Benign Prostate Hyperplasia Treatment

Two common types of medication for benign prostatic hyperplasia are the following:

Alpha blockers relax the muscles in the bladder and prostate. They can help improve urine flow and reduce the risk of bladder obstruction. They are often prescribed to men with smaller prostates.

5-alpha reductase inhibitors block the male hormone that stimulates the prostate. These drugs are generally prescribed to men with significantly enlarged prostates or severe cases of benign prostatic hyperplasia. In addition to relieving symptoms, they increase urinary flow and may even help shrink the prostate.

In some cases, surgery may be required to remove the prostate tissue that is blocking the flow of urine. There are several different surgical procedures available for treating benign prostatic hyperplasia, including:

Transurethral resection of the prostate is a surgery with no external incisions. A modified cystoscope called a resectoscope is inserted through the urethra and uses an electrical wire loop that cuts tissue away from the center of the enlarged prostate.

During transurethral vaporization of the prostate, also known as TUVP, an electrode transmits a current that vaporizes prostate tissue. Using an instrument that delivers high-voltage electrical current, the doctor pinpoints the prostate tissue that will be destroyed.

In the case of a significantly enlarged prostate, open surgery is usually recommended. An incision is made in the lower abdomen, and the interior of the prostate is removed, leaving the outer lining of compressed normal prostate tissue. This surgery results in the greatest increase in urinary flow of all treatment techniques.

Surgery for benign prostatic hyperplasia usually provides effective results for at least fifteen years. Patients should continue to have rectal and prostate exams once a year and should see their doctor at the first sign of recurring symptoms. There are a wide range of treatment options available for benign prostatic hyperplasia, and if treated promptly and effectively, patients can live relatively normal lives.