Delay can cause permanent bladder damage for which BPH treatment may be ineffective. The doctor inserts a gloved finger into the rectum to feel the part of the prostate next to it. The tube contains a lens and a light system, which help the doctor see the inside of the urethra and the bladder to determine the size of the gland and identify the location and degree of the obstruction. BPH symptoms usually require some kind of treatment at some time. However, early treatment when the gland is just mildly enlarged may not be needed because the symptoms of BPH clear up without treatment in some mild cases.
Regular checkups are important, however, to watch for developing problems.
When BPH poses a danger to the patient's health or causes a major inconvenience to him, treatment is usually recommended. The surgeon reaches the prostate by inserting an instrument through the urethra. The surgeon uses the resectoscope's wire loop to remove the obstructing tissue one piece at a time. The pieces of tissue are carried by the fluid into the bladder and flushed out at the end of the operation. This information is not intended to be a substitute for individual medical advice in diagnosing or treating a health problem.