SSM Health offers minimally invasive procedure to treat BPH

Urologists with SSM Health Medical Group now offer a minimally-invasive alternative to treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in a procedure called Prostatic Urethral Lift Procedure (UroLift®). BPH is a condition in which the prostate enlarges as men get older. It is a very common condition that affects over 40 million American men and over 500 million men worldwide.*

During the procedure, urologists use a system called UroLift®, approved by the Food and Drug Administration, to implant a device similar to a small stent in the prostate. The device lifts and holds the enlarged prostate tissue out of the way so that it no longer blocks the urethra, allowing urine to flow. This procedure has been shown to help relieve lower urinary tract symptoms and improve quality of life.

Because it is minimally invasive, there are many benefits to the Urolift® treatment including fewer complications, limited down time, lessens need for medications and preserves sexual function. Patients experience rapid and durable improvements in symptoms.

“The benefit is that we aren’t using steam energy or lasers, so there are minimal side effects and minimal down time,” Dr. Rajen Doshi, SSM Health Medical Group urologist, said.

While this is a permanent solution, it does not preclude other BPH treatments, if they later become necessary.

*In 2015, urologists at SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital were among the first in the region to offer this minimally-invasive alternative to treating BPH.

Providers who perform UroLift® in the St. Louis region include Dr. Rajen Doshi; Dr. Kevin Enger; Dr. Patricia Heller; Dr. Lindsay Lombardo; and Dr. Michael Mastromichalis. Dr. Louis Remynse performs UroLift® in the Southern Illinois region.

For more information on SSM Health's exceptional men's health care, visit the prostate health and urology page.