Procedures
Prostate Laser Surgery
Prostate laser surgery is a minimally invasive therapy for an enlarged prostate that is obstructing the bladder. A portion of the prostate is removed with the use of a specialized laser.
Indications
- Recurrent Infection
- Urinary Retention
- Bladder Stones
- Prostatic Bleeding
- Renal Insufficiency
- Medical Therapy Failure
Procedure
An anesthetic is given to the patient in the operating room at the hospital to help them relax during the procedure. A Cystoscope is used along with a specialized laser fiber to remove the portion of the prostate that is blocking the bladder’s drainage. After the procedure, a catheter is left in the bladder. This catheter is usually removed the following day.
Advantages
- Shortened recovery
- Lower blood loss than conventional prostate surgery
- Minimally invasive surgery for bladder outlet obstruction
Side Effects
Most patients will experience some discomfort initially with voiding after the procedure, but this should resolve over a few days. Occasionally, a patient may need to wear a catheter for several additional days, and rarely, a scar may develop at the bladder opening that requires additional surgery for resolution.