Aquablation Therapy
Aquablation Therapy is a new, advanced, minimally invasive procedure that uses robotic technology and water power to provide effective, long-term relief from the symptoms of an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH). This treatment is NICE-approved and offers men a safe alternative with reduced risk of common side effects seen in traditional prostate surgeries.
- Precision robotic technology: Aquablation Therapy uses a waterjet guided by robotics for precise prostate tissue removal.
- Minimally invasive approach: The procedure is heat-free, protecting surrounding nerves and reducing side effects like incontinence and sexual dysfunction.
- Long-lasting symptom relief: Studies show that Aquablation Therapy provides symptom relief that can last up to five years.
- Shorter recovery time: Patients experience minimal downtime, with many resuming daily activities soon after the procedure.
What is Aquablation Treatment Used For?
Aquablation Therapy is designed to treat men with BPH, a condition where the prostate gland enlarges and begins to obstruct the urinary tract, leading to symptoms like frequent urination, urgency, and incomplete bladder emptying. BPH can affect men of all ages, although it’s more common as men get older.
Aquablation Therapy is an option for patients seeking a minimally invasive treatment that targets BPH symptoms while preserving sexual function, continence, and overall quality of life. Using a heat-free waterjet for tissue removal, Aquablation Therapy can treat prostates of various sizes and shapes, making it a versatile solution that minimises the risks associated with traditional surgeries.
Why choose Birmingham Prostate Clinic?
We are a leading group of urological and cancer experts, with a seamless pathway for personalised prostate treatments.
Our consultants are experienced in almost all treatments for enlarged prostate, giving them a unique perspective for comparing the risks and benefits of each option.
This means we have a unique perspective for comparing each option. We can help you decide if Aquablation Therapy or an alternative treatment is right for you, to help you find the best way to relieve your prostate symptoms.
What to Expect from Aquablation Therapy
Before
In preparation for Aquablation Therapy, you will attend a consultation to discuss your symptoms and treatment goals. Your urologist will perform necessary tests and imaging to assess prostate size and shape. Aquablation Therapy requires a short hospital stay, with most patients staying overnight. You may be asked to stop certain medications temporarily before the procedure.
During
Aquablation Therapy is performed under anaesthesia, and the procedure typically lasts 40 to 60 minutes. Using a high-powered waterjet guided by robotic technology, your surgeon will precisely remove excess prostate tissue without using heat, which helps to reduce damage to surrounding nerves. Real-time ultrasound imaging and a cystoscope give the surgeon a clear, 3D view of the prostate, ensuring accurate and controlled tissue removal.
After
Following Aquablation Therapy, you may have a catheter inserted temporarily to aid with urination as the prostate heals. Most patients can return home the same day or stay for one night in the hospital. At home, you may experience mild burning during urination, which usually subsides within a few weeks and can be managed with mild pain relievers. Most patients are able to resume normal activities once cleared by their doctor.
What Are the Risks of the Procedure?
As with all new treatments, there isn’t as much long-term data for the therapy. Initial results show Aquablation Therapy has a low incidence of irreversible complications, especially compared to traditional prostate surgeries. The use of a heat-free waterjet, combined with robotic technology, reduces the risk of damage to surrounding tissue, preserving erectile function, ejaculation, and continence. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are some risks to consider:
- Temporary urinary symptoms: Some patients may experience mild burning during urination, which generally resolves within a few weeks.
- Urinary retention: Rarely, patients may experience difficulty urinating after the procedure, though this can usually be managed with medication or a temporary catheter.
- Infection: As with any procedure involving the urinary tract, there is a small risk of urinary tract infections, treatable with antibiotics.
- Patients will need a catheter
- It is dependent on the skillful interpretation of an U/S image, without direct vision of the ablation unlike with TURP and GreenLight laser
If you are considering Aquablation Therapy and want to understand more about the risks and benefits specific to your health profile, please contact us to arrange a consultation with a Birmingham Prostate Clinic specialist.
