How I do it: Aquablation of the prostate using the AQUABEAM system.

Abstract

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) represents one of the most common conditions encountered in urological practice. For many years, transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) has been considered the gold standard for surgical management of symptoms in prostates of 30 cc-80 cc. Although TURP provides excellent functional outcomes, there is significant morbidity associated with the procedure, particularly with regards to bleeding, electrolyte imbalance and sexual dysfunction. Emerging technologies aim to maintain the excellent functional results of TURP whilst decreasing the adverse events experienced by the patient. Aquablation is a novel therapy using a high-velocity waterjet and real-time ultrasound imaging with robotic assistance for targeted removal of prostate tissue. We present our experiences with this new technique, the equipment required and steps involved.