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Division of Urology — News

Urology Department Establishes New HoLEP Procedure

Sep 5, 2023, 15:35 PM by UTMB Surgery

The Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP) procedure, used around the world, has recently been established here at UTMB Urology by Dr. Bilal Farhan, Assistant Professor of Urology and the Program director of Voiding dysfunction and Pelvic reconstruction.  

HoLEP is a minimally invasive surgical method to address benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a prevalent condition among older males resulting in urinary symptoms due to an enlarged prostate. In contrast to conventional open surgery or robotic procedures, HoLEP employs a specialized laser to meticulously eliminate excess prostate tissue, thus alleviating urinary blockages and enhancing urinary flow.  

One of the primary benefits of the HoLEP technique lies in its precision and effectiveness when dealing with larger prostates, a challenge often encountered with alternative minimally invasive approaches. Moreover, it exhibits adaptability for prostates of varying sizes and can be employed for patients using anticoagulants. Patients generally experience same-day discharge, removal of the catheter after 24 hours, reduced postoperative discomfort, and faster recuperation in comparison to both open and robotic methods. 

A message from Dr. Farhan: 

"Prostate surgeries offer a range of choices, each tailored to specific conditions. Consult your urologist to determine the best fit for your health. Informed decisions lead to brighter outcomes. Your health, your choice.”