The prostate is a small but extremely important gland for men's health. However, many men know little about it and the treatment options for problems.
We present to you 10 interesting facts about the prostate – including innovations in laser and laparoscopic medicine that are changing the rules of the game at Hill Clinic.
1. The prostate is the size of a walnut, but it matters a lot
In healthy men, the prostate is about 20 grams and is walnut-shaped. With age, it tends to grow, which can lead to a number of unpleasant symptoms. Doctors at Hill Clinic say that they have operated on huge prostates, over 250 grams. and bloodless, without an incision, which is a truly impressive medical advance.
2. An enlarged prostate is not cancer
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition and is not associated with a cancerous process. However, symptoms such as frequent urination, weak stream and nighttime awakenings should not be ignored. Prostate cancer is among the most common oncological diseases in men. The most insidious thing about it is that in the early stages it occurs without any symptoms. There is no pain, no complaints — and that is when the treatment is most successful. Regular prevention is the most powerful weapon for a man over 50 years of age. A specialized examination and a blood test for the levels of the tumor marker PSA can make a huge difference. If a man has a family history — preventive examinations should be annual and begin after the age of 45.
3. Laser therapy is the most modern solution for an enlarged prostate
The Sofia Hill Clinic uses leading laser technology to treat an enlarged prostate – bloodless, without incisions and with quick recovery. The HoLEP (laser enucleation) procedure is recognized worldwide as the gold standard.
4. Laser treatment preserves sexual function
One of the great benefits of laser therapy applied at Hill Clinic - Sofia is that it spares the nerves and tissues around the prostate. This reduces the risk of erectile dysfunction and incontinence after the intervention to zero.
5. Recovery after laser surgery is extremely fast
After laser prostate treatment at Hill Clinic, patients usually stay in the hospital for only one night for observation. Thanks to minimal tissue trauma, pain is minimal and the risk of complications is very low. In most cases, the catheter is removed within 24 hours, and a return to normal life - including work and physical activity - occurs within a few days. Unlike classic surgeries, there are no large incisions, bleeding or a long stay in hospital.
6. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men
Prostate cancer is one of the most common oncological diseases in men after the age of 50. Early detection through a PSA test (prostate-specific antigen) significantly improves the chances of successful treatment.
7. Laparoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive alternative for cancer
At Hill Clinic, laparoscopic radical prostatectomy allows precise removal of the tumor with minimal trauma to the patient. The operation is performed through several small incisions, and the recovery is much faster compared to traditional surgery. The great advantage of the Sofia hospital is that the world-renowned Prof. Dr. Uwe Stolzenburg, head of the Urology Department at the largest European university hospital, namely the one in Leipzig, Germany, operates there every month.
8. There is now a “mini“ prostate surgery
Hill Clinic offers a modern, minimally invasive laser procedure for an enlarged prostate, in which the operating time is short, the hospital stay is minimal, and the recovery is easy. MiLEP is the ideal choice for men looking for a quick solution without major surgery. Currently, only this hospital in Bulgaria is using the new method.
9. Diet also affects the prostate
A diet rich in tomatoes (a source of lycopene), broccoli and fish is associated with a lower risk of prostate cancer. However, if you prefer processed meats and fatty foods, you should know that you are at a higher risk of developing prostate cancer. However, it is important to note that diet has minimal importance, genetics has a greater influence, i.e. if a father, grandfather, older cousin has developed prostate cancer, then the risk of it occurring in you increases.
10. The prostate is involved in reproductive function
This small gland produces the fluid that carries and maintains the viability of sperm. Without prostate secretions, fertilization would be very difficult. This is good news for men with enlarged prostates who undergo surgery because they are not usually past the age of 60-65 and are not as concerned about their fertility.