Holmium Laser Enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) is a modern alternative to the standard Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) procedure for bladder outflow obstruction due to BPH. It requires a short period of hospitalisation and a general anaesthetic. A catheter (a tube which drains the bladder) is required for 1-2 days until the urine is clear. Patients are advised to take life quietly and to avoid straining or heavy lifting for four weeks after the surgery.
Who is it suitable for?
- HoLEP can be performed on men of any age with urinary outflow obstruction caused by an enlarged prostate. It is particularly indicated in men with large prostates (over 60 mls) and men on medications to thin the blood such as warfarin, aspirin or clopidogrel.
What are the advantages of HoLEP
- There is often less bleeding than after a TURP
- Discharge is often quicker than after TURP at 1-2 days
- The chance of recurrence requiring further surgery is very low
- Unlike greenlight laser operations, large quantities of prostate tissue are sent for pathological analysis
- The PSA generally drops to very low levels after HoLEP operations
Your Urologist will be happy to discuss HoLEP with you.
Reference: Tooher RL et al. A Systematic Review of Holmium Laser Prostatectomy, ASERNIP-S Report No. 23. Adelaide, South Australia: ASERNIP-S, June, 2003.