KEEPING GOOD PROSTATE HEALTH

TALKING TO YOUR DOCTOR

SPEAKING UP!

BPH and its treatments should not make you feel embarrassed about talking to your doctor. Talk to your doctor about any urinary symptoms or sexual dysfunction you may be experiencing. Your doctor can help you choose the treatment option that is best for you.

HELPFUL HINTS

  1. Drink most liquids by 4 PM to cut down on nighttime bathroom trips

  2. Cut back on bladder irritants such as caffeine, food additives, and spicy foods

  3. Cut back on or avoid alcohol because it may cause the bladder to retain more urine

USING THE INDIGO LASER AS A CURE

How does the Indigo laser work?

Your urologist threads a special Indigo fiber through the urethra and into the prostate, positioning the tip of the fiber in the targeted treatment area. The fiberoptic tip delivers controlled laser energy that coagulates, or destroys, very precise areas of the prostate.

The treatment is typically and office or outpatient procedure conducted in 30 minutes or less. No incision or cutting of tissue is involved. Choice of anesthesia will vary depending on the patient and the size of the prostate (local anesthesia is typically used for office procedures). Patients usually use a catheter until the swelling subsides, although this should not restrict activity. The catheter is usually removed within a week.

  

As the body gradually absorbs the coagulated tissue, the prostate becomes smaller, the urethra returns to its normal shape and size, and urine flows more freely again. Patients generally begin to feel relief from BPH symptoms within weeks and continue to improve over a period of several months.

Why should I consider the Indigo Laser treatment?

There are several advantages over other treatment options. The Indigo Laser ...

  1. Has proven its effectiveness in more than 50,000 procedures worldwide.

  2. Actually reduces the size of the growing prostate instead of simply treating symptoms as most medications do.

  3. Usually eliminates the need for BPH medications and their expense, inconvenience, and possible side effects.

  4. Eliminates potential interactions with other medications.

  5. Has been shown to have a lower incidence of serious long-term side effects.

  6. Is precise and controllable, which can mean fewer complications and less damage to surrounding tissue.

  7. Is also generally a viable treatment option for patients with metal implants in the hip and pelvic region, cardiac pacemakers or defibrillators. These patients may not be eligible for microwave or radio-frequency therapies.

Are there any disadvantages versus other treatments?

Unlike medication therapy, laser treatments are procedures that require some form of anesthesia. As with any procedure, use of the Indigo Laser may present risks and complications. You should consult your physician to discuss these risks and your options.

Is the Indigo treatment covered by my insurance?

Most major insurers cover the Indigo Laser System, including Medicare and Medicaid. Check with your provider before selecting the procedure to be sure of the coverage.

How can I learn more?

Your doctor can answer many of your questions regarding BPH. and the various treatments. If you'd like more information about the Indigo Laser System, call 1.800.873.3636 or visit the web site at www.AllAboutBPH.com

TAKE THE BPH SYMPTOMS TEST