Urolift Device Helps Patients with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
May 2, 2023
Vitaly Shtulman, 65, of Delray Beach, had been dealing with urinary issues for several years. He had difficulty urinating and was up several times each night to use the bathroom. He didn’t know of any medical options to address this, so he put off a doctor’s visit.
Like many men over the age of 45, Shtulman had a condition called Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, or BPH. It is a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, and the most common benign tumor found in men. There are a variety of treatments — from medication to major surgery — but, until recently, the choices lacked a less-invasive option.
“Most men living with enlarged prostate symptoms take prescription medications after they’re diagnosed, but these prescriptions often don’t provide adequate relief and may cause dizziness, fatigue and sexual dysfunction,” explained urologist Edward Becker, MD.
A Non-Invasive Way to Treat BPH
This changed with a new approach to treatment. The UroLift system is a non-invasive way of addressing BPH. It helps reduce the prostate swelling that interferes with the flow of urine from the urethra. During the procedure, which can be performed in both inpatient or outpatient settings and takes less than an hour, the patient is given mild sedation. The UroLift Device is then inserted through the urethra and placed so it lifts and holds the enlarged prostate tissue out of the way, so it no longer blocks urine flow. It is the only transurethral BPH treatment that does not require ongoing medication, heating, cutting or removal of the prostate tissue.
“One day, a friend of mine told me about UroLift. He described it to me and said that he was pleased with the result,” added Shtulman. “I did some research and saw that Wellington was named a ‘Center of Excellence’ on the Urolift website. That’s how I found Dr. Becker.”
Patients typically can return home the same day without a catheter, and experience rapid symptom relief and recovery with low complication rates. “They may experience some urinary discomfort during the recovery period. The most common side effects may include blood in the urine, some pain or discomfort when urinating, some increased urge to go, and discomfort in the pelvis that typically resolve within two to four weeks after the procedure,” said Dr. Becker.
The procedure exceeded Shtulman’s expectations. He had slight discomfort for a few days after the procedure and noticed a difference in his urination and improvement in his sleep almost immediately.
“My urine stream has become stronger and uninterrupted, and I stopped taking medication before bed. I can sleep at least five hours before waking up to use the bathroom,” he commented. “I was pleased with my care at Wellington and would enthusiastically tell anyone with these symptoms to go see Dr. Becker and consider this procedure.”
To schedule an appointment, or find a physician, call 561-798-9880.