HoLEP & Laser Prostate Surgery
Advanced Laser Treatment for an Enlarged Prostate
What is HoLEP?
HoLEP (Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate) is an advanced minimally invasive procedure used to treat urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). HoLEP uses a high-powered laser to remove the obstructing part of the prostate while preserving the outer capsule of the gland. It can provide significant and durable improvement in urinary flow and bladder emptying, including for men with larger prostates. I provide specialist assessment for men considering HoLEP and will discuss whether this procedure, medication or another prostate treatment is most appropriate for your individual circumstances.
Who May benefit from HoLEP?
As the prostate enlarges, it can gradually narrow the channel through which urine passes from the bladder. This may result in symptoms such as a weak urinary stream, difficulty starting urination, increased frequency, urgency and getting up several times at night. During HoLEP, a laser is used to carefully separate and remove the enlarged prostate tissue responsible for obstructing urine flow. The removed tissue is then fragmented and removed from the bladder. Unlike some procedures that simply vaporise prostate tissue, HoLEP removes the obstructing adenoma from within the prostate capsule. This is one of the reasons it can provide a durable treatment for bladder outlet obstruction.
Who May benefit from HoLEP?
HoLEP may be suitable for men who have troublesome urinary symptoms due to an enlarged prostate, particularly when: Medication has not provided sufficient improvement Symptoms are significantly affecting quality of life There is significant obstruction to urine flow The prostate is substantially enlarged There has been urinary retention There are recurrent urinary infections or bladder problems related to obstruction Other prostate procedures may be less suitable. The size of the prostate does not necessarily prevent HoLEP from being performed. A detailed assessment is required to determine the most appropriate treatment.
What are the benefits of HoLEP?
HoLEP is an established minimally invasive treatment for benign prostate enlargement and can provide substantial improvement in urinary symptoms and flow. Potential benefits include: Effective removal of obstructing prostate tissue Significant improvement in urinary flow Improved bladder emptying Durable relief from prostate obstruction Suitable for prostates of a wide range of sizes Small skin-free surgical access through the natural urinary passage The removed tissue can be sent for laboratory analysis A relatively short hospital stay in many patients. The appropriate treatment depends on your symptoms, prostate size, bladder function, general health and personal preferences.
HoLEP compared with other prostate treatments
There are several treatments available for an enlarged prostate, including medication, TURP, GreenLight laser treatment, Aquablation and other minimally invasive procedures. HoLEP has the advantage of being able to remove a substantial amount of obstructing prostate tissue while using a minimally invasive endoscopic approach. It can therefore be particularly useful when the prostate is significantly enlarged. During your consultation, I will explain the advantages and limitations of the available treatments and help you choose an option that is appropriate for you.
Recovery after HoLEP
Recovery varies between individuals. Some men are able to return home relatively quickly following the procedure, while others may require a longer period of observation. It is common to experience some urinary frequency, urgency or mild burning when passing urine during the early recovery period. There may also be blood in the urine for a period after surgery. Urinary symptoms generally improve progressively as the bladder adjusts following removal of the obstruction. I will provide individual advice about returning to normal activities, work, exercise and other aspects of recovery.
Is HoLEP suitable for me?
There is no single prostate treatment that is right for every man. I will assess your urinary symptoms, medical history, medications, prostate size, bladder function and relevant investigations before recommending treatment. Depending on your circumstances, assessment may include a urine test, PSA blood test, prostate assessment, ultrasound, uroflowmetry, measurement of residual urine and other investigations where appropriate. We can then discuss whether HoLEP or another treatment would provide the best balance of effectiveness, durability, risks and recovery for you.
HoLEP in Wrexham, Chester and Shrewsbury
Mr Mohamed Yehia Abdallah provides specialist private urology consultations for men from Wrexham, Abergele, Chester, Shropshire and surrounding areas who are considering treatment for an enlarged prostate.
If you are experiencing troublesome urinary symptoms or have been advised that you may require prostate surgery, a consultation can provide an opportunity to review your diagnosis and discuss the available treatment options, including HoLEP.