1 August 2008
A new laser technique recently introduced at Epsom and St Helier hospitals is transforming the treatment given to men across Epsom, Merton and Sutton and beyond suffering from an enlarged prostate.
Also known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), this non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate affects more than half of all men over the age of 60. By age 80, about 80 per cent of all men have BPH.
Specialist urologists within the Trust have started to use GreenLight Laser Therapy - an endoscopic (keyhole) procedure which uses a high powered green laser that vaporises the prostate tissue and seals the prostatic blood vessels in the process. The highly specialised state-of-the-art device costs around £130,000.
Consultant urologist Mr Pieter Le Roux explained the treatment has a far lower risk rate than traditional prostate surgery and means patients usually stay in hospital for just one night rather than three or four.
He said: "Our new technique is suitable for men who require surgery for an enlarged benign prostate. The treatment is as effective as the conventional surgery known as TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate). With the GreenLight Laser treatment procedure, blood loss is minimal and the standard hospital stay is one night only. Patients can expect rapid relief of their symptoms and recovery to full fitness is much quicker than the current method of treatment."
Consultant urologist Mr Stephen Gordon added: "Patients have reported they have a whole new lease of life, and can once again enjoy things many take for granted; such as going out to eat, or to the movies, or playing golf. The feedback about this new technique has been very good."
Typical symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia to watch out for include:
- Difficulty in starting to pass urine;
- Straining when passing urine;
- A weak stream of urine;
- A feeling that the bladder isn't completely empty following urination;
- The need to pass urine urgently or frequent trips to the toilet, especially at night;
- Burning sensation or pain when passing urine.
The Trust employs six consultant urologists at Epsom and St Helier hospitals - Mr Gordon and Mr Le Roux specialise in the GreenLight Laser Therapy treatment.
