Endoscopic & Laser Prostate Surgery

The prostate is a small gland approximately the size and shape of a walnut. It sits directly below the bladder, in front of the rectum. The prostate is a part of the male reproductive tract. It produces fluid that combines with sperm to make semen.

The prostate surrounds the tube that carries urine from the bladder (urethra). During puberty, the prostate expands evenly. The enlargement that occurs in the second half of life, however, is concentrated in the part of the gland next to the urethra. As the gland gets bigger, it interferes with the flow of urine out of the bladder. That makes the bladder work harder to empty urine. Over time, the problem worsens, and eventually not all the urine can be emptied. The bladder wall also may become thickened, which can result in muscle spasms.

During prostate laser surgery, doctor inserts a scope through the tip of your penis into the tube that carries urine from your bladder (urethra). The prostate surrounds the urethra. A laser passed through the scope delivers energy that shrinks or removes excess tissue that is preventing urine flow.

Common Symptoms of enlargement of the Prostate

• Painful urination
• A frequent need to empty the bladder, especially at night
• A feeling of urgency that accompanies the sensation to urinate.
• Loss of bladder control (incontinence)

Types of Prostate Laser Surgery

• PVP: Photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP). A laser is used to melt away (vaporize) excess prostate tissue and enlarge the urinary channel.
• HOLAP: Holmium laser ablation of the prostate (HoLAP). This procedure is similar to PVP but uses a different type of laser.
• HOLEP: Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) A laser is used to cut and remove the excess tissue that is blocking the urethra. Another instrument is then used to cut the prostate tissue into small pieces that are easily removed. HoLEP can be an option for men who have a severely enlarged prostate.