Pioneering op cuts out discomfort for men

ALEADING urological surgeon has carried out surgery at Ormskirk Hospital for the first time which improves bladder control affected by an enlarged prostate.

A father of two was the first patient to benefit from the innovative surgery led by consultant surgeon Rahul Mistry.

Dave, who is in his forties and from Ormskirk, said: “I’m so much better. I was in and out of hospital within the same day – in fact, the procedure took less than half an hour.

“Within three to four days I was fully recovered and I noticed an improvement almost immediately.

“Mr Mistry fully explained the operation beforehand and I would recommend this operation not only to friends and family but to all men who need it.

“I can’t believe how quickly it took me to fully recover and be back to how I used to be.”

Prostate problems are more common in men over the age of 50. The prostate gland surrounds the tube that carries urine out of the body and sits just below the bladder.

An enlarged prostate can cause a lot of discomfort and unpredictability for men when they need to pass water, particularly at night.

The advantage of the new UroLift technique is a much faster recovery time, no routine need for a catheter, and a minimal effect on sexual function.

Patients previously had to stay in hospital for two to three days and then take a further six weeks off work.

Instead, the UroLift procedure is a day case operation, saving the NHS money, and from which the patients will be recovered within two to three weeks.

Mr Mistry said: “It’s great news that patients at Ormskirk and Southport hospitals can now benefit from this innovative procedure, quickly recover and go on to lead a normal life again.

“It’s also much better value for the NHS as the UroLift is a day case operation which means patients don’t have to stay in hospital.

“The post-operation infection rates are also much lower.”

The surgery has been made possible through partnership work between NHS England, North West Innovation Agency, UroLift and Southport & Ormskirk Hospital NHS Trust and the NHS commissioners

If you have a problem with passing urine or have any signs of symptoms, see your local GP.