The techniques available
"Laser prostate surgery" covers more than one operation, and the choice depends on the size of your gland, your medication and what you need from the result.
- HoLEP: complete enucleation, best for large glands and the most durable
- Laser vaporisation: tissue vaporised away, very short catheter time, suits smaller glands
- Thulium techniques: precise cutting with excellent haemostasis
- TURP: still an excellent option for moderate glands
Who benefits most from a laser approach
Men on aspirin, clopidogrel or anticoagulants who cannot safely stop them. Men with heart or kidney disease in whom a long operation and fluid absorption would be risky. Men with very large prostates. And men who simply want the shortest possible catheter time and hospital stay.
What to expect
Spinal or general anaesthesia, no external incision, catheter for around 24 hours in most laser cases, and discharge within one to two days. Burning and urgency for two to four weeks while healing completes is normal. Flow improvement is usually immediate and sustained.
Laser Prostate Surgery — common questions
Is laser prostate surgery really bloodless?
Not literally, but blood loss is substantially lower than with conventional resection, and transfusion is rare. That is what makes it safe for patients on blood thinners.
How long does the catheter stay after laser prostate surgery?
Often around 24 hours, sometimes less after vaporisation. Conventional TURP usually needs the catheter a little longer.
Is laser prostate surgery more expensive?
The procedure cost is usually higher because of laser fibre and equipment charges, though a shorter stay offsets part of it. Most insurance policies cover it; a written estimate is given before admission.
Which laser prostate surgery is best for me?
It depends on prostate size, your medications and your overall fitness. A flow test, ultrasound and PSA give the answer in a single OPD visit.
Reviewed by Dr. Kinjal Banerjee, MBBS, MS (General Surgery), DNB (Urology) — Urologist, Renal Transplant & Robotic Surgeon, Faridabad. This page explains laser prostate surgery in general terms; your own treatment plan depends on your reports and examination.