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Optilume Balloon Treatment for Prostatic Strictures

Prostate Cancer | Last Active: Jun 27 1:05pm | Replies (20)

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@davyde

Hi Bob,
During the Optilume surgery the Urologist put a 14 mm catheter in which he replaced 4 weeks later with a 16 mm catheter. My wife changed the one for October here at home and will also be doing changes for December and January, the hospital supplied us with all necessary supplies to do this. The leg bags I use have velcro straps which can be cut to the appropriate length, I wear the bag just below my knee. I don't find it uncomfortable but I guess I've gotten used to wearing it. My wife did make me a couple of fabric covers for leg bags, they fit inside but use the same straps, she also made a matching cover for the drain tube, I only have worn them when wearing shorts during the summer. I also wear a velcro strap just above the knee to help hold the drain tube close to my leg. The drain tube can be shortened to fit better. I typically use the same bag for two weeks sanitizing it every night with a vinegar and water solution, same for my night bags. Keeping everything clean is essential. Don't forget to stay hydrated. My wife was a registered nurse for more than 30 years, her knowledge and experience has been put to very good use. If the Optilume doesn't work for me, I will stick with the supra pubic catheter, I have already spent too much time recovering from surgeries and other procedures. Good luck, hope it all goes well for you.

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Replies to "Hi Bob, During the Optilume surgery the Urologist put a 14 mm catheter in which he..."

Thanks Dave,
I have only had the supra pubic catheter for one day and even though getting used to it will take some time I feel a sense of freedom already. No running to a bathroom or getting up 5 times plus at night. Wearing depends etc. Sounds like your wife was pretty handy working on solutions that make things easier for you. That's great. Do you replace your bag after two weeks and get new ones? Night and leg bag? I hope the Optilume works out for you. Certainly it's success rate seems good. Thanks for our detailed response.
Bob