New Device for Enlarged Prostate Could Help Men Avoid Surgery

A new device for enlarged prostate glands has been recommended in new NICE guidelines. The device should help patients with enlarged prostate glands avoid surgery.

An enlarged prostate affects around 6 out of 10 men aged 60 and over. While it isn’t usually dangerous to a man’s health, it can cause discomfort and make it difficult to pass urine, increasing the risk of urinary tract infections. In severe cases, it can even lead to kidney failure.

Currently, there are drugs and lifestyle changes which can help with enlarged prostate glands, but if they are unsuccessful surgery is sometimes necessary. However, the new treatment option could prevent the need for such extreme measures.

The UroLift system involves inserting implants to move excess prostate tissue away from the urethra, which stops the extra tissue blocking the flow of urine. The system is designed for use in men aged 50 years or older with urinary tract symptoms, where the size of their prostate is less than 100cm³.

This system avoids the need to cut or remove the extra prostate tissue. This means that the length of time patients spend in hospital is shorter and there is less risk of sexual function being affected. The treatment is also less expensive than surgery and could save up to £286 per patient.

“We’re pleased to publish this new guidance recommending the UroLift system for treating enlarged prostates in men over 50 years old with urinary tract symptoms,” says Professor Carole Longson, Director of the NICE Centre for Health Technology Evaluation. “An enlarged prostate gland can lead to problems in passing urine and other urinary tract symptoms for men as they get older. Based on the evidence examined, the independent Medical Technologies Advisory Committee concluded that as well as benefitting patients, it’s also likely to benefit the NHS by saving money when used in day surgery.”