Published August 14, 2025
L+M Hospital successfully performed its first minimally invasive, robotic-assisted surgical procedure using a high-velocity, heat-free waterjet to remove excess prostate tissue, providing long-lasting relief for men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
The procedure, called Aquablation®, was performed by L+M urologist Timothy Tran, MD, associate professor of Urology, Yale School of Medicine. Joseph Heineman, MD, a urologic surgeon with Northeast Medical Group, will also perform the procedure at L+M.
“This is an exciting development for men’s health in our region,” said Oliver Mayorga, MD, chief medical officer, L+M Hospital. “The addition of this procedure to our array of options for prostate issues reflects our commitment to bringing cutting-edge technology and exceptional care to patients throughout eastern Connecticut and southern Rhode Island.”
Dr. Tran explained the uniqueness of the procedure. “We use the precision of robotics while harnessing the heat-free power of water,” he said. “Aquablation uses high-pressure saline to remove excess prostate tissue present in BPH patients, thereby relieving the pressure that the prostate has placed on the urethra and the bladder. The procedure combines real-time visualization using a cystoscope – a thin camera – and ultrasound imaging to give us a complete, multi-dimensional view of the prostate.”
Dr. Tran also explained the benefits. “With this treatment, men have a lower risk of sexual side effects, a faster recovery, and better durability compared to traditional surgical approaches,” he said. The treatment is performed in the hospital under anesthesia.
Approximately half of men have BPH by age 60, and the prevalence increases significantly with age, reaching 80 percent in men over 70. More specifically, it affects over 42 million men in the US and over 660 million men worldwide.
To learn more about Aquablation® and other urologic procedures offered at L+M, visit, https://www.lmhospital.org/services/urology or call 844-817-9171 to make an appointment.
