What is Laser TURP (laser prostatectomy)?
Laser TURP, also known as laser prostatectomy, is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), a common condition in which the prostate becomes enlarged and blocks urine flow. Instead of using traditional surgical instruments, the surgeon uses high-energy laser technology to remove or vaporise the excess prostate tissue, causing urinary symptoms. The laser is passed through a small instrument inserted into the urethra, so there are no external cuts. By precisely clearing the blockage, Laser TURP helps improve urine flow, reduce urinary frequency and urgency, and relieve discomfort. The procedure involves less bleeding, quicker recovery, and a shorter hospital stay compared to conventional TURP, making it a preferred option for many patients.
How does Laser TURP (laser prostatectomy) work?
Laser TURP works by using concentrated laser energy to remove or vaporise the prostate tissue that is blocking the flow of urine. The procedure is performed through the urethra, meaning no external cuts or incisions are needed.
- Endoscope insertion: A thin instrument with a camera (resectoscope) is gently inserted through the urethra to reach the enlarged prostate.
- Laser activation : A high-powered laser, such as Holmium, Thulium, or Green Light, is guided through the scope. The surgeon uses this laser to target the obstructing prostate tissue precisely.
- Tissue removal or vaporisation: In some techniques, the laser cuts and removes pieces of tissue (enucleation). In others, it vaporises the tissue, shrinking the blockage.
- Clearing the urinary passage: Once the excess tissue is removed, the channel through which urine flows becomes wider and smoother.
- Catheter placement: A catheter is usually placed for 1–2 days to help drain urine while the swelling settles.
Types of Laser TURP (Laser Prostatectomy)
Laser prostate surgery can be performed using different laser technologies. Each method uses a unique wavelength and technique to remove or vaporise the enlarged prostate tissue.
- Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP)
- One of the most advanced and widely used laser prostate techniques
- The laser cuts and removes the entire obstructing portion of the prostate
- Effective for small, medium, and very large prostates
- Offers long-lasting results with minimal bleeding
- Thulium Laser Prostatectomy (ThuLEP / ThuVEP / ThuVARP)
- Uses a continuous-wave thulium laser
- Allows smooth cutting and vaporisation of tissue
- Provides excellent control with minimal bleeding and precise removal
- Ideal for patients needing shorter catheter time and faster recovery
- Green Light Laser Therapy (Photoselective Vaporisation of the Prostate – PVP)
- Uses a high-powered green laser to instantly vaporise prostate tissue
- Often preferred for patients on blood thinners due to excellent bleeding control
- Short hospital stay with quick recovery and minimal discomfort
- Best suited for small to moderately enlarged prostates
- Holmium Laser Ablation of the Prostate (HoLAP)
- Similar to HoLEP but focuses on vaporisation rather than enucleation
- Removes prostate tissue layer by layer
- Effective for smaller prostates or mild to moderate obstruction
- Thulium Laser Vaporisation (ThuVAP)
- Vaporises obstructing prostate tissue using continuous thulium energy
- Ensures smooth tissue removal with good haemostasis
- Suitable for patients requiring a less extensive procedure
When Should You Consider Laser TURP?
Laser TURP may be recommended when an enlarged prostate (BPH) begins to significantly affect your urinary health or quality of life. It is especially useful for men who have not improved with medications or who experience complications related to prostate enlargement. The procedure helps restore normal urine flow, relieve discomfort, and prevent long-term bladder damage.
You may consider Laser TURP if you have:
- Difficulty starting or maintaining urine flow
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Weak urine stream or straining to pass urine
- A feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
- Recurrent urinary tract infections caused by obstruction
- Bladder stones or thickening due to long-standing blockage
- Urinary retention (inability to pass urine)
- Failure to respond to BPH medications
- Significant impact on daily activities or sleep quality
- Laser TURP is also considered for:
- Men who need a minimally invasive option with less bleeding
- Patients who are on blood thinners and cannot undergo traditional surgery
- Those with moderate to very large prostate enlargement
| Procedure Name | Laser Prostatectomy |
|---|---|
| Type of Procedure | Minimally invasive, laser-guided removal of enlarged prostate tissue |
| Type of Anaesthesia | Spinal or general anaesthesia |
| Procedure Duration | Typically 30 minutes to 90 minutes, depending on prostate size and laser type |
| Recovery Duration | Light activities in 1–3 days; complete recovery in 1–2 weeks; catheter usually removed within 1–2 days |













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