Thousands of men suffering from prostate problems are set to benefit from a revolutionary new treatment now available on the NHS that uses high-pressure water jets instead of traditional surgical methods.
The innovative Aquablation therapy represents a significant advancement in treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a common condition affecting approximately 40% of men over 50 that causes urinary symptoms and significantly impacts quality of life.
How the Water Jet Technology Works
This groundbreaking procedure employs robotic-assisted technology that precisely targets and removes excess prostate tissue using controlled, high-velocity water streams. Unlike conventional surgery, the system incorporates real-time ultrasound imaging to map the prostate and guide the treatment, ensuring exceptional accuracy while preserving healthy tissue.
Key Benefits for Patients
- Reduced side effects: Clinical evidence shows significantly lower rates of sexual dysfunction compared to traditional surgical methods
- Faster recovery: Many patients experience quicker return to normal activities
- Shorter procedure times: The actual tissue removal phase takes less than ten minutes in most cases
- Consistent results: Robotic precision eliminates human variability in tissue removal
NHS Rollout and Availability
The treatment is being introduced across multiple NHS trusts as part of the NHS's MedTech Funding Mandate, which aims to accelerate the adoption of innovative medical technologies that demonstrate clear patient benefits and cost-effectiveness.
Professor Raj Persad, a consultant urologist at North Bristol NHS Trust, described the development as "a real step forward in prostate care" that offers "a much more gentle and precise way of treating prostate enlargement."
Patient Impact and Future Prospects
With BPH affecting millions of men in the UK, the availability of Aquablation therapy on the NHS marks a significant improvement in treatment options. Patients who have undergone the procedure report dramatic improvements in urinary symptoms and overall quality of life, with many experiencing minimal discomfort during recovery.
The technology continues to be evaluated for broader applications within urology, potentially offering new hope for patients with various prostate conditions who seek effective treatments with fewer complications and faster recovery times.
