BENGALURU, July 23, 2026 — Apollo Hospitals, Sheshadripuram, has announced the introduction of iTIND (Temporary Implantable Nitinol Device), an advanced, minimally invasive treatment designed for young men suffering from Primary Bladder Neck Obstruction (PBNO) and select benign prostatic conditions.
With this launch, Apollo Hospitals becomes the first healthcare facility in Bengaluru and Karnataka to offer this technology, as well as the state’s first center to successfully complete 10 procedures using the device.
Addressing an Overlooked Condition in Young Adults
While urinary blockage is commonly associated with aging and enlarged prostates, Primary Bladder Neck Obstruction (PBNO) affects an estimated 5% to 10% of men aged 18 to 41. Key symptoms include:
- Weak or interrupted urinary stream
- Increased urinary frequency
- Straining during urination
Because these symptoms are rarely expected in younger demographics, diagnosis is often delayed. Left untreated, chronic obstruction can cause long-term bladder damage, recurrent urinary tract infections, and potential kidney failure.
How iTIND Works
Unlike conventional surgical procedures that require burning, cutting, or removing tissue, the iTIND system provides a tissue-sparing alternative:
- Placement: Inserted via a quick endoscopic procedure under mild sedation.
- Mechanism: Temporarily reshapes the bladder neck and prostatic urethra over 5 to 7 days to widen the urinary pathway.
- Removal: Easily removed in a short follow-up visit.
- Key Benefits: Relieves urinary obstruction while actively preserving ejaculatory function and fertility—a vital requirement for younger patients.
“Many young men endure symptoms for years because these issues are mistakenly linked only to aging,” said Dr. T. Manohar, Chief Urologist, Uro-Oncologist & Transplant Surgeon at Apollo Hospitals, Sheshadripuram. “Early diagnosis prevents long-term bladder damage. For suitable candidates, iTIND offers effective relief without compromising sexual or reproductive health.”
The addition of iTIND strengthens Apollo’s comprehensive urology program, which has successfully executed over 2,500 prostate procedures. The hospital offers a spectrum of advanced therapies—including HoLEP, MoLEP, Mini-MoLEP, Rezūm, UroLift, and robotic-assisted surgery—allowing specialists to tailor care based on patient age, anatomy, and lifestyle goals.
Mr. Uday Davda, Vice President of Apollo Hospitals, Sheshadripuram, highlighted the hospital’s patient-first vision:
“Introducing iTIND aligns with our core vision of offering patient-centered, minimally invasive options. By encouraging earlier diagnosis and adopting cutting-edge technologies, we aim to safeguard our patients’ overall quality of life.”
Medical experts advise young men experiencing persistent urinary difficulty to seek early evaluation. Straightforward diagnostic tools, such as uroflowmetry, can quickly pinpoint blockages and protect long-term health.
