Beacon Hospital becomes first in Ireland to offer ground-breaking new surgical procedure for prostate enlargement
Over 50% of men over 50 in Ireland suffer from prostate enlargement which can cause difficulties urinating, or a frequent need to urinate
Help for men suffering from prostate enlargement with new “HoLEP” procedure
Beacon Hospital has become the first and only hospital in Ireland to offer a ground-breaking surgical procedure for treating prostate enlargement, which is a common condition that’s associated with ageing. It’s estimated that over 50% of men aged over 50 in Ireland suffer from this condition to some degree.
An enlarged prostate can cause difficulties urinating, a frequent need to urinate and difficulties fully emptying the bladder.
The new procedure, called Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP), is a modern alternative to the standard treatment, called Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP).
It means patients can be discharged more quickly (in 1 to 2 days), than when they undergo TURP surgery. Postoperative complications as severe hematuria or clot retention are very rare. It improves patient outcomes, recovery time and reduces the overall post-operative level of pain experienced.
HoLEP aims to relieve pressure from the enlarged prostate on the urethra – the tube through which urine drains. This is what causes the common symptoms, like the frequent need to urinate. Carried out under general anaesthetic, HoLEP removes the obstructing prostate tissue using a high power holmium laser. A catheter is inserted and generally removed the morning after surgery.
Dr. Michel de Wildt, Consultant Urologist at Beacon Hospital said: “The HoLEP procedure is best in class globally for treating prostate enlargement. It offers major benefits compared to the traditional TURP surgery including better outcomes for patients. It involves using laser to remove part of the enlarged and obstructive prostate. Many men are surprised at how comfortable they are after laser prostate surgery. Apart from some minor discomfort from the catheter and increased frequency in voiding, it is usual not to have much pain. Generally, urinary function is back to normal by three months after the surgery. Also side effects on erectile function are less than after TURP.”
“I’d encourage men over the age of 50, or those concerned about any symptoms associated with the prostate, to talk to their GP.”
Michael Cullen, CEO of Beacon Hospital said: “This surgery has been proven to be very effective at improving symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate. The new HoLEP procedure marks another “first” for Ireland, as we introduce the new surgery to the hospital and the country for the first time. We are committed to continued investment in new procedures and technology, and driving innovation with our world-class experts, to give our patients the best possible outcomes.”