iTind for Enlarged Prostate (BPH)

If you’re experiencing bothersome urinary symptoms from an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia, BPH), iTind is a minimally invasive option that may improve urine flow without cutting, burning, or removing prostate tissue, and without leaving a permanent implant.

iTind is designed for men and people with prostates who want symptom relief with a quick return to normal activities, and who wish to preserve sexual and ejaculatory function where possible.

iTind procedure video

What is iTind?

iTind is a temporary device that is placed into the prostate for 5–7 days. During that time, it expands and applies gentle pressure at specific points to remodel the prostatic urethra (the channel urine passes through) and the opening to the bladder. After 5–7 days, the device is completely removed, with the aim of leaving a wider opening to improve urinary flow and relieve BPH symptoms.

Who might consider iTind?

You may wish to discuss iTind if you:

  • don’t want to take a tablet every day long-term, or

  • have tried standard medications and were unhappy with symptom relief or side effects, or

  • want a minimally invasive option that doesn’t leave a permanent implant.

Suitability depends on your symptoms, prostate anatomy and overall health. I’ll help you compare iTind with other options so you can choose what best fits your goals.

Potential benefits

iTind is associated with:

  • rapid symptom relief

  • rapid return to daily life

  • typically performed under light sedation or local anaesthetic

  • often catheter-free

  • no permanent implant

  • designed to preserve sexual and ejaculatory function

  • designed to preserve urinary continence

As with any procedure, outcomes vary between individuals.

What happens on the day?

This is a general overview — your experience may differ.

  1. Dr Deanne Soares places the iTind device in theatre.

  2. The procedure is usually performed under short-acting sedation or local anaesthetic, depending on individual circumstances.

  3. You will typically go home within a few hours, once you have passed urine satisfactorily. Please arrange a ride home.

  4. Many patients notice a rapid improvement in urine flow and go home without a catheter.

  5. If you are unable to pass urine after the procedure, a catheter may be inserted temporarily. It is usually removed after a few hours, and you can then go home.

While the device is in place (the 5–7 day period)

For the 5–7 days while iTind is in place, you will have a suture (string) coming out of the penis that is taped in place. Do not cut or damage this suture — it is used to remove the device.

Activity restrictions (while iTind is in place)

Please avoid:

  • sexual activity

  • strenuous exercise (including heavy lifting, cycling and running)

  • activities involving vibration or prolonged saddle/sitting pressure (e.g., lawnmower or vibrating equipment)

Common temporary symptoms (while iTind is in place)

These can occur during the implantation period and should resolve after the device is removed:

  • slight burning when urinating

  • light blood in the urine and sometimes small clots (often settles over the first 2–3 days)

  • increased urinary frequency and urgency (often strongest in the first 2–3 days; “drinking little and often” can help)

  • a feeling of pressure or a foreign body sensation in the perineum (more noticeable when sitting). Some people have stronger discomfort — we can prescribe pain relief or an anti-inflammatory if needed.

What happens after 5–7 days?

Dr Deanne will remove the iTind device using a flexible silicone catheter. Removal is performed either in theatre or an outpatient setting, and is typically done under short-acting sedation or local anaesthetic, depending on individual circumstances.

  • If you are unable to urinate after removal, a catheter may be placed temporarily to empty the bladder and removed once you are voiding satisfactorily.

  • Most people can return to normal activities 1–2 days after removal.

  • Mild blood in the urine can occur for a few days up to about a week and typically resolves on its own.

FAQs

When will I feel results?

Most people start to feel symptom relief once the device has been removed. Symptoms typically continue to improve over the next 6–12 weeks.

Will iTind affect sexual function?

iTind is designed to preserve sexual and ejaculatory function, and its positioning aims to minimise risks of sexual dysfunction.

Is the treatment permanent?

Durability has been demonstrated out to three years in studies in a significant number of patients. iTind does not prevent retreatment or other BPH options in the future if needed.

Can I still have prostate checks afterwards?

Because iTind is completely removed after 5–7 days, it does not interfere with ongoing prostate screening and routine assessment.

Next step

If you’d like to explore whether iTind is appropriate for you, Dr Deanne can review your symptoms, prostate anatomy and priorities, and talk through alternative options so you can make a confident decision.