recommended. Historically, a TURP procedure has been the most successful surgical option in providing long-lasting relief of symptoms. The surgery involves cutting away slices of the enlarged gland to relieve the pressure on the urethra at the neck of the bladder. An alternative to TURP is GreenLight Laser Therapy. This procedure involves the surgeon using a greenlight laser to vapourise and coagulate the obstructing tissue rather than surgically excising sections of the enlarged prostate gland. Another new alternative treatment option for BPH is UroLift®. This procedure works by permanently implanting tiny prostate retractors that ‘pull back’ and reduce prostate obstruction, thus creating a larger prostatic opening and allowing urine to fl ow freely through the urethra. The fi rst UroLift® procedures in Queensland were performed at Pindara Private Hospital by Urologist, Dr Charles Chabert, who reported the results were pleasing. So for men living with BPH there are treatment alternatives – but how do you choose? Gold Coast Urologist, Dr Neil Smith, said the prostate size, shape and regional anatomy all have a role to play in determining which approach is best for an individual patient. “Each technique has a place and the judgment as to which (technique) is best for the patient is made once the patient has had a cystoscopy and after the patient has been informed and consented appropriately,” he said. That’s the lowdown on a benign prostate condition. So … why and when should you worry? A malignant prostate condition is something entirely different. “Most men will experience symptoms of benign prostate hyperplasia as they age – but prostate cancer can exist without any symptoms and there is no universal link between prostate cancer and BPH,” Dr Smith explains, “which is why it’s so important for all men over the age of 50 (40 if you have a father or brother diagnosed with prostate cancer) to see a doctor for regular prostate examination.” This examination, he stresses, needs to include both a Prostate Specifi c Antigen (PSA) blood test and Digital Rectal Examination (DRE). Prostate cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in Australia, and the third most common cause of cancer death. With more than 20,000 Australian men diagnosed with per annum, early detection and management is vital in the fi ght against this elusive disease. Caught in its early stages, whilst still confi ned to the prostate gland, prostate cancer can be cured. Early detection is essential in allowing a positive outcome and potential cure of prostate cancer. MEN’S HEALTH Dr Smith said testing through a PSA blood test and DRE and, if required, a subsequent prostate biopsy is currently the best available way to detect the presence of cancer. If the PSA levels are high but the biopsy is negative, Dr Smith also suggests patients should undergo an MRI. Advancements in multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) technology offer new hope in the early detection of prostate cancer. The latest mpMRIs capture both morphological and functional information that identify and localise a tumour with 90% certainty. Pindara Private Hospital Urologist, Dr Scott McClintock said the mpMRI technology is not only useful in the diagnosis of prostate cancer, but also offers substantial benefi ts in assisting with the ongoing management of prostate cancer. For more information regarding any of the services in this article, please contact your local General Practitioner for a referral to a urologist. pm As a man ages, enlargement of the prostate gland compresses the urethra and interferes with the normal fl ow of urine. South Coast Radiology off ers a multiparametic MRI service at Pindara Private Hospital. This service can be used by patients referred by their urologists. There is a cost to the patient as there is no Medicare rebate available for this service. pindaramagazine.com.au 5 4 7 How many times do you get up at night? Looking for relief from an enlarged prostate without medication or major surgery? Learn about a whole new approach to BPH treatment that doesn’t require ongoing medication or major surgery. Attend a FREE Men’s Health Seminar Presented by: Dr. Charles Chabert Date: Wednesday, March 12, 2014. Time: 7:00 pm Venue: Gold Coast Arts Centre, 135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise Partners and guests welcome. Refreshments will be served. Space is limited, call to register today. 02 8035 4454
Pindara Private Hospital Magazine - Issue One
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