Minimally invasive treatment for BPH

Q: At 53, I’ve been diagnosed with benign prostatic hyperplasia, which restricts urine flow and causes other urinary problems. Is there a procedure to relieve my symptoms?

A :“Yes, in my medical practice I’ve treated men about your age suffering from benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH,” says John Colen, M.D., a board-certified Urology specialist at Kelsey-Seybold Clinic. “BPH can cause considerable urination discomfort, as well as infections in the urinary tract, bladder, and kidneys. Medications can offer relief, but side effects may include dizziness, fatigue, and sexual dysfunction. After examining a patient, I may recommend a minimally invasive surgical procedure that alleviates urinary discomfort and improves urine flow, with almost no risk of sexual dysfunction.”

Dr. Colen says this is the UroLift® procedure, which he performs on an outpatient basis in Kelsey-Seybold’s Ambulatory Surgery Center at the Berthelsen Main Campus clinic.

“The goal is to lift and rearrange the enlarged prostate, so it no longer blocks the urethra,” he explains. “It’s usually a brief surgical procedure and doesn’t require removal of prostate tissue.”

Besides rapid symptomatic relief, he says benefits also include reduced recovery time without ongoing medication.

“I encourage men dealing with symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate to schedule an appointment with me for a medical evaluation. Together, we can discuss whether the UroLift procedure is the best treatment option for their situation,” assures Dr. Colen, who cares for patients at Kelsey-Seybold’s Spring Medical and Diagnostic Center; Tanglewood Clinic, near the Galleria; and Berthelsen Main Campus, near the Texas Medical Center. Call 713-442-7587 to schedule an appointment or to find a physician at Kelsey-Seybold Clinic.