San Juan Hospital incorporates new laser to treat prostate problems

THE urology department at San Juan’s university hospital has recently acquired a 120W holmium laser (HoLEP) to surgically treat patients with enlarged prostates using a procedure known as holmium laser enucleation of the prostate. (HoLEP).

The HoLEP procedure uses a laser to remove tissue that is blocking urine flow through the prostate and a separate instrument is then used to cut the prostate tissue into easily removable fragments. Unlike open prostate surgery, it requires no incisions. Recovery and symptom relief is also quicker than with traditional prostate surgery.

HoLEP removes the entire portion of the prostate that can block urine flow. The treatment provides a lasting solution for men with an enlarged prostate; it also preserves removed tissue so that it can be examined in the laboratory for other conditions, including prostate cancer.

San Juan University hospital is the first public health centre in Alicante province to install this equipment, which cost €200,000.

An enlarged prostate, a condition known as benign prostatic hyperplasia, is one of the most common health problems suffered by adult men over the age of 50. Almost 80% of men over 80, are affected by it.

Traditional prostate surgery is the second most frequent operation carried out, only surpassed by cataract operations.

The laser can also be used to destroy stones.