among BPH treatments in my practice, offering a lasting solution that allows men to reclaim their quality of life without the ongoing need for medications or further procedures.
For men tired of ineffective medications and drawn-out treatments, Aquablation therapy is proving to be a “one-and-done” option that delivers consistent and highly satisfying results. With a short recovery period and enduring symptom relief, it’s no surprise that more patients are choosing Aquablation therapy to treat their BPH and experience life with renewed confidence and comfort.
References
1. Bortnick EM, et al. Urol. 2019.
2. Gilling PJ, et al. Can J Urol. 2022.
3. Bhojani N, et al. J Urol. 2023.