For men with an enlarged prostate who want a highly precise, minimally invasive solution, Aquablation therapy represents a meaningful step forward in BPH treatment. Dr. Austen Slade offers Aquablation at his Boise practice as part of a full range of advanced prostate treatment options, giving patients access to technology that few urology practices in the region can provide.

How Aquablation Therapy Uses Waterjet Technology

Aquablation therapy works by combining real-time ultrasound imaging with a high-velocity waterjet to remove obstructing prostate tissue. Unlike laser- or electrical-energy-based procedures, Aquablation uses the controlled force of water to ablate tissue, so no heat is involved in the removal process itself.

Before the waterjet is activated, the surgeon maps the prostate using ultrasound imaging directly on a screen. This map defines the exact boundaries of the tissue to be removed, and a robotic system executes the resection according to that plan. The surgeon guides the procedure, but the waterjet follows the pre-mapped path with consistent, repeatable precision.

How the technology works

• Ultrasound imaging creates a real-time map of the prostate
• The surgeon outlines the treatment zone on screen, customized to the patient's anatomy
• A robotic arm executes the waterjet resection along the mapped path
• The entire resection typically takes only a few minutes
• A catheter is placed after the procedure and removed within one to two days

Key Benefits of Aquablation for Men with BPH

Aquablation offers some advantages over procedures like TURP such as an 80-90% preservation of ejaculatory function, and ability to treat large prostate glands (up to 150cc).

What sets Aquablation apart

• Anatomy-independent: The robotic execution means results are consistent within the treatable range of prostate tissue size
• Preservation of sexual function: Clinical data show Aquablation has favorable outcomes for ejaculatory function compared to some other surgical options like TURP
• Single treatment: Like HoLEP, Aquablation removes tissue rather than shrinking it, which lowers the likelihood of needing a repeat procedure, though not to the same degree as HoLEP

For men who have been comparing options, BPH treatment from medication through laser surgery provides helpful context on where Aquablation fits relative to other approaches.

What to Expect Before, During, and After Aquablation

Knowing what the experience looks like from start to finish helps men feel prepared and confident going into the procedure.

Before Aquablation

Patients typically have a pre-operative consultation that includes a review of prostate size, urinary flow measurements, and overall health history. Dr. Slade will confirm that Aquablation is the right fit based on prostate volume and anatomy. Men are usually instructed to stop certain medications in advance and to arrange for someone to drive them home after the procedure.

During the procedure

Aquablation is performed under general anesthesia. The waterjet resection itself takes only a few minutes, though the full procedure, including setup and imaging, takes longer. Most men are in and out of the surgical facility the same day or after one night.

After Aquablation

• A catheter is placed immediately after surgery and typically removed within one to two days
• Some blood in the urine is normal and expected in the first few days
• Urinary urgency and frequency are common as the bladder adjusts
• Most men return to light activity within a week
• Full recovery and stabilization of urinary function generally takes four to six weeks

Temporary urinary symptoms after Aquablation are similar to what men experience after other prostate procedures. Staying well hydrated, avoiding strenuous activity in the first week, and following post-operative instructions closely all contribute to a smoother recovery.

Find Out If Aquablation Is Right for You at Dr. Slade Urology

Dr. Austen Slade offers Aquablation therapy alongside a full range of BPH treatments, including HoLEP, ReZum, and Optilume, so every patient is matched to the procedure that best fits their prostate, symptoms, and goals. If you are ready to find out whether Aquablation is the right next step, Dr. Slade and his team are here to help you make that decision with confidence.