Laser prostate surgery does not require incisions and outperforms several other procedures

University of Missouri Health Care now offers a minimally invasive surgical option for men diagnosed with an enlarged prostate who have not had success treating symptoms with medication or other treatments.

Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate, also known as HoLEP, is a surgery that uses lasers to remove excess tissue blocking urine flow through the prostate. The treatment provides a lasting solution and offers faster recovery compared to more traditional prostate surgeries.

“Because HoLEP is minimally invasive and precise, there’s less risk of complications compared to other surgeries that treat an enlarged prostate,” said Daniel Au, MD, urologic surgeon at MU Health Care. “And best of all, the long-term effectiveness of this procedure is superior to other options, men undergoing HoLEP are more likely to be able to stop prostate medications and unlikely to need future repeat procedures.”

The HoLEP procedure requires specialized training and equipment and MU Health Care is the only provider in mid-Missouri with the expertise to provide this option to patients with an enlarged prostate. MU Health Care patients who travel to Columbia to undergo a HoLEP procedure in the morning can often return home that same day.

“A majority of men over age 50 show signs of an enlarged prostate, and we are excited to bring HoLEP to mid-Missouri as a new option for treatment that will improve the lives of patients suffering from this condition,” said Dr. Au.

If you suspect you have an enlarged prostate and suffer from male urinary tract symptoms such as frequent or difficult urination or a weak stream, see your primary care provider who can discuss your options. If you’d like to learn more about treatment options for an enlarged prostate, visit our website at muhealth.org/bph.

Contact: Eric Maze, mazee@health.missouri.edu, 573-884-3656