UNDERSTANDING HOLEP

HoLEP, explained.
One step at a time.

A holmium laser separates obstructing prostate tissue, which is then broken into pieces and removed from the bladder.

Prostate care · A visual guide

HoLEPHolmium laser enucleation of the prostate

A holmium laser separates obstructing prostate tissue, which is then broken into pieces and removed from the bladder.

HoLEP / EXPLAINEDExplore at your pace

Through the urethra

01ReachObstructing prostate tissueSimplified anatomy
Not to scale

STEP 01 / 04

Reach the enlarged prostate.

Under anaesthesia, a telescope and laser fibre enter through the urethra.

The prostate sits below the bladder, around the urinary passage.

1 / 4

You control the pace. Pause or choose any step.

General education to support your consultation. Your surgeon will explain suitability, alternatives and individual risks.

AFTER THE PROCEDURE

Recovery is personal.

Temporary bleeding, urgency and urinary leakage may occur. Follow the catheter and recovery plan.

Risks to discuss. Discuss infection, bleeding, changes to ejaculation or fertility, and temporary or persistent urinary leakage.

A QUESTION TO BRING

“What should I expect for continence and ejaculation after surgery?”

Discuss your options

Read the four-step explanationText version

Reach the enlarged prostate.
Under anaesthesia, a telescope and laser fibre enter through the urethra.
Separate the inner tissue.
The holmium laser separates the obstructing lobes from the surrounding prostate capsule.
Remove tissue from the bladder.
The separated tissue moves into the bladder. A morcellator breaks it into smaller pieces and removes it.
Support early recovery.
A temporary catheter drains and may rinse the bladder after treatment.

Patient information sourcesBAUS: HoLEP patient leaflet (PDF)

After a procedure, fever, severe pain, inability to pass urine or heavy bleeding needs urgent medical assessment. Follow your hospital’s discharge instructions.

PROCEDURES, MADE CLEARER