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Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP): BPH, or Enlarged Prostate Treatment

Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure. It treats urinary symptoms related to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). This is also commonly known as an enlarged prostate.

What is HoLEP?

Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP) is an incisionless surgical procedure. It treats urinary symptoms related to enlarged prostate. This is also commonly known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).This is also commonly known as an enlarged prostate. BPH occurs when the prostate gland enlarges, puts pressure in the urethra and obstructs the bladder. This leads to symptoms such as:

  • Difficulty urinating

  • Weak urine stream

  • Incomplete bladder emptying

  • Frequent urination

Key benefits of HoLEP for enlarged prostate

  • Effective for prostates of all sizes, including very large ones

  • Minimally invasive with no external incisions

  • Faster recovery compared to traditional surgeries

  • Lowest risk of recurrence compared to other BPH treatments

  • Safe to perform on patients taking blood thinners

  • May result in improved bladder function

What to expect: HoLEP surgery for enlarged prostate

ÍøºìºÚÁÏ urologist Dr. John Micheal DiBianco describes what to expect during a Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate Surgery for an enlarged prostate.

Who is a candidate for HoLEP?

HoLEP is an ideal option for men experiencing moderate to severe BPH symptoms who:

  • Seek a single, long-lasting surgical solution instead of medications

  • Have very large prostates where other procedures may be less effective

  • Are on blood thinners and need a procedure with a lower risk of bleeding

  • Experience significant urinary retention or bladder dysfunction

How is HoLEP performed?

HoLEP is a no-incision, endoscopic procedure performed under anesthesia. The steps include:

Cytoscopy

Your surgeon looks inside and examines the bladder

Laser enucleation

A specialized holmium laser is used to separate obstructive prostate tissue from the prostate capsule.

Tissue removal

The excised tissue is broken up. It is then removed using a morcellator.

Catheter placement

A temporary catheter ensures proper drainage and healing

HoLEP recovery process

  • Most patients return home within 24 hours or the same day.
    • Those who stay overnight are usually able to have their catheter removed the next day

    • Those who wish to go home the same day, will have their catheter removed in clinic a few days later

  • Temporary symptoms like blood in urine, burning sensation, frequency, and urgency issues may occur. However, these symptoms should improve within a few weeks.

  • Patients typically discontinue BPH medications after HoLEP.

  • Long-term relief with a very low risk of prostate regrowth.

Why choose ÍøºìºÚÁÏ for HoLEP?

At ÍøºìºÚÁÏ Urology, we provide expert care for enlarged prostate treatment for men across the state of Florida, offering:

  • Board-certified, fellowship-trained urologist specializing in HoLEP

  • State-of-the-art facilities with the latest advancements in endourology

  • Personalized treatment plans to ensure the best patient outcomes

Potential side effects and risks

HoLEP has an excellent safety profile with minimal risks:

  • Less than a 1% risk of significant bleeding or bladder injury

  • Low infection risk (~6%) with pre-operative urine testing

  • 2% risk of scar tissue formation requiring additional procedure

  • No impact on erectile function, penile sensation or libido

  • No known risk to the ability to achieve orgasm

  • The procedure does cause permanent retrograde ejaculation. This means the fluid (semen) comes out when having an orgasm.
    • The semen enters the bladder instead of exiting through the urethra.

Pre-operative evaluations help ensure patient safety. This includes steps such as:

  • Urine culture examinations

  • Consultations with physicians and anesthesiologists

  • May need specific clearances to halt blood clots

Long-term outcomes of HoLEP

Compared to other BPH treatments, HoLEP offers superior long-term benefits:

  • Extremely low recurrence rate – Very low risk of needing a repeat procedure

  • Better urinary flow and bladder function

  • No need for lifelong medications for prostate enlargement

Schedule a consultation

If you’re experiencing symptoms of an enlarged prostate and want to explore HoLEP as a treatment option, contact ÍøºìºÚÁÏ Urology today.

Article authors

This entry was written by Gabrielle Massari, marketing manager, and reviewed for accuracy by John Michael DiBianco, MD. Generative AI was leveraged as part of the content creation process.

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