Endoscopic Prostate Surgery (Plasma Kinetic TUR-P/HOLEP)

Endoscopic Prostate Surgery (Plasma Kinetic TUR-P/HoLEP)

What is Endoscopic Prostate Surgery?

Endoscopic prostate surgery is a minimally invasive surgical procedure performed to relieve urinary tract obstructions caused by prostate enlargement. This surgery involves removing excess tissue from the prostate gland by cutting or vaporizing it. Compared to traditional open surgery, endoscopic methods offer less pain, a shorter recovery time, and a reduced risk of complications. Endoscopic prostate surgery has become one of the most commonly used treatment methods today.

History and Development of Endoscopic Surgery

Endoscopic surgery is considered a revolutionary development in the medical field. First introduced in the early 20th century, this technique has made significant progress over time. Although the initial endoscopic procedures were quite limited, rapid advancements in technology now allow even complex surgeries to be performed using minimally invasive methods. The use of endoscopic surgery for prostate diseases has become increasingly popular in recent years, with procedures such as HoLEP and Plasma Kinetic TUR-P making prostate surgeries safer and more effective.

Prostate Enlargement and Treatment Options

Prostate enlargement is a common condition, especially in older men. This enlargement can obstruct the urinary tract, leading to difficulty in urination. Prostate enlargement is commonly referred to as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Treatment options include medication, minimally invasive procedures, and surgical methods. Medications aim to shrink the prostate gland or ease urine flow, while surgical methods are preferred in more severe cases.

Symptoms of Prostate Enlargement

Prostate enlargement can manifest with several bothersome symptoms. These include difficulty urinating, frequent urination, especially increased need at night, weak urine flow, and the feeling of incomplete bladder emptying. These symptoms can significantly reduce the quality of life. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for managing these symptoms.

When is Surgery Necessary?

Surgical intervention for prostate enlargement is generally considered when other treatment methods have failed or when serious complications arise. These complications include recurrent urinary tract infections, bladder stone formation, kidney damage, or severe urinary retention. Surgical intervention plays an important role in preventing these complications and improving the patient’s quality of life.

Advantages of Endoscopic Prostate Surgery

Endoscopic prostate surgery offers numerous advantages over traditional surgical methods. Its minimally invasive nature allows for less blood loss, a shorter hospital stay, and a faster recovery process. Additionally, surgeries performed using this method have a lower risk of infection. Endoscopic surgery enables patients to return to their daily activities more quickly, which is a significant advantage for patients.

What is Plasma Kinetic TUR-P?

Plasma Kinetic TUR-P is a procedure in which prostate tissue is cut or vaporized using plasma energy. This method is similar to traditional TUR-P surgery but reduces the risk of bleeding and improves surgical outcomes by using plasma energy. Plasma Kinetic TUR-P is often preferred as a treatment option for patients with benign prostate enlargement.

Basic Principles of Plasma Kinetic Technology

Plasma kinetic technology uses electrical energy to create a surgical plasma field. This plasma field effectively cuts or vaporizes tissues, allowing surgeons to work with precision. Plasma energy minimizes thermal damage to the tissue, speeding up the postoperative recovery process and reducing the risk of complications.

How is Plasma Kinetic TUR-P Performed?

Plasma Kinetic TUR-P is performed using an endoscopic instrument inserted through the urethra. The surgeon carefully cuts or vaporizes prostate tissue using plasma energy. During this procedure, the surgeon can clearly see the surgical area through imaging systems and perform the operation with precision. Plasma Kinetic TUR-P is typically done under general anesthesia, and patients are usually discharged within a few days.

Recovery Process After Plasma Kinetic TUR-P

The recovery process after Plasma Kinetic TUR-P surgery is typically quick and smooth. Patients may experience mild pain and a burning sensation during urination in the first few days post-surgery. However, these symptoms usually resolve quickly. Patients should avoid strenuous physical activities and drink plenty of water for a few weeks after surgery. Regular doctor check-ups during this period are also important.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Plasma Kinetic TUR-P

One of the major advantages of Plasma Kinetic TUR-P is its high efficacy with minimal bleeding risk. This method is ideal, especially for patients at risk of bleeding. Additionally, the postoperative recovery time is shorter compared to other methods. However, like any surgical procedure, Plasma Kinetic TUR-P carries some risks. Complications such as urinary incontinence, infection, or temporary sexual dysfunction, although rare, can occur.

What is HoLEP and How Does it Work?

HoLEP (Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate) is a procedure where prostate tissue is removed using a holmium laser. This method can effectively treat even large prostates and is less invasive than open surgery. HoLEP uses laser energy to cut prostate tissue and then remove these tissues from the bladder. This method is an effective option, especially for patients with large prostates.

