A New Era for Prostate Care in Nigeria: First UroLift Surgery Successfully Performed
By Chioma Obinna
In a groundbreaking development poised to revolutionize prostate treatment in Nigeria, The Prostate Clinic (TPC) in Lagos has proudly completed the country’s first-ever UroLift procedure. This milestone was achieved under the expert guidance of Professor Kingsley Ekwueme, a renowned Consultant specializing in Urological, Laparoscopic, and Robotic Surgery.
Founded by Professor Ekwueme upon his return to Nigeria after extensive international experience, the clinic is setting a new benchmark in managing prostate health. This advancement promises to reduce the dependency of Nigerian men on costly overseas medical interventions.
For years, many Nigerian men have sought prostate care abroad, often facing prohibitive expenses and health risks. It is estimated that Nigeria loses billions of naira annually to medical tourism, much of which stems from treatments for prostate enlargement and related urological disorders. The introduction of the UroLift procedure locally offers a cutting-edge, safe, and affordable alternative.
The UroLift, or Prostate Urethral Lift, was showcased live to the media, resembling a scene from a sophisticated medical series. The technique involves inserting a miniature telescope through the urethra to access the prostate and bladder, followed by the placement of tiny implants that gently retract the enlarged prostate tissue. This relieves urinary obstruction without the need for cutting or removing any tissue.
Remarkably, the entire surgery lasts under an hour and is minimally invasive. Professor Ekwueme emphasized that unlike conventional prostate surgeries, the UroLift preserves sexual function, including erection and ejaculation, addressing a major concern for many patients.
The precision and professionalism demonstrated by Professor Ekwueme and his team during the procedure were exemplary, ensuring the best possible patient outcomes.
In a post-surgery briefing, Professor Ekwueme hailed the event as a historic achievement for Africa. “Introducing the first UroLift procedure on the continent ushers in a new chapter in prostate healthcare,” he stated. “This minimally invasive method not only eases symptoms but also safeguards sexual health, a distinct advantage over traditional treatments.”
The procedure is suitable for men with prostate volumes up to 80 milliliters and can be performed under local or spinal anesthesia. Patients typically return home the same day, a stark contrast to conventional surgeries that often require prolonged hospitalization.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), prostate conditions, including prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia, are an escalating health concern in Nigeria. WHO statistics reveal that one in six Nigerian men will develop a prostate-related issue during their lifetime, with prostate cancer accounting for nearly 30% of all male cancers nationwide.
Experts link the high mortality rates to insufficient screening, delayed diagnosis, and limited access to modern therapies. Innovations like the UroLift procedure present a timely and effective solution, potentially easing this burden by delivering top-tier care within Nigeria.
Professor Ekwueme expressed optimism that this advancement would reduce Nigeria’s dependence on foreign medical services. “Many Nigerians who travel abroad for treatment face not only exorbitant costs but also substandard care and disrespect,” he remarked. “With UroLift now accessible locally, patients can receive world-class treatment without leaving the country.”
He further noted that having such advanced procedures available domestically improves follow-up care, continuity, and quality control-benefits often missing when treatment is sought overseas.
Highlighting the dangers of untreated prostate conditions, Professor Ekwueme warned that while some cases are benign, they can still lead to serious complications. “Symptoms like frequent nighttime urination or loss of bladder control should never be overlooked,” he cautioned. “If ignored, prostate enlargement can obstruct urine flow, cause severe pain, damage the bladder, and even result in kidney failure.”
He stressed that prolonged strain on bladder muscles may cause irreversible harm, underscoring the critical need for early detection and treatment.
The UroLift’s primary advantage lies in restoring normal urinary function without compromising sexual health-a key factor that often deters men from seeking help. “This procedure does not interfere with erections or ejaculation,” Professor Ekwueme assured. “For younger men wishing to maintain fertility, it is truly transformative.”
Looking forward, The Prostate Clinic plans to continue introducing innovative prostate care technologies across Nigeria and the African continent. “Our goal is to position Nigeria as the premier hub for prostate treatment in Africa,” said Professor Ekwueme. “Following our successes with robotic prostate cancer surgeries and now the first UroLift, we are just beginning this journey.”