iTind
What is the iTind Procedure?
The iTind (Temporary Implantable Nitinol Device) is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH, an enlarged prostate). During this procedure, a temporary device is placed in the prostatic urethra for five to seven days, where it gently reshapes the tissue to improve urine flow. The device is then removed in a simple office visit, leaving behind channels that allow better urinary function without permanent implants or tissue removal.
When is iTind Recommended?
The iTind procedure may benefit men experiencing symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate, including:
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Frequent urination
Needing to urinate more than eight times during the day or waking multiple times at night. The iTind procedure helps reduce these symptoms by creating more space for urine to flow through the prostate.
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Weak or interrupted urine stream
When the enlarged prostate narrows the urethra, it becomes difficult to maintain a steady flow. This procedure reshapes the prostatic tissue to restore a stronger, more consistent stream.
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Difficulty starting urination
Hesitancy or straining during urination. The iTind creates channels that make it easier to initiate urination naturally.
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Incomplete bladder emptying
Feeling that the bladder isn't fully emptied. By improving the urethral opening, this procedure helps achieve more complete bladder drainage.
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Urgent need to urinate
Sudden, strong urges to urinate that are difficult to control. The iTind procedure can reduce this urgency by improving overall bladder function.
Benefits of iTind Treatment
Key advantages of the iTind procedure include:
No permanent implants: The temporary device is removed within a week, leaving beneficial tissue reshaping without permanent implants.
Preservation of sexual function: Minimal impact on sexual and ejaculatory function (ability to ejaculate normally).
Quick recovery time: Most patients can return to normal activities within a few days after device removal.
Local anaesthesia only: The procedure typically requires only local anaesthesia, avoiding the risks associated with general anaesthesia. This makes it suitable for patients who may not be good candidates for more invasive surgeries.
No tissue damage: Uses gentle mechanical reshaping instead of cutting or burning tissue, reducing complications.
How Does iTind Work?
The iTind procedure employs a temporary nitinol device (a flexible metal alloy) that is placed precisely into the prostate using a cystoscope (a thin tube with a camera). Once positioned, the device slowly expands over five to seven days in response to body temperature.
This gentle, controlled expansion exerts continuous pressure on targeted areas of the prostate, creating three precise channels without the need for cutting, thermal energy, or permanent implants. After reshaping the prostate tissue, the device is easily removed, leaving open pathways that significantly improve urinary function.
Preparing for iTind Treatment
Proper preparation helps ensure a successful procedure:
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Medical assessment
Your urologist will perform a thorough evaluation including urine flow tests, prostate examination, and possibly imaging studies.
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Medication review
You may need to stop taking blood thinners or adjust other medications before the procedure.
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Pre-procedure instructions
You'll typically be asked to empty your bladder completely before the procedure.
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Antibiotic prevention
Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to take before and after the procedure to prevent urinary tract infections.
The iTind Procedure Process
The iTind placement is typically completed in less than 10 minutes:
Anaesthesia: This procedure is performed under moderate sedation, with the patient maintained in a comfortable and sedated state under continuous monitoring.
Examination: Your urologist will examine the prostate and bladder using the cystoscope to ensure accurate device placement.
Device insertion: The compressed iTind device is inserted through the cystoscope and positioned within the prostatic urethra. Once in place, it begins its gradual expansion process.
Completion: The cystoscope is removed once proper positioning is confirmed.
Removal Appointment: After five to seven days, you’ll return for device removal. This quick procedure requires minimal or no anaesthesia and takes just a few minutes.
Recovery and Aftercare
Immediate Care
- First 24-48 Hours: Mild discomfort and blood in urine may occur; drinking water can reduce irritation.
- Activity Modifications: Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities; gentle activity is acceptable.
- Comfort Management: Over-the-counter pain relief; additional prescriptions if needed.
Recovery Timeline
- Days 1-5: May experience urinary urgency, frequency, or mild burning sensation.
