Health Advice for the Older Generation

Laser prostate surgery is an increasingly popular alternative to traditional prostate surgery (known as transurethral resection of the prostate, or TURP), and may be recommended for a number of urinary problems. What are the advantages of this method of treatment over conventional treatments?

Immediate results

Firstly, laser prostate surgery can have immediate results. Although the exact length of time will vary from patient to patient and depends on factors such as age and medical history, symptoms can be improved dramatically within twenty-four hours of the procedure. The improvement will also last for several years.

Shorter hospital stay

Another advantage of laser surgery is that it can usually be done on an outpatient basis so that patients can be discharged on the same day and will not need to stay in hospital. If a hospital stay is required, it will only be overnight. TURP surgery may require a hospital stay of three days, with all the disruption to the patient's life that this entails.

Less bleeding

Laser surgery also causes a lot less bleeding than invasive surgery. This is because the laser cauterises the blood vessels during surgery, and creates a coagulation zone around the area of the procedure. This can be very important for patients whose blood does not clot easily or who are on blood-thinning medication.

Less need for a catheter

Traditional TURP surgery usually requires the patient to wear a catheter for a few days after the procedure. This can be uncomfortable and inconvenient for the patient. With laser surgery, it is much less likely that a catheter will be required with the use of laser surgery, and it will not be needed for as long.

Quicker recovery time

Laser surgery can also take much less time for the patient to recover. Most people return to work within two to three weeks of undergoing ordinary prostate surgery. Laser surgery can halve this time — although the exact time will vary from patient to patient, and depend on the surgeon's advice.

Fewer complications

Lastly, laser surgery is much less likely to lead to complications. Although problems are rare with both type of procedure, problems with laser surgery are much less frequent and tend to be milder when they do occur.

If you have problems with your prostate or urinary system, you should see your doctor as soon as possible to discuss your options and find the right solution for you.

For more information about laser prostate surgery, talk to your doctor today.