TherMatrx is an outpatient minimally-invasive procedure that takes 30-40 minutes to perform. It uses microwave heat to destroy excess prostate tissue blocking urine low. It is used to treat mild to moderate symptoms. While symptoms can improve immediately, most men notice optimal improvement four to six weeks later.
While the patient is sedated, a treatment catheter is inserted into the urethra, the canal that carries urine from the bladder. The TherMatrx system is turned on, lowly raising the temperature in a specific area of the prostate to destroy excess prostate tissue. When the procedure is complete, the treatment catheter is withdrawn nd a urine drainage catheter is inserted. The patient wears the drainage catheter for one to two days.
Although uncommon and short lived, side effects may include: blood in the urine, urinary retention (inability to pass urine), bladder spasms and/or temporary urinary rgency and frequency.