What is Transurethral Microwave Thermotherapy (TUMT): Purpose, Procedure, Results & Costs in India

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), commonly known as an enlarged prostate, is a condition that affects millions of men worldwide, particularly as they age. It's a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, which can lead to uncomfortable urinary symptoms, significantly impacting a man's quality of life. While medication is often the first line of treatment, some men may not find sufficient relief or may experience side effects. For these individuals, or those seeking an alternative to more invasive surgery, Transurethral Microwave Thermotherapy (TUMT) offers a promising, minimally invasive solution.

In India, where access to advanced medical technology and skilled specialists is growing, TUMT is becoming an increasingly viable option. This comprehensive guide will explore TUMT in detail, covering its purpose, procedure, expected results, potential risks, and the associated costs within India, providing valuable insights for patients considering this treatment.

What is Transurethral Microwave Thermotherapy (TUMT)?

The prostate is a small, walnut-sized gland located just below the bladder in men. Its primary function is to produce seminal fluid, which nourishes and transports sperm. The urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body, passes directly through the prostate gland. As men age, it's common for the prostate gland to grow in size, a condition medically termed Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). This enlargement can compress the urethra, obstructing the flow of urine and leading to a range of bothersome urinary symptoms.

Transurethral Microwave Thermotherapy (TUMT) is a modern, minimally invasive procedure designed to treat these urinary symptoms caused by BPH. It’s an outpatient procedure that utilizes precisely controlled microwave energy to heat and destroy excess prostate tissue that is constricting the urethra. By eliminating the obstructing tissue, TUMT aims to reduce the prostate's size and alleviate the pressure on the urethra, thereby improving urine flow and reducing BPH-related discomfort.

Unlike traditional open surgery or even more invasive endoscopic procedures like Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP), TUMT does not involve incisions or the removal of prostate tissue with a cutting instrument. Instead, it relies on thermal energy to induce coagulative necrosis – essentially, the prostate tissue cells are heated to a temperature that causes them to die. Over time, the body naturally reabsorbs this dead tissue, leading to a gradual shrinkage of the prostate and a widening of the urethral passage.

TUMT emerged as a therapeutic option in the late 1980s and has since undergone significant advancements in technology, making it a safer and more effective treatment. It represents a middle ground between conservative medical management and more aggressive surgical interventions. For many patients, especially those who are not ideal candidates for major surgery due to other health conditions or who prefer a less invasive approach with a quicker recovery, TUMT offers a compelling alternative. Its role in BPH management has been solidified by its favorable safety profile and demonstrated efficacy in improving urinary function and overall quality of life. In the Indian context, where patients increasingly seek both effective and less disruptive treatments, TUMT provides a valuable option, often available in leading urology centers across the country.

Why is Transurethral Microwave Thermotherapy (TUMT) Performed?

The primary reason for performing Transurethral Microwave Thermotherapy (TUMT) is to alleviate the bothersome Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS) that arise from Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). When the prostate gland enlarges, it presses on the urethra, creating an obstruction that hinders the normal flow of urine from the bladder. This obstruction, combined with changes in bladder function due to prolonged straining, results in a constellation of symptoms that can severely impact a man's daily life and overall well-being.

Common LUTS associated with BPH that prompt consideration for TUMT include:

• Frequent urination: A need to urinate more often than usual, both during the day and night.
• Urgency: A sudden, compelling need to urinate that is difficult to postpone.
• Nocturia: Waking up multiple times during the night to urinate, disrupting sleep patterns.
• Weak or slow urine stream: The force of the urine flow is diminished, making urination prolonged.
• Difficulty initiating urination (hesitancy): Struggling to start the urine stream, often requiring straining.
• Intermittency: A urine stream that starts and stops multiple times during urination.
• Sensation of incomplete bladder emptying: Feeling as though the bladder is not fully empty even after urinating.
• Dribbling at the end of urination: Leakage of urine after the main stream has finished.
• Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs): Stagnant urine in the bladder due to incomplete emptying creates a breeding ground for bacteria.
• Bladder stones: Can form in the bladder due to concentrated urine and incomplete emptying.
• Bladder damage or kidney problems: In severe, untreated cases, chronic obstruction can lead to bladder dysfunction and even affect kidney function.

These symptoms can range from mild annoyance to severe disruption, affecting social activities, work productivity, and sleep quality. When lifestyle modifications and medical therapies (such as alpha-blockers or 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors) fail to provide adequate relief, or when patients experience intolerable side effects from these medications, TUMT becomes a valuable consideration.

