Renowned consultant urological surgeon Mr Neil Barber, a pioneer in the success of this revolutionary treatment, says, “I think 200 procedures is really something worth celebrating- this number of Aquablation patients is one of the highest in any hospital in the world, let alone the UK.”

Aquablation, also known as the AQUABEAM ® robotic system and transurethral water jet ablation, is an innovative heat-free robotically-delivered surgical procedure designed to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia and associated lower urinary tract symptoms.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia enlargement reflects overgrowth of the prostate which can cause obstruction to flow of urine out of the bladder, resulting in increasingly bothersome waterworks symptoms including frequent urination or conversely being unable to postpone urination (urgency).

This is a condition that affects approximately three million UK men, and has symptoms which can have a dominant negative impact on men’s lifestyles.

Through a combination of advanced ultrasound imaging and robotics Mr Barber and his colleagues are able to tailor the minimally invasive therapy to each patient’s individual prostate anatomy.

Mr Barber explains, “High-quality data reinforces that in expert hands this procedure is safe, effective and provides long-lasting results, for almost all sizes and shapes of prostate, with few limitations.”

During the 1-hour procedure the surgical team insert an integrated cystoscope camera and probe into the patient’s urethra and bladder which, combined with the ultrasound technology, provides ‘real time’ imaging; allowing the surgeon to target and carefully remove excess prostate tissue with the waterjet without damaging the surrounding tissue.  

The recent endorsement of Aquablation therapy by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), as a first line treatment for enlarged prostates, serves as a testament to the effectiveness and safety of this procedure.

Mr Barber emphasises the importance of this validation, asserting that it aligns with The London Clinic's long-standing commitment to being at the forefront of innovation, particularly in the realm of robotic-assisted surgery.

“The London Clinic are one of only a handful of private hospitals in the UK that currently offer this advanced therapy, which stands as a beacon of innovation when compared to standard Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) and laser alternatives.”

"This 200th patient milestone reflects the unique value that The London Clinic offers with this truly revolutionary treatment; through all aspects of the patient experience, from the surgeons, to the theatre team, to the ward staff and specialist nurses, ensuring the very best possible treatment and care for patients."

Aquablation is a desirable treatment option for patients dealing with moderate to severe symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, since it offers reduced patient recovery time, has no risk to erectile function, and results in a much lower risk of complications to ejaculatory function compared to other alternatives.

“We’re proud of the transformative difference we’re making to improving the health outcomes of the men who undergo this treatment,” says Mr Barber.

Find out more about this treatment method on The London Clinic website.

Read the Daily Mail interview that Mr Neil Barber had on Aquablation, here.