Urolift - Dr. Jo Schoeman

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Minimal invasive management for the relief of LUTS (lower urinary tract symptoms)

This procedure is performed when the prostate gland is causing LUTS and you want an alternative to medication without the complications of a permanent procedure.
Symptoms include a weak stream, nightly urination, frequent urination, inability to urinate, (LUTS) kidney failure due to the obstruction, bladder stones, recurrent bladder infections.
Medication such as Flomaxtra, Urorec, Minipress etc. should always be given as a first resort.
This is alternative to medication where the ejaculatory function is to be preserved.
Prostate cancer first needs to be ruled out by doing a PSA, and when indicated, with a 3T MRI scan of the prostate with an abnormal PSA with a possible prostate biopsy of any suspicious lesions.
Usually, a trial of alpha-blockers would be attempted
Prostate sizes up to 80-100 cc with NO mid lobe.

Patients will receive general anaesthesia, unless contra-indicated.
A cystoscopy is performed by placing a camera in the urethra with the help of a lubricant jelly and an irrigant fluid.
The inside of the bladder is viewed for pathology. If any suspicious lesions are seen, a biopsy will be taken.
The device is placed through the cystoscopic sheath.
Prostate lobes are drawn apart similar to opening a curtain.
Occasionally a Bladder Neck Incision may be done if the bladder neck is too narrow.
Prophylactic antibiotics will be given to prevent any infections.

Side–effects

Ejaculation will not be affected as with medication, TURP and TUVP, therefore no retrograde ejaculation, thus preserving sexual function
Fertility is not guaranteed. If it is an issue, DON’T DO IT!.
No Stress incontinence especially in the elderly and the diabetic patients
May experience a slower stream initially due to swelling
Some urgency symptoms
Possible infection due to cystoscopy (<2%)
Rare cases of stone formation on clips.
Further enlargement of prostate lobes within 3-5 years requiring a definite procedure.
NB! Each person is unique and for this reason, symptoms vary!