BPH therapy aims at reducing the patients’ symptoms and
improving their quality of life. Moderate symptoms can usually
be treated successfully with medication. Surgery becomes
necessary in cases where the medication is either not effective,
not well tolerated, or if there are severe complications.
Ultimately, three out of ten men suffering from benign prostatic
hyperplasia have to undergo surgery. Surgery constitutes the
most effective and permanent treatment option, as it directly
targets the cause of the problem. The enlarged tissue is surgically
removed and the urethra is relieved from the pressure.
Today, doctors can choose from a variety of safe and effective minimally invasive surgical options by which the prostatic tissue is removed through the penis via the urethra (transurethral). Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) represents the standard procedure, and has been performed in the most cases to date. TURP is usually performed under general or spinal anesthesia. The surgeon reaches the prostate by inserting a thin, tube-like instrument (resectoscope) through the urethra. A light source and a very small camera attached to the resectoscope allow the surgeon to see a magnified view of the prostate. A wire loop electrode at the tip of the resectoscope is passed along the enlarged prostatic tissue as the surgeon cuts away the obstructing tissue one piece at a time. The prostate is virtually “shelled out” from the inside and symptoms are reduced effectively (see Fig. 2). Despite the gentle, minimally invasive treatment, there is a chance of side effects such as bleeding or tissue irritation.
Plasma Vaporization Using the PlasmaButton™
PlasmaButton™ vaporization is a completely new surgical option that is now available to doctors for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia. It is an innovative advancement to a conventional TURP in which prostate tissue is removed more gently using low temperature plasma energy. This device is not for use in treating prostate cancer.
As opposed to the conventional TURP, this new procedure does
not cut and shave off tissue with a loop or burn it away with a
laser, but gently vaporizes the tissue with a small button-shaped
electrode. Using low-voltage energy, a plasma field is created
that coats the half-spherical shaped button. Tissue in contact
with this plasma field is vaporized. The surgeon uses a unique
hovering technique so there is virtually no direct contact needed
between the Button and tissue. This advanced Button not only
vaporizes the enlarged tissue, it also coagulates the remaining
healthy tissue and leaves behind a smooth surface. Bleeding
during and after surgery can be minimized from the start
encouraging a rapid healing process.
The PlasmaButton™ represents the forefront of innovation for the minimally invasive surgical treatment of BPH.
PlasmaButton™vaporization constitutes a more advanced procedure than standard loop resection or laser surgery and provides the patient with the maximum degree of safety while being as effective as the current standard treatment option.
Even though the tissue is removed more gently, the symptoms can be relieved just as effectively and with the same long lasting results as prior standard procedures including some types of minimally-invasive procedures that may require a second treatment.
Important Risks to Consider
Every medical treatment may have side effects. The same is true for the PlasmaButton™ Therapy. The potential side effects are:- Blood in the urine
- Cramping in the bladder or an urgent need to urinate
- Frequent urination, burning sensation
- You see large amounts of blood in your urine
- You have a temperature in excess of 101° F
- You experience chills or shaking
The risk for serious complications depends on your medical condition and age, as well as on the experience of the surgeon and anesthesiologist. Ask your doctor what you should expect after surgery, as well as the risks that may occur with surgery.
Alternative non-surgical treatments for BPH:
- Watchful waiting
- Drug therapy
- Microwave or heat therapies
Contact us to discuss whether this might be a option for you.
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