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Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLep)

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Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition in aging men, characterized by an enlarged prostate that can cause urinary symptoms such as frequency, urgency, weak stream, and urinary retention.

 

Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLep) is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to generate a significantly larger enucleation of tissue. It is quickly becoming the preferred treatment for the enucleation of the prostate. 

This technique has been previously used by urologists to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia and other related issues, but it is now being adapted to enucleate (surgically remove) portions of the prostate. 

 

HoLep is performed through a small incision in the perineum under general or spinal anesthesia. A laser fiber is inserted into the prostate through a urethral catheter, and the laser energy is used to precisely cut and vaporize the enlarged tissue. The laser energy seals blood vessels, reducing the risk of bleeding and allowing for a clean enucleation of the prostate. The procedure typically takes about 90 minutes to complete.

 

Because of its precision, HoLep is widely being used in transurethral enucleation procedures as an alternative to traditional open surgery. The benefits of this technique include less postoperative pain, shorter hospital stays, minimal risk, and quicker recovery times compared with other forms of enucleation. Studies have shown that HoLep is a safe and effective alternative to traditional surgical methods for the treatment of BPH, with low rates of complications and fast recovery times. The long-term success rate of HoLep is high, with low rates of recurrent symptoms and the need for additional treatment.

 

These advancements in laser enucleation make HoLep a more attractive option for treating prostate enlargement and tumors. HoLep results in an improvement of urinary symptoms and quality of life, with patients typically able to resume normal activities within a few days.

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