Good Samaritan Physician Network urologists William Vaughn, MD and Bart
DeBrock, MD, are now treating patients with the UroLift System, the first
permanent implant to treat symptoms due to urinary outflow obstruction
secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men 50 years of age
or older. Cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2013, the
UroLift System is designed to relieve symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate,
while preserving sexual function.
Mike Roach, a 65-year-old Odon, Ind. resident, was one of the first patients
to be treated with the UroLift System. Roach says he had been struggling
with BPH for two years. “It didn’t really stop me from doing
anything, but it was definitely a nuisance,” added Roach.
BPH is a normal part of the aging process for men. It occurs with changes
in hormone balance and cell-growth factors as most men naturally grow
an enlarged prostate. Genetics may play a small role in severe cases,
but typically BPH is associated with age and hormonal changes.
Symptoms may range from mild to severe, depending on the individual. Roach
said sometimes “my body tells me it’s time and I may not even
have to go.” The anxiety of planning for restroom breaks and constant
worry led Roach to have mild panic attacks.
Prior to the UroLift System, Roach had tried medication as well as at-home
treatments. “It wasn’t working,” he said. After trying
several medications Roach said that Dr. Vaughn suggested the UroLift System
as he thought “it would take care of most of my problems.”
The UroLift System permanent implants, delivered during a minimally-invasive
procedure, act like window curtain tie-backs to hold the lobes of an enlarged
prostate open. Patients recover from the procedure quickly, and return
to their normal routines with minimal down time. With eliminating lasting
sexual side effects and providing lasting relief, UroLift is changing
the lives of men everywhere.
“Our hospital system is committed to providing patients with the
highest quality, most effective options to address their urology needs,”
said Dr. Vaughn. “The UroLift System has an excellent safety profile
and provides men suffering from an enlarged prostate a beneficial first-line
treatment alternative to drug therapy or more invasive surgery. Importantly,
the UroLift System provides fast and meaningful relief from BPH symptoms,
improving overall quality of life for our patients.”
Roach said he couldn’t be more pleased with his experience during
his treatment. “Everyone treated me very well, the anesthesiologist
and surgical team explained everything very clearly and were very reassuring
and helpful,” Roach said regarding his procedure. The UroLift System
“overall just made me feel better” he added.
For more information on the UroLift System or to schedule an appointment
to see if you qualify for UroLift call Good Samaritan Urology at 812-882-4320.