Understanding Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: A Common Concern for Older Adults
When discussing benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), many elderly individuals may find the topic familiar, especially those who are suffering from its effects. A notable example is Mr. Wang, an 86-year-old man who has faced significant challenges due to this condition.
Mr. Wang's Experience with BPH
Over the past six years, Mr. Wang has experienced an increasing frequency of nighttime urination, known as nocturia. He has found it increasingly difficult to urinate and often experiences post-void dribbling. After multiple examinations, doctors confirmed a diagnosis of severe BPH, recommending surgery as the optimal treatment. However, considering his advanced age, combined with underlying health issues like hypertension and coronary heart disease, Mr. Wang hesitated. Furthermore, he learned about potential surgery complications, such as infections and urinary incontinence, which only fueled his reluctance to proceed with the procedure.
The Struggles of Non-Surgical Management
Despite avoiding surgery, Mr. Wang found himself frequently visiting doctors for medication. While the medications provided some relief, they did not offer a permanent solution. Environmental factors and emotional stress sometimes led to acute urinary retention, causing him great distress. Eventually, after enduring considerable discomfort, Mr. Wang opted for prostate surgery. Reflecting on his decision, he expressed regret, wishing he had undergone the procedure sooner to avoid prolonged suffering.
Advancements in Prostate Surgery
Mr. Wang's story, however, revealed his limited understanding of transurethral vaporization and cutting of the prostate, a relatively new surgical technique. This modern approach utilizes the thermal effects generated by electrical current passing through tissue, combining the principles of both coagulation and vaporization. During surgery, surgeons can alternate between these two effects to achieve effective cutting and bleeding control.
When stopping bleeding, the coagulation effect is employed using low-energy electrical currents briefly. This results in surface coagulation of tissue, promoting hemostasis. Conversely, for cutting, high-energy continuous currents are applied, causing rapid cell destruction and gas formation, which effectively removes tissue while leaving a minimal residual impact.
Benefits of the New Surgical Technique
Clinical evidence has shown that this innovative surgical method offers numerous advantages:
- Minimally Invasive: The procedure is performed through the urethra, eliminating the need for open surgery.
- Quick Recovery: The surgery is swift, leading to shorter operation times.
- Controlled Bleeding: With closed venous systems during the procedure, bleeding is significantly reduced, which lowers the risk of water intoxication.
- Effective Tissue Removal: The technique ensures thorough removal of prostate tissue, resulting in fewer postoperative urinary issues.
- Versatility: Suitable for various types of prostate enlargement, it is particularly favorable for elderly or frail patients.
- Pathological Examination: Removed tissue can be analyzed for any potential diseases.
Conclusion: A Promising Future for BPH Treatment
As interest grows in transurethral vaporization and cutting of the prostate, many view it as a safer, more cost-effective, and effective alternative to traditional methods. While long-term outcomes require further clinical validation, there is a strong belief that this technique could become one of the most commonly used procedures for treating benign prostatic hyperplasia, providing relief and hope for individuals like Mr. Wang and many others in need.