Professor Kingsley Ekwueme, a distinguished consultant urological, laparoscopic, and robotic surgeon, has achieved a historic medical milestone by successfully performing West Africa’s first UroLift procedure. This pioneering minimally invasive treatment for prostate enlargement took place at The Prostate Clinic (TPC) in Nigeria, a super-specialized center for prostate cancer also established by Ekwueme. The procedure marks a significant advancement in men’s health for the region and is expected to substantially reduce Nigeria’s dependence on medical tourism.

The UroLift System, also known as the Prostate Urethral Lift, is specifically designed to alleviate symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate that often leads to difficult urination and a diminished quality of life. Unlike conventional prostate surgeries that involve cutting or removing prostatic tissue, the UroLift employs tiny implants. These implants gently lift and hold the enlarged prostate tissue away from the urethra, thereby ensuring unimpeded urine flow.

One of the most compelling advantages of the UroLift procedure, as highlighted by Professor Ekwueme, is its unique ability to preserve both erectile function and ejaculation post-operation. This addresses a major concern for many men considering prostate surgery, as other traditional methods often carry risks of sexual dysfunction. Furthermore, the UroLift is a same-day treatment option that can be performed under local anesthesia, offering convenience and reduced recovery time. For younger men who may wish to father children after prostate surgery, this procedure provides a safe and highly effective alternative.

Eligibility for the UroLift procedure is determined through a comprehensive medical assessment. Candidates must have a prostate size of 80 milliliters or less, and undergo thorough evaluation to rule out prostate cancer. The configuration and size of the prostate must also meet specific UroLift criteria to ensure the procedure’s efficacy and safety.

The introduction of UroLift in Nigeria is poised to have a profound impact on the nation’s healthcare landscape, particularly in curbing the extensive financial drain caused by medical tourism. Nigerians currently spend an estimated $3 billion annually traveling abroad for medical treatments, often encountering issues such as inadequate follow-up care or compromised quality assurance. With world-class prostate care, including advanced procedures like UroLift, now available domestically, patients no longer need to seek these services overseas.

Professor Ekwueme emphasized that the UroLift procedure aligns perfectly with TPC’s overarching mission to continually innovate and integrate cutting-edge medical technologies into Nigerian healthcare. TPC has a history of pioneering efforts, including launching the first robotic surgeries for prostate cancer in Nigeria, West Africa, and Central Africa. The clinic plans to further expand its range of treatment options that specifically aim to prevent the loss of erection and ejaculation for men.

Ekwueme also issued a stern warning regarding the severe dangers of untreated prostate enlargement. He explained that prolonged blockage can weaken the bladder muscle, potentially leading to kidney failure and the eventual necessity for dialysis. This underscores the critical importance of early diagnosis and timely intervention.

This landmark achievement by Professor Ekwueme and The Prostate Clinic Nigeria firmly places the country at the forefront of urological innovation on the African continent. It offers renewed hope and access to advanced care for thousands of men grappling with prostate conditions, signifying Nigeria’s capacity to provide prostate care on par with global standards.