What is HoLEP?

HoLEP is a minimally invasive treatment for an enlarged prostate. Holmium laser is used to remove prostate tissue that is blocking urine flow through the urinary pathway or urethra, a condition known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The prostate tissue is then cut into easily removable fragments and sent for examination.

HoLEP animation

Common symptoms of an enlarged prostate include:

An urgent or frequent need to urinate

Difficulty starting to urinate

A weak urine stream resulting in frequent starting and stopping during urination

Increased urination at night that disrupts sleep

Inability to empty the bladder

Urinary retention resulting in the inability to urinate at all

Learn More About Enlarged Prostate

What Are The Benefits of HoLEP

HoLEP is similar to open prostate surgery (simple prostatectomy) but requires no incisions. It can be an option for men with a very enlarged prostate.

HoLEP removes the entire portion of the prostate that can block urine flow and it has one of the lowest retreatment rates among all BPH treatments. Patients also can benefit from the removal of a large amount of tissue with a reduced risk of bleeding and a decreased need for blood transfusions during surgery. HoLEP is also one of the few procedures recommended for patients on blood thinning medications. The tissue that the surgeon extracts can be examined in the laboratory for other conditions, including prostate cancer.

As with other types of prostate laser surgery, HoLEP can offer faster recovery and symptom relief compared with traditional prostate surgery such as transurethral resection of prostate (TURP). It is also one of the most effective treatment for men with urinary retention.

Frequently Asked Questions for HoLEP

What is HoLEP?

This operation involves the removal of obstructing prostate tissue using a laser, followed by temporary insertion of a catheter to help the bladder drain normally. The procedure is usually carried out under a general anaesthetic (you are asleep). On average, the procedure takes 60-180 minutes, depending on the size of your prostate, and necessitates an over-night stay with a catheter in place.