In early June, Logan Health physicians performed the first Aquablation therapy procedure in the region, offering a new treatment option for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), commonly known as an enlarged prostate. Symptoms of BPH often include frequent urination, difficulty in starting urination, a weak urine stream, dribbling and an inability to completely empty the bladder. While these symptoms are common with aging, effective treatment options are available.
Aquablation therapy is one of the newest treatment options for BPH and offers long-lasting symptom relief while reducing some of the risks associated with other surgical treatments. The minimally invasive procedure combines real-time imaging, robotics and heat-free waterjet ablation to precisely remove enlarged prostate tissue. Because this treatment does not use heat and allows for precise targeting of tissue, surrounding nerves and structures are preserved, helping minimize the risk of complications that can affect erectile, ejaculatory and urinary function.
The procedure begins with ultrasound imaging to create a personalized map of the prostate, including its exact size and shape. Using this map and real-time ultrasound guidance, the surgeon programs the Hydros Robotic System to direct a heat-free waterjet that precisely removes targeted prostate tissue.
Logan Health urologic surgeons Amy McKerrow, MD, and Sarabeth Martin, MD, performed the first procedures on June 5. Five patients were treated using the new therapy, with positive initial outcomes. Aquablation therapy will now be offered through Logan Health Urology, expanding treatment options for patients with BPH in northwest Montana. The addition of Aquablation therapy reflects Logan Health’s ongoing commitment to providing patients with access to advanced treatment options close to home.
For information about this service, have your primary care provider refer you to Logan Health Urology or visit logan.org/urology.