EchoLaser for benign prostate enlargement: how does it work?

Benign prostatic enlargement, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a prevalent condition in men, especially as they age. The prostate, a small gland located below the bladder, encircles the urethra—the tube that carries urine out of the body. As the prostate enlarges, it can compress the urethra, leading to urinary difficulties such as a weak urine stream, trouble initiating urination, and frequent urination, particularly at night. While BPH is not cancerous, it can severely impact a man's quality of life by disrupting sleep, causing discomfort, and increasing the risk of urinary tract infections.

Leading consultant urological surgeon, Mr Wissam Abou-Chedid, provides insight into a cutting-edge treatment option: EchoLaser, a non-invasive and highly effective method for treating BPH.

What Is EchoLaser laser treatment?

EchoLaser is an innovative, micro-invasive procedure designed to reduce the size of the prostate and alleviate the symptoms of BPH. Utilising laser energy, EchoLaser achieves a significant reduction in prostate volume, thereby relieving the pressure exerted on the urethra. This helps to restore normal urinary flow, providing a gradual but noticeable resolution of symptoms.

Patients who undergo EchoLaser treatment typically experience an improvement in their quality of life, marked by a stronger urine stream and fewer trips to the bathroom—especially at night. The procedure allows men to resume normal activities quickly without the extended downtime or risks associated with traditional surgery.

How does the procedure work?

EchoLaser treatment uses low-power laser energy, typically 3 watts, delivered over a few minutes. During the procedure, laser radiation is transmitted via optical fibers, which are inserted through fine 21G needles (less than one millimeter in diameter) into the prostate transperineally (through the skin between the anus and scrotum).

This precision-guided laser energy heats and destroys the targeted prostate tissue. Over the course of a few weeks, the treated tissue is naturally absorbed by the body, resulting in a reduction in prostate volume and an alleviation of symptoms.

Patients typically begin to experience symptomatic relief within days, with improvement continuing as the body reabsorbs the treated tissue. The results of EchoLaser treatment are not only swift but also long-lasting, making it a highly effective option for BPH management.

Who is a good candidate for EchoLaser treatment?

EchoLaser therapy is ideally suited for men experiencing moderate to severe symptoms of BPH. It is particularly beneficial for individuals who have found medication ineffective or intolerable due to side effects. For men seeking a minimally invasive treatment option, EchoLaser offers significant advantages: quicker recovery times, minimal risks, and fewer complications when compared to traditional surgical procedures.

However, EchoLaser may not be suitable for everyone. Men with particularly large prostates or certain underlying medical conditions may require alternative treatments. A comprehensive consultation with a urologist is essential to determine whether EchoLaser is the best course of action based on individual medical circumstances.

What are the potential benefits and risks?

Primary benefits of EchoLaser treatment include:

• Minimally invasive: EchoLaser is a micro-invasive procedure performed through fine needles, minimising discomfort and the risk of complications.
• Quick recovery: The procedure is typically done under local anesthesia, allowing for faster recovery and reducing the need for an extended hospital stay.
• Preservation of sexual function: Unlike some surgical options, EchoLaser has minimal to no impact on sexual function, preserving erectile and ejaculatory abilities.
• Immediate symptom relief: Many patients begin to experience symptom relief within days, with continued improvement over time.
• Reduced risk of complications: With its targeted approach, EchoLaser treatment significantly lowers the risks of complications such as incontinence, which can be more common in traditional prostate surgeries.

What are the potential risks?

While EchoLaser is generally safe, as with any medical procedure, there are some risks to consider:

• Temporary urinary discomfort: Some patients may experience mild discomfort or difficulty urinating immediately following the procedure. This is typically short-lived.
• Risk of urinary tract infection (UTI): As with any procedure involving the urinary system, there is a small risk of developing a UTI.
• Minor bruising or swelling: The insertion of needles may result in temporary bruising or swelling in the treated area.

Despite these risks, EchoLaser is considered a safe and effective treatment option for BPH, offering significant relief without the more invasive nature of traditional surgeries.

Is EchoLaser right for you?

If you are experiencing moderate to severe BPH symptoms that are no longer well-managed by medication, or if you're seeking a minimally invasive solution with quicker recovery and fewer side effects, EchoLaser may be the ideal option. Consult with a qualified urologist like Mr Wissam Abou-Chedid to explore whether this innovative treatment could help improve your quality of life.