Aquablation

Managing BPH symptoms can be frustrating, especially when medications are no longer enough. Aquablation therapy is a minimally invasive treatment. It has a lower risk of side effects, such as incontinence and sexual dysfunction.

Aquablation therapy is a robot-assisted, minimally invasive procedure that removes excess prostate tissue. Instead of using a scalpel, heat, or lasers, therapy relies on a precisely directed water jet guided by real-time imaging.

This approach helps preserve the surrounding nerves and tissues. Because of this, the chances of side effects like incontinence or sexual dysfunction are reduced.

Since the prostate is accessed through the urethra, there are no incisions.

You may be a good candidate if you:

• Have tried BPH medications without success
• Want a surgical solution with a lower chance of long-term side effects
• Have a large prostate
• Are looking for a treatment that balances effectiveness with a strong safety profile

The procedure is performed under anesthesia and typically takes less than an hour.

During the procedure, your surgeon will use both an ultrasound and a cystoscope to guide the treatment. Ultrasound uses sound waves to create live images of your prostate. A cystoscope is a thin tube with a tiny camera that’s inserted through your urethra to view the inside of the urinary tract. Together, these tools allow your doctor to see the size, shape, and location of your prostate in real-time. This allows them to remove only excess prostate tissue, without disturbing other areas.

The Aquablation system uses a high-pressure water jet to remove only the targeted prostate tissue. The robotic platform helps ensure precise, consistent, and repeatable results. Afterward, minimal cautery may be used to stop any bleeding.

Following Aquablation therapy, you will wake up with a catheter in place to allow urine to drain while your urethra heals. While some patients may need to stay in the hospital overnight, many are discharged without needing to continue catheter use at home.

After returning home, it’s common to experience mild burning with urination for a week or two. These effects are temporary and can usually be managed with mild pain medication. Most patients can resume normal activities once their doctor has evaluated and cleared them to do so.

Aquablation is unique in that it combines real-time imaging with robotic assistance. This makes it an excellent option for men with both small and large prostates. It’s also a great choice for those who are especially concerned about preserving sexual function.

Benefits include:

• Low risk of sexual side effects
• Minimal risk of incontinence
• Effective for all prostate sizes
• Symptom relief lasting 3 to 5 years or more

While the risk of complications is low, no procedure is without potential downsides. Possible side effects include:

• Temporary difficulty urinating or urinary retention
• Bleeding
• Urinary tract infections
• Scar tissue formation

If you’re ready to explore your options, talk to your urologist about whether Aquablation therapy could be the next step toward relief.

1. How is Aquablation different from TURP or laser treatments?

Aquablation is unique because it uses a heat-free water jet and combines real-time ultrasound imaging with robotic precision. This may reduce the risk of damage to nearby nerves and tissues compared to traditional heat-based procedures like TURP or laser ablation.

2. How long do the results last?

Aquablation provides long-lasting symptom relief. Most men report significantly improved urinary function for at least 3 to 5 years, with some experiencing improvement even longer. Regular follow-up with your urologist is important to monitor your progress.