Holmium laser (HoLEP)

What is HoLEP?

Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP) is a very common endoscopic procedure in the urology field. It treats conditions such as hypertrophy of the prostate and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

What does it involve?

The procedure consists in detaching the adenoma from the prostate. This is then broken down into small pieces and removed.

The Holmium laser procedure is minimally invasive - the surgical trauma is minimal, thus avoiding lesions and heat-related issues in the adjacent area. The laser penetrates the skin to reach the surface of the prostate, then cuts off the affected area. The HoLEP procedure doesn't involve any bleeding.

The HoLEP procedure is usually performed under epidural anaesthetic. The procedure can be done at an outpatient clinic; however, in more serious cases, you may need to stay in hospital for a couple of days.

What is it for?

This procedure is done with the aim of removing prostate adenomas – parts of the prostate tissue which have become an obstruction. With this procedure, there is no need for surgical intervention directly on or through your skin.

What does it feel like during the procedure?

The HoLEP procedure is generally painless. It doesn’t involve many postoperative symptoms (you may experience some mild urinary incontinence or bedwetting at night for a period of time). Unlike traditional forms of prostate surgery, sexual function is not affected by this procedure.

Which specialist performs HoLEP?

Urologists specialise in performing this procedure.