ITIND
As the name suggests, the ITIND represents a MIST option that involves the placement of a device sitting across the outlet of the bladder, through the prostate, that is then removed 5 to 7 days later.The 3 struts of the device (1, 5 and 7 o’clock) create 3 longitudinal incisions through the prostate through pressure (rather than any heat energy), remodelling the bladder outlet, seeking to improve symptoms. Whilst both the placement and the removal take a matter of minutes, both can be performed under local anaesthetic or sedation. While the device is in place, there maybe some blood in the urine, moderate discomfort and urinary urgency, these symptoms settle within a day or two after removal – so the iTIND is a truly ambulatory surgical treatment, with rapid resolution of symptoms and return to full normal activity. Whilst the evidence base is limited, particularly in terms of understanding longevity of benefit, treatment with the iTIND represents no risk to any aspect of sexual function. iTIND has conditional approval through NICE and was has been offered as an option by Neil Barber both to NHS and private patients since 2016.
Advantages of using the iTind
The treatment involves the implantation of a small device into the prostate for 5-7 days, after which it is completely removed. Once the iTind has been implanted, it expands and applies gentle pressure, remodelling the tissue and creating a wider channel through which urine can flow.
There is no permanent implant, heating or removal of the prostate tissue.
The major advantages of using the iTind device are
- Preserves sexual and ejaculatory function
- Preserves urinary continence
- Routinely urinary catheter free
- There is no permanent implant
- No requirement for General Anæsthesia - a procedure using Local Anaesthesia or Light Sedation, alone is now more common.
- Rapid and effective symptom relief.
- Durable results.
- Rapid return to daily life and work in days, opposed to week and months.
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Having the iTIND Procedure - what to expect
The Insertion of iTind:
The iTind procedure will be performed by a urologist in an operating room. Your urologist may provide some light sedation and a local anesthetic. A small thin tube with a tiny camera will be placed into your urethra to determine where to place the iTind. Your urologist will then place the iTind device in your prostate. Once in place you should be able to urinate freely and you will be released to go home. Routinely there is no need for a catheter.
The Implantation Period:
During the next 5-7 days you may return to most normal activities, depending on how comfortable you feel. You may have soreness in the lower abdomen, and it may be uncomfortable to sit. You may experience the need to urinate more frequently and with greater urgency. You may also have some blood in your urine. These are all normal reactions.
The Removal of iTind:
After 5-7 days, your urologist will completely remove the iTind device using a flexible silicone catheter. You may return to normal activities 1-2 days after the removal.
This short video provides an overview of the symptoms of an enlarged prostate and what to expect when having iTind.