Ideal Candidates for TUMT:

TUMT is typically recommended for individuals with mild to moderate BPH symptoms, particularly those who:

• Have not responded adequately to medication.
• Experience bothersome side effects from BPH medications.
• Are unwilling to take daily medication for the long term.
• Are not suitable candidates for more invasive surgical options (like TURP or open prostatectomy) due to other existing health conditions (comorbidities) that increase surgical risks, such as severe heart disease, lung disease, or bleeding disorders.
• Prefer a minimally invasive procedure with a shorter recovery period and a lower risk of sexual side effects compared to traditional surgery.
• Have prostate glands of a specific size that are amenable to microwave energy treatment (generally, smaller to moderately enlarged prostates).

Contraindications for TUMT:

While TUMT is widely applicable, certain conditions may make a patient unsuitable for the procedure. These include:

• Presence of a penile implant: The heat generated during TUMT could potentially damage the implant.
• Urethral strictures or severe bladder neck contracture: These conditions can prevent the safe passage of the microwave catheter or may not be effectively treated by TUMT alone.
• Certain types of BPH affecting the median lobe: If the enlargement primarily involves the median lobe of the prostate, which protrudes into the bladder, TUMT may be less effective compared to other procedures.
• Active urinary tract infection: Treatment should be deferred until the infection is cleared.
• Pacemakers or implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs): The microwave energy could interfere with the function of these electronic devices. Patients with metal implants in the pelvic area (e.g., hip replacements) may also require careful consideration, though modern TUMT devices often have features to minimize this risk.
• Coagulation disorders or use of blood thinners: While TUMT carries a lower risk of bleeding than more invasive surgeries, patients on anticoagulants or with bleeding disorders need careful evaluation, and medication adjustments may be necessary.
• Suspected or confirmed prostate cancer: TUMT is not a treatment for prostate cancer. If cancer is suspected, further diagnostic procedures (like biopsy) are required.

In essence, TUMT is a strategic choice for men seeking significant symptom relief from BPH without undergoing major surgery, aligning with the growing demand for less invasive yet effective medical interventions in India.

Preparation for Transurethral Microwave Thermotherapy (TUMT)

Thorough preparation is crucial for the success and safety of any medical procedure, and Transurethral Microwave Thermotherapy (TUMT) is no exception. Before undergoing TUMT, patients will embark on a comprehensive evaluation process with their healthcare provider to ensure they are suitable candidates and to minimize any potential risks. This preparation typically involves several steps, including detailed medical assessments, diagnostic tests, and specific instructions to follow leading up to the procedure day.

1. Initial Consultation and Medical History: The journey begins with an in-depth discussion with a urologist. This consultation is vital for understanding the patient's symptoms, their impact on quality of life, and their expectations from the treatment. The doctor will take a complete medical history, including:

• Current and past medical conditions: Especially conditions like heart disease, diabetes, lung disorders, neurological issues, or any chronic illnesses.
• Previous surgeries and hospitalizations: To understand the patient's surgical history and any anatomical variations.
• Allergies: To medications, anesthesia, latex, or any other substances.
• Medication history: A comprehensive list of all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, and vitamins currently being taken. This is particularly important for blood-thinning medications.
• Family history: Relevant conditions like prostate cancer or bleeding disorders.
• Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): A physical examination to assess the size, shape, and consistency of the prostate gland and to check for any abnormalities.

2. Diagnostic Tests: A series of diagnostic tests will be performed to accurately diagnose BPH, assess its severity, rule out other conditions (like prostate cancer or bladder cancer), and evaluate overall urinary and prostate health. These may include:

• Blood Tests:

  • Complete Blood Count (CBC): To check for anemia or infection.
  • Kidney Function Tests (Creatinine, BUN): To assess kidney health, as severe BPH can sometimes affect kidney function.
  • Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: A blood test to screen for prostate cancer. While BPH increases PSA levels, a significantly elevated PSA may warrant further investigation (e.g., prostate biopsy) before TUMT.
  • Coagulation Profile (PT/INR, aPTT): To assess blood clotting ability, especially if the patient is on blood thinners.

• Urine Tests:

  • Urinalysis: To check for signs of infection, blood, or other abnormalities in the urine.
  • Urine Culture: If an infection is suspected, a culture will identify the specific bacteria and guide antibiotic treatment. TUMT is usually postponed until any active urinary tract infection is cleared.

