Table of Contents:
- What is holmium laser?
- Why is it performed?
- What does it consist of?
- Preparation for the procedure
- Postoperative care
What is the holmium laser?
The holmium laser, also known as holmium laser, is an endoscopic technique used in urology for the treatment of hypertrophy and benign prostatic hyperplasia or abnormal enlargement of the prostate, as it can cause obstructions in the outflow of urine from the bladder.
It is an effective and safe treatment to treat these pathologies that affect men over 50 years of age.
Why is it performed?
The endoscopic holmium laser technique is used to remove prostatic adenomas, parts of the prostate tissue that cause obstruction, without the need for surgery on the skin.
It is mainly used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia, but it is also used to:
- Breaking urinary tract stones
- Combat bladder tumors
- Bladder tumors
- Urethral strictures
- Stenosis
The holmium laser provides immediate
immediate relief of symptoms
What does it consist of?
The operation involves detaching the prostate adenoma, breaking it into pieces and removing it. The holmium laser energy has a minimally invasive light energy (100 watts Lumenis), penetrates superficially and is able to cut the affected part of the tissue with minimal trauma, avoiding thermal injury to adjacent tissue.
In this way, the treatment provides immediate relief of symptoms to the patient, improving their quality of life. It is generally performed under epidural anesthesia, in an outpatient center or with a very short hospital stay. In addition, it is a process that does not cause bleeding. In fact, most patients are able to leave the hospital within 48 hours.
Preparation for the holmium laser
As this is a minimally invasive procedure, it does not require general anesthesia. However, it is necessary to fast during the hours prior to surgery, as well as the interruption of antiplatelet and anticoagulant drugs.
Care after the procedure
The holmium laser is practically painless, causes few postoperative symptoms (urinary incontinence, nocturnal enuresis, etc.) and sexual life is not affected by the operation.
Recovery at home after the holmium laser procedure usually lasts approximately 4 to 5 days, during which time the patient is advised not to exert him/herself too much.
It is normal that during the first days, the patient is under antibiotic treatment to prevent and avoid infections.