Prostate gland is a part of male reproductive system, same as the size and shape of a walnut. It is located below the bladder and in front of the rectum surrounding the urethra which is a tube-like structure, carrying urine out from the bladder through the penis. The prostate is likely to get affected with benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) or benign enlargement of the prostate (BEP). It is a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate causing bladder outlet obstruction and lower urinary tract symptoms in men above the age of 50 years. To treat BHP, several laser techniques are now used, among which holmium laser enucleation of the prostate or HOLEP is the most efficient.
What Is HOLEP?
HOLEP is one of the most prominent techniques used for treating enlargement of the prostate gland. During this procedure, laser beams are used to precisely remove the obstruction caused in the prostate gland. Complete portion of prostate gland is removed that obstructs the flow of urine. This technique improves urine flow and proves to be everlasting as there is nothing to grow back. The removed tissues can be preserved for further microscopic examinations as well. It is less invasive and most effective method in comparison with other traditional methods.
Symptoms of Enlargement of Prostate
Prostate gland is located just below the bladder surrounding the urethra. Hence its enlargement can probably cause irritation and obstruction in the bladder. The patient might feel the need to empty the bladder frequently, especially at nights. Some may experience difficulty in starting the urine flow or dribbling after the urination ends. One may notice that the size and strength of urine stream decreases.
Advantages of HOLEP over Conventional TRUP
HOLEP has several advantages over the conventional Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TRUP). They are listed below:
- HOLEP involves significantly less bleeding as compared to TRUP.
- Chances of recurrence requiring further surgery get reduced with HOLEP.
- No upper size limit of the prostate that can be removed.
- Discharge is often quicker in HOLEP as compared to TRUP.
- Prostate specific antigen usually drops down to low levels after undergoing HOLEP surgery technique.
Effect of Removal of Prostate Tissue
After removing the obstructing tissue from the prostate gland, there will be an immediate improvement in the flow of urine and will keep on improving as the prostate cavity heals. Though the healing process is slow but the patient is able to see gradual improvement in his health and reproductive system.
Prostate Cancer Treatment
Prostate cancer treatment is an intricate process that involves treating cancer present within the reproductive system of men. India never compromises with efforts required to be put in surgical intervention. Surgeons in India are well experienced and highly qualified with whom this surgery is performed by expert hands. Their experiences are something one can count on. HOLEP cost in India may vary depending upon various factors. However, overall expenses including stay, surgery, meals, medications and flight tickets are far less as compared to the western countries offering the same state-of-art facilities for HOLEP procedures. Moreover, costs matter but less when it comes to personal health and well-being of the prostate cancer patient.
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