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BENIGN Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is one of the most common pathologies in adult men. This is caused by a growth of the prostate that, although not cancerous can cause pain when urinating.
Dr. Pablo Navarro Vílchez, Head of the Urology Service at Hospital Quirónsalud Marbella, explains that “benign prostatic hyperplasia is the natural enlargement of the prostate that occurs with age. The first signs usually appear after 50 years of age, but some men may notice them earlier. These include a slow stream of urine, difficulty starting to urinate, and the need for you to get up multiple times during the night. A urologist should be consulted if any of these symptoms are present.
The condition is highly prevalent, with ‘one in two men over 50 suffering from it, and almost nine out of 10 by age 80,” notes Dr. Navarro, who attributes this to ‘the hormonal changes of aging, which cause the prostate to continue growing slowly over the years’.
Diagnosis can be straightforward and non-invasive. He explains that a simple clinical interview with PSA in the urine and blood, digital rectal examination to evaluate the prostate and, if needed, an ultrasound to measure the flow strength or flowmetry are all sufficient. Although BPH symptoms can resemble those of prostate cancer, the specialist clarifies that ‘hyperplasia results in a large but soft prostate, whereas cancer feels harder or irregular. If there is any doubt, a biopsied or resonance test will be performed.
From Medication to Surgery
Dr. Navarro says that initially, the treatment is usually pharmacological. However, “when medication fails to alleviate symptoms, or complications such as repeated infections or kidney damage arise, surgery may be considered.” The aim is always to improve a patient’s life quality and prevent disease progression.
The rise of minimally Invasive Techniques
Recent years have seen a dramatic technological advancement in prostate surgery. Today we have safe and advanced techniques like the Holmium Laser or Greenlight Laser, that allow us to remove prostatic tissues with precision, and minimal bleeding. The specialist emphasizes that these are minimally-invasive procedures, which have a faster recovery time than traditional surgery.
There are many benefits for the patient: “Less bruising, less hospitalization, and a much faster recovery.” In most cases, the catheter can be removed within 24 to 48 hours. In addition, continence and sexual functions are better preserved.”
Cutting-Edge Technology at Quirónsalud Marbella
The Head of the Urology Service emphasizes that Hospital Quirónsalud Marbella has state-of-the-art equipment: “We have the latest generation laser technology, especially the Holmium laser (HoLEP), which is now the world’s gold standard treatment for prostates of all sizes. It allows for a safe surgery with very little bleeding and rapid recovery.”
It depends on each case. “It is determined by the size of prostate, age and general health of the patient.” We use outpatient procedures like Rezum and Urolift. But in other cases, we choose the Holmium laser. It is a definitive treatment.
Rapid recovery with minimal functional impact
The majority of procedures are performed using regional anesthesia. “Spinal and epidural anesthesia are typically used. Patients can return home the following day after waking up from the procedure. “Within a week, patients can resume normal activities, such as work, without any major limitations,” he says.
Patients report that they are very satisfied with the results: “Patients sleep better and no longer have leakages or urgency.” They regain their sleep and normal rhythm. The new techniques also are extremely safe. The risk of incontinence and erectile malfunction is very low. This has changed drastically compared with surgeries performed years ago, the specialist says.
Preventive measures are important
Dr. Navarro emphasizes the need for regular checkups starting at 50 years old, even if you don’t have symptoms. “This allows for early detection both of hyperplasia as well as prostate cancer which does not present any symptoms in the beginning phases.” Dr. Navarro also stresses the importance of healthy habits: “Maintaining an ideal weight, working out, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption and caffeine, as well as avoiding holding your urine for too much time.” Regular checkups are also important: prevention is key.
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