Interview with Dr. Charles Chabert – The Prostate Clinic
We conducted this interview with Dr. Charles Chabert to get some insight into the new treatment. The effectiveness of it, processes and his feelings about it.
What is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BHP)?
BPH refers to a benign enlargement of the prostate which is universal in all men the older they become. Through the cummulitive exposure to male hormone prostate cells multiply with increasing age, thus taking up more space and volume. As a result the outlet pipe of the bladder, or urethra ,which passes through the centre of the prostate, can become obstructed and urinary symptoms such as a slow flow, hesitancy, or getting up through the nigh can develop.
How does Urolift relieve the symptoms of BHP?
UroLift permanently implants tiny prostate retractors that reduce prostate obstruction. Clinical trials have shown the system provides rapid and durable relief that is more effective than medication; does not have the complications of surgery; and uniquely, preserves sexual function.
In 2011, a multi-national randomised study was conducted. The results were presented by Dr. Claus Roehrborn, who said “the results confirmed that Prostatic Urethral Lift (PUL) [UroLift] can offer rapid and durable LUTS relief with minimal morbidity and no compromise of sexual function… The procedure can reliably be performed under local anaesthesia with low morbidity and preserves all aspects of sexual function. This rapidly acting and minimally invasive treatment offers attractive benefits for the treatment of symptomatic BPH.”
How Is Urolift Delivered?
The UroLift System comprises of a sterile single-use delivery device that houses a permanent, adjustable implant. The UroLift device fits into a standard cystoscopy sheath and houses a 2.9 mm optical telescope that enables endoscopic visualisation. The UroLift System is guided into the prostatic urethra via the in-built endoscope; and the surgeon uses the device to displace the encroaching prostate lobe. Because the outer capsule of the prostate is firm and the inner gland is soft, applying transprostatic compression holds the urethra outward, leaving a larger prostatic opening. Typically four implants are delivered to achieve the end result of a continuous channel through the prostatic urethra.
How does Urolift compare to the current treatment options to relieve symptoms associated with BPH?
In contrast to other BPH treatments UroLift does not remove any prostate tissue. Through its unique mechanism of action UroLift has the effect of preventing any sexual side effects such as a dry organism or erectile dysfunction whilst improving urinary symptoms more than commonly used medications.
How long does the procedure take?
On average 20 minutes.
How long is the recovery period?
A day surgery with no catheter … improvement generally occurs within a day or 2.
Where is Urolift currently being used?
Pindara Private Hospital is currently the only hospital in QLD offering this treatment.
What is your opinion on this new development in BHP treatment?
It’s a great minimally invasive treatment with fantastic recovery time and prognosis. It is a game changer!
For more information or to book a consultation with Dr. Charles Chabert please contact The Prostate Clinic.