iTind - Reshaping BPH Treatment

The iTind is a 5 to 7 day treatment to treat lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or enlarged prostate.

The iTind is inserted into the prostatic urethra in a folded configuration. Over the next 5 to 7 days it slowly expands to gently widen the opening through which urine can flow. After 5 to 7 days the device is completely removed. There is no permanent implant, heat treatments or tissue ablation. No prostate tissue is removed and initial studies have shown that there is no impact on sexual function.

Together with your urologist, you will review your symptoms, routine and lifestyle needs. The iTind procedure is a new alternative to prescription drugs or major surgery, and is ideal for sexually active men who want a minimally-invasive treatment that preserves a high quality of life.

Your urologist will insert the iTind device into the prostatic urethra in our office. Typically, no catheter is required and you can usually return home within a few short hours. After 5 to 7 days at home, you will return to the office and the iTind device will be completely removed. There may some slight discomfort during the 5 to 7 days, but symptom relief should be quite rapid for most patients. After the device is removed you can return to your daily routine.

Most patients experience only mild to moderate discomfort while the iTind is in place, however patient experience is variable.

The most common side effects experienced are the feeling of pressure in the area of the perineum, an increased frequency and urgency to urinate, light blood in urine, and slight burning upon urination. However, any side effects experienced typically subside once the iTind is removed.

In clinical studies there have been no indications of long-term adverse side effects. Since the iTind device is completely removed after it has done its job to widen the opening at the prostatic urethra, there is no risk of implant migration, encrustation, or tissue overgrowth that could complicate removal. Moreover, there are no obstacles in maintaining a regular prostate screening program, including physical exams or any type of imaging, such as MRI, if needed.

After insertion of the iTind device, you may be kept for a few hours for observation. Upon returning home you may resume most normal activities depending on your personal level of comfort.

Most patients start to experience symptom relief right after the removal. Symptoms typically continue to improve over the following 6 to 12 weeks.

The device positioning helps to ensure that no damage is caused to sperm ducts or sphincters, avoiding risks of sexual dysfunction. Sexual function was preserved among patients treated in the relevant clinical studies.

Durability has been demonstrated out to three years in terms of symptom improvement, urinary flow and quality of life in a significant number of patients. The iTind treatment does not preclude retreatment or other BPH treatments, should they be needed or desired in the future.