Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with GoogleGet your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
Is Removal Of Urethral Sphincter During PVP Procedure Advisable?
I have BPH and will be having the PVP procedure done with a Thulium laser. When I asked what tissue is actually vaporized, as in the tissue between the bladder sphincter and the urethral sphincter, he told me that the bladder sphincter is sacrificed. This was something I did not know and found it to be disturbing. My urologist told me that the urethral sphincter is the more important part that controls urination. My concern at age 58 is having to wear diapers for the rest of my life. If the bladder sphincter is gone then the urethra becomes part of the bladder right down to the urethral sphincter and urine will always be in the urethra. Does this not create a scenario for infection and leakage? Is my thinking correct and is there an alternative that would allow me to keep my bladder sphincter? BTW, I have already had the Thermatrix procedure done and it was not successful. Thank you very much for any information you may provide. jay
Tue, 11 Apr 2023
Hi,
During the PVP procedure, laser energy is used to vaporize the prostate tissue blocking the urethra. In this process, some surrounding tissues may also be affected. Generally, the bladder sphincter is not removed during PVP as it plays an important role in controlling urination. However, in some cases, a small portion of the bladder sphincter may be affected by the laser energy, leading to temporary incontinence. This is usually a short-term side effect and resolves on its own within a few weeks.
If your urologist has mentioned that the bladder sphincter will be sacrificed during the PVP procedure, you may want to consider getting a second opinion from another urologist to confirm if this is necessary for your case. It is important to have a detailed discussion with your doctor about the risks and benefits of the procedure, and the potential impact on your urinary function. If you have concerns about incontinence, you may also discuss with your doctor strategies to manage or prevent this issue, such as pelvic floor exercises or the use of incontinence products.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
During the PVP procedure, laser energy is used to vaporize the prostate tissue blocking the urethra. In this process, some surrounding tissues may also be affected. Generally, the bladder sphincter is not removed during PVP as it plays an important role in controlling urination. However, in some cases, a small portion of the bladder sphincter may be affected by the laser energy, leading to temporary incontinence. This is usually a short-term side effect and resolves on its own within a few weeks.
If your urologist has mentioned that the bladder sphincter will be sacrificed during the PVP procedure, you may want to consider getting a second opinion from another urologist to confirm if this is necessary for your case. It is important to have a detailed discussion with your doctor about the risks and benefits of the procedure, and the potential impact on your urinary function. If you have concerns about incontinence, you may also discuss with your doctor strategies to manage or prevent this issue, such as pelvic floor exercises or the use of incontinence products.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
I find this answer helpful
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
Related questions you may be interested in
Loading Online Doctors....