Saint Peter’s University Hospital has announced the launch of the HYDROS™ Robotic System, a next-generation, AI-powered platform designed to provide a more precise and less invasive solution for men suffering from Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), commonly known as an enlarged prostate.
As a member of Saint Peter’s Healthcare System, the hospital is among the first to offer this advanced Aquablation® therapy, which utilizes heat-free waterjet technology to address a condition that affects one in two men between the ages of 51 and 60.
For decades, the standard surgical interventions for BPH often carried significant risks, including long-term impacts on sexual function and urinary continence. The introduction of the HYDROS system marks a technological leap, offering durable symptom relief with a reduced risk profile.
“Aquablation is a minimally invasive surgical option that uses real-time imaging and an artificial intelligence robotic system,” Dr. Akwasi Boateng, a urologist at Saint Peter’s University Hospital explained. “The HYDROS Robotic System allows the surgeon to tailor treatment to each patient’s unique anatomy while minimizing total surgery time and the risk of complications.”
BPH occurs when the prostate gland enlarges, putting pressure on the urethra and making it difficult to empty the bladder. Symptoms include:
- Frequent or urgent need to urinate.
- Increased nighttime urination (nocturia).
- Difficulty starting or maintaining a steady stream.
If left untreated, BPH can escalate into permanent bladder or kidney damage, bladder stones, and chronic incontinence. According to industry data, 99% of men suffering from BPH report that the condition significantly diminishes their quality of life.
The rollout of this AI-driven therapy follows Saint Peter’s recent recognition by Healthgrades as one of America’s 50 Best Hospitals for Outpatient Prostate Care (2026). The award specifically cited the hospital’s superior clinical outcomes in BPH treatment.
The Aquablation procedure is backed by five years of clinical data, proving its efficacy in providing significant, long-term relief for patients. By utilizing a heat-free waterjet, the system removes excess prostate tissue causing the blockage without the thermal damage often associated with traditional laser or cautery methods.
