Dr. Kenneth Kernen of the Beaumont Hospital in Troy is one of the first physicians in the country to perform a new procedure with a temporary implant treatment device called iTind used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
Scott Callison, 60, of Novi, says before undergoing the procedure, he woke up every night at about 3:30 a.m. to urinate. And, when he did empty his bladder, urine came trickling out. After receiving the implant treatment in August, Callison says he sleeps through most nights and has improved flow.
“The five-minute procedure involves the temporary placement of an implant. It can be done on an outpatient basis,” says Kernen. “It’s another treatment option for many men with an enlarged prostate.
“In most cases, the implant is removed in five days. The new procedure has many benefits, including a quicker recovery time, less discomfort, no catheter and it preserves sexual function.”
The temporary implant expands and reshapes the patient’s prostate. It slowly expands, placing gentle pressure at three precise point to reshape the prostatic urethra and bladder neck. After five to seven days, the device is completely removed, leaving a wider opening for urine to flow.
“The new, temporary implantable device is an alternative to medications, surgery, and permanent implants. Also, the minimally invasive procedure does allow other future treatment options,” says Kernen.
BPH is the most common condition in aging men. It can result in discomfort, a frequent and urgent need to urinate, and an inability to empty one’s bladder. It can also lead to urinary tract, bladder, and kidney problems. Beaumont says that eight out of 10 men will experience this condition in their lifetime.
Treatments besides iTind include lifestyle changes, medications, minimally invasive procedures, and surgery. Before Callison underwent the procedure, he was on prostate medication, which he no longer takes.
Kernen is a paid consultant with Olympus Medical Systems, which markets and distributes iTind. This is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement by Beaumont Health.
