Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu underwent an examination last Wednesday at Hadassah Hospital, where a urinary tract infection caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) was discovered. Over the following days, the Prime Minister received antibiotic treatment that eradicated the infection. Consequently, Netanyahu is set to undergo a procedure today (Sunday) to remove the prostate. The Prime Minister’s Office stated that “full details will be provided later.”
The government meeting will proceed as planned today, but Netanyahu’s testimony in court scheduled for Monday may be postponed due to the procedure.
It is worth recalling that in April, the Prime Minister underwent surgery under general anesthesia following the discovery of a hernia during medical examinations. In July 2023, after reporting weakness and dehydration during an extreme heat wave, Netanyahu underwent an urgent medical procedure to implant a pacemaker. Following the successful procedure, the Prime Minister’s Office announced that Netanyahu’s health condition was stable.
What Is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia and How Does It Affect Urination?
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a condition in which the prostate gland enlarges and grows toward the urethral canal, the tube that carries urine from the bladder. This process can block the bladder’s outlet and exert pressure on it, leading to urinary system dysfunction. This condition becomes increasingly common as life expectancy increases. Urinary issues resulting from BPH affect approximately 15%-60% of men over 40 and about 80% of men over 70.
For patients with mild-to-moderate symptoms, only monitoring is required, alongside lifestyle changes such as:
– Avoiding drinking liquids within two hours before bedtime.
– Reducing or eliminating alcohol and caffeine consumption.
– Extending the time between urinations.
– Engaging in regular physical activity.
For moderate-to-severe symptoms, medication is recommended in combination with lifestyle changes. The goal of medication is to shrink the prostate, suppress involuntary bladder contractions, and improve urine flow and bladder emptying.
Treatments for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia When Medication Is Ineffective:
– Closed Approach Prostatectomy: Removal of the obstructing prostate tissue (adenoma) using an optical fiber inserted through the urethra without abdominal surgery. Suitable for medium-to-large prostates.
– Open Approach Prostatectomy: Removal of the external part of the prostate through an abdominal incision or between the scrotum and rectum. Suitable for severe enlargement or exceptionally large prostates (over 300 grams).
– Aquablation: Precise removal of obstructive prostate tissue using a high-pressure water jet and robotic guidance. Suitable for large prostates.
– Laser Prostatectomy: Removal of obstructive tissue with a laser, suitable for any size and structure of the prostate.
– Prostate Artery Embolization: Blocking the arteries supplying the prostate by injecting materials that gradually shrink it. This is a less invasive procedure but less effective than surgery and unsuitable for patients with arterial sclerosis.
