Prostate enlargement is very common in men over 50 and usually unrelated to prostate cancer. It is caused by benign prostate enlargement (BPE), where the prostate grows and restricts urine flow.

This can lead to symptoms such as a slow or intermittent stream, needing to urinate more often (especially at night), or rushing to the toilet with little warning. In severe cases, men may be unable to pass urine at all and require a catheter.

For most men, symptoms worsen gradually over time, often without realising how much their quality of life has been affected until treatment is given.

The procedure involves placing a small device called iTind in the part of the urinary passage that runs through the prostate (the prostatic urethra). To do this the Consultant will use a thin instrument called a cystoscope to guide the device into the bladder and then position it correctly in the prostate area. The whole process usually takes about 30 minutes.

After a short observation period, you’ll able to go home. For the next five to seven days, the device gently reshapes the prostatic urethra. During this time, you may notice mild discomfort, slight sensations when urinating, or light blood in your urine. These symptoms typically improve after the first few days.

Avoid strenuous activities, sexual intercourse, and anything that involves vibration or heavy lifting until the device is removed.

After five to seven days, your Consultant will remove the device using a flexible silicone catheter and you should be able to return home shortly after.

In rare circumstances if you have trouble urinating afterward, a temporary catheter may be placed.

Most patients return to normal activities within one to two days after removal. Mild blood in urine can persist for up to a week but usually resolves on its own.

Most patients start to feel symptom relief as soon as the device has been removed. However, it can take six to twelve weeks to feel the full benefits.

Studies have shown that the benefits of iTind are sustained at four years, with longer term data expected. 

iTind preserves sexual and ejaculatory function and is designed for men who want to preserve sexual activity. The position of the device aims to ensure that no damage is caused to sperm ducts or sphincters.

Several treatment options are available for an enlarged prostate. These include prescribed medication, inpatient surgical interventions such as TURP (Trans-urethral resection of the prostate gland) and Aquablation, as well as an outpatient procedure called the Urolift®.

While UroLift ® is minimally invasive, it does involve a permanent implant. By contrast, iTind is the first outpatient procedure of its kind that avoids permanent implants or tissue removal, offering rapid symptom relief and improved patient outcomes.

Yes, you’ll need to bring someone along so they can drive you home afterwards. However, during the procedure they’ll need to remain in the waiting area.