Laser therapy for an enlarged prostate.
Laser therapy is one of several medical options available for treating an enlarged prostate. Over the years, this modality has been proven to remove excess prostate tissue, help patients urinate better, and minimize or eliminate bothersome symptoms. Many people choose to undergo laser therapy after trying medications with limited success, or because they prefer a more immediate and long-term solution.
There are several types of laser therapies, The GreenLight laser and the Revolix laser are used to vaporize and remove the obstructing tissue. With this obstruction gone, there should be a dramatic improvement in urination. The Plasma Button uses a combination of electricity and radiofrequency to create a plasma arc that literally vaporizes large amounts of obstructing tissue. This technology is usually done in an outpatient surgery center. The risks of bleeding and hyponatremia are minimal and large amounts of obstructing tissue can be effectively and efficiently removed during the operation.
The field of medicine is constantly changing as new technologies are developed. One such therapy is the GreenLight laser for an enlarged prostate.
GreenLight™ laser therapy
The GreenLight laser is designed to provide a rapid relief of symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or an enlarged prostate. Depending on the patient’s overall health, this therapy generally requires a shorter hospital stay after the procedure. Patient may also benefit from a shorter catheterization time, less bleeding, and a faster recovery than traditional surgical options.
The GreenLight Laser procedure is performed under general anesthesia. During the procedure, the urologist will use a laser to rapidly heat and vaporize excess prostate tissue, resulting in a larger channel for urine to pass through.
Recovery from GreenLight therapy
As with any surgical procedure, every patient’s experience is different. Typically, patients can go home within a few hours after the procedure. If a urinary catheter is placed in the bladder at the end of the procedure, it will normally be removed within 24 hours. However, some patients may require a catheter for a longer period of time. Patients can usually return to everyday activities within a short time. Ultimately, this will be based on the surgeon’s recommendations.
As with any medical procedure, complications can occur. Side effects may include:
- Blood in the urine.
- Irritation of the bladder, resulting in frequent and/or urgent need to urinate.
- Irritation of the urethra, resulting in frequent urination and/or a burning sensation.
- Retrograde ejaculation (during sexual climax, semen travels backward to the bladder rather than exiting through the penis).
If you are interested in being evaluated for an enlarged prostate, or if you like to learn more about laser treatment options, contact Urology Austin to schedule an appointment.
Two Urology Austin physicians has been awarded the GreenLight Center of Excellence designation from Boston Scientific: Dr. Vic Desireddi and Dr. Loren Jones.
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