What is the prostate gland?
The prostate is part of the male reproductive system. The adult prostate is about the size and shape of a walnut. Its primary function is to produce semen, the fluid that carries sperm. It surrounds the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder.

What is BPH?
BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia) is commonly known as enlarged prostate. BPH is a non-cancerous condition in which prostate cells grow, enlarging the gland and causing it to squeeze the urethra. A variety of symptoms may result, including difficult, frequent or urgent urination.

How Common is BPH?
It is very common. An estimated 50% of all men over the age of 60 suffer from BPH.

When should I seek treatment for BPH?
If the symptoms of BPH are affecting the quality of your life, it is time to seek treatment. Some examples are if you are losing sleep because you need to wake during the night to urinate, you are unable to delay urination, have hesitancy, or a weak urine stream.

How and where is the Procedure performed?
During a HoLAP procedure, a small fiber is inserted into the urethra. The fiber caries the laser energy to the enlarged prostate tissue and quickly vaporizes it, opening the urethra and restoring natural urine flow. The procedure is typically performed in a hospital or surgery center, and typically no overnight stay is required, unless the patient has other medical conditions which need to be monitored.

Will I experience pain or discomfort during the HoLAP procedure?
Your doctor will discuss anesthesia and pain medication with you to ensure your comfort during and after the procedure.

Will I need to wear a catheter?
Patients undergoing a HoLAP procedure typically do not require a catheter following the procedure, and if they do, it is usually removed within 24 hours.

Will I experience discomfort after the procedure?
Most patients experience mild discomfort in the form of a slight burning sensation when urinating for about a week or so. This can be managed with mild pain or anti-inflammatory medication.

Are there any risks or side-effects associated with the HoLAP procedure?
Risks include a slight burning sensation while urinating or a small amount of blood in the urine for about a week or so after the procedure. As with any procedure, there is a low risk of infection. Sexual side-effects are usually mild. Although you should be able to have an erection and experience the same sensation as an orgasm, some men may experience retrograde ejaculation or a "dry climax." This will not effect an erection or orgasm, so if you are sexually active, you can look forward to remaining so.

How long will the results last?
Results will typically last 5-7 years.

Will my health insurance pay for the treatment?
In most cases, your health insurance should cover at least part or all of your procedure. Please check with your Health Insurance provider prior to scheduling your HoLAP procedure.

This information is provided to you as a public service, and is in no way meant to replace or supersede the information or advice provided from a qualified health care professional.