• Uroflowmetry: This non-invasive test measures the speed and volume of urine flow. The patient urinates into a special device, which graphically records the flow rate. A weak or obstructed flow is a key indicator of BPH.

• Post-Void Residual (PVR) Volume: After urinating, an ultrasound scan or a catheter is used to measure the amount of urine remaining in the bladder. A high PVR volume indicates incomplete bladder emptying due to obstruction.

• Prostate Ultrasound: This imaging test uses sound waves to create images of the prostate gland, allowing the doctor to accurately measure its size, shape, and identify any structural abnormalities. It can also assess the kidneys and bladder.

• Cystoscopy: In some cases, a thin, flexible tube with a camera (cystoscope) is inserted into the urethra to visually examine the urethra, prostate, and bladder. This helps identify urethral strictures, bladder stones, tumors, or the extent of prostate enlargement.

• Urodynamic Studies: For more complex cases, these tests measure bladder pressure, urine flow rates, and the nerve and muscle function of the bladder and urethra. They help determine if bladder dysfunction is contributing to symptoms.

3. Medication Management:

• Blood Thinners: Patients taking anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin, apixaban, rivaroxaban, dabigatran) or antiplatelet medications (e.g., aspirin, clopidogrel) will receive specific instructions from their doctor on when to stop these medications before the procedure to minimize the risk of bleeding. It's crucial not to stop these medications without medical advice.
• BPH Medications: The doctor will advise whether to continue or temporarily stop any BPH medications (alpha-blockers, 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors) before the procedure.

4. Dietary and Lifestyle Instructions:

• Fasting: Patients will typically be instructed to fast for several hours (usually 6-8 hours) before the procedure, meaning no food or drink (including water) after a certain time, especially if sedation or anesthesia is planned.
• Bowel Preparation: In some cases, a mild laxative or enema may be recommended the night before to ensure the rectum is clear, as a rectal thermometer is used during the procedure.
• Antibiotics: A prophylactic antibiotic may be prescribed to be taken before the procedure to reduce the risk of infection.

5. Consent and Arrangements:

• Informed Consent: The healthcare team will thoroughly explain the TUMT procedure, its benefits, risks, potential complications, and alternative treatments. Patients will be asked to sign an informed consent form, indicating they understand and agree to the procedure.
• Transportation: Since sedation may be used, patients will need to arrange for someone to drive them home after the procedure.

Adhering to these preparation guidelines meticulously ensures that the TUMT procedure is performed safely and effectively, contributing to the best possible outcome for the patient. In India, leading urology centers emphasize patient education and thorough pre-operative assessment to optimize results.

The Transurethral Microwave Thermotherapy (TUMT) Procedure

The Transurethral Microwave Thermotherapy (TUMT) procedure is a testament to modern medical advancements, offering an effective treatment for BPH with minimal invasiveness. It is typically performed on an outpatient basis, meaning patients can return home the same day, significantly reducing hospital stay and recovery time compared to traditional surgery. The procedure usually takes between 30 to 60 minutes, though the overall time spent at the clinic or hospital will be longer due to preparation and post-procedure monitoring.

Anesthesia: Before the procedure begins, the patient will receive anesthesia to ensure comfort. The choice of anesthesia depends on the patient's health, preference, and the urologist's recommendation:

• Local Anesthesia: An anesthetic gel is applied to the urethra, numbing the area. This allows the patient to remain fully conscious but without feeling pain.
• Spinal Anesthesia: An anesthetic is injected into the spinal canal, numbing the lower half of the body. The patient remains awake but cannot feel sensations from the waist down.
• Intravenous (IV) Sedation: Often combined with local or spinal anesthesia, IV sedation helps the patient relax, feel drowsy, and sometimes forget the details of the procedure. They remain conscious but in a twilight state.

Step-by-Step Procedure:

1. Patient Positioning: The patient is positioned comfortably on their back, typically with their legs slightly apart and supported. The genital area is then cleaned with an antiseptic solution.

2. Catheter Insertion:

   • A special, thin, flexible catheter is carefully inserted into the urethra through the tip of the penis. This catheter is specifically designed for TUMT and contains a microwave antenna at its tip, precisely positioned to deliver energy to the prostate.
   • The catheter is advanced gently until the microwave antenna is accurately located within the prostatic urethra (the part of the urethra that passes through the prostate gland). Imaging techniques like ultrasound or fluoroscopy may be used to confirm its correct placement.

