Accessing Health Care

As men age, it is not unusual for certain medical conditions to develop, and most notably in men over forty, this can result in an enlargement of the prostate. More often than not, this is benign or noncancerous but may nevertheless require a certain form of treatment. In recent years, a more effective and less intrusive solution has become available and this involves laser surgery. How could this be beneficial in your case?

Prostate Issues

In technical terms, enlargement of the prostate is called benign prostate hyperplasia and defines a condition where an enlarged prostate pushes up against the urinary tract, causing difficulty with urination or other urinary tract symptoms. Sometimes, it is possible to treat this with medicines and this is often the first course of action stipulated by the doctor but otherwise it will need surgical treatment.

Old Method

Traditionally, the method used was called transurethral resection (also known as TURP) which has a high success rate but could nevertheless result in side-effects. These could include urethral stricture or sometimes bleeding and may elongate a hospital stay for those affected.

The Laser Technology

Today, it's possible to get holmium laser nucleation (also known as HOLEP), which is a much more advanced form of treatment using laser technology. The highly powered machine is used to eliminate the part of the prostate gland that interferes with urine flow and it can be achieved without the need for any incisions. With this treatment, relief is usually permanent as nothing can grow back in its place to reintroduce symptoms.

Benefits of This Treatment

Doctors report that this form of treatment has far fewer complications and involves significantly less blood loss. It can be used to treat a prostate gland of any size and can also be particularly beneficial for those who have to take blood thinning medications for other conditions. Usually, people are discharged within a day or so and can return to their normal life more quickly than in the past.

Is It for You?

If you are a man in your forties, you should have your prostate examined regularly to make sure that everything is okay. If you are diagnosed with hyperplasia or benign enlargement of the prostate, then you should ask your doctor if you qualify for laser prostate surgery instead. This can be a much more effective and less invasive way of dealing with this all too common occurrence.