Urinary retention: Minimally invasive treatment
The acute urinary retention (RUA) is a common medical problem, especially in older men, and can be a major source of discomfort and complications. This condition, often associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prevents urine from draining properly, resulting in pain and a feeling of pressure. To treat this condition, theprostate artery embolization is an effective solution, minimally invasivewhich avoids the complications of traditional surgical treatments.
What is urinary retention and what causes it?
The urinary retention is a condition in which the bladder does not empty completely, or urine is completely blocked. It can be acute (with sudden and severe symptoms) or chronicle (slow and persistent). In men, a frequent cause of urinary retention isbenign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). When a prostate enlarges, it can compress the urethra, making the flow of urine difficult or impossible.
In addition to BPH, other causes may include urinary tract infectionsneurological disorders or medications affecting bladder function. Symptoms may include difficulty in starting micturition, a slow flow, as well as sensations of incomplete emptying or post-micturition pain.
Classical treatments for urinary retention
Treatments for urinary retention often begin with the use of a urinary catheter or a vesical probe to empty the bladder. While this approach provides temporary relief, it does not solve the problem in the long term, and carries risks such as urinary tract infections and complications associated with prolonged use of these devices.
The most common medications like alpha-blockers or 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors may be prescribed to reduce the size of the prostate or facilitate urine flow. However, these treatments are not always effective, especially for patients with large prostates.
If these methods fail, patients may be referred for surgery. The transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is the classic surgery to treat BPH, but it entails risks such as sexual problems and incontinence disorders.
Prostate embolization: A non-invasive alternative
L'prostate artery embolization is a method minimally invasive an alternative to surgery. It involves blocking the arteries feeding the prostate, thereby reducing its volume. This reduces pressure on the urethra, facilitating the flow of urine.
This procedure is carried out under local anaestheticThis means that the patient remains awake and does not require prolonged hospitalization. It is performed by interventional radiologists which insert a catheter into an artery (usually in the groin) to reach the prostate artery(s) and inject microscopic particles that obstruct blood flow, thereby reducing the size of the prostate.
Why choose prostate embolization?
- Less invasive than surgery Unlike surgical procedures such as TURP, prostate embolization requires no cuts or prolonged hospitalization, which reduces the risk of post-operative complications.
- Preserving sexual function Embolization presents a low risk of sexual dysfunction, unlike other surgical treatments which can cause side effects such as erectile dysfunction or retrograde ejaculation.
- Reduced risk of incontinence : This treatment is also associated with a much lower risk of urinary incontinence after surgery, a common problem after more invasive surgeries.
- Fast recovery : Due to the nature minimally invasive embolization, patients can quickly return to their daily activities, without a long convalescence period.
- Long-term effectiveness A study of prostate embolization showed that 66% of patients were able to live catheter-free after a follow-up of 19.5 months, confirming the long-term efficacy of the treatment. However, recurrences can occur in 15% of casesHowever, they can be treated by further embolization or surgery if necessary.
When should prostate embolization be considered?
Embolization is particularly indicated for patients suffering from acute urinary retention or chronicle due to BPH, and who have failed drug treatments or are not candidates for surgery. It is also a recommended option for those suffering fromurinary tract infections due to the prolonged use of urinary catheters or bladder probes.
Elderly patients or those with comorbidities that make surgery more complex can also benefit from this procedure. It is also ideal for patients who prefer to avoid invasive surgery.
Conclusion
L'prostate artery embolization is a method efficient and non-invasive to treat acute urinary retention or chronicle related to benign prostatic hyperplasia. It provides lasting relief from urinary symptoms while minimizing the risk of complications such as sexual dysfunction and incontinence. If you suffer from urinary retention, embolization may be the best solution for you, offering effective results with a rapid recovery time. Consult a specialist to determine whether this method is best suited to your needs.