3. Rectal Temperature Monitoring:

   • To ensure the safety of surrounding tissues and prevent excessive heating, a small thermometer probe is simultaneously inserted into the rectum. This probe continuously monitors the temperature of the rectal wall, which is very close to the prostate.
   • The information from the rectal thermometer is fed back to the TUMT machine, allowing the urologist to precisely control the microwave energy delivery and prevent damage to the rectum and other adjacent structures. If the rectal temperature approaches a predefined safety limit, the machine automatically adjusts or pauses energy delivery.

4. Microwave Energy Emission:

   • Once all safety parameters are in place, the TUMT device is activated. The microwave antenna within the catheter begins to emit controlled, low-level microwave energy.
   • This energy penetrates the prostate tissue, causing water molecules within the cells to vibrate rapidly, generating heat. The temperature in the targeted prostate tissue rises, leading to thermal necrosis (cell death due to heat).
   • The system is highly sophisticated, allowing the urologist to customize the treatment parameters, such as power output and duration, based on the individual patient's prostate size and anatomy. The goal is to heat the obstructing prostate tissue to temperatures typically between 45°C and 60°C, which is sufficient to destroy the cells without causing charring or excessive damage to the surrounding structures.

5. Urethral Cooling System:

   • A critical safety feature of the TUMT catheter is its integrated circulating water system. During the procedure, sterile water continuously circulates through a separate channel within the catheter, cooling the urethral lining.
   • This cooling mechanism protects the urethra from the high temperatures generated by the microwave energy, preventing damage to the sensitive urethral tissue and minimizing post-procedure urethral irritation.

6. Treatment Duration:

   • The microwave energy delivery typically lasts for about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the specific protocol and the individual patient's prostate characteristics. The urologist monitors the temperature readings and the patient's comfort throughout this phase.

7. Post-Procedure:

   • Once the treatment cycle is complete, the microwave catheter and rectal thermometer are carefully removed.
   • Many patients will have a temporary urinary catheter inserted into their bladder. This is often necessary because the immediate swelling of the prostate tissue after heating can temporarily worsen urinary obstruction. The catheter helps drain urine until the swelling subsides, which usually takes a few days to a week.
   • Patients are then moved to a recovery area for a short observation period before being discharged with instructions for home care.

Throughout the procedure, patients might experience a sensation of warmth or pressure in the rectal or perineal area, despite the anesthesia. Some might also feel a mild urge to urinate. The medical team continuously communicates with the patient to ensure their comfort and address any concerns. The precision and safety features of modern TUMT technology make it a well-tolerated and effective treatment for BPH, widely available in specialized centers across India.

Understanding Results

The journey to relief from BPH symptoms after Transurethral Microwave Thermotherapy (TUMT) is a gradual one, requiring patience as the body undergoes natural healing processes. Unlike immediate surgical interventions that provide instant relief, TUMT's benefits unfold over weeks to months as the treated prostate tissue is absorbed and the gland shrinks.

Timeline for Improvement:

• Initial Period (Days to Weeks): Immediately after TUMT, it's common for patients to experience some temporary worsening of urinary symptoms due to swelling of the treated prostate tissue. This can include increased urinary frequency, urgency, burning during urination (dysuria), and potentially a need for a temporary urinary catheter. This phase is normal and indicative of the body's inflammatory response to the treatment.
• Gradual Improvement (Weeks to Months): As the initial swelling subsides and the destroyed prostate tissue undergoes a process called coagulative necrosis and subsequent reabsorption by the body, the prostate gland begins to shrink. This reduction in size gradually alleviates the pressure on the urethra, leading to an improvement in urine flow. Patients typically start noticing significant improvements in their urinary symptoms within 2 to 6 weeks, with the full benefits often becoming apparent over 2 to 3 months. Some men may continue to see improvements for up to 6 months.

Quantifiable Improvements: The effectiveness of TUMT is measured by several objective and subjective parameters:

• International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS): This questionnaire assesses the severity of LUTS. Studies consistently show a significant reduction in IPSS scores after TUMT, indicating a marked improvement in symptoms.
• Uroflowmetry: Objective measurements of urine flow rate typically show an increase in peak flow rate, signifying improved urinary outflow.
• Post-Void Residual (PVR) Volume: A decrease in PVR volume indicates more complete bladder emptying, reducing the risk of UTIs and other complications.
• Quality of Life (QoL) Scores: Patients often report a substantial improvement in their BPH-related quality of life, reflecting greater comfort and reduced disruption to daily activities.

Success Rates: Many clinical studies and real-world data demonstrate that TUMT is an effective treatment for BPH.

