Irreversible Electroporation (IRE) Prostate (Nanoknife)

Insertion of a temporarily implanted nitinol device is minimally invasive prostate surgery and is performed as a day procedure in hospital.

Insertion of the iTind is done using a general anaesthetic (while you are asleep), with the use of a rigid cystoscope (device to look into the bladder).

The cystoscope and nitinol device are passed up the urethra (water pipe) into the bladder.

The iTind is then positioned in the urethra at the location of the prostate. At completion of the placement of the temporary implanted nitinol device, a retrieval suture will be left protruding from the urethra.

The suture is taped to the penis to keep it secure.

The device stays in place until removed five to seven days later.

Removal of the device is performed under sedation as a day procedure in hospital.

You may notice blood in the urine for a day or two after each procedure.

You may have mild burning and stinging when passing urine for a day or two after each procedure.

If you have sedation or a general anaesthetic, you can usually return to work one to two days after the procedure. Avoid strenuous work until the device is removed.

If you have sedation or a general anaesthetic, you will not be able to drive for 24 hours.

You will have a suture running from the iTind out of your penis. This will be taped to your penis. Do not cut or damage the suture as it is used to remove the device.

You should avoid sexual activity, strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and activities such as sitting on a lawnmower or working with vibrating equipment, while the device is in place.

• Minimally invasive.
• Does not require an overnight stay in hospital.
• Avoidance of side effects associated with medications.
• Preservation of sexual and ejaculatory functions.
• Routine catheter following procedure not required.

Note: The iTind treatment is a newer effective treatment for managing lower urinary symptoms associated with prostate enlargement. It has a lower durability of symptom relief, compared to more definitive treatments, such as TURP and HoLEP.