UroLIFT
The Prostatic Urethral Lift (UroLift) System is a unique, “mechanical” approach to treating Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). Unlike other procedures that use heat, lasers, or other forms of electrical energy to remove prostate tissue, UroLift utilises mechanical energy using tiny, permanent implants to simply lift and hold the enlarged prostate tissue out of the way.
By “opening the curtains” of the prostate, the UroLift System clears the blockage in the urethra, restoring a natural urine flow almost immediately.
How the Procedure Works
UroLift is typically performed as a same-day ambulatory procedure under sedation or a brief general anaesthetic.
Access: A small delivery device is inserted through the obstructed urethra.
Placement: The surgeon places 2 to 6 small, permanent implants (similar to tiny “treasury tags”) into the prostate lobes.
Expansion: These implants pull the prostatic tissue back and anchor it, creating a wide, open channel for urine to pass.
Removal: The delivery device is removed, leaving the implants in place to provide long-term relief.
Key Benefits of UroLift
UroLift is widely regarded for its high patient satisfaction scores and its ability to bridge the gap between medication and invasive surgery. Some other key benefits are highlighted below:
1. Preserves Sexual Function: UroLift has the lowest risk of resulting in erectile or ejaculatory dysfunction.
2. No Cutting or Burning: Because no tissue is destroyed or removed, there is significantly less trauma to the body.
3. Rapid Recovery: Most patients return to normal activities within a couple of days or a few weeks —much faster than traditional surgeries like TURP.
4. Avoid the Catheter: In many cases, patients can go home without a urinary catheter, which is often required for several days after other prostate surgeries.
5. Immediate Results: Patients typically see a significant improvement in their symptoms within 2 weeks.
Recovery and Side Effects
Recovery from UroLift is generally mild. While you may experience temporary urinary urgency, a mild burning sensation during urination, or small amounts of blood in the urine, these symptoms usually resolve within 1 to 2 weeks. For further information, please refer to the BAUS leaflet