This story was written by Judith Fertig and was originally published in IN Kansas City's June 2024 edition. For more stories from IN KC magazine, visit inkansascity.com.
As men get older, prostate issues can literally keep them up at night. Frequent urination is one of the common signs of an enlarged prostate gland. Without treatment, frequent urination caused by an enlarged prostate could lead to urinary tract and kidney infections.
How can such a small part of the body cause so much trouble? The prostate gland starts off in adolescence at about the size of a walnut. As males age, the prostate gradually enlarges. When it gets too large, it can interfere with important functions such as urination.
That’s when benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)—a non-cancerous enlarged prostate—could be diagnosed. Surgical procedures for BPH could result in possible side effects, such as incontinence and erectile dysfunction, making the original problem even worse.
Enter a new procedure known as Aquablation.® Using ultrasound and a tiny camera known as a cystoscope, the urologist identifies how and where the BPH is growing, then uses a waterjet to remove the excess tissue and flush it out.
Jeffrey Marks, MD is a urologist who provides the full spectrum of urology care at AdventHealth South Overland Park, which is the first and only provider of Aquablation therapy in Johnson County. Here, Dr. Marks shares how this new, less-invasive approach is helping Kansas City men experiencing BPH issues.
What is unique about Aquablation?
It is the first and only ultrasound guided, robotic-assisted, heat-free waterjet for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
How does Aquablation reduce the risk of incontinence, erectile dysfunction, or ejaculatory issues compared to other procedures?
Intraoperative ultrasound combined with cystoscopy (using a tiny camera) allows the urologist to identify and then preserve critical structures necessary for ejaculation and continence. There were no changes in erectile function after Aquablation with 9 out of 10 men also preserving ejaculation.
What happens during the treatment process? How much downtime should a patient expect?
The procedure is done under general anesthesia and takes around 60 to 90 minutes depending on the size of the gland. While the patient is asleep, the urologist uses a transrectal ultrasound probe to map the prostate anatomy. Then, a transurethral waterjet is inserted under direct cystoscopic vision. A surgical map is created, followed by ablation with a robotically controlled waterjet. This process removes the excess tissue. Patients spend a day in the hospital and typically need a catheter for up to 3 days. Patients are encouraged to walk after surgery and avoid heavy lifting for a few weeks.
How does Aquablation change the landscape of prostate health for men?
Aquablation is a treatment modality that allows men with moderate to large prostate glands to be treated safely and effectively while not compromising sexual function.
