Laser Prostate Surgery

Enlarged Prostate: Laser Prostae Surgery

The prostate is a small organ—about the size of a walnut—responsible for producing seminal fluid, which nourishes and transports sperm. Located below the bladder and surrounding the urethra, the prostate plays a vital role in the male reproductive system.

As men age, the prostate commonly enlarges, a condition known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). Although benign and non-cancerous, BPH can cause significant urinary problems by narrowing the urethra.

Understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatment options—including advanced laser surgery—is key to managing BPH effectively.

Causes of Enlarged Prostate

Aging: BPH is age-related and affects 50% of men by age 60 and up to 90% by age 85.
Hormonal Changes: Decreased testosterone and increased oestrogen or DHT may stimulate prostate growth.
Family History: Genetics may increase the risk of developing BPH.
Lifestyle Factors: Obesity, inactivity, and diet may contribute to prostate growth.
Other Health Conditions: Diabetes and heart disease can also be linked to BPH.

BPH is not prostate cancer, but the two may occur together.

Symptoms of Enlarged Prostate

Frequent urination, especially at night (nocturia)
Urgency to urinate
Weak or interrupted urine stream
Difficulty starting urination
Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
Post-urination dribbling
In severe cases, complete urinary retention

These symptoms can severely affect quality of life and may lead to complications if left untreated.

Diagnosis of Enlarged Prostate

Medical History: Discussing urinary issues and lifestyle impact with a urologist
Physical Exam: Digital rectal examination (DRE) to assess prostate size
Urinalysis: Rule out infection or related conditions
PSA Test: Measures Prostate-Specific Antigen to assess enlargement and rule out cancer
Postvoid Residual Test: Measures urine left after urination
Uroflowmetry: Evaluates urine flow rate
Cystoscopy: Visualizes urethra and bladder using a camera
Ultrasound: Assesses prostate volume and abnormalities

Latest Treatments for Enlarged Prostate

1. Lifestyle Changes:

Reduce caffeine and alcohol intake
Limit fluid intake in the evening
Practice bladder training exercises
Maintain healthy weight and stay active

2. Medications:

Alpha Blockers: Relax prostate and bladder neck muscles for better urine flow
5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors: Shrink the prostate by altering hormone levels
Combination Therapy: Used in moderate to severe cases

These medications may need to be taken long-term and can cause side effects like dizziness and reduced sexual function.

3. Minimally Invasive Procedures:

UroLift: Tiny implants lift the prostate to clear the urethra
Rezūm Therapy: Steam ablation causes prostate tissue to shrink

These are outpatient procedures with quicker recovery times.

Laser Surgery for Enlarged Prostate

Laser surgery is a cutting-edge treatment offering long-term relief with fewer complications.

Types of Laser Surgery:

HoLEP (Holmium Laser Enucleation): Removes obstructive prostate tissue; ideal for all prostate sizes
PVP (Photoselective Vaporization): GreenLight laser vaporizes tissue with minimal bleeding
ThuLEP (Thulium Laser Enucleation): High precision with excellent results

Advantages of Laser Surgery:

Minimal bleeding
Shorter hospital stays
Faster recovery
Low risk of complications
Safe for patients on blood thinners or with large prostates

Surgical Treatment for Enlarged Prostate

For severe BPH or cases where other treatments fail, surgery is a reliable solution.

Types of Surgical Procedures:

TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate): Removes excess tissue via the urethra; gold standard
Open Prostatectomy: For very large prostates, involves surgical incision
Robotic-Assisted Prostatectomy: Minimally invasive and highly precise with faster recovery