What is iTIND? How it helps in treating Primary Bladder Neck Obstruction

Hyderabad: Primary Bladder Neck Obstruction (PBNO) is a condition that affects 33-45% of men under 55, causing difficulty in passing urine.

The condition results from a failure of the bladder neck to relax during urination, leading to symptoms such as frequent urges, incomplete bladder emptying, and persistent discomfort.

To address this issue, the Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology (AINU) has introduced a new treatment using the iTIND (Temporarily Implanted Nitinol Device), a minimally invasive procedure available at select centers across India.

How iTIND Works

Dr. Madduri Vijay Kumar Sarma, Consultant Urologist at AINU, explained, “This device is placed at the bladder neck within the urinary tract and is removed after seven days. During this period, three small channels are formed at the bladder neck, ensuring smooth urine flow. Even after removal, these channels remain open, allowing normal urination without discomfort.”

Unlike traditional surgeries that require tissue removal and may impact sexual function, iTIND is a non-invasive alternative with no such side effects. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia, allowing patients to return home the same day.

Impact of PBNO on Daily Life

PBNO can significantly affect a person’s routine. While most men urinate four to five times a day, those with PBNO may feel the urge to urinate every hour but struggle to do so effectively. This leads to discomfort, social embarrassment, and even avoidance of public transport and professional meetings. Many individuals delay seeking medical attention due to stigma, increasing the risk of kidney damage from prolonged urine retention.

Recently, a 38-year-old patient from West Godavari, Andhra Pradesh, underwent the iTIND procedure at AINU after experiencing severe symptoms. The hospital has successfully treated eight patients with this method so far.

Advantages Over Traditional Treatments

Conventional treatments for PBNO often involve partial prostate removal, which can impact ejaculation. iTIND offers an alternative that preserves normal urinary and sexual function.

“The iTIND device effectively opens up the prostate and bladder neck, creating a natural urinary channel within 5 to 7 days. Unlike conventional treatments that involve partial removal of the prostate—often resulting in loss of ejaculation—this method is entirely non-invasive, ensuring normal sexual function is preserved,” Dr. Sarma added.