iTind: A gentle alternative to surgery or long-term medications
What Is BPH (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia)?
BPH is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate that becomes more common with age.
Quick Facts:
Around 50–60% of men in their 60s have some prostate enlargement.
By their 80s, up to 80% of men may experience urinary issues related to BPH.
Symptoms may include:
A slow or weak urine stream
Difficulty starting or stopping
Getting up at night to urinate
Feeling like you haven’t fully emptied your bladder
Traditional Treatment Options
Historically, treatment involved:
Medications, which may have side effects or stop working over time
Surgery (like TURP), which is effective but more invasive and may impact sexual function
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Introducing: iTind – A Modern, Minimally Invasive Option
iTind (Temporarily Implanted Nitinol Device) is a gentle alternative to surgery or long-term medications. It has been available in Australia for the past couple of years and is showing very promising results.
How Does iTind Work?
The procedure involves placing a tiny metal device (like a small basket) into your prostate while you're asleep under a short general anaesthetic. Here’s what happens:
A telescope is used to gently insert the iTind device into your prostate.
The device stays in place for 5–7 days, slowly creating three small channels in your prostate tissue.
You go home the same day with a thin thread attached externally for removal.
After about a week, the device is removed in the clinic.
Over time, the channels remain open, improving urine flow and easing symptoms.
What Benefits Can I Expect?
Studies show:
- Around 45% improvement in urinary symptoms
- Up to 50% better quality of life scores reported by patients
- Results are long-lasting, with many men still satisfied after 6+ years
What Are the Advantages of iTind?
✅ Minimally invasive (no cutting or tissue removal)
✅ Preserves sexual function, including erections and ejaculation
✅ No permanent implants left inside
✅ Same-day discharge
✅ Fast recovery
Are There Any Side Effects?
Most men tolerate the procedure well. However, you might experience during the first week:
⚠️Mild discomfort from the thread
⚠️Blood in the urine
⚠️Burning or increased urgency
⚠️Night-time urination
These usually resolve after the device is removed.
How Does iTind Compare to Other Treatments?
You may have heard of other options like UroLift or Rezum. All of these—including iTind—are minimally invasive and aim to relieve symptoms without major surgery.
iTind stands out because:
It does not leave behind any permanent material
It has very low risk of affecting sexual function
It provides a natural healing process through gentle reshaping of the prostate
Patient Questions:
Q: Am I asleep during the procedure?
A: Yes, in Australia the iTind is placed under general anaesthetic—you won’t feel a thing.
Q: Is it safe?
A: Yes. It’s been proven safe in clinical trials and widely used in other countries.
Q: Will I notice improvement immediately?
A: Most men feel better within a week or two, with ongoing improvement over time.
Q: What if I’ve already tried medications or other procedures?
A: iTind is often suitable for men who haven’t had success with medications or who want to avoid surgery.
What’s the Next Step?
If you’re struggling with urinary symptoms and looking for a gentle but effective solution, we’re here to help.
At The Prostate Clinic, we can assess whether iTind or another treatment is right for you. We offer personalised care with a focus on quality of life and long-term health.