• Symptom Improvement: Over 50% of patients experience noticeable improvement in their urinary symptoms. Some reports indicate an improvement in urination in about 70% of patients, with a reduction in IPSS scores often ranging from 30% to 50%.
• Reduced Need for Medication: A significant number of patients are able to reduce or discontinue their BPH medications after TUMT.
• Durability: The benefits of TUMT have been shown to be durable for several years, though some patients may require re-treatment over time if symptoms recur or worsen.

Advantages of TUMT: TUMT offers several distinct advantages, making it an attractive option for many patients:

• Minimally Invasive: No surgical incisions are made, leading to less pain and a faster recovery compared to traditional surgery.
• Outpatient Procedure: Most patients can go home on the same day, minimizing hospital stay.
• Lower Risk of Sexual Dysfunction: Compared to more invasive procedures like TURP, TUMT is associated with a significantly lower risk of sexual complications, particularly retrograde ejaculation (where semen flows backward into the bladder during orgasm). While some ejaculatory dysfunction can occur, it is less common and often less severe.
• Safe for High-Risk Patients: Its minimally invasive nature and use of local/regional anesthesia make it suitable for patients with other health conditions that preclude more extensive surgery.

Potential Side Effects and Complications: While generally considered safe, TUMT is not without potential risks and side effects. Most are temporary and resolve within a few days or weeks:

• Temporary Urinary Retention: This is the most common immediate side effect. Swelling of the prostate after heating can block urine flow, necessitating a temporary urinary catheter for a few days to a week until the swelling subsides.
• Irritating Urinary Symptoms:
  • Urinary Frequency and Urgency: A frequent and sudden need to urinate.
  • Dysuria (Burning Sensation): Discomfort or burning during urination, especially at the tip of the penis and at the end of the stream.
  • These symptoms are usually temporary and related to irritation and inflammation of the urethra and bladder.
• Blood in the Urine (Hematuria): Mild hematuria is common for a few days after the procedure and usually resolves on its own.
• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): The risk of UTIs increases, especially with prolonged catheterization. Prophylactic antibiotics are often prescribed to mitigate this risk. Symptoms include fever, chills, and increased urinary discomfort.
• Worsening or Recurrence of Symptoms: In some cases, symptoms may initially worsen due to inflammation, or they may recur over time as the prostate continues to grow or the initial treatment effect wanes. Re-treatment with TUMT or consideration of other BPH therapies may be necessary. TUMT might be less effective for very large prostates or specific anatomical configurations.
• Ejaculatory Disorders: While less common than with TURP, some patients may experience changes in ejaculation, including a reduced volume of ejaculate or, in rare cases, retrograde ejaculation. Complete absence of ejaculation is also a possibility, though less likely than with surgical resection.

Long-term Efficacy and Follow-up: Long-term studies suggest that TUMT provides sustained relief for many years. However, regular follow-up appointments with the urologist are essential to monitor symptom improvement, prostate health, and address any recurring issues. Lifestyle modifications and continued medical management may still be part of a long-term strategy for BPH management after TUMT.

In India, patients undergoing TUMT can expect comprehensive post-procedure care and follow-up from experienced urologists, ensuring optimal recovery and management of any potential side effects.

Costs in India

India has emerged as a global hub for medical tourism, renowned for its high-quality healthcare services, experienced specialists, and state-of-the-art medical facilities offered at a significantly lower cost compared to Western countries. This makes advanced procedures like Transurethral Microwave Thermotherapy (TUMT) an attractive and accessible option for both domestic and international patients.

The cost of Transurethral Microwave Thermotherapy (TUMT) in India typically ranges from approximately ₹1,70,000 to ₹3,00,000 (Indian Rupees). This translates to roughly $2,000 to $3,500 USD, making it a relatively cost-effective solution for BPH treatment. It's important to note that this is an estimated range, and the actual cost can vary considerably based on several influencing factors.

Factors Influencing the Cost of TUMT in India:

1. Hospital or Clinic Type:

   • Corporate Multi-Specialty Hospitals: These are often located in major metropolitan cities (e.g., Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad) and offer cutting-edge technology, luxurious amenities, and internationally trained specialists. Costs here tend to be at the higher end of the spectrum.
   • Smaller Private Hospitals/Specialty Clinics: These may offer more competitive pricing while still providing excellent care, particularly in Tier 2 or Tier 3 cities.
   • Government Hospitals: While offering the most affordable options, they often have longer waiting lists and fewer personalized amenities.

