Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, part of the Mubadala Health network, has announced the introduction of an advanced treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) using “Aquablation” therapy. The procedure marks a significant leap forward in minimally invasive medical care in the UAE, offering new possibilities for improving treatment outcomes and patients’ quality of life.
The hospital is the first in the country to provide Aquablation therapy, which uses high-velocity water jets guided by ultrasound imaging and robotic precision to remove excess prostate tissue without heat. This approach greatly reduces the risk of side effects while enhancing safety and accuracy.
Dr George Pascal Haber, Chief Executive Officer of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi and a specialist in urology and robotic surgery, highlighted that introducing this treatment reflects the hospital’s ongoing commitment to expanding its medical capabilities and adopting the latest global innovations. He added that the procedure strengthens the hospital’s advanced care portfolio, supported by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi.
According to Dr Waleed Hassan, Chair of Urology at the Surgical Subspecialties Institute, the technology represents a transformative step in BPH treatment, addressing the limitations of traditional methods with unprecedented precision and safety.
Aquablation is performed using the AquaBeam® robotic system, which employs high-pressure water jets to remove excess tissue without heat. This minimises damage to surrounding areas and reduces the likelihood of common side effects such as urinary incontinence or sexual dysfunction. The procedure combines ultrasound imaging with cystoscopic guidance, giving surgeons a clear view of critical prostate structures, including the bladder neck and external sphincter, to ensure accurate targeting while preserving essential functions.
Dr Zaki Al Mallah, Consultant Urologist, noted that the therapy is a one-time treatment that provides long-lasting relief from disruptive symptoms. Meanwhile, Dr Omar Rahim, also a Consultant Urologist, emphasised the technique’s exceptional precision, particularly in treating larger prostates, which are often challenging for conventional procedures. He explained that tissue removal takes an average of just 5.8 minutes with Aquablation—significantly less than the roughly 30 minutes required for traditional transurethral resection—while maintaining both effectiveness and safety
