UroLift, a game changer in BPH treatment, is available at BNH Hospital Bangkok

M Centre by BNH Hospital Bangkok has just introduced UroLift, a minimally invasive treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or enlarged prostate in this August. With this addition, BNH became the only hospital in Thailand to offer a full range of minimally invasive BPH treatments, following the arrival of Rezum Water Vapor Therapy and iTind in the last 3 years. For men in Thailand and nearby countries, this means more choices than ever before to effectively manage and treat BPH.

Here’s everything you need to know about UroLift at BNH Hospital Bangkok.

UroLift, what is it and what are the benefits?

If frequent trips to the restroom, especially at night, have become a regular part of your life, an enlarged prostate might be the reason. While various treatments exist, many involve ongoing medication to shrink the prostate or invasive procedures, both of which can come with side effects and discomfort.

UroLift is a breakthrough in BPH treatment due to its simple and minimally invasive nature. The procedure uses small implants to lift and hold the enlarged prostate tissue away from the urethra to eliminate the blockage without the need for cutting, heating, or removing any prostate tissue. This allows urine to flow normally almost immediately after the procedure.

At BNH Hospital, UroLift is performed as an outpatient procedure under local anaesthesia. This means that the procedure offers quicker recovery compared to traditional surgical methods. However, one of the main benefits is that most patients can go home without a catheter, which makes it more comfortable and convenient.

“Recently, all of my patients have reported significant improvement within just 1 to 2 weeks of the procedure, and their condition continues to improve,” says Dr Suntchai Wirotsaengthong, the leading urologist at BNH Hospital. He also shares the story of one patient with severe symptoms who could barely pass urine. “After UroLift, he felt better almost immediately, and his urinary retention symptoms are now completely resolved.” Dr. Suntchai is one of the few doctors in Thailand currently offering UroLift to patients.

Another benefit of UroLift is that it has no side effects that often come with long-term medication use. It also offers 50% improvement in quality of life. Most importantly, unlike more invasive treatments, it doesn’t cause sexual dysfunction or retrograde ejaculation, which tends to be a priority for many men.

What to expect during a UroLift?

The UroLift procedure at BNH Hospital usually takes less than an hour. During the procedure, the urologist inserts the UroLift Delivery Device through the obstructed urethra to access the enlarged prostate. Next, small UroLift implants are permanently placed to lift and hold the enlarged prostate tissue out of the way. This opens up the urethra.

The implants are delivered via a small needle that extends from the UroLift Delivery Device into the prostate. After positioning the implants, the urologist removes the UroLift Delivery Device, leaving an open urethra designed to alleviate symptoms.

Again, since the procedure is catheter-free, recovery is generally quick. Most patients return to work within two to three days. While mild discomfort may last for the first two weeks, many notice a significant improvement in urination flow shortly after the procedure.

Follow-up appointments are scheduled at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months to monitor progress. During these appointments, your doctor may use uroflowmetry and the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS). Additionally, a Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test may be performed at the one-year mark to assess ongoing results.

Is UroLift safe, and is it permanent?

While UroLift is relatively new to Thailand, it has a very strong safety record. The Thai Food and Drug Administration has only approved UroLift recently, on February 5, 2024, with BNH Hospital being the second in the country to offer it. However, UroLift has been safely used in the U.S. for over a decade, with FDA approval dating back to 2013.

As for whether you will need a repeat procedure, it’s unlikely since the implant is designed to be permanent. According to Dr Suntchai, the rate of surgical retreatment is around 13.6%. However, individual results can vary.

Who are the most suitable candidates for UroLift?

To further enhance patient safety, BNH Hospital adheres to the highest standards by carefully selecting the most suitable Minimally Invasive Surgical Technique (MIST) for each patient. Essentially, MIST procedures in the hospital are tailored to meet your specific needs. This is done to make sure the outcomes are highly favourable.

UroLift is designed for patients who have concerns about ejaculatory function and seek a quick recovery. However, not everyone is a suitable candidate. Ideal candidates for UroLift include:

• Medium-sized prostate: UroLift is most effective for patients with a prostate size of less than 100 ml. This size range allows the implants to work effectively without compromising the procedure’s results.
• Normal PSA Values: Candidates should have normal PSA levels. Elevated or borderline PSA values may necessitate further evaluation.
• No allergies to implant materials: Patients with known allergies to the materials used in UroLift implants should explore alternative treatment options.

What are the alternatives when UroLift isn’t an option?

If UroLift is not suitable for you, alternative treatments are available. M Centre by BNH Hospital provides some of the most comprehensive BPH treatments in Thailand. They advise patients on all available options and make treatment decisions collaboratively by incorporating professional recommendations. Alongside UroLift, BNH Hospital Bangkok’s minimally invasive options include iTind and Rezum Water Vapor Therapy.

iTind is often preferred for patients with a smaller prostate size and without an enlarged median lobe. Compared to UroLift, which is a permanent implant, iTind is a temporary device that is removed after 5 to 7 days. It provides a less invasive option but potentially less durability in symptom relief.​

On the other hand, Rezum Water Vapor Therapy is suitable for patients with a larger prostate size or those who want a more durable solution. Rezum uses steam to target and reduce prostate tissue. Although it’s effective for more extensive cases, it doesn’t provide immediate relief like UroLift. Patients typically begin to notice improvements within a few weeks, with peak results generally achieved about six months after the procedure.

In addition to these two alternatives to UroLift, M Centre by BNH Hospital also offers TURP, Greenlight Laser, and medication.

If you’re interested in UroLift or exploring your option, schedule a free consultation with Dr Suntchai Wirotsaengthong at M Centre by BNH Hospital Bangkok. Get in touch with him via WhatsApp at +66 63 4457854 or email dr.suntchai@mcentrebybnh.org, or fill out the form below.

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