In a nutshell
This study assessed the safety and effectiveness of a low-power laser (Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate – HoLEP) used to treat enlarged prostate tissue. The study found that low-power HoLEP was a safe and effective method of treating enlarged prostate.
Some background
HoLEP is a method of treating an enlarged prostate by using a laser to remove excess tissue. This can lead to complications such as bleeding and urinary/bladder problems. It is necessary to research if a low-power HoLEP laser is safe and effective to use in patients with enlarged prostates.
Methods & findings
The records of 74 patients who had HoLEP surgery were analyzed. Patients were followed for more than 3 months.
The procedure was successful in all patients at a low-dose and it was not necessary to increase the power. No complications such as damage to surrounding organs or bleeding occurred.
Improvements were found in bladder symptoms. Side effects included urethral stricture (narrowing of the tube through which urine exits) in 6 patients (8.1%).
The bottom line
The study concluded that low-power HoLEP can be used safely and effectively to treat symptoms of an enlarged prostate.
The fine print
More research on the most effective strength of HoLEP to use for best outcomes of the procedure may be useful.
What’s next?
Talk to your doctor about using low-power HoLEP to treat your prostate and bladder symptoms.
Published By :
Urology
Date :
Sep 04, 2017
