How does holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) work?
The holmium laser is a surgical laser that has been found particularly effective in performing several types of urological surgeries. In the case of HoLEP, the laser is used to cut and remove the bulky prostate tissue that is blocking the flow of urine.
Who needs to have holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP)?
BPH occurs in more than 40 percent of men over the age of 60 and is a leading cause of urination symptoms, including difficulty in passing urine. As men age, the symptoms of this condition can worsen. Although many cases of urinary obstruction from BPH can be treated without surgery, patients who do not benefit from such medical treatments may eventually need surgery to avoid or deal with long-term problems such as retention of urine, urinary tract infections, and bladder stones. Patients who are appropriate for HoLEP are typically symptomatic due to very large prostates.
Patients may not be candidates for HoLEP if:
- They have bleeding problems.
- They have had certain types of prior prostate treatments.
- They cannot lie on their back with their legs raised. This position is necessary for the procedure.