Procedure: What to Expect – RF Therapy

RF therapy is an in-office treatment for enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). There’s no need for a hospital stay. You can expect your visit to last about 60 to 90 minutes, which includes preparation time, the procedure, and after-procedure care.

Before the Procedure

Instructions differ among doctors. It’s important to follow all instructions carefully. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking anti-coagulants.

On the day of the procedure, arrange for someone to take you to and from your treatment. Take a shower in the morning and wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes. You may want to bring a book, magazine, or portable music player with you.

During the Procedure

You will lie back, sedated and comfortable. You will usually be able to read or listen to music if you bring a portable music player and headphones with you.

Your doctor will pass the instrument through the urethra directly into the prostate. Two small antennae at the end of the tube deliver radio frequency energy to destroy the excess prostate tissue that is causing problems by “squeezing" the urethra and blocking the flow of urine.

View an Animation of How RF Therapy Works

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Watch Urologist James Young, M.D., Explain RF Therapy

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Your doctor will likely treat 4 to 8 sites within your prostate. After one site is treated, the antennae will be moved to the next problem site, and the treatment process is repeated until your doctor determines that treatment is complete.

After the Procedure

When the procedure is complete, you will be given fluids to drink and asked to remain in the office until you urinate. If you are not able to urinate after the procedure, your doctor may insert a catheter to ensure your comfort. When needed, the catheter is usually removed within 1 to 3 days.^1,2

There is minimal discomfort post-RF therapy. Follow your doctor’s directions for pain medication, if needed.

You should relax and take it easy when you get home. You can return to most of your normal activities within a day or two.

References

Bruskewitz R, Issa MM, Roehrborn CG, et al. A prospective, randomized 1-year clinical trial comparing transurethral needle ablation to transurethral resection of the prostate for the treatment of symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia. J Urol 1998;159:1588-1594.
Roehrborn CG, Issa MM, Bruskewitz RC, et al. Transurethral needle ablation for benign prostatic hyperplasia: 12-month results of a prospective, multicenter U.S. study. Urology 1998;51:415-421.

Next: Questions and Answers

Information on this site should not be used as a substitute for talking with your doctor. Always talk with your doctor about diagnosis and treatment information.

Last updated: 3 Aug 2008