As the population ages, the prevalence of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)—commonly known as an enlarged prostate—has increased significantly. Over 50% of men over 60 and 80% of those over 70 experience BPH, suffering from symptoms like weak urine flow, straining to urinate, and frequent nighttime bathroom trips.
Ranked number one in treating BPH, the Urology Center at Bumrungrad International Hospital has successfully treated 276 BPH patients through water vapor therapy — which is roughly 30% of all BPH cases in Thailand. The center is recognized by Boston Scientific (USA) as the first “Center of Excellence” in Asia for steam treatment of BPH. The center has treated more than 4,000 patients through non-surgical methods and more than 500 patients through various surgical techniques. The surgical techniques include transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP), photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) laser surgery, and steam treatment using Rezum technology. With a focus on ensuring the highest standards of treatment quality, the center’s team of highly skilled and experienced physicians treat more than 5,000 BPH patients in total each year.
However, nowadays, the medical community is shifting towards minimally invasive procedures and personalised medical therapies for BPH. Innovations like the UROLIFT system and advanced laser therapies offer effective alternatives to traditional surgeries, reducing recovery times and complications. Pharmaceutical advancements also continue to improve symptom management, enhancing quality of life for many men.
Committed to excellence and consistently raising healthcare standards by adopting the latest medical technologies, Bumrungrad International Hospital’s Urology Center recently performed its first UROLIFT procedures in Thailand, achieving outstanding results and high patient satisfaction. This innovative procedure offers a world-class solution to a common issue among ageing men.
Dr. Jakkrit Issayanuwat, a specialist in Urology (Genito-urinary), proudly states, “Bumrungrad Urology Center is the first in Thailand to introduce UROLIFT technology, a revolutionary treatment, for enlarged prostates. We are always committed to restoring a high quality of life through personalised care and appropriate treatment recommendations.”
“Our team of urologists, with extensive experience using UROLIFT in the United States, provides patients with effective and reliable treatment outcomes.”
UROLIFT: A Proven, FDA-Approved Solution
“Since 2013, UROLIFT has been a recognised and standard treatment for BPH in the United States. On 5 February 2024, the Thai FDA also approved UROLIFT, introducing a new, highly effective treatment option for Thai patients,” Dr. Jakkrit explains.
The UROLIFT Procedure: Minimally Invasive and Highly Effective
“The UROLIFT system offers a novel approach to treating BPH,” states Dr. Jakkrit. Unlike traditional surgical methods, UROLIFT is minimally invasive and designed to widen the affected urethra without incisions. The procedure involves mild sedation and the insertion of a device through the urethra to access the prostate. Depending on the severity of the condition, 4-6 tiny implants made from medical-grade stainless steel and flexible nitinol are placed to lift the prostate tissue, permanently opening the urethra. This 30-minute to one-hour outpatient procedure requires no hospital stay.
“Before the advent of minimally invasive treatments like UROLIFT, BPH was primarily managed through medications or more invasive surgical procedures,” Dr. Jakkrit notes. Medications can help alleviate symptoms but often come with side effects and may not be effective for all patients. Surgical options, such as Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP), involve removing part of the prostate but come with higher risks and longer recovery times.
Life-Changing Benefits
Dr. Jakkrit emphasises that UROLIFT significantly enhances the quality of life for individuals suffering from BPH. This innovative treatment aims to relieve symptoms quickly and effectively, allowing patients to resume daily activities. It is the only leading BPH treatment that does not require cutting, heating, or removing prostate tissue, offering a proven alternative to medications or major surgery. UROLIFT therapy allows faster recovery, fewer risks, and minimal effects on sexual health, making it suitable for cardiovascular, stroke, diabetic, and obese patients experiencing urination difficulties.
Candidates for UROLIFT typically have moderate to large prostate glands not exceeding 100 grammes and a post-void residual volume of less than 350cc. It is recommended for older individuals or those at risk for major surgery, particularly those wishing to avoid potential erectile dysfunction.
Preparation for UROLIFT involves informing the doctor about medications and underlying conditions, fasting for at least eight hours before the procedure, arriving an hour early, and having a companion for support. Physical assessments, urine flowmetry, and PSA blood tests are part of the preparation process.
For post-procedure care, Dr. Jakkrit advises light activities for the first 2-3 days and avoiding strenuous exercise for 1-2 weeks to support healing. UROLIFT offers immediate relief from urination problems, minimal discomfort, quick recovery, and no need for a urinary catheter or general anaesthesia, with mild adverse effects such as blood in urine or urinary tract infections being rare.
Dr. Jakkrit recommends that ageing men increase awareness and get early screenings, including ultrasound, annual checkups, urine flow assessments, and PSA blood tests, to proactively recognise BPH and related conditions. At Bumrungrad International Hospital, patients can expect a high standard of care throughout their treatment journey. The hospital's experienced urologists and multidisciplinary healthcare team are dedicated to providing personalised care and ensuring the best possible outcomes.
A Commitment to Cutting-Edge Medical Solutions
The introduction of UROLIFT at Bumrungrad International Hospital underscores the hospital's commitment to adopting cutting-edge medical technologies and improving patient care standards in Thailand. “The approval and implementation of UROLIFT in Thailand represent a significant advancement in the treatment of BPH. Bumrungrad International Hospital's successful adoption of this minimally invasive procedure highlights its dedication to enhancing patient care through innovative medical solutions. For men suffering from the symptoms of BPH, UROLIFT offers a promising alternative that combines effectiveness with minimal disruption to their daily lives,” Dr. Jakkrit concludes.
Taking a Proactive Approach to Your Health and Wellness
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) commonly affects men as they age, but understanding its risk factors and taking proactive measures can promote prostate health and reduce bothersome urinary symptoms. And if you are experiencing BPH symptoms and in need of the treatment, consider consulting with specialists at Bumrungrad Urology Center to explore your treatment options and make informed decisions about your prostate health. Bumrungrad International Hospital's Urology Center, recognised as a "Center of Excellence" by Boston Scientific, offers the innovative UROLIFT system for minimally invasive BPH treatment. FDA-approved and newly available in Thailand, UROLIFT lifts prostate tissue to relieve symptoms without cutting or removing tissue. This outpatient procedure ensures quick recovery and minimal side effects, significantly improving quality of life. Trust Bumrungrad for advanced, personalised care.
UROLIFT, a minimal invasive innovation for enlarged prostate disease (bumrungrad.com)