Continuing To Learn About Aquablation

Posted by Phil, Alumni Mentor @upstatephil, Jul 26 7:24am

Yesterday, I visited the mothership in Jacksonville for a routine follow-up to the aquablation procedure I underwent in February 2024. I first had a flow test to check two things: (1) Is my improved urine flow of sufficient volume? (2) Is my bladder emptying sufficiently.

Afterward, I visited with my aquablation urologist. I appreciate this level of Mayo attention to detail and follow-up. All part of why I believe Mayo stands-out as best-in-class medical care.

For me - all tests were passed and we agreed my follow-up would be in two more years. I explained to Dr. Dora all my aquablaton expectations had been met or exceeded: (1) Almost no times where the urgency to urinate is severe. (2) Flow starts very quickly. (3) Flow volume is noticeably stronger. (4) There is no dribbling or leakage between bathroom stops. (5) Retro-grade ejaculation associated with BPH drugs has been reversed (pun intended). In all...a perfect ten out of ten.

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Men's Health Support Group.

John, Volunteer Mentor | @johnbishop | Jul 26 7:58am

Thank you for sharing this update Phil @upstatephil. I have been on tamsulosin for years and have just kept putting it off until my new Mayo PCP discussed the possibility of adding a different medication or having one of the newer BPH procedures done. I have another blood test coming up in August to check kidney function which hasn't been a problem yet and I'm still hoping it's OK. My only concern with having the aquablation or laser treatment is the recovery process and me being 81. I mentioned the age question with my PCP and she thought I was in reasonably good health and it shouldn't be a problem so I think I will setup a consult with a Mayo urologist later this year. Your update has given me a little push forward. Thanks again for all of the support you provide in the Men's Health and other groups!

Phil, Alumni Mentor | @upstatephil | Jul 27 4:38pm

@johnbishop - That's great, John. I'd love to know how your story plays out for you.

John, Volunteer Mentor | @johnbishop | Jul 27 4:54pm

In reply to @upstatephil "@johnbishop - That's great, John. I'd love to know how your story plays out for you." + (show)

Will definitely provide an update after I have a consult with the urologist.

vernscw | @vernscw | Jul 27 8:31pm

I'm 81 also John and having a meeting Wednesday with a urologist about doing aquablation. I have been using a catheter since December and my prostate is 139cc so should be an interesting meeting. Phil, how many procedures had your uro done before doing yours?

Phil, Alumni Mentor | @upstatephil | Jul 28 6:32am

@vernscw - Answer: Not very many. He started aquablation at Mayo JAX sometime in January 2024 and my procedure was mid-Feb. Yet I was comfortable with his relative inexperience and I'm happily 5+ months post and results have met/exceeded all my expectations.

vernscw | @vernscw | Jul 28 11:22pm

When I see this urologist Wednesday I'm going to ask him how many he has done. If he gives me a foggy reply I'm ask for a numeral. LOL I read it takes 38 procedures by the doctor to be considered experienced. I really don't have much of a choice and will go with him whatever. I like that he belongs to the Christian Medical and Dental Association.
Vern in Arizona

mkl2800 | @mkl2800 | 4 days ago

@upstatephil - - Good evening, how well did you travel from SC to Jax? I live in the northern part of GA - - and assume I would fly. I really have appreciated all of these posts. I am in discovery stage at age 63.