Laser Coagulation | Surgery for prostate enlargement

Laser Coagulation

Another method describes the so-called laser coagulation. Here, the laser is inserted through the perineum.The prostate is not removed in the actual sense. Rather, the laser destroys the tissue of the prostate in a way that the body itself can then break it down.

This initially causes the tissue to swell, followed by remodelling and finally degradation processes. The results can be roughly compared with those of transurethral prostatectomy (TUR prostate). However, since the procedure is less invasive, it is particularly suitable for patients for whom an actual operation would not be possible.

Further ablative methods

In addition to laser coagulation, there are a number of other procedures that are intended to improve the symptoms without actually removing the prostate. These include, for example, transurethral microwave thermotherapy, in which the prostate is treated using microwaves and a water-cooled catheter. However, this method mainly treats the symptoms and less a disturbance of the urine flow.

Transurethral needle ablation, in which the prostate is heated with an inserted needle, has a similar effect. Both procedures have a very low complication rate and can also be performed on an outpatient basis without anesthesia. However, because of the low effect on urinary flow obstruction, another operation is often necessary a few years later.

Complications

Regardless of the procedure, there are a number of complications that can occur after prostate surgery. These include, in addition to the normal surgery and anesthesia risk, especially secondary bleeding and difficulty urinating. Erectile dysfunction can also occur as a complication, but is often present before the procedure.

A renewed formation of constrictions and thus a possible repeat surgery cannot be excluded. A phenomenon that occurs in the majority of patients just after TUR is the so-called “dry ejaculation”. Here, the ejaculate is not transported outwards during ejaculation, but in the direction of the bladder. However, neither the libido nor the feeling during orgasm is affected.

Further Information

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