HoLEP
Big Prostate? No Big Deal!
Size Matters.
HoLEP can be performed on any gland, regardless of size.
No incisions. Rapid relief of symptoms.
Holmium Laser Enucleation of the prostate is an innovative use of laser technology to provide lasting relief of obstructive urinary symptoms. Using a small camera and an even smaller laser fiber, energy is delivered to the prostate with pinpoint precision.
Minimally Invasive
HoLEP is a same day or next day procedure. There are no incisions. State of the art laser technology is used to remove the prostate tissue, while leaving the prostate capsule (or covering) behind. The benefit of this approach is that the tissue can be sent to a pathologist to review for cancer or other conditions.
The procedure can be thought of like this:
Step 1: Core out the fruit portion of an orange
Step 2: Leave the peel of the orange behind
The HoLEP leaves an open channel for urine to pass through easily.
What is a HoLEP?
A Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate combines innovative laser technology with the comfort of a small scope through the natural channel (urethra) to remove blocking prostate tissue. After the blockage is relieved, the prostate is suctioned through a device and sent to a pathologist for review to ensure there is no cancer or other abnormality in the tissue.
What can I expect on procedure day?
For patient comfort HoLEP is generally performed with anesthesia, and patients will go home the same day or next day. A catheter is generally left in the bladder after the procedure to relieve urination while the healing process occurs. Most patients have this catheter removed the very next day, however some patients will keep the catheter for a few more days to allow more comfort during the healing process. The procedure itself takes around 1-2 hours, depending on the size of the prostate gland.
What can I expect after the procedure?
If you go home the same day as your procedure, generally no narcotic pain medication is required. Some patients will experience spasms or cramping in their bladder, which are usually very mild and respond well to prescribed medications. The catheter is removed in the urology clinic the next day, and often the bladder will be filled prior to removing the catheter to ensure you are able to pee on your own.
If you spend the night after your procedure, the urology team will provide quality care while you stay with us. Specialized nurses and staff monitor the catheter overnight, and remove the catheter before you leave the hospital.
What are my limitations?
Heavy activity is usually limited for 2 weeks after the procedure to ensure adequate healing of the urethra.
What if I am on a blood thinner?
HoLEP is the gold standard for prostate surgery on blood thinners. Usually we try to hold the blood thinner if your cardiologist approves, but this procedure can be done on anticoagulation safely.
When can I see results?
Most patients see results as soon as the catheter is removed.