HoLEP (Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate) surgery is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition characterized by an enlarged prostate gland. Turkey is known for its advanced medical facilities and skilled healthcare professionals, making it a popular destination for medical tourism, including HoLEP surgery.,

What is HoLEP Surgery

HoLEP stands for Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate. It’s a surgical procedure used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), also known as an enlarged prostate. BPH is a common condition in aging men where the prostate gland gradually enlarges, causing symptoms such as urinary frequency, urgency, weak urine flow, and difficulty urinating.

During a HoLEP procedure, a surgeon uses a laser to remove excess prostate tissue that is causing obstruction of the urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder through the penis). The procedure involves inserting a small telescope-like instrument called a cystoscope into the urethra to access the prostate. Then, a laser fiber is inserted through the cystoscope, and the surgeon uses the laser to precisely remove the obstructing prostate tissue.

One of the key advantages of HoLEP surgery is its ability to remove large amounts of prostate tissue safely and effectively while minimizing the risk of complications such as bleeding and urinary incontinence. HoLEP is considered a minimally invasive procedure and typically results in shorter hospital stays and faster recovery times compared to traditional surgical options like transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP).

HoLEP surgery has been shown to provide long-lasting relief of BPH symptoms and improve urinary flow rates in men with moderate to severe enlargement of the prostate. It is often recommended for patients who have not responded well to medications or other non-surgical treatments for BPH.

Overall, HoLEP is recognized as a highly effective treatment for BPH and is widely performed by urologists around the world. However, like any surgical procedure, it carries potential risks and complications, which should be discussed with a healthcare provider before undergoing treatment.

How does HoLEP compare with other procedures?

HoLEP (Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate) is one of several surgical procedures used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or an enlarged prostate. Each procedure has its own advantages, disadvantages, and considerations. Here’s a comparison of HoLEP with other commonly used BPH treatments:

TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate)

• TURP is a traditional surgical procedure for BPH where a surgeon removes prostate tissue using a special instrument inserted through the urethra.
• HoLEP is considered an advancement over TURP because it can safely and effectively remove larger amounts of prostate tissue, resulting in improved outcomes, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times.
• TURP may be preferred in certain cases, such as when a patient has a very large prostate or when there are specific anatomical considerations.

Open Prostatectomy

• Open prostatectomy is a more invasive surgical procedure in which the surgeon removes the enlarged portion of the prostate through an abdominal incision.
• While open prostatectomy may be necessary for extremely large prostates, it is associated with longer hospital stays, more post-operative pain, and slower recovery compared to HoLEP.
• HoLEP is considered a minimally invasive alternative to open prostatectomy, offering similar efficacy with fewer complications and a quicker return to normal activities.

GreenLight Laser Therapy (Photoselective Vaporization of the Prostate – PVP)

• GreenLight Laser Therapy is another minimally invasive procedure for BPH that uses laser energy to vaporize excess prostate tissue.
• While both HoLEP and GreenLight Laser Therapy are minimally invasive and effective, HoLEP is generally preferred for patients with very large prostates or those with significant urinary obstruction because it can remove more tissue.
• GreenLight Laser Therapy may be preferred for patients who are not suitable candidates for HoLEP or for those who prefer a shorter procedure with less risk of bleeding.

UroLift

• UroLift is a minimally invasive procedure that uses tiny implants to lift and hold the enlarged prostate tissue away from the urethra, improving urine flow.
• HoLEP and UroLift are both effective treatments for BPH, but they target different aspects of the condition. UroLift is typically recommended for patients with smaller prostates or those who prefer a procedure with minimal risk of sexual side effects.
• HoLEP is generally preferred for patients with larger prostates or more severe symptoms requiring significant tissue removal.

Ultimately, the choice of BPH treatment depends on various factors, including the size of the prostate, the severity of symptoms, the patient’s overall health, and their preferences. It’s essential for patients to discuss their options with a urologist to determine the most suitable treatment approach for their individual needs.

HoLEP Surgery in Turkey

If you’re considering HoLEP surgery in Turkey, here are some general steps you might take:

1. Research: Start by researching hospitals and healthcare providers in Turkey that offer HoLEP surgery. Look for hospitals with experienced urologists and state-of-the-art facilities.
2. Consultation: Contact the hospitals or clinics you’re interested in and schedule a consultation with a urologist specializing in HoLEP surgery. During the consultation, you can discuss your medical history, treatment options, potential risks, and expected outcomes.
3. Cost: Inquire about the cost of the procedure, including surgeon fees, hospital charges, anesthesia, and any additional expenses. Keep in mind that the cost of healthcare services in Turkey may be more affordable compared to Western countries.
4. Travel arrangements: Plan your travel to Turkey, including flights, accommodations, and transportation. Contact Well Tour Turkey immediately, an agency with an international health tourism authorization certificate approved by the Ministry of Health in Turkey.
5. Pre-operative evaluation: Before the surgery, you’ll likely undergo a pre-operative evaluation, which may include blood tests, imaging studies, and other diagnostic tests to assess your overall health and suitability for surgery.
6. Surgery: On the day of the surgery, you’ll be admitted to the hospital, and the HoLEP procedure will be performed under general or spinal anesthesia. The surgery typically takes a few hours to complete, and most patients stay in the hospital for a day or two for monitoring.
7. Post-operative care: After the surgery, you’ll receive post-operative care and instructions on how to manage any discomfort or side effects. You may need to follow a specific diet, take medications, and avoid strenuous activities during the recovery period.
8. Follow-up: Schedule follow-up appointments with your urologist to monitor your progress and address any concerns during the recovery process.

It’s essential to choose a reputable healthcare provider with experience in performing HoLEP surgery and to thoroughly research the logistics and costs associated with traveling to Turkey for medical treatment. Additionally, consider consulting with your primary care physician or a urologist in your home country for guidance and recommendations.