What is transurethral ultrasound ablation treatment?
Transurethral ultrasound ablation is an incision-free procedure used to destroy prostate tissue by combining real-time Magnetic Resonance Imaging (“MRI”) with robotically-driven directional thermal ultrasound to deliver predictable physician-prescribed ablation of whole-gland or partial prostate tissue.
Only the physician-prescribed region is ablated during the procedure. This can be whole-gland or partial prostate tissue. The amount of prostate ablated is up to the discretion of the treating physician and is fully customizable to the individual patients’ needs.
What happens to the prostate after the procedure?
After the procedure, the prostate shrinks. Clinical studies show a median perfused prostate volume decrease of 91%. The prostate tissue gets eliminated by getting absorbed by the body (healing) or microscopic particles in the urine.
A catheter is typically in place for up to 14 days. Your physician will assess your voiding function to confirm the appropriate removal date.
How long does it take?
Prostate ablation treatment is performed in a single session that takes around 2-4 hours. It is conducted under anesthesia. After the procedure, the patient goes home the same day.
What are the benefits?
Transurethral ultrasound ablation is an incision free procedure. There are is no cutting of the prostate tissue.
Patients typically return to their daily activities (including work) within a couple of days following the procedure, and then back to baseline urinary/bowel quality of life within three months.
Will insurance pay?
The patient will cover the cost of the procedure as a “cash pay model.” Medicare does not currently cover the procedure. Depending on individual insurance policies, there may be some reimbursement for the procedure, which should be further discussed with your policy provider.