Benign Prostate Enlargement (BPE)
A common urological condition that affects men with age is the benign process associated with the change in size and shape of the prostate gland. The prostate is a small gland at the base of the bladder, responsible for semen production. With the age related changes, it can result in urinary symptoms.
Men from age 40 commonly develop change in urinary function, often alteration in urinary flow and bladder capacity. The exact pattern of symptoms and impact in each man varies, but commonly become increasingly bothersome with increasing age. With more advanced symptoms, it can be associated with urinary blockage (urinary retention) or urinary incontinence (urinary leakage).
Evaluation includes a medical history, physical examination and relevant pathology tests. It may also include specific urinary imaging, measurement of urinary flow, and telescopic evaluation. Evaluation to exclude prostate cancer is also an important part of the assessment.
There are multiple treatment options which can be tailored to an individual man’s condition and lifestyle. These include modification of some lifestyle factors, prescription and non-prescription medication, and specific surgical intervention.
Technology for surgical intervention continues to evolve and includes Greenlight laser photovaporisation. Mater Hospitals South Brisbane urologists established the first 180Watt Greenlight laser prostate facility in Brisbane and continue to offer this treatment option.