In the past decade, a number of minimally invasive techniques have been developed to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Transurethral ablation (TUNA®) of the prostate is a minimally invasive treatment that has fewer side effects than other minimally invasive laser or microwave treatments. It also compares favorably to TURP.

The TUNA® System delivers low-level radiofrequency energy directly into hyperplasic prostate tissue while preserving the urethra and adjacent structures from harm. Twin needles deliver the RF energy, heating a well-defined area of tissue to produce significant coagulative necrosis. Adjustable shields covering the needles are used to localize the lesions within the prostate and protect the urethra from thermal damage.

The TUNA procedure can be performed in an office or hospital outpatient center in less than 1 hour using minimal anesthesia, some preparation is required prior to the procedure. Catheterization is needed in about 40% of the patients--on average not more than 2 days. Patients are able to return to most normal activities within 24-48 hours. TUNA Therapy is associated with few side effects and adverse events, including few reports of sexual dysfunction. The TUNA procedure is covered by Medicare in all 50 states as well as by many private pay insurance companies.

Key Benefits of TUNA Therapy

  • Relief from BPH symptoms
  • Short procedure time
  • Procedure performed in an office or outpatient setting
  • Procedure covered by Medicare and most other insurance providers
  • Quick recovery (usually within 48 hours)
  • Few side effects and adverse events¹
Frequently Asked Questions About TUNA Therapy

How do I know if TUNA Therapy is right for me?
If you are experiencing symptoms of BPH, you should consult your physician. Your physician will run a series of tests to determine if you indeed have BPH. The decision of how to treat your BPH should then be decided in conjunction with your physician.

How does the procedure work?
TUNA Therapy is a nonsurgical treatment. You will be given a mild sedative to take orally, and local anesthesia is delivered to the prostate via a small catheter inserted into the urethra. Your physician will then insert the TUNA device, which delivers low-level radio frequency energy directly into the prostate. This energy shrinks and destroys the prostate tissue. It then relieves the constriction on the urethra and improves the symptoms of BPH. After the procedure is complete, you will be given fluids to drink and will be asked to remain in the office until you urinate. In some cases your doctor may elect to insert a catheter to ensure your comfort.

Will I have to spend the night in the hospital?
This procedure was designed for use in an office or a hospital outpatient setting. Most men are able to go home safely the same day.

Is the procedure safe in the office?
Yes, the procedure is safe. The instruments used in the procedure contain several important safety features. For example, the instrument constantly measures temperature in the treatment area and automatically shuts off if it detects that it is getting to hot.

How long will it be before I can return to my normal activities?
Most TUNA Therapy patients return to their normal activities quickly after the procedure, while some patients may require a day or two.

Will there be any sexual side effects?
The ability to have normal and natural sexual relations is important at any age. During the clinical study, less than 2% of TUNA Therapy patients experience impotence and less than 1% of patients experience retrograde ejaculation.²

How soon can I expect my BPH symptoms to go away?
Generally you will see improvement in your symptoms two to six weeks after the procedure and symptoms may continue to improve over two to three months.³ Individual results vary.

Is catheterization required after the procedure?
Catheterization is required as needed, usually 0-7 days.

What is the risk of incontinence?
There were no reported cases of incontinence in the clinical study.

Are there other side effects associated with TUNA Therapy?
Possible side effects from the TUNA procedure include obstruction, bleeding, pain/discomfort, urgency, frequency and urinary tract infection.


¹ Precision System User Guide
² Roehrborn, Issa, Bruskewitz, et al. Transurethral Needle Ablation for BPH: 12-Month Results of a Prospective Multicenter US Study, Urology 1998; 51:415-421.
³ Naslund. Transurethral Needle Ablation of the Prostate, Urology 1997; 50:167-172.



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