GreenLight™ TURP

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To treat men with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), also known as an enlarged prostate, our doctors can perform GreenLight™ Laser Therapy as an alternative to invasive surgery. During the procedure, an instrument is inserted up the urethra and laser light will vaporize the prostate tissue that is blocking urine flow.

The doctor will administer either general anesthesia or a spinal anesthetic to the patient.

What to Expect After Surgery

GreenLight Laser Therapy is an outpatient surgery, meaning no hospital stay is required. The procedure can be performed in a well-equipped doctor’s office, an outpatient center or hospital/surgical center.

After therapy, most patients do not need a catheter. However, if one is inserted, it is usually removed within 24 hours.

Patients can typically resume their normal daily activities within 2-3 days. Strenuous activity, exercise, sexual activity and working with vibrating equipment (lawnmowers, snow plows, etc.) should be avoided for at least 2 weeks.

You may experience new symptoms for about 1 week post-procedure, such as frequent urination, discomfort or burning while urinating and/or small traces of blood in your urine. To alleviate the discomfort, you may take a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug. If you’re given an antibiotic to prevent infection, please take it as prescribed.

Why It Is Done

GreenLight Laser Therapy has been clinically proven as a comparable option to transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) surgery.

The laser technology is precise and leaves the patient with fewer side effects. When the excess tissue is vaporized, there’s less blood loss. Therefore, GreenLight Laser Therapy is a better treatment option for patients who take blood thinning medications.

The procedure is outpatient, so patients can return home the same day. There are fewer cases of patients needing retreatment, and research indicates there are fewer sexual side effects. The cost of GreenLight Laser Therapy is also lower than traditional surgery.

How Well It Works

Typically within 24 hours, patients are alleviated of symptoms and have improved urine flow. Most patients who were taking BPH medications are able to discontinue use a few weeks after the procedure.

Studies also indicate that symptom-relieving results can last up to 5 years!

For more information, please visit the GreenLight™ Laser Therapy website.