WHAT IS A UROLIFT?

A “UroLift” is a procedure designed to open up the channel through the prostate by stapling the sides of the prostate. It is one option available to relieve the symptoms of an obstructive prostate which may be enlarged (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia or BPH). UroLift is not as effective as a TURP, but has a quicker recovery and fewer side effects/complications. In particular, there is NO risk of retrograde ejaculation or erectile dysfunction. It can be used as an alternative to medical therapy or if you are unable to tolerate or have side effects from the medications. The prostate is a gland in men which sits between the bladder and the urethra (water pipe). It forms part of the male urinary and reproductive tracts. It is essential for normal fertility and produces some of the fluid that makes up semen. If the inner part of the prostate gland can obstruct the urethra during urination, which may result in:

The aim of a UroLift is to relieve this obstruction by widening the channel through the prostate to allow better outflow from the bladder and therefore improve your symptoms. The procedure is performed under a general or spinal anaesthetic. A fine instrument called a cystoscope is placed into the urethra and a special device is used to deploy implants (staples with a suture between them) to the sides of the prostate.

Note – not all men’s prostates would be suitable for a UroLift and a cystoscopy will need to be carried out first to check if this treatment option would be effective for you.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT AFTER THE PROCEDURE?

WHAT ABOUT DIET?

WHAT ABOUT EXERCISE/ACTIVITY?

WHAT ABOUT MEDICATIONS?

WHAT ARE THE POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS?

NOTIFY GM UROLOGY or your GP if you experience any of the following:

FOLLOW UP APPOINTMENT

Your doctor will generally speak to about the results of the procedure before you are discharged home and an appointment for your follow-up will be organised. If an appointment time is not given to you on discharge from hospital, you will need to phone GM Urology to make an appointment.
If you have any queries please contact GM Urology on 03 5201 7000 during business hours OR leave a message on the After Hours Urology Paging Service 03 9387 1000