Benenden Hospital has announced the installation of a PROCEPT BioRobotics Aquabeam robotic-assisted Aquablation surgery system, making it the first private hospital in Kent to offer the treatment. The system treats prostate enlargement, also known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), using a robotically controlled water jet to remove overgrown prostate tissue.
The groundbreaking heat-free precision procedure, which takes around an hour to complete, will enable the hospital to treat a greater number of patients in the same timeframe as conventional surgery, with patients spending significantly less time in recovery.
The system uses real-time multi-dimensional imaging to surgically map the prostate and adjust the treatment to each patient’s individual anatomy. High-velocity water jets precisely target and remove excess tissue. The procedure can result in a lower risk of sexual function side effects in comparison to traditional surgical methods for BPH, reduced recovery time and post-procedure discomfort and reduced risk of infections and post-operative complications due to the minimally invasive aspect of the technology.
Jane Abbott, Hospital Director, said: “We’re delighted to be the first private hospital in Kent - and one of only a few private hospitals in the UK - to offer this advanced therapy. We continue to be a progressive hospital, adopting innovative, pioneering techniques within our theatres, and this latest system further cements our reputation as a centre of excellence for BPH treatment.”
Benenden Hospital’s Consultant Urological Surgeon, Mr Steve Garnett, and theatre staff carried out the hospital's first procedure with the new system on 14 August.
Mr Garnett commented: “Our patients will benefit hugely from this pioneering surgical technology which puts us at the vanguard of urological patient care. It is a minimally invasive procedure requiring no incisions or cuts, significantly speeding up recovery and ensuring that patients will spend less time in hospital overall.”
About Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is the most common prostate problem in men aged over 50. It is estimated that up to 3 million men in the UK have lower urinary tract symptoms associated with BPH.
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Published on 21 August 2023