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The hospital is the first in Baton Rouge to offer Aquablation therapy with an AI-powered robotic system to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition that affects about half of men over the age of 50.
BPH, more commonly known as an enlarged prostate, is a common condition that can make everyday life more challenging.
“The older you get, often it starts causing some problems day to day with urination, whether it’s waking up at night to go more, having a weak flow, or going too often to the bathroom,” said Dr. Wesley Porta, urologist with Premier Urology at Baton Rouge General.
If left untreated, BPH can lead to more serious complications like permanent bladder or kidney damage and incontinence.
“The benefits of earlier intervention than waiting too long until the symptoms are worse is that the outcomes are typically better rather than having some permanent symptoms,” Porta explained.
Traditionally, many BPH treatment options have come with difficult tradeoffs, including side effects that can impact sexual function. The new Aquablation therapy changes that by using robotic precision and real-time 3D imaging to remove excess prostate tissue while preserving sexual function and continence.
“Aquablation is unique in that it avoids thermal energy for the majority of the prostate removal, and it’s very precise,” Porta said. “They’ve integrated AI to help properly map the prostate and the exact tissue you want to remove.”
The procedure is tailored to each patient and offers quicker recovery times and long-lasting relief.
“A lot of men are scared about pain post-operatively,” Porta added. “The procedure is performed with anesthesia, but even afterwards, the pain is very minimal.”
With this technology, Baton Rouge General is expanding access to advanced urology care in the Capital Region.
Doctors say men experiencing frequent urination, a weak stream, or difficulty emptying their bladder should talk with their doctor about screening for BPH.
More information about Aquablation therapy is available on Baton Rouge General’s website.
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