How to start the conversation with your doctor.

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Surgery for BPH

Nonsurgical / Minimally Invasive Options

If medication isn't enough: New and better choices.

Doctors sometimes consider surgery the best long-term solution for BPH. Surgery involves removing only the areas of the prostate that are pressing against the urethra. The remaining areas of the prostate are left intact.3 Surgery can relieve both flow problems and incomplete bladder emptying.3 The most common forms of surgery take place through the urethra without the need to cut through the skin, but more traditional surgery is sometimes required.

Complete recovery after surgery may take a couple of months.3 Many men may have problems urinating, temporary problems controlling urination, or blood in the urine after surgery.3 Surgery affects sexual function in many patients and it may take up to 1 year for men to completely regain their sexual function.3 Some surgical procedures require placement of a tube for several days to drain urine during recovery. 3

Your Attitude Affects Your Body

Worries about sexual function can interfere with sex, just as much as surgery itself. Help yourself by understanding what's going to happen in advance and talking over your concerns with your doctor before surgery. You may also find it useful to speak with a counselor after surgery, while you adjust.3

References

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Ponholzer A, Madersbacher S. Lower urinary tract symptoms and erectile dysfunction; Links for diagnosis, management and treatment. Int J Impot Res. 2007;19:544-550.
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Nomiya M, Yamaguchi O. A quantitative analysis of mRNA expression of alpha 1 and beta-adrenoceptor subtypes and their functional roles in human normal and obstructed bladders. J Urol. 2003;170(2 Pt 1):649-653.
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Cialis® (tadalafil) full Prescribing Information. Indianapolis IN: Eli Lilly and Co.; June 2007.
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Berry SJ, Coffey DS, Walsh PC, et al. The development of human benign prostatic hyperplasia with age. J Urol. 1984;132:474.
Hernández C, Estivill E, Prieto M, et al. Nocturia in Spanish patients with lower urinary tract symptoms suggestive of benign prostatic hyperplasia (LUTS/BPH). Curr Med Res Opin. 2008;24(4):1033-1038
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http://www.dictionary.com
Atlas of Human Anatomy, Frank H. Netter, MD, Ciba-Geigy Corporation, Summit, NJ, 1989.

RAPAFLO is indicated for the treatment of the signs and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

RAPAFLO is not indicated for the treatment of hypertension.

Important Safety Information

RAPAFLO is approved to treat male urinary symptoms due to BPH, also called an enlarged prostate. RAPAFLO should not be used to treat high blood pressure. Only your doctor can tell if you have BPH, not a more serious condition like prostate cancer. RAPAFLO should not be used in patients with severe liver or kidney disease as well as those taking certain antifungal or HIV drugs. Avoid driving or hazardous tasks until you know how RAPAFLO will affect you, as a sudden drop in blood pressure may occur, rarely resulting in fainting. If considering cataract surgery, tell your eye surgeon you're currently taking RAPAFLO or have taken it in the past. Side effects include orgasm with reduced or no semen, dizziness, diarrhea, lightheadedness upon standing or sitting up abruptly, headache, swelling of the throat and nasal passages, and stuffy nose.