Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HOLEP)

What is BPH and How Does It Affect You?

BPH, or Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, is a common condition in men as they age. It happens when the prostate gland grows larger than normal, squeezing the urethra—the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body. This can cause frustrating symptoms like difficulty starting urination, a weak or interrupted stream, and the constant need to urinate, especially at night.

Imagine trying to drink through a straw that is being squeezed from all sides. This is what happens to your urine flow when the prostate enlarges and presses on the urethra. Over time, untreated BPH can lead to more serious issues like urinary retention or bladder infections. Thankfully, advanced treatments like HoLEP can provide lasting relief.

How is HoLEP Performed?

HoLEP, or Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate, is a cutting-edge procedure designed to remove the excess tissue that causes urinary symptoms. Here’s a step-by-step explanation of what you can expect during the procedure:

Preparation:

Before the procedure, you’ll meet with Mr. Campbell for a thorough consultation to confirm that HoLEP is the right option for you. On the day of the procedure, you’ll be given anesthesia to ensure you’re completely comfortable. This might be general anesthesia, where you’ll be asleep, or spinal anesthesia, which numbs you from the waist down while you remain awake.

Accessing the Prostate:

A thin, flexible instrument called a resectoscope is inserted through the urethra, so there are no external cuts or scars. The resectoscope contains a camera and the holmium laser, allowing the surgeon to see and work with precision.

Removing the Blockage:

The holmium laser is used to carefully cut away the enlarged prostate tissue that is blocking the urine flow. This laser is highly precise, which means only the overgrown tissue is removed, leaving the healthy parts of the prostate intact.

Fragmenting and Removing Tissue:

Once the tissue is removed, it is pushed into the bladder, where it is broken into smaller fragments using a special device. These fragments are then flushed out of the body through the resectoscope, ensuring the urinary tract is completely clear.

Completion and Recovery:

A temporary catheter may be placed to help drain urine while your body heals. Most patients only need the catheter for a short time. The procedure typically takes about 60 to 90 minutes, and most patients can go home within 24 hours.

Pre-Procedure Instructions

Preparing for HoLEP is straightforward, but following your doctor’s advice will ensure the procedure goes smoothly. Here’s what you might need to do before the surgery:

Medication Adjustments:

If you’re taking blood thinners or other medications, your doctor may ask you to stop taking them several days before the procedure to reduce the risk of bleeding.

Fasting:

You may need to avoid eating or drinking for a certain period before the procedure, typically six to eight hours.

Arranging Transportation:

Since you’ll be under anesthesia, you’ll need someone to drive you home after the procedure.

What Are the Benefits of HoLEP?

HoLEP is widely considered one of the best treatments for BPH due to its numerous benefits. Let’s take a closer look at each one:

Superior Symptom Relief:

HoLEP directly addresses the cause of your symptoms by completely removing the excess tissue. This means you’re likely to experience a stronger, more consistent urine flow, fewer nighttime bathroom trips, and the satisfaction of fully emptying your bladder.

Many patients report feeling significant relief within days of the procedure, making it a fast and effective solution.

Quick Recovery and Shorter Hospital Stays:

Thanks to its minimally invasive approach, HoLEP allows for faster recovery compared to traditional surgeries like TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate).

Most patients leave the hospital the same day or within 24-48 hours and return to normal activities within a week. This means less downtime and a quicker return to your daily life.

Works for Any Prostate Size or Shape:

Unlike some treatments that are only effective for small or moderately enlarged prostates, HoLEP can handle prostates of any size or shape. Whether your prostate is slightly enlarged or very large, the laser technology ensures precise and thorough removal of tissue.

Durable Long-Term Results:

One of the key advantages of HoLEP is its lasting effectiveness. By completely removing the overgrown tissue, HoLEP reduces the likelihood of your symptoms returning. Many patients go years or even decades without needing additional treatments.

Minimized Risk of Complications:

HoLEP’s precision and minimally invasive nature reduce the risk of complications like bleeding or infection. Additionally, it avoids the need for external incisions, which helps you heal faster and with less discomfort.

What to Expect After HoLEP

Recovery from HoLEP is usually smooth, but it’s important to know what to expect:

Immediate Post-Procedure:

After the procedure, a catheter may be used to help you urinate while the area heals. This is usually removed within a day or two.

You may experience mild discomfort when urinating or a temporary sense of urgency, but these symptoms typically resolve within a week.

Resuming Normal Activities:

Most patients can return to light activities within a few days and resume their normal routines, including work, within a week. However, heavy lifting and vigorous exercise should be avoided for a few weeks.

Follow-Up Care:

Mr. Campbell will provide detailed instructions on post-operative care, including how to stay hydrated, manage temporary symptoms, and recognize signs of healing.

Regular follow-up visits will ensure that your recovery is on track and that the procedure was successful.

If you’re tired of living with the symptoms of BPH, now is the time to take action.

Schedule a consultation with Mr. Angus Campbell today to discuss your symptoms and explore whether HoLEP is the right treatment for you. With advanced techniques and compassionate care, Mr. Campbell can help you regain comfort, control, and confidence in your daily life.

Read more about HoLEP here