- After device removal: Noticeable improvement immediately; full benefits usually develop over several weeks, though individual results may vary.
- Weeks 2-6 post-removal: Continued improvements and resolution of any temporary symptoms.
Follow-up Care
- Follow-up visit: Usually scheduled 2-4 weeks after device removal to assess symptom improvement. Urine flow tests may be repeated to measure objective improvements. Annual check-ups help ensure continued benefit from the procedure. Your urologist will monitor prostate health and urinary function over time.
Who is Suitable for iTind?
The iTind procedure works best for men with moderate BPH symptoms who want to avoid permanent implants or tissue removal. Ideal candidates have a prostate size between 25-75 grams and haven’t found adequate relief from medications. It may not be suitable for those with very large prostates, certain urethral issues, or active infections. Your urologist will perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine if iTind matches your specific needs and anatomy.
Get an Accurate Diagnosis & Proper Treatment
for Your Urological Conditions
Potential Risks and Complications
Like all medical procedures, iTind carries some risks, though serious complications are uncommon. Most patients experience temporary side effects such as blood in the urine, urinary urgency, and mild pelvic discomfort whilst the device is in place. There’s a small risk of urinary tract infection, which is why preventive antibiotics are typically prescribed.
To ensure safe and effective treatment, it is important to consult a qualified urologist in Singapore who can assess your individual condition, explain all potential risks, and guide you through the procedure with appropriate clinical oversight.
Dr Lee Fang Jann 
Dr Lee is a urologist and kidney transplant surgeon with a broad-based expertise of all urological disorders
He has subspecialty focus on men’s health and male infertility, and special interest in minimally invasive prostate enlargement therapy and kidney stone treatment. Dr Lee has received numerous awards for service excellence such as the Service With A Heart Award (2006-2008, 2011) and the Singapore Health Quality Service Award (2016).
- Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (Singapore)
- Membership of The Royal College of Surgeons (Edin)
- Master of Medicine (Surgery) (Singapore)
- Fellowship of the Academy of Medicine (Urology)
- Clinical fellowship at Oxford Transplant Centre in the UK
Prior to entering private practice, Dr Lee served in the public sector for 16 years at SGH, where he initiated dedicated clinics evaluating and treating patients with complex men’s health and fertility issues. He also led the Renal Transplant Program and laparoscopic donor nephrectomy service as Surgical Director.
Apart from clinical work, Dr Lee is active in academia and believes in the importance of grooming the next generation of doctor. He was Senior Clinical Lecturer at NUS’ Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and currently, Adjunct Assistant Professor at the Duke-NUS Medical School. Dr Lee is also regularly invited to share his experiences locally and regionally through lectures, workshops and surgical demonstrations.
Our Clinic Locations
Farrer Park Medical Centre, #08-05
1 Farrer Park Station Rd, Singapore 217562
Mon – Fri: 8:30am to 5:30pm
Sat: 8:30am to 12:30pm
3 Mount Elizabeth, #11-16 Medical Centre, Singapore 228510
Mon – Fri: 8:30am to 5:30pm
Sat: 8:30am to 12:30pm
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do the results last?
Clinical studies show that most patients maintain symptom improvement for at least three years after the procedure. Long-term data is still being collected, but results appear durable for the majority of patients.
Can I have an MRI scan after the iTind procedure?
Yes, once the device is removed, there are no restrictions on MRI scans. The procedure leaves no metal or permanent implants in your body.
What happens if the iTind doesn't provide enough relief?
If symptoms aren’t adequately improved, you remain a candidate for other BPH treatments. The iTind procedure doesn’t prevent you from having additional procedures if needed in the future.
Will I need a catheter after the procedure?
Most patients don’t require a catheter, though some may need one temporarily if they experience difficulty urinating immediately after device placement. This is typically removed within 24 hours.
How soon can I resume sexual activity?
It’s generally recommended to wait until after device removal and any associated discomfort has resolved. Most patients can resume sexual activity within two weeks of the removal procedure.