Prof. Dr. Faruk Yencilek, Yeditepe University Koşuyolu Hospital Chief Physician and Head of the Department of Urology, informed us about benign prostate enlargement and the methods used in the treatment of benign prostate enlargement.

What Kind of Disease is Prostate Enlargement, and Is it Common in Turkey?

The prostate is an organ weighing about 20 grams, which every man should have. Its main function is to maintain the male reproductive function. However, some changes begin with age.  Benign prostate enlargement, also known as BPH, is a common problem that occurs after a certain age and is common in Turkey as well as in the world. Before the age of 30, there are no symptoms related to benign prostate enlargement, but after the age of 40, problems are observed to increase.

 What Are the Symptoms of an Enlarged Prostate?

The main symptoms are; frequent urination, delay in starting urination while urinating, intermittent urination, forked urination, and feeling that your bladder is still not empty after urinating. Another important symptom is the increased frequency of going to the toilet at night. All these are common symptoms and signs related to prostate enlargement.

What Can Be Done to Prevent Prostate Enlargement in the Early Stage?

In the early stages, prostate diseases may not cause any complaints. Sometimes the disease can be diagnosed by finger prostate examination without any obvious complaints or by PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) test, urine analysis, radiological imaging (ultrasonography, multiparametric prostate MRI), prostate biopsy (MRI/US Fusion Prostate Biopsy).
Since benign prostate enlargement and prostate cancer can occur in the same age group, the blood PSA (prostate-specific antigen) test is an important test. It must be routinely checked after the age of 50. Those with a family history of prostate cancer should be tested after the age of 40.

Can Prostate Enlargement be Confused with Other Diseases? Which tests and examinations should be performed to differentiate?

The "Uroflowmetry" test, popularly known as the urine test, is a very simple but reliable test that shows the mechanical compression-closure of the urinary tract by the prostate. In addition, tests such as measuring the urine left behind after urinating can also be performed. These tests can be used to determine whether benign prostate enlargement is present.

What are the Main Methods in Prostate Enlargement Surgery?

Surgical methods in benign prostate enlargement may differ according to the stage and degree of the disease. There are generally 2 types of surgery; endoscopic surgery and open operation. Open surgery is not preferred today. There are different types of closed surgeries such as classical TUR, bipolar TUR, plasma kinetic TUR, and Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP).

Prostate enlargement surgery with HoLEP is an operation where spinal anesthesia (anesthesia below the waist) is sufficient. In this operation, the enlarged prostate tissue is separated from its capsule by entering through the normal urinary tract. The prostate tissue, which is pushed into the urinary bladder, is cut into small pieces with a special tool and taken out. 

What Are the Things Patients Should Be Careful About After Holep Operation?

Since it is necessary to urinate frequently after prostate enlargement, plenty of fluids should be taken. Bitter and spicy foods, alcohol, and drinks containing caffeine should be avoided as they may irritate the bladder. Cold, long, and exhausting activities should be avoided.