What Is Green Light Laser Prostate Surgery?
Green light laser prostate surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that is performed with a small laser fiber that is inserted through a cystoscope (tube-like camera used for inspecting the bladder). The laser is aimed at the internal part of the prostate thereby vaporising it and creating a wide open channel for urine to flow through.
Green light laser prostate surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that is performed with a small laser fiber that is inserted through a cystoscope (tube-like camera used for inspecting the bladder). The laser is aimed at the internal part of the prostate thereby vaporising it and creating a wide open channel for urine to flow through.
What Condition Does It Treat?
It treats a common condition in men called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which is a benign enlargement of the prostate that causes compression of the urethra (water passage) and bothersome urinary symptoms.
How Does This Compare To A Standard TURP Operation?
For decades, the gold standard for treating BPH has been a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) operation. During a TURP, an electrical cutting loop is passed down a cystoscope to chip away the obstructive prostate from the inside to create an open channel. The green light laser technology has been improved over the years such that it may now be considered the new gold standard treatment because it combines the excellent long term results that one gets with traditional TURP, with some other advantages.
The Advantages It Has Over A Standard TURP Are:
Less bleeding during and after the procedure

Faster recovery


Patients can stay on blood thinning medications during surgery


Shorter (or even no) post - operative catheter time

Less risk of water intoxication


Potentially less risk of erectile dysfunction (ED)

What Disadvantages Are There Over A Standard TURP?


What Happens During The Surgery?
You will be given either spinal or general anaesthetic for the procedure. The surgery typically takes 1 to 2 hours; the larger the prostate gland, the longer the operation. A rigid cystoscope is then passed down the urethra to the location of the prostate. The laser fiber is introduced and the prostate is systematically vaporised until the obstruction is removed. At the end of the procedure, a temporary catheter may be placed to drain the bladder.
What Can I Expect After The Surgery?
Some patients may be able to go home on the same day of the surgery, but you will need someone else to drive you home. Otherwise, the average stay in the hospital is about one day. The catheter will be removed before you go home. In some patients with compromised bladder function or those with severe urinary symptoms, the catheter may be left in for a longer time. These patients are taught how to look after the catheter and can still be discharged the day after the surgery.



What Are The Risks Of The Surgery?
The risks are:





How Do I Know If I Should Seek Medical Attention Urgently After The Operation?



