What is ThuFLEP/HoLEP?
HoLEP (Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate) and ThuFLEP (Thulium Fibre Laser Enucleation of the Prostate) are both minimally invasive surgical techniques used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) that is prostate gland becomes enlarged. The surgeon uses a laser to precisely remove the enlarged part of the prostate gland that is obstructing the urethra causing urinary symptoms.
During the ThuFLEP/HoLEP procedure, a surgeon inserts a small telescope called a resectoscope into the urethra and advances it to the prostate. The thulium laser is then used to precisely vaporize and remove the obstructing prostate tissue, creating a wider channel for urine to flow through the urethra. While ThuFLEP and HoLEP are similar in many ways, there are differences between the two techniques, primarily in the type of laser used and their specific characteristics like wavelength, and tissue vaporization capability.
Clinical outcomes: Both HoLEP and ThuFLEP are effective in relieving symptoms of BPH and improving urinary flow rates. Clinical studies have demonstrated comparable outcomes between the two techniques in terms of symptom relief, complication rates, and long-term durability.