Professor Kingsley Ekwueme, a consultant urological, laparoscopic, and robotic surgeon, has successfully performed West Africa’s first UroLift procedure in Nigeria. The minimally invasive treatment is designed for men suffering from benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate that can make urination difficult and significantly affect quality of life.
The UroLift System, also known as the Prostate Urethral Lift, uses tiny implants to lift and hold the enlarged prostate tissue away from the urethra, allowing urine to flow freely. This procedure is suitable for men with a prostate size of 80 milliliters or less, and patients must undergo a proper medical assessment to determine eligibility.
According to Ekwueme, the innovation addresses one of the greatest concerns men have about prostate surgery, which is the loss of sexual function. The UroLift procedure has no effect on erection and ejaculation, unlike other surgeries, and can be done under local anesthesia. This makes it a safe and effective option for younger men who wish to father children after prostate surgery.
The introduction of UroLift in Nigeria is expected to help curb the country’s high rate of medical tourism, which drains billions of dollars annually. Nigerians spend around $3 billion every year on medical tourism, with many being mistreated abroad without proper follow-up or quality assurance. With the UroLift now available in Nigeria, patients can receive world-class prostate care without having to travel overseas.
Ekwueme, who established The Prostate Clinic as the first super-specialized center for prostate cancer in Nigeria, has led several pioneering efforts in prostate treatment. The UroLift complements the clinic’s mission to bring cutting-edge technology to Nigerian healthcare. The clinic has also launched the first robotic surgeries for prostate cancer in Nigeria, West Africa, and Central Africa.
Delayed medical attention for prostate enlargement can lead to severe complications, including weak bladder muscle and kidney failure. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent these complications. With the introduction of UroLift, Nigeria has placed itself at the forefront of urological innovation on the continent, offering renewed hope to thousands of men battling prostate conditions. The country can now provide advanced prostate care available anywhere in the world, reducing the need for medical tourism and improving the quality of life for men suffering from BPH.