Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition that affects men, especially those in their 40s and 50s. It is a non-cancerous increase in the size of the prostate gland, which can lead to urinary problems. While medication and lifestyle changes can help manage BPH, some men require more advanced treatment options like surgery. That’s where a Vascular Specialist comes in. Their expertise in blood flow and circulation can be crucial in relieving the symptoms of BPH. In this blog post, we will explain the role of a Vascular Specialist in BPH treatments.
Diagnosis
A Vascular Specialist is usually involved in the diagnosis of BPH. They use advanced ultrasound techniques to assess blood flow and elasticity of the prostate gland. This is important because an enlarged prostate can lead to decreased blood flow to the gland. The Vascular Specialist can help identify the underlying causes of BPH-related symptoms and determine the best course of treatment.
Minimally-invasive treatments
A Vascular Specialist can also perform minimally-invasive treatments for BPH, such as Prostatic Arterial Embolization (PAE). Prostatic artery embolization in Jerusalem is a relatively new procedure that involves blocking the blood vessels supplying blood to the prostate gland, essentially starving it. As a result, the prostate reduces in size, which can alleviate urinary symptoms. PAE is gaining popularity as an alternative to traditional surgical treatments like Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP). Vascular Specialists can also perform other minimally-invasive treatments such as laser vaporization and microwave therapy.
Surgical treatments
If minimally-invasive treatments aren’t effective, surgery may be required to treat BPH. Vascular Specialists can perform some surgical treatments, such as GreenLight laser therapy. GreenLight laser therapy involves using a laser to vaporize the prostate tissue. It is a relatively safe and quick procedure that can be performed on an outpatient basis. Other surgical treatments for BPH include Transurethral Incision of the Prostate (TUIP) and TURP. In some cases, a Vascular Specialist may work in conjunction with a Urologist to perform more complex surgical procedures.
Post-operative care
After any surgical procedure, post-operative care is crucial for a smooth recovery. Vascular Specialists can provide guidance on post-operative care and monitor patients for any complications. They can also advise on lifestyle changes that may improve the long-term outcome of the surgery, such as dietary modifications and exercise.
Long-term follow-up
BPH is a chronic condition that requires long-term follow-up and monitoring. Vascular Specialists can offer ongoing assessments of blood flow and circulation to the prostate gland. They can also collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as Urologists and Primary care physicians, to ensure patients receive optimal care for their BPH.
