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If you’ve heard the term cauterize prostate, you may be wondering what it actually means and when it’s used. In this video, Dr. Kia Michel, board-certified urologist and founder of Comprehensive Urology in Beverly Hills, explains how cauterization is used during prostate procedures to control bleeding and remove obstructive tissue.
With over 20 years of leadership in advanced urologic care—and as an early pioneer in robotic and minimally invasive prostate surgery—Dr. Michel helps patients understand exactly how modern technology improves safety and outcomes.
Video Description
The phrase cauterize prostate typically refers to the use of electrical energy or heat to remove or seal prostate tissue during procedures such as TURP (transurethral resection of the prostate) or other surgical treatments for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
In this video, Dr. Michel explains how a specialized surgical loop both cuts and cauterizes tissue simultaneously during TURP. This helps minimize bleeding and improves visibility during surgery. He also discusses other technologies, including bipolar energy systems and laser therapies, which use heat to vaporize or seal enlarged prostate tissue.
Cauterization is not a standalone procedure—it is a surgical technique used as part of a broader treatment plan to relieve urinary obstruction. Dr. Michel reviews when surgical intervention is recommended, potential side effects, and recovery expectations.
At Comprehensive Urology, patients benefit from our best-in-class Beverly Hills facility, in-office diagnostics for faster results, and affiliation with Cedars-Sinai for comprehensive surgical care. Our nationally recognized team provides state-of-the-art urologic treatment based on the latest research and clinical trials.
Timestamps
0:00 – What does cauterize prostate mean?
0:22 – How cauterization works during TURP
0:50 – Laser and bipolar technologies
1:20 – Why bleeding control matters
1:45 – Recovery after prostate surgery
What’s Covered in This Video
- How TURP Surgery uses cauterization to remove tissue
- Treatment options for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
- Differences between cutting, vaporization, and cauterization techniques
FAQ
Is cauterizing the prostate painful?
No. Cauterization occurs during surgery under anesthesia, so patients do not feel it.
Does cauterization increase complications?
When performed properly, cauterization reduces bleeding and improves surgical safety.
Medically Reviewed by:
Written by: Kia Michel, MD, Board-Certified Urologist, Urological Surgeon, & Sexual Health Specialist
Reviewed by: Robert Sanford, MD, Board-Certified Urologist, Urological Surgeon, & Sexual Health Specialist
Last Reviewed: March 11, 2026 03:07pm PT
How We Review Medical Content: Dr. Michel reviews all references for accuracy and clinical relevance and Dr. Robert Sanford peer-reviews the data to ensure the most up to date information.
Disclaimer: This video and supporting text is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please contact a licensed physician in reference to your specific case.
Kia Michel, MD
Written by Dr. Kia Michel, a board certified urologist, surgeon, and founding member of Comprehensive Urology in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles. Dr. Michel's expertise includes focal therapy (HIFU/TULSA), prostate cancer treatment, robotic surgery, and male enhancement treatments such as Shock Wave Treatment for ED and penile injections.
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