Similar to traditional transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), laser prostatectomy is performed when benign prostatic enlargement causes symptomatic partial obstruction of the bladder outlet. Various lasers are used for this purpose but all have the same goal, which is to remove obstructing prostate tissue, thus creating an open channel for urine to pass freely through the remaining prostate. Urologists at AUA are trained and experienced in photovaporisation of the prostate (PVP) using the Greenlight™ laser. Under spinal or general anaesthetic, a telescope is passed into the urethra to the level of the prostate, which sits directly beneath the bladder and surrounds its outlet. In a traditional TURP, an electrified loop of wire is passed through the scope and swept through the prostate, cutting away chips of prostate tissue. Although the loop is able to cauterize tissue as well, there is always some degree of bleeding.

In PVP using the Greenlight™ laser, a laser fibre is instead passed and fired at the obstructing prostate tissue, instantly vaporizing the tissue and simultaneously cauterizing it. PVP results in minimal bleeding which enables patients to undergo the procedure as a day admission or overnight stay. A catheter is left in the urethra to drain the bladder overnight and is removed the next day. Although PVP can be used for most patients with benign enlargement of the prostate, its main advantage lies with patients with cardiovascular disease who require ongoing anticoagulation, or “blood thinning”.

To discuss laser prostatectomy further, please contact AUA on 03 8506 3600 to make an appointment with one of our urologists.