2. City of Treatment:

   • Major metropolitan cities (Tier 1 cities) generally have higher costs due to higher operational expenses and demand for premium services.
   • Smaller cities or towns (Tier 2/3 cities) may offer the same quality of treatment at a lower price point.

3. Surgeon's Fees:

   • Highly experienced urologists with extensive expertise and a strong reputation may charge higher consultation and procedure fees. Patients often choose these specialists for their proven track record and advanced skills.

4. Anesthesia Fees:

   • The type of anesthesia used (local, spinal, or general sedation) and the anesthesiologist's fees will contribute to the overall cost.

5. Pre-Operative Diagnostic Tests:

   • The battery of tests required before TUMT (blood tests, urinalysis, uroflowmetry, PVR, prostate ultrasound, cystoscopy, urodynamics, PSA) are necessary for accurate diagnosis and risk assessment. The cost of these tests will be added to the total.

6. Medications:

   • Costs for pre-operative antibiotics, post-operative pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, and any temporary BPH medications will be included.

7. Duration of Hospital Stay and Room Charges:

   • While TUMT is typically an outpatient procedure, some patients may require a short observation period or an overnight stay, especially if a urinary catheter is placed. Room charges (private, semi-private, general ward) will impact the final bill.

8. Post-Operative Care and Follow-ups:

   • Initial follow-up consultations and any necessary catheter removal or management will be part of the overall treatment package.

9. Insurance Coverage:

   • Many health insurance providers in India cover BPH treatments, including TUMT, if it is deemed medically necessary. Patients should check with their insurance provider regarding the extent of coverage, co-pays, and deductibles to understand their out-of-pocket expenses. Cashless facilities are often available at network hospitals.

Cost-Effectiveness and Value Proposition: When comparing the cost of TUMT in India to other countries, the savings can be substantial. Similar procedures in the United States or Europe can range from $8,000 to $15,000 USD or more, making India an incredibly attractive destination for medical value. This affordability, combined with the availability of advanced medical technology and highly qualified urologists, ensures that patients receive world-class care without the prohibitive price tag. For Indian patients, this translates to greater accessibility to advanced BPH treatments, alleviating the burden of chronic symptoms.

How Ayu Helps

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FAQ

Q1: What is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)? A1: BPH is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, common in older men. As the prostate grows, it can press on the urethra, causing urinary symptoms like frequent urination, weak stream, and difficulty emptying the bladder.

Q2: How does TUMT work to treat BPH? A2: TUMT uses microwave energy delivered through a special catheter inserted into the urethra. This energy heats and destroys excess prostate tissue that is obstructing urine flow. Over time, the body absorbs the dead tissue, causing the prostate to shrink and improve urine flow.

Q3: Is TUMT a painful procedure? A3: TUMT is typically performed under local or spinal anesthesia, often with IV sedation, so you should not feel pain during the procedure itself. You might experience some warmth, pressure, or a mild urge to urinate. Post-procedure, some discomfort, burning, or irritation is common but usually manageable with medication.

Q4: How long does it take to see results after TUMT? A4: Results are not immediate. You may experience temporary worsening of symptoms due to swelling in the first few days or weeks. Significant improvement in urinary symptoms usually becomes noticeable within 2 to 6 weeks, with full benefits often observed over 2 to 3 months as the prostate tissue shrinks.

Q5: What are the main advantages of TUMT over traditional BPH surgery (like TURP)? A5: TUMT is minimally invasive, requires no incisions, and is typically an outpatient procedure with a faster recovery. It also carries a significantly lower risk of sexual side effects, particularly retrograde ejaculation, compared to more invasive surgical options like TURP.

Q6: Are there any long-term side effects or risks associated with TUMT? A6: While most side effects are temporary (e.g., urinary retention, irritation, blood in urine), long-term risks are minimal. Some patients may experience a recurrence of symptoms over time, potentially requiring re-treatment. Ejaculatory dysfunction is a less common long-term risk compared to TURP.

Q7: Who is an ideal candidate for TUMT? A7: Ideal candidates typically have mild to moderate BPH symptoms, have not responded well to medications, prefer a minimally invasive approach, or have other health conditions that make them unsuitable for more invasive surgeries. It's best suited for prostates of specific sizes.

Q8: Can TUMT treat prostate cancer? A8: No, TUMT is specifically designed to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and is not a treatment for prostate cancer. If prostate cancer is suspected, further diagnostic tests and alternative treatments will be recommended.