Q&A with Mr Syed Ali Shahzad: Understanding Aquablation Therapy for Enlarged Prostate

The Harborne Hospital is proud to be the only hospital in Birmingham offering Aquablation therapy, a new, minimally invasive, robotic-assisted treatment for men with an enlarged prostate (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia or BPH).

 

We spoke to Mr Syed Ali Shahzad, Consultant Urologist, to find out more about this innovative procedure.

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What is Aquablation therapy?

Aquablation is a robotic-assisted, waterjet-based procedure used to treat men with urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate. It uses a precisely controlled jet of water, guided by real-time imaging, to remove excess prostate tissue without heat. This reduces the risk of damage to surrounding structures such as nerves involved in continence and sexual function.

How is Aquablation different from other treatments for BPH?

Aquablation is non-thermal, which means there’s less risk of side effects such as erectile dysfunction or incontinence. It also combines robotic precision with the surgeon’s expertise, ensuring a highly tailored and consistent outcome.

Who is the ideal patient for Aquablation?

It’s a great option for men with moderate to severe urinary symptoms from an enlarged prostate, particularly those who haven’t responded well to medication. It’s suitable for a wide range of prostate sizes. That said, at The Harborne Hospital, we always tailor treatment to you. Aquablation may be ideal for some, but we’ll recommend the most appropriate option based on your symptoms, prostate size, lifestyle, and overall health.

What are the main benefits of Aquablation therapy?

The biggest advantages are precision, reduced risk of side effects, and a faster recovery. Most patients notice significant improvement in urinary flow and reduced urgency within weeks. Because there’s no heat involved, it also preserves sexual and urinary function better than traditional methods.

What is recovery like after Aquablation?

Most men stay in hospital overnight and return home the next day. You might have a catheter for a short period, but recovery is generally quick. Many patients are back to normal activities within a few days. The improvement in urinary symptoms usually continues over the following weeks.

How can someone find out if Aquablation is right for them?

The first step is to book a consultation with one of our urology consultants. We’ll carry out a detailed assessment, which may include a urine flow test, prostate scan, or PSA test. From there, we’ll discuss all suitable treatment options, whether that’s Aquablation or another approach, to ensure you get the best, most personalised care.

If you’re experiencing urinary symptoms or have been told you have an enlarged prostate, our consultant urologists can help you explore the latest treatment options, including Aquablation therapy.