The Complete Guide to Urolift (Enlarged Prostate Treatment)

07 Dec The Complete Guide to Urolift (Enlarged Prostate Treatment)

Urolift is a new and minimally invasive treatment for benign prostate hyerplasia (enlarged prostate) in men. If you are suffering from this condition and are interested in the Urolift system then this article is for you.

What is Urolift? What does it do?

Urolift is a minimally invasive treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) also known as prostate gland enlargement and Involves the insertion of tiny permanent clips (device implants) into the enlarged prostate gland tissue using a telescope that goes into your bladder. The implants are placed between the inner and outer surfaces of the prostate so that they pull the obstructing lobes away from the urethra. They become incorporated into the prostate tissue within 3 months. 

Why choose Urolift? What symptoms does it help with?

Urolift is used to reduce urinary symptoms caused by BPH such as: 

• Frequent and urgent need to urinate 
• Difficulty starting urination 
• Slow (prolonged) urine flow 
• Increased frequency of urination at night 
• Stopping and starting flow while urinating 
• Feeling of incomplete emptying of bladder 

If you have any of the symptoms listed above then you could be a suitable candidate for the Urolift system.

Who does it benefit?

Urolift is suitable for men diagnosed with BPH but not middle lobe enlargement. 

How much does Urolift cost in Sydney? 

The following is an approximate guide only

Surgeons fee approximately $2425 

Rebate = Medicare + private health fund $557

*NB this does not include anaesthetist fees nor hospital accomodation fees. Hospital accomodations fees will usually be covered entirely by a private health fund. 

Are there any side effects?

Urolift has demonstrated fewer side effects compared to those typically seen with surgical therapies, but as with any interventional procedure, you may experience some of the following side effects: 

• Painful urination
• Blood in the urine
• Blood in semen
• Urinary tract infections
• Inability to urinate or completely empty the bladder

Other frequently asked questions

How painful is it? 

It is common to experience some temporary pelvic discomfort after the procedure. 

How long does it last? 

The follow up data on outcomes for 5 years+ demonstrates consistent results confirming effectiveness over the medium to longer term. 

Do you need a catheter after Urolift? 

Patients typically return home the same day after this procedure without a catheter. However in some cases a catheter may be required for the first night only. 

What is better urolift or laser? 

That is dependent on outcomes and determined case by case. The decision making process is a shared experience between Dr Cozzi and the patient after a full and thorough evaluation of the patient, his wishes and his individual anatomy. 

Benefits of Urolift 

• Urolift is the only BPH procedure that does not cause new and lasting erectile and ejaculatory dysfunction.
• There is no heating, cutting or removal of tissue during a Urolift procedure.
• It can be done in day surgery
• It’s minimally invasive