Why is this procedure done?
The prostate is a gland at the base of the bladder in men. Sometimes, the prostate may become too large. Then, less urine flows out of the bladder opening. The bladder may not empty fully. An enlarged prostate is called benign prostatic hypertrophy or BPH. Doctors may do a procedure to help with this problem. The doctor will use a small tool to apply microwave energy to the prostate. This is called transurethral microwave thermotherapy or TUMT. This procedure may be done if you are having problems with: ‚
- Passing urine often
- Getting up at night to pass urine
- Urgency
- Slow or weak stream
- Pain while passing urine
- Leaking urine
- Not emptying the bladder
- Difficulty starting urination
- Urinary tract infections
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What will the results be?
You will be able to pass urine more easily. You will have fewer signs. ‚
What happens before the procedure?
- Your doctor will take your history. Talk to the doctor about:
- All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- Any bleeding problems. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any drugs that may cause bleeding. Some examples are Coumadin, ibuprofen, Aleve (naproxen), or aspirin. Certain vitamins and herbs, such as garlic and fish oil, may also add to the risk for bleeding. You may need to stop these drugs as well. Talk to your doctor about all of your drugs.
- When you need to stop eating or drinking before your procedure.
- Your doctor will do an exam and may order:
- Digital rectal exam ¢ ˆ ’ You would be asked to bend over a table or to lie on your side holding your knees close to your chest. The doctor would put a finger into your rectum to feel the prostate.
- PSA blood test
- Urine test
- Ultrasound
- CT scan
- Cystoscope ¢ ˆ ’ A scope inserted into the bladder to check the size of the prostate
What happens during the procedure?
- Once you are in the operating room, the staff will put an IV in your arm to give you fluids and drugs. You will be given a drug to make you sleepy.
- You will be given a drug to numb the prostate area. The drug is given as an injection in or near your rectum. The drug will help you stay pain free. You may feel some discomfort during the procedure. You may feel a strong urge to pass urine. Tell your doctor right away if the pain becomes very bad.
- The doctor will put a small hollow tube called a catheter into your penis. The doctor will put a thermometer inside the rectum to carefully watch the temperature.
- The doctor puts a tool through the catheter. The microwave energy is applied with the tool to the extra tissue that is blocking the flow of urine.
- The doctor will remove the tool and thermometer when done.
- This procedure may take 45 to 60 minutes.
What happens after the procedure?
- You will go to the Recovery Room and the staff will watch you closely.
- You will have a small tube called a catheter in your bladder. The catheter will help drain urine. Your urine may contain blood and small clots.
- You will not be allowed to drive right away after the procedure. Ask a family member or a friend to drive you home.
What care is needed at home?
- Ask your doctor what you need to do when you go home. Make sure you ask questions if you do not understand what you need to do.
- You need to limit your activity and rest after the procedure for 1 to 2 days. Your doctor will tell you when you can return to your normal activity level.
- Avoid constipation or straining for bowel movements. Ask your doctor if you need a laxative.
- You need to drink 6 to 8 glasses of water each day. Drinking water is very important if your urine becomes red. Red urine means your treated area is bleeding.
- You will need to care for your catheter:
- Keep your catheter bag lower than your bladder at all times.
- Empty your catheter bag when it is half full.
- Take extra care when moving around. Tape the catheter on your skin to avoid pulling on it.
- You need to keep your penis clean to prevent infection. Wash your penis with soap and water at least two times each day.
What follow-up care is needed?
- Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep your visits.
- The urine catheter will be removed. Do not try to take your catheter out by yourself.
- Your doctor will tell you if you need to see an urologist.
What problems could happen?
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Very bad pain or bladder spasms
- Hole in the bladder
- Trouble passing urine
- Sex problems like problems with erection, lower desire for sex, and problems with ejaculation
Where can I learn more?
American Urological Association Foundation ‚
http://www.urologyhealth.org/urology/index.cfm?article=4 ‚
National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse ‚
http://kidney.niddk.nih.gov/kudiseases/pubs/prostateenlargement/ ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