Israeli Hospital Introduces AI-Driven Robotic Treatment for Enlarged Prostate
Shaare Zedek Medical Center in Jerusalem has become the first hospital in Israel to use a new robotic system that combines artificial intelligence (AI), real-time imaging, and robotics to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). This advanced Aquablation technology removes obstructive prostate tissue using a precise water jet instead of heat, aiming to reduce bleeding, shorten surgery time, and preserve sexual function.
One of the initial patients treated was a man in his 50s suffering from urinary retention and kidney function deterioration who required a permanent catheter. Following the procedure, the enlarged prostate tissue was removed, allowing him to discontinue catheter use and regain normal urination. He was discharged in good condition after one day.
The system, called HYDROS, integrates an AI algorithm that analyzes ultrasound images to identify anatomical structures and tailor the treatment plan to each patient’s prostate anatomy. However, the surgeon retains full responsibility for medical decisions and treatment planning. Shaare Zedek reports that recent surgeries using this system have shown at least a 20% reduction in procedure time, significantly less bleeding, and rapid recovery enabling discharge after one night.
Over the past three years, Shaare Zedek has performed more than 1,000 Aquablation treatments and is the first in Israel and third in Europe to operate this latest generation system. Professor Boris Chertin, head of the urology department, emphasized the hospital’s clinical expertise and the system’s ability to provide precise, safe, and advanced treatment that minimizes bleeding and accelerates recovery.
In addition to Aquablation, the hospital has introduced the UroLift method, which uses tiny implants to push prostate tissue away from the urethra without tissue removal. This procedure is done under mild sedation, often allows same-day discharge without a catheter, and preserves sexual function and fertility.
