Last year, South Korea officially entered a super-aged society, with people aged 65 and older accounting for more than 20 percent of the population. As the elderly population increases, the number of patients with urologic conditions is also rising.
In response to this trend, Goldman Urology Clinic’s Incheon branch (Director: Dr. Lee Chang-gi) has expanded its treatment spectrum for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) by recently introducing a robotic waterjet surgical system. The goal is to build a medical infrastructure that allows patients in the Incheon region to receive advanced surgical treatment without having to travel to Seoul.
Robotic waterjet surgery is an advanced medical technology that selectively removes enlarged prostate tissue using a high-pressure waterjet. Unlike conventional techniques that use lasers or electrical cauterization, this method does not rely on heat, allowing it to minimize thermal damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
During the procedure, ultrasound and endoscopic imaging are used simultaneously to monitor the treatment area in real time. The robotic system then precisely removes only the pre-planned target area.
The procedure is known for relatively short operating times and has demonstrated clear improvements in urinary flow rate and the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) after surgery. These outcomes are associated with faster recovery and a lower burden of postoperative complications. The procedure also offers advantages in terms of treatment consistency and reproducibility.
With the introduction of this system, Goldman Urology Clinic Incheon Branch is now able to provide a wider range of treatment options for patients whose symptoms do not improve with medication, patients with large prostates, elderly patients or those with chronic diseases, and patients who prefer shorter procedures and faster return to daily activities.
In particular, the clinic applies the Hood Sparing Aquablation technique during robotic waterjet surgery. This method focuses on preserving the microstructures around the verumontanum that are closely related to ejaculation function, helping reduce the risk of retrograde ejaculation.
Dr. Lee Chang-gi stated that by introducing the robotic waterjet surgical system for the first time in the Incheon region, the clinic has created an environment where patients can receive advanced treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia without traveling to Seoul. He added that the clinic will continue expanding treatment approaches that prioritize patient quality of life while considering both safety and preservation of functional outcomes.