Optilume®

OPTILUME® TREATMENT FOR URETHRAL STRICTURES

A minimally invasive solution for urinary symptom relief.

Benign Prostate Hyperplasia

Duration:
15-20 minutes
Sessions:
1 session

The procedure

Optilume® is a medication-coated balloon that integrates specialized drug delivery technology and balloon dilation techniques. The treatment opens the urethra to slow or stop the regrowth of strictures and helps reduce Benign Prostate Hyperplasia (BPH) symptoms.

Paclitaxel, the drug that coats the balloon, is an antiproliferative medication that has been used effectively in millions of patients worldwide to limit the formation of urethral strictures.

The treatment is a minimally invasive solution for urinary symptom relief that provides sustained results without the risks or long-term side effects of other treatments.

Optilume® is designed to:

Gently reshape the urethra
Widen the opening through which urine can flow
Decrease frequency of urination

HOW DOES OPTILUME® WORK?

Optilume® is performed with light sedation and local anesthesia while lying on your back with your legs in stirrups. The catheter system is inserted into the urethra and advanced to the location of the prostate. Once in place, a cylindrical balloon is inflated to press against the prostate tissue, creating a channel for urine to flow through. When the balloon expands, it creates micro fissures in the tissue. The coating of the balloon releases a therapeutic medication directly into the fissured tissue. This medication reduces cell proliferation and fibrotic scar tissue generation, helping to relieve urinary obstruction and improve urine flow.

Benefits

Optilume® offers several benefits for men with BPH or lower urinary tract symptoms who want to avoid surgery and minimize downtime. These benefits include:

Minimally invasive and reversible
Provides long-lasting relief
No permanent implantation or ablation of tissue
No damage to the prostate or surrounding tissue
Minimal risk of complications or side effects
Quick and easy procedure, performed in-office

Risks

Optilume® BPH is a safe and minimally invasive treatment option for men. However, like any medical procedure, some potential risks or side effects may be associated. It is important to note that these risks are generally very low, and the benefits of Optilume® typically outweigh any potential risks.

Some patients may experience discomfort or pain during the procedure, particularly if the catheter is inflated too tightly. Urinary tract infection (UTI) following the procedure may occur but is rare. Patients may also experience bleeding or bruising in the urethra or surrounding tissue, which often resolves on its own. When performed by an expert, the likelihood of these events is reduced.

COMPREHENSIVE UROLOGICAL CARE AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

We pride ourselves on our compassionate and approachable nature. We understand the need to take the time to explain complex medical conditions in simple terms to ensure that you and your family are properly informed throughout your patient journey.

Book a consultation with Dr. Steinberg online or call us at 514-312-2821.

Optilume® CAN BE ONE OF THE EFFICIENT TOOLS TO DIAGNOSE THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS

Condition

Benign Prostate Hyperplasia

PROCEDURE INFO

Men receive Optilume® treatment at our established clinic in Montreal. The Optilume catheter system is inserted into the urethra and advanced to the location of the prostate. Once in place, a cylindrical, drug-coated balloon is inflated to press against the prostate tissue, creating a channel for urine to flow through.

Dr. Steinberg and his team accompany patients throughout the entire in-office procedure. Men may feel minor discomfort during treatment. Local or oral sedation will provide patients with the most comfortable experience possible.

1-2 hours may be spent in office, with actual treatment time lasting 15-20 minutes.

Patients can resume normal activities within a few days after the procedure.

Patients may experience discomfort, pain, and bleeding or bruising in the urethra or surrounding tissue. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) following the procedure may occur but are rare. These symptoms usually resolve on their own or with the help of one of our doctors.

Men start to experience symptom improvement over the following 6 to 12 weeks.

FAQ

What is Benign Prostate Hyperplasia (BPH)?

BPH is a benign enlargement of the prostate gland in men. Symptoms may include frequent urination (including waking up at night several times to urinate), difficulty urinating, or feeling as though the bladder is not empty.

What is anterior urethral stricture disease?

Anterior urethral stricture is a condition where the urethra narrows due to scarring, leading to the obstruction of urine flow. If not treated in time, it may lead to bladder and kidney damage, reduced quality of life, and urinary tract infections in men.

Does the procedure cause pain?

The level of discomfort during the Optilume® treatment may vary, but generally, most patients report only mild to moderate discomfort while the balloon is placed and expanded in the Urethra.

What is Paclitaxel?

Paclitaxel is an antiproliferative drug that is applied to the balloon in order to limit the formation of urethral strictures. Urethral stricture is caused by excessive collagen synthesis, which leads to inflexible tissue and a decrease in the size of the urethral lumen. Paclitaxel and other antifibrotic drugs can impede the development of strictures by minimizing the overactivity of cells and the formation of scar tissue.

How many Optilume® treatments do I need?

Typically, only one treatment with Optilume is needed to achieve sustained relief of urinary symptoms.

LET'S START TALKING !

At Steinberg Urology we pride ourselves on our compassionate care we offer to those facing challenges that affect their quality of life. Our urologists have years of experience and a commitment to excellence.

If you need to discuss this sensitive medical concern, schedule a consultation at our clinic in a safe confidential environment. Let us help you achieve optimal health and wellness in a professional setting.

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