History and Development of the HoLEP Method

The HoLEP method was first developed in the 1990s and quickly revolutionized prostate surgery. The effective cutting power and minimal thermal damage provided by the holmium laser have increased HoLEP’s popularity. Thanks to the technologies and surgical techniques developed over the years, HoLEP has become one of the most effective prostate surgery methods today.

Preparation Process Before HoLEP Surgery

Before HoLEP surgery, patients undergo a thorough evaluation by their doctors. Preoperative blood tests, urine analysis, and imaging tests to assess prostate size are conducted. Patients are advised to avoid blood-thinning medications for a certain period before surgery. Additionally, detailed information about the preoperative and postoperative processes is provided.

Step-by-Step Process of HoLEP Surgery

HoLEP surgery is performed under general or spinal anesthesia. The surgeon enters through the urethra, using the holmium laser to cut and remove prostate tissue. These tissues are then extracted from the bladder. The surgery usually takes 1-2 hours, and patients are discharged within a few days. HoLEP can effectively treat even large prostates and offers long-term results.

Recovery and Care After HoLEP

The recovery process after HoLEP surgery is generally quick. Patients may experience mild pain and a burning sensation in the first few days post-surgery, but these symptoms usually resolve quickly. Urine flow typically improves immediately, and patients can return to their daily activities within a few weeks. Regular doctor check-ups during the postoperative period are important.

Differences Between HoLEP and Plasma Kinetic TUR-P

HoLEP and Plasma Kinetic TUR-P are both effective methods for treating prostate enlargement, but they are applied using different techniques. HoLEP completely removes prostate tissue using a holmium laser, while Plasma Kinetic TUR-P cuts or vaporizes tissue with plasma energy. HoLEP is more suitable for large prostates and can offer longer-lasting results. However, both methods are minimally invasive and provide a quick recovery process.

Which Method is Suitable for Which Patients?

Both methods are effective for treating prostate enlargement, but the patient’s condition, prostate size, and overall health are considered to determine which method is more appropriate. HoLEP is preferred especially for large prostates, while Plasma Kinetic TUR-P may be suitable for smaller prostates. Doctors assess each patient’s specific needs to determine the most suitable treatment method.

Quality of Life After Endoscopic Prostate Surgery

Endoscopic prostate surgeries significantly improve patients’ quality of life. Urination problems typically resolve after surgery, and patients can quickly return to normal daily activities. Additionally, pain and discomfort are minimal during the postoperative period. The rapid recovery process provided by endoscopic surgery enhances patients’ quality of life.

Sexual Function After Endoscopic Surgery

Sexual function is generally preserved or improved after endoscopic prostate surgery. However, some patients may experience temporary sexual dysfunction. This condition usually resolves quickly. The impact of surgery on sexual function can vary depending on the patient’s overall health and preoperative sexual function levels.

Solution for Urinary Problems and Long-Term Outcomes

Endoscopic prostate surgeries effectively resolve urinary problems, and the long-term outcomes are generally positive. Postoperative urine flow improves, and bladder function returns to normal. In the long term, most patients are satisfied with the surgical results, and symptoms are significantly reduced or completely resolved.

Dietary Recommendations Before and After Surgery

Healthy nutrition before and after surgery can speed up the recovery process. Patients are advised to drink plenty of water before and after surgery. Additionally, consuming fiber-rich foods can help regulate the digestive system. It is recommended to avoid heavy and fatty foods during the postoperative period.

Postoperative Considerations

There are some points that patients should pay attention to during the postoperative period. They should avoid heavy physical activities, regularly attend doctor check-ups, and inform their doctor about any symptoms. Additionally, it is important to follow the doctor’s recommendations regarding symptoms and the recovery process during the postoperative period.

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

Commonly asked questions about endoscopic prostate surgery include the duration of the surgery, the recovery process, risks, and postoperative precautions. Patients can find answers to their questions by obtaining detailed information about the preoperative and postoperative processes and make more informed decisions.

Successful Treatment Stories and Patient Experiences

Many patients have positive experiences following endoscopic prostate surgery. Successful treatment stories provide courage and hope to other patients. Patients provide positive feedback regarding the improvement in their quality of life and symptom relief after surgery.

Conclusion: The Future and Innovations of Endoscopic Prostate Surgery

Endoscopic prostate surgery is constantly being updated with advancements in medical technologies. In the future, less invasive methods and faster recovery processes will offer more comfortable treatment options for patients. The advantages provided by endoscopic surgery indicate that this method will continue to maintain its popularity in the future.