What is Prostatic Obstruction?

Below is a brief introduction to prostatic obstruction. Please always consult a doctor for an examination if you experience symptoms of or suspect prostatic obstruction.

How Prostatic Obstruction Affects Urine Flow

Prostatic obstruction is an obstruction of urine flow through the prostate due to pressure from the prostate against the urethra, which impedes the body’s ability to pass urine. Prostatic obstruction can occur in varying severity from light cases with limited symptoms and some continued flow of urine, to complete and acute obstructions with severe symptoms and no urine passage. Symptoms or suspicions of prostatic obstruction should always be consulted with a doctor.

Learn about the prostate

Illustration of prostatic obstruction with Memokath stent restoring urine flow

The Prostate and Urine Flow

The prostate is a walnut sized gland in men, positioned just below the bladder, and around the urethra which is the tube that allows urine to pass from the bladder. As men age the prostate enlarges but the enlargement varies from man to man and for some men this enlargement might cause a problem with the urination. BPH occurs when the enlarged prostate compresses the urethra and thereby compromises the urine flow. BPH does not lead to prostate cancer. However, some of the symptoms of prostate cancer and BPH are similar, so you should consult your doctor in case of doubt.

Symptoms of enlarged prostate (BPH)

If you have one or several of the following symptoms, you may have an enlarged prostate (BPH):

Frequent urination – especially at night
Difficulty in starting to pass urine
Interrupted and/or weak stream of urine
Inability to empty your bladder completely
Pain during urination or foul-smelling urine
Incontinence (undesired leakage of urine)
Blood in the urine

Memokath™ solution

Memokath™ is a long-term solution for men who are not able nor wish to go through often repeated procedures or major surgery.

Memokath™ is a supportive spiral tube made of nickel-titanium ”Ni-Ti” which is inserted in the urethra to re-create passage of the urine.

Memokath™ is inserted under local anaesthesia and the stent is carefully inserted through the penis and placed with a cystoscope. The insertion usually takes about 30 minutes. After the insertion it is advised to drink plenty of water to minimize the risk of cystitis. Most patients can leave the hospital the same day and return to their daily routines.

Memokath™ can be left in place for several years and the risk of impotence and incontinence after the insertion, is very low. You can continue having sexual intercourse with the stent inserted.

Memokath™ does not activate security alarms. Since it is CT- and MRI compatible getting a scan is no problem. It does not cause nickel allergy as there is no nickel on the stent surface.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to do before the procedure?

The Memokath™ 028 procedure usually requires only local anaesthesia. In most cases, preparation is similar to other endoscopy procedures. Your healthcare provider will let you know if any specific preparation is needed based on your individual situation.

Will the procedure hurt?

You may experience some discomfort during the procedure, especially when the stent and warm water are introduced. This is usually not described as pain. A local anaesthetic gel is often used to reduce discomfort, and your healthcare provider will decide what is most appropriate for you.

Will I have pain after the procedure?

Most patients do not experience significant pain after the procedure. Some mild irritation or small amounts of blood in the urine may occur. Your healthcare provider will explain what is normal and when you should contact them if needed.

How soon can I return to my normal activities?

Most patients can return to their normal daily activities shortly after the procedure. A short period of rest is usually recommended. Your healthcare provider will advise you on when it is appropriate to return to your usual activities based on your individual condition and procedure.

Will I have any wounds after the procedure?

Because the stent is inserted internally through the urinary tract, the procedure usually does not cause any external wounds. Some patients may notice blood in the urine after the procedure. Your healthcare provider will explain what to expect and whether any aftercare is needed.

Is there anything I should avoid after the procedure?

Patients are advised to avoid vigorous physical activity and sexual intercourse for up to two weeks after insertion of the Memokath™ 028 prostate stent. Your healthcare provider will advise you on when it is safe to return to your normal activities.

Is there a risk of nickel allergy from the stent?

The Memokath™ 028 prostate stent is made from a biocompatible nickel-titanium alloy (NiTi), a material commonly used in medical devices. The stent is designed to minimise nickel ion release because the surface does not contain nickel.

What can I do to reduce the risk of deposits forming on the stent?

Drinking enough fluids each day can help maintain a healthy flow of urine and may reduce the build-up of mineral deposits on the stent. Your healthcare provider can advise you on an appropriate fluid intake based on your individual needs. If deposits do form, the Memokath™ 028 prostate stent is designed so that it can be removed or replaced using minimally invasive techniques.