I am 68, my prostate was 50 grams, and my symptom score was 21 even
while taking alpha blockers (terazosin 10 mg).  I had a ThermatRX
microwave procedure 3 years ago which did not give lasting relief, and
overall was much more painful than this PVP.

My urologist is Dr. Maggio at St. Josephs Hospital outpatient facility
in Orange, CA. He has performed 24 previous procedures with Greenlight
PVP over the last year. I had a choice of epidural or general
anesthesia, chose general and recovered well from it.  The doctor had
reserved 90 minutes for the procedure but it actually took 40 minutes.
I was home five hours after arrival at 6:30 AM.  I wore a catheter until
9AM the following day, when he removed it after flushing my bladder and
examining my urine under a microscope.  The catheter is awkward and
somewhat uncomfortable, but not really that discomforting for just one
day.  I took the antibiotic levaquin and had available vicodin and
pyridium pills if needed for pain (I did not find them necessary).  The
before and after photos show quite an enlargement of the urethral
passage. In my case, it was the lateral lobes which intruded.  My
bladder had no signs of thickening or other problems, so it appears my
timing has been good.

First urination gave a fairly strong stinging sensation (7 or 8 on a
scale of 10), which lessened by completion.  Flow is moderately improved
at this early time.  There is no residual pain between urinations.

Of general interest, there is no shaving of the pubic area, most of the
surgical areas are rather cold and I suggest you take all the blankets
they will offer you.  I am told that Medicare and my supplemental policy
will cover all costs.

I will continue on terazosin, and avoid any blood thinners, sex or golf
for 30 days. Only casual walking is allowed for 2 weeks, then moderate
exercise.

I am very pleased at this point and attribute the good results to his
taking the time to do a careful and thorough surgery.  I believe surgeon
skill, training and experience play an important part in determining the
results I obtained.

Thanks to my doctor and all the members of this group for their interest
and support of all of us with a BPH problem.

Bob Fritts