Prolieve Microwave Thermodilation is a minimally invasive, non-surgical treatment designed to address symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) — the non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, which commonly affects men over 50. BPH can significantly affect quality of life, leading to urinary difficulties, such as frequent urination, weak urine flow, and nocturia.
The procedure is an effective treatment option for individuals diagnosed with BPH as it improves BPH management, minimises discomfort, and promotes faster recovery. This is made possible utilising targeted microwave energy that heats and shrinks prostate tissue while expanding the urethra. This approach reduces prostate obstruction, restores urinary flow, and enhances overall quality of life while minimising the risk of complications associated with traditional surgical methods.
Prolieve Microwave Thermodilation is a straightforward procedure that is often performed as an outpatient procedure. Below is an overview of the procedure:
| STEPS | DESCRIPTION |
| Pre-Procedure Preparation | Before the procedure, you will undergo a thorough medical evaluation to confirm the BPH diagnosis, and assess your overall health. This evaluation may include a physical examination, a review of medical history, and diagnostic tests. Additionally, you may also receive specific instructions, such as avoiding certain medications or foods prior to the procedure. |
| Anaesthesia | To ensure your comfort, a local anaesthetic is administered. This minimises any discomfort during the treatment, and allows you to remain relaxed throughout the procedure. |
| Catheter Insertion | The procedure begins with a gentle insertion of a specialised catheter into the urethra. This catheter, which is equipped with a microwave antenna and an inflatable balloon, is carefully positioned to target the enlarged prostate tissue precisely. |
| Microwave Thermotherapy | Once the catheter is in place, controlled microwave energy is delivered to the prostate tissue. The heat generated by this energy effectively shrinks the targeted tissue while protecting the surrounding areas. In fact, real-time monitoring ensures the energy is applied safely, and accurately. |
| Balloon Dilation | Simultaneously, the balloon is inflated within the prostatic urethra. This process widens the urethral passage, improving urine flow, and relieving bladder pressure. The combination of microwave thermotherapy and balloon dilation enhances the overall effectiveness of the treatment. |
| Monitoring and Adjustment | Throughout the procedure, modern monitoring systems provide real-time feedback to ensure safety, and effectiveness. Our skilled doctors are equipped with the knowledge, and expertise to make adjustments to the microwave energy, and balloon pressure as needed. This enables our doctors to tailor the treatment to the patient’s specific condition. |
| Completion of Treatment | The entire procedure typically takes about 45 minutes. Once completed, the catheter is removed, and you will be observed for a short period before being allowed to go home. Most patients can resume light activities shortly after treatment, and experience noticeable symptom relief within a few days. |
This procedure is primarily utilised to manage symptoms of urinary retention caused by Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that causes obstructions within the urinary tract, and disrupts the urinary flow.
There is no complete cure for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) as the prostate will continue to grow with age, but it can be managed effectively. The closest thing to a “complete cure” is a prostatectomy (the surgical removal of prostate tissue permanently), but this is generally reserved for severe cases of BPH.
The Prolieve Microwave Thermodilation is an effective treatment for managing the condition. It provides long-term relief with improvements that last for months to years.
Some of the benefits of the procedure include:
Our patients have reported noticeable improvements immediately after the treatment. Generally, you can anticipate:
Be that as it may, follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the healing progress, and ensure optimal outcomes.
For most patients, a single session is sufficient to achieve significant symptom relief, and improved quality of life. However, the exact number of sessions may vary depending on individual needs, and the severity of the condition. In the event of severe enlargement, or symptoms recurrence, our doctors may recommend additional treatment sessions to effectively treat your condition.
During the initial consultation, rest assured that our doctors will work with you in creating a tailored treatment plan that addresses your concerns, and improves your quality of life.
At Allen Sim Urology, we are committed to delivering efficient, and patient-focused urology care using specialised techniques and technologies. Prolieve Microwave Thermodilation is a targeted treatment that addresses benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and offers optimal results.
With a focus on comfort, safety, and effectiveness, our doctors tailor treatments to meet your unique needs. If you are experiencing symptoms of BPH or other urological concerns, contact us today to schedule a detailed consultation and personalised treatment plan.
Most of our patients find Prolieve Microwave Thermodilation comfortable, thanks to the use of local anaesthesia combined with its minimally invasive approach. While mild discomfort may occur during or shortly after the procedure, it is generally well-tolerated, and short-lived.
As with any medical treatment, Prolieve Microwave Thermodilation carries some potential side effects, including but not limited to:
Post-treatment recovery is usually smooth, with patients having the greenlight to resume light activities immediately. However, for optimal recovery, our doctors will often recommend you follow the following guidelines:
Prolieve offers a non-invasive alternative to traditional surgical procedures, such as transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) (link to service page). Unlike these methods, Prolieve does not require hospitalisation, involves fewer risks of complications, and allows for a faster return to daily life.
BPH is a progressive condition, so recurrence of symptoms is possible over time as the prostate continues to age. That is why regular monitoring, and follow-up treatments are necessary as it aids in maintaining long-term relief.
No, BPH does not lead to prostate cancer. BPH is a non-cancerous condition that is caused by an overgrowth of cells in the prostate. On the other hand, prostate cancer occurs when cells in the prostate undergo DNA changes, and grow abnormally.
Who is not suitable for Prolieve Microwave Thermodilation?
Prolieve may not be suitable for individuals who:
