Bladder stones caused by an enlarged prostate—known medically as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)—can be a serious issue, especially if you're experiencing frequent urinary symptoms, infections, or kidney strain. At age 72, you're not alone: over 80% of men in their 70s deal with BPH. Whether surgery is the right move depends on several factors:
Severity of Symptoms: If you're dealing with weak urine flow, frequent nighttime urination, or incomplete bladder emptying, and especially if bladder stones have formed, that’s a sign the condition is progressing.
Impact on Quality of Life: Sleep disruption, discomfort, or recurrent infections can take a toll. If medications or lifestyle changes haven’t helped, surgery may offer relief.
Overall Health: Your general health and ability to tolerate anesthesia or recovery are key. Many procedures today are minimally invasive and outpatient-friendly.
Type of Surgery:
Traditional TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate): Effective but may have longer recovery.
Minimally Invasive Options: Procedures like UroLift or Aquablation are gaining popularity. UroLift uses tiny implants to lift the prostate away from the urethra—no cutting, and it preserves sexual function.
HoLEP: stands for Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate—a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which is the non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland.
Medications: Alpha-blockers or 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors can reduce symptoms and slow prostate growth.
Lifestyle Adjustments: Reducing caffeine, alcohol, and evening fluid intake can help with nighttime symptoms.
Monitoring: If symptoms are mild, some men opt for watchful waiting with regular checkups.
[ ] Has my weight, energy level, and nutritional status stabilized since pancreatic surgery?
[ ] Are my blood sugar levels (if affected) under control?
[ ] Have I had any infections, digestive issues, or complications in the past 6 months?
[ ] Have I had a recent EKG or cardiac clearance for anesthesia?
[ ] Can I tolerate light sedation or general anesthesia safely?
[ ] Do I have any breathing issues or oxygen needs?
[ ] Recent kidney function tests (creatinine, BUN) are normal?
[ ] Bladder ultrasound shows significant residual urine or wall thickening?
[ ] CT or X-ray confirms bladder stones or obstruction?
[ ] Have I tried medications like Tamsulosin or Finasteride, and how effective were they?
[ ] Am I currently on any blood thinners or medications that affect healing?
[ ] Have I had any adverse reactions to anesthesia or sedation in the past?
[ ] What is the size and shape of my prostate (e.g., is UroLift or Rezūm viable)?
[ ] Do I want to preserve sexual function (e.g., avoid retrograde ejaculation)?
[ ] Am I looking for the least invasive option with fastest recovery?
[ ] Can I take time off from work or caregiving duties for recovery?
[ ] Do I have support at home for the first few days post-procedure?
[ ] Am I prepared for temporary catheter use or mild discomfort?