Minimally Invasive Surgical Treatment (MIST) for Prostate Enlargement
The Key Things to Know:
Minimally Invasive Surgical Treatments (MIST) are alternatives to traditional prostate surgery for men with urinary symptoms due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). They aim to improve urine flow while reducing hospital stay, recovery time, and side effects.
What It Is
MIST procedures use various technologies such as steam (Rez■m), waterjet (Aquablation), or prostatic urethral lift implants (UroLift) to open the prostate channel without removing large amounts of tissue. These procedures are usually performed as day cases under local or light general anaesthetic.
When It's Needed
MIST may be recommended if you have bothersome urinary symptoms (frequency, urgency, weakflow, or nocturia) due to BPH and prefer a less invasive treatment with a lower risk of sexual side effects. It is suitable for small to moderate prostate sizes without significant middle lobe obstruction.
Surgery Diagram
Benefits
Short hospital stay (often same day)
Quick recovery and minimal bleeding
Reduced risk of retrograde ejaculation compared to TURP
Rapid improvement in urinary symptoms
Some options can be done under local anaesthetic
Risks
Temporary urinary frequency, urgency, or burning
Blood in urine for several days
May require a catheter for 1-3 days
Small risk of needing further surgery over time
Rare infection or urinary retention
What to Expect After Surgery
Most patients go home the same day. You may notice mild discomfort, urgency, or frequency that improves within days to weeks. Drink plenty of fluids and avoid heavy exercise for about a week. Symptom improvement is usually noticeable within 4-6 weeks.
FAQs
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Choice depends on prostate size, anatomy, and patient priorities (sexual function, recovery time, durability).
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Some men can stop medication, though others may continue if symptoms persist.
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MIST options can be effective for several years, though re-treatment rates are higher than TURP or HoLEP.
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