Out of the blue one night, Dr. Daniel Seddoh, a retired corporate executive and professor from Ghana woke up four times with the urge to go to the bathroom. This was not typical. On the last trip around 2 a.m., although he felt the urge, he couldn’t actually go. By 5 a.m., Dr. Seddoh was in agony.
“The next 3 hours were traumatizing as I struggled in severe pain without success to void my bladder,” he explained.
Dr. Seddoh was rushed to his local hospital where doctors inserted a catheter for immediate relief. Further diagnosis showed that he had benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or an enlarged prostate, but doctors explained that his prostate was so big, the typical treatment which uses a laser to remove the extra tissue may not work.
“I left the hospital highly disappointed,” said Dr. Seddoh, who was deeply concerned due to his family history with BPH. “My father also suffered from an enlarged prostate and ultimately died due to an infection from prolonged use of the catheter,” said Dr. Seddoh yearned for a long-term fix that would allow him to reclaim his quality of life.
Very concerned he would suffer the same fate as his father, Dr. Seddoh was determined to find a permanent solution. He spent hours researching online for a new option but couldn’t find one in his homeland. Then he came across a novel, minimally invasive procedure called HYDROS™ Robotic System for Aquablation® Therapy. After reading about the technique, which uses robotic technology and high-pressure water jet to remove excess prostate tissue, and watching videos of it, he knew it was right for him.
“The only problem was I would have to go to New Jersey to get it,” he said.
A Journey of Instinct
Dr. Seddoh followed his instinct to fly across the Atlantic to the United States in pursuit of this lasting solution. His research led him to Hackensack Meridian Health’s Ravi Munver, M.D., a pioneer known for his expertise in this advanced urologic technology. After consulting with Dr. Munver, his conviction was reinforced.
“When I learned about Aquablation, I felt a glimmer of hope. It seemed like the answer I was searching for,” said Dr. Seddoh.
“Aquablation therapy uses a robotic system guided by real-time ultrasound imaging to precisely remove excess prostate tissue using a high-pressure water jet,” explained Dr. Munver, vice chair of urology and director of minimally invasive and robotic urologic surgery at Hackensack University Medical Center. “This targeted approach minimizes damage to surrounding healthy tissue and nerves, preserving sexual function and continence.”
The benefits of Aquablation that appealed to Dr. Seddoh, and may benefit others facing similar challenges, include:
A minimally invasive approach: Unlike traditional surgery, Aquablation requires no incisions, leading to faster recovery and less pain.
The procedure improves urinary flow: By removing the obstructing prostate tissue, Aquablation significantly improves urine flow, reducing or eliminating the need for frequent bathroom trips and nighttime awakenings.
It preserves sexual function: The precise nature of the procedure helps protect the nerves responsible for erectile function, a significant concern for many men considering prostate treatment.
Patients have long-lasting relief: Aquablation offers a durable solution, providing sustained relief from BPH symptoms for many years.
There is a reduced risk of complications: Compared to traditional surgery, Aquablation has a lower risk of complications such as bleeding, incontinence, and retrograde ejaculation.
“Dr. Seddoh is one of our many patients who have traveled from across the globe to Hackensack University Medical Center, a hub for world-class care and innovation, to receive the cutting-edge Aquablation therapy for BPH,” said Dr. Munver.
A Life-Changing Result
Dr. Seddoh’s journey from Ghana to New Jersey proved worthwhile. Following his Aquablation procedure, he experienced a dramatic improvement in his symptoms. “It’s like a new lease on life,” he shared. “I can sleep through the night, I’m no longer constantly thinking about my prostate, and I feel like myself again.”
Dr. Seddoh also expressed immense gratitude for Dr. Munver and all the medical staff who worked tirelessly to support the procedure both inside and outside of the operating room. His story highlights the power of research and the importance of seeking out the best possible treatment options, even if it means traveling far from home.
“The whole experience resonates with a slogan from my alma mater, the University of Bradford UK, which is ’making knowledge work’,” he said.
“I am determined to introduce our urologist in Ghana to Dr. Munver and his colleagues in New Jersey to learn more about this life changing procedure,” he vowed. “I want the world to know about how it can help more men. I want the world to know that there is help, Aquablation is neat and tidy, it leaves no scars on your body. It is needless for any man to die of an enlarged prostate.”
For those struggling with the debilitating symptoms of an enlarged prostate, Aquablation offers a minimally invasive, effective and long-lasting solution that can significantly improve their quality of life. If you’re experiencing similar issues, schedule an appointment with a urologist to see if Aquablation is the right option for you.
Next Steps & Resources
The material provided through HealthU is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual care.
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