Is Transurethral Microwave Thermotherapy (TUMT) Right for You?

Is Transurethral Microwave Thermotherapy (TUMT) Right for You?

If you are dealing with the symptoms of an enlarged prostate, you may be considering all of your treatment options. One option that you may not have heard of is Transurethral Microwave Thermotherapy (TUMT). This treatment combines microwave thermotherapy with balloon compression technology to heat the prostate and dilate the urethra. This kills excess prostate cells and allows for sufficient space in the urethra. In this blog post, we will discuss TUMT in more detail, as well as who would be an ideal candidate for this treatment.

What is TUMT?

Transurethral Microwave Thermotherapy (TUMT), sometimes known as Prolieve­­ BPH Treatment, is a minimally invasive treatment for an enlarged prostate. This procedure uses microwave energy to heat the prostate tissue and kill excess cells. The heat from the microwaves also dilates (widens) the urethra, which relieves urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate.

Transurethral Microwave Thermotherapy (TUMT)

TUMT is performed using a special microwave device that is inserted through the urethra into the prostate. The device delivers microwaves to the prostate tissue blocking urine flow, heating it to approximately 120 degrees Fahrenheit. The heat from the microwaves kills excess prostate cells and shrinks the overall size of the gland. At the same time, the heat from the microwaves dilates the urethra, which relieves urinary symptoms such as:

  • Urinary frequency
  • Urinary urgency
  • Nocturia (waking up at night to urinate)
  • Weak stream
  • Straining to urinate
  • Urinary tract infections

Who is an Ideal Candidate for TUMT?

TUMT is a minimally invasive procedure that has very few risks and side effects. It is an ideal treatment option for men who have mild to moderate symptoms of an enlarged prostate. Unlike other BPH treatments, such as transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) and open prostatectomy, TUMT does not require a hospital stay, has a lower risk of bleeding, and has a lower risk of dry orgasm. Additionally, TUMT is a good option for men who cannot take medication or have had no success with other treatments.

While TUMT is considered safe for most, there are still a few treatment risks, such as:

  • Infection
  • Chronic inflammation of the prostate
  • Temporary problems with urination
  • Need for re-treatment

In order to minimize these risks, TUMT is generally not recommended for individuals with penile implants, urethral stricture, a pacemaker or defibrillator, metal implants in the pelvic area, or those who have had certain types of BPH treatment in the past. While TUMT also has a low risk of bleeding, your doctor may recommend another type of BPH treatment if you have a bleeding disorder or if you are currently taking blood thinners.

If you are considering TUMT, we recommend that you schedule a consultation with one of our urologists. During your consultation, our team will evaluate your symptoms and health history to determine if TUMT is the right treatment for you.

In Conclusion

In this blog, we have discussed Transurethral Microwave Thermotherapy (TUMT) in more detail. We have also talked about who would be an ideal candidate for this minimally invasive procedure. If you are dealing with the symptoms of an enlarged prostate, Transurethral Microwave Thermotherapy (TUMT) may be the right treatment for you. TUMT is a minimally invasive procedure that has very few risks and side effects. If you are interested in learning more about TUMT, we recommend that you schedule a consultation with one of our urologists. Our team will evaluate your symptoms and health history to determine if TUMT is the right treatment for you.

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