Aquablation Therapy in London
Aquablation is a minimally invasive treatment for urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate. It uses a robotically controlled, heat-free waterjet and real-time imaging to remove the prostate tissue that is blocking urine flow.
For suitable men, it can offer a precise treatment option that removes obstructing tissue while aiming to protect the structures involved in urinary control and sexual function.
What is Aquablation therapy?
Aquablation is a treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia, also known as BPH or an enlarged prostate. As the prostate enlarges, it can press on the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body. This can lead to symptoms such as a weak stream, difficulty starting urination, frequent toilet visits or waking at night to pass urine.
During Aquablation, your surgeon uses ultrasound imaging and a camera to create a detailed treatment plan for your prostate. A high-pressure waterjet is then guided robotically to remove the tissue causing the blockage.
Unlike treatments that use laser or electrical heat, Aquablation removes tissue using waterjet ablation. The procedure is performed under anaesthetic and a catheter is usually needed temporarily afterwards.
Aquablation may be considered for men with urinary symptoms from an enlarged prostate, including some men with larger prostates. Your consultant will assess whether it is suitable for your individual circumstances.
How Aquablation works
Aquablation removes obstructing tissue in three controlled steps.
Mapped first
Real-time ultrasound imaging and a camera are used to create a detailed map of the prostate before tissue is removed.
Heat-free tissue removal
A high-pressure, robotically controlled waterjet removes the planned area of prostate tissue without using heat.
Designed to protect key structures
The image-guided plan helps your surgeon avoid important surrounding areas where possible. However, every procedure carries risks, which your consultant will discuss with you.
Who Aquablation therapy may suit
Aquablation may be appropriate for men who:
- Have bothersome urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate
- Have not had enough benefit from lifestyle measures or medication
- Have a prostate size or shape suitable for tissue-removing treatment
- Would prefer a robotically controlled, image-guided and heat-free approach
- Want to discuss treatment options that take urinary and sexual function into account
A consultant assessment is needed to establish whether Aquablation is appropriate. This may include reviewing your symptoms, urinary flow, bladder emptying and prostate size.
What to expect
- Assessment and planning
Your consultant will assess your urinary symptoms, medical history and prostate. Tests may include a symptom questionnaire, urine flow test, bladder scan and imaging where appropriate. - The procedure
Aquablation is carried out under anaesthetic. During the procedure, imaging is used to plan treatment and the waterjet removes the prostate tissue causing obstruction. - Recovery and follow-up
A catheter is usually required for a short time after the procedure. Your consultant will explain what to expect during recovery, when you may be able to return home and the follow-up arrangements that apply to you.
The procedure combines planned tissue removal with real-time imaging and a heat-free waterjet. Your consultant will explain how it compares with other appropriate options, such as UroLift, iTind, HoLEP, TURP or prostate artery embolisation.
Why choose The Forbury Clinic for Aquablation therapy in London?
Planned around your prostate
Real-time imaging is used to create an individual treatment plan before the waterjet removes the obstructing tissue.
Heat-free technology
Aquablation uses a waterjet rather than heat to remove prostate tissue.
Suitable for a range of prostate sizes
It may be considered for men with different prostate sizes, including some larger prostates. Suitability is confirmed following assessment.
Consultant-led care in London
Your consultant will explain whether Aquablation is suitable and guide you through the procedure, recovery and follow-up.
Frequently asked questions
Is Aquablation surgery?
Aquablation is a minimally invasive procedure carried out under anaesthetic to remove prostate tissue causing urinary blockage. It uses a robotically controlled waterjet and imaging rather than laser or electrical heat.
Will I need a catheter afterwards?
A catheter is usually needed for a short period following Aquablation. Your consultant will explain why it is used and what to expect when it is removed.
Can Aquablation treat a large prostate?
Aquablation can be suitable for a range of prostate sizes, including some larger glands. Your consultant will assess the size and shape of your prostate before recommending a treatment.
Will Aquablation affect sexual function?
Aquablation is planned using imaging with the aim of protecting structures associated with continence and sexual function. However, all prostate procedures can have side effects. Your consultant will discuss the potential effects and risks in relation to your individual circumstances.
How long does recovery take?
Recovery varies between individuals. A catheter is usually needed for a short period and urinary symptoms can take time to settle. Your consultant will provide specific advice about recovery, activity and follow-up.
How is Aquablation different from laser treatment?
Both Aquablation and laser procedures remove prostate tissue to improve urine flow. Aquablation uses a heat-free waterjet guided by imaging and robotic control, while laser treatments use laser energy. Your consultant will explain which options may be suitable for you.
Ask about Aquablation Therapy
If symptoms from an enlarged prostate are affecting your quality of life, our consultant urologists can assess your prostate and discuss whether Aquablation or another treatment option may be appropriate.
- AppointmentBook a consultation
- Reception0118 920 7055
- Location
The Forbury Clinic London, 45 Queen Anne St, London, W1G 9J
