HOLEP

1. What is HoLEP?

HoLEP uses a specialised laser inserted through the urethra to enucleate the enlarged inner portion of the prostate that obstructs urine flow. The removed tissue is then extracted from the bladder and may be sent for laboratory examination.

2. When is it Recommended?

It may be recommended for men with moderate to severe urinary symptoms due to BPH, particularly when medicines have not provided sufficient relief or complications such as urinary retention, recurrent urinary infections or bladder stones develop.

3. What Symptoms May a Patient Notice?

BPH may cause difficulty starting urination, weak or interrupted urine flow, frequent urination, urgency, waking frequently at night to urinate, incomplete bladder emptying or urinary retention.

4. What Does the Treatment Involve?

The surgeon passes a laser instrument through the urethra and uses the holmium laser to separate enlarged prostate tissue from the surrounding capsule. The tissue is then removed using a device called a morcellator, leaving a wider channel for urine flow.

5. What Are the Main Treatment Options?

Treatment options for BPH include medications, Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP), HoLEP, GreenLight laser therapy, simple prostatectomy and other minimally invasive procedures. The choice depends on prostate size, symptoms and individual factors.

6. How Long Does Treatment & Recovery Take?

HoLEP commonly takes around 1–3 hours, depending on prostate size. Hospitalisation is usually 1–2 days, and the urinary catheter is generally removed within a short period. Many patients can gradually return to normal activities within 1–2 weeks.

7. What Are the Important Risks or Considerations?

HoLEP is an established minimally invasive treatment for BPH. Possible complications include temporary blood in the urine, urinary burning, urinary infection, temporary urinary urgency or leakage, urethral narrowing and the need for further treatment. Retrograde ejaculation is common after the procedure.

8. Why Consider Treatment in India?

India has specialised urology centres offering advanced laser prostate procedures, including HoLEP, supported by experienced urologists and modern minimally invasive surgical facilities.

9. How Can Medavelle Help?

Medavelle can assist with urology report review, urologist and hospital coordination, prostate assessment, treatment selection, HoLEP planning, international patient arrangements and postoperative follow-up.

10. What Should the Patient Do Next?

Share your urology reports → Urologist evaluation → Prostate assessment → HoLEP suitability evaluation → Treatment planning in India.