Skip to Main Content

Expanding Men’s Healthcare with Knoxville’s First Aquablation HYDROS™ Technology

  • 4 minute read.
  • Last Updated: 6/4/2026

Covenant Health’s Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center is expanding access to advanced men’s healthcare with the Aquablation HYDROS™ surgical system. This innovative, AI-powered technology is designed to treat enlarged prostates. As the first health system with this technology in Knoxville, our teams are delivering cutting-edge care closer than ever before. 

Addressing a Common but Disruptive Condition for Men 

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or enlarged prostate, affects millions of men as early as age 45. While common, the condition can significantly impact daily life. It can disrupt sleep, work and time with family. 
 
In East Tennessee, nearly half of the population is age 45 or older, placing a significant portion of men at higher risk. Nationally, up to 50% of men in their 50s and as many as 70–80% of men over age 60 experience symptoms. 
 
Frequent urination, especially at night, can leave men exhausted and frustrated. Many begin planning their routines around restroom access. Yet despite how common it is, many delay care, assuming symptoms are simply part of aging. 
 
There is a growing need for advanced, minimally invasive options that can restore quality of life. Covenant Health is helping meet that need by bringing Aquablation technology to the region. 

Introducing Aquablation HYDROS™ Technology

Aquablation therapy is a minimally invasive treatment that uses the Aquablation HYDROS™ system, which combines imaging, robotics and artificial intelligence. The system uses a precise stream of heat-free water to remove obstructive prostate tissue while preserving critical anatomy.

By reducing pressure on the bladder and relieving inflammation, the procedure helps restore function and reduce frequent urination.

“Aquablation gives us a powerful new option to treat enlarged prostate with precision and consistency,” said John-Paul Newport, MD, a urologist at Fort Sanders Regional with Urology Associates of East Tennessee. “We’re able to deliver effective results while helping patients recover faster and return to their daily lives.”

Aquablation therapy is designed for men age 45 and older experiencing BPH symptoms. For many, it can reduce or eliminate the need for long-term medication.

Three medical professionals in scrubs and hair covers stand in an operating room. One person holds a gold balloon shaped like the number 1. Medical equipment and a monitor displaying a blue logo are visible in the background.

Advancing Care Across Covenant Health

Covenant Health is expanding access to Aquablation technology across the region. This technology is now available at Cumberland Medical Center and Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center.

“This technology allows us to personalize treatment for each patient while minimizing damage to surrounding tissue,” said William Young, MD, a urologist at Cumberland Specialty Group at Covenant Health’s Cumberland Medical Center. “For many men, that means effective symptom relief with fewer side effects and a faster recovery.”

William Young, MD, headshot

Improving Outcomes and Quality of Life 

Early patient experiences show meaningful improvements in both symptoms and daily life. 
 
Patients report: 

  • Fewer trips to the bathroom, especially at night 
  • Improved sleep and energy 
  • Less disruption at work and daily activities 
  • Reduced reliance on long-term medications 
  • Relief from the frustration of managing symptoms 

For many, the biggest benefit is simply feeling back to normal. 

Here When You Need Us 

Covenant Health is committed to expanding access to advanced care and building lifelong relationships with the communities we serve. Through innovative technologies like Aquablation HYDROS™, patients across East Tennessee have access to expert, compassionate care close to home. 
 
Whether you are experiencing symptoms or exploring treatment options, Covenant Health is here to support you every step of the way. Learn more about our services or call 865-374-0411. 

A group of healthcare workers in green scrubs and one in a white coat stand together indoors, smiling. One person holds a gold balloon shaped like the number 1; medical equipment and a screen are in the background.

The Covenant Health Fort Sanders Regional surgical team stands with Urologist Dr. Edward Tieng and the Aquablation HYDROS™ system.

Loading Next Page