GreenLight FAQ
Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions (FAQ). If, after reading the information below, you feel your question has not been addressed, please submit your question using the form at the bottom of this page. Dr Nagaonkar will respond as soon as possible and your question and answer may be added to the FAQ section.
How does GreenLight laser differ from other lasers?
There are several laser techniques available for medical use. The use of lasers to carry out resection of prostate is ever-evolving field. You may be aware of laser used for permanent hair removal and also for various skin conditions. These lasers have different wavelengths and different tissue penetration. The lasers used for treating benign enlargement of the prostate should have the property of vaporising (evaporating) prostate tissue in an effective way but with minimal side effects.
GreenLight HPS is the most current model of PVP laser system. The earlier model was lower powered (80W) equipment, also known as PVP laser.
Surgeons have used several other lasers in the past. The Nd:YAG laser was used initially but had a major drawback of deep penetration into the tissue leading to significant post operative urinary burning. It also had the major drawback of passage of dead tissue in the urine after the procedure.
Holmium laser has also been used effectively. It does have the drawback of causing more coagulation effect leading to significant postoperative urinary burning , but less than that of Nd:YAG laser.
Which patients will benefit with this technology?
All patients who are eligible to have conventional TURP will qualify for GreenLight laser prostatectomy.
Additionally, there are certain groups of patients who may not be eligible for TURP and can be considered for GreenLight laser:
- Patients receiving anticoagulants (blood thinning medications) such as Aspirin/ Astrix/ Cartia/ Solprin/ Warfarin etc
- Patients who refuse/ do not want blood transfusions (e.g. Jehovah’s Witnesses)
- Younger patients — there is reduced risk of developing erectile problems following GreenLight laser prostatectomy
Will I need a blood transfusion?
GreenLight laser prostatectomy is virtually a bloodless surgery and it need not require blood transfusion.
Will I get 100% benefit after GreenLight Laser prostatectomy?
The answer to this question is simply no. There is no available treatment in today’s world which will offer 100% benefit. However, the GreenLight laser system for enlarged prostate achieves quite close to the “Gold Standard” (TURP is considered the Gold Standard).
About 30% of men who undergo any type of surgical treatment for enlarged prostate will experience persistent irritative voiding symptoms (frequency/ urgency and nocturia) which are attributed to underlying pre-existing bladder dysfunction. In most situations these symptoms gradually improve without need of any medications.
What anaesthesia will be used?
The type of anaesthesia is usually decided by the anaesthetist as well as the patient’s preference. However, a general or regional (spinal) anaesthesia is used.
How long will I have a urinary catheter?
With conventional TURP, a urethral catheter is left in for 2-3 days. Also a special kind of 3 lumen catheter is used which serves the purpose of urinary drainage as well as washing out blood from the bladder.
Since GreenLight laser prostatectomy is bloodless surgery, nine out of ten times there is no need of using a 3 lumen irrigating catheter. The catheter may be removed as early as in a few hours (same day evening) or the next day.
Occasionally, patients who have a very large prostate can develop post procedural reactionary swelling in the operated area which can cause a temporary urinary blockage. These patients will need temporary reinsertion of a urethral catheter.
Can prostate cancer be treated with GreenLight laser?
GreenLight laser prostatectomy is exclusively used to manage Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy. It is not recommended for treating prostate cancer.
Where is it available?
The GreenLight PVP laser system (old technology) is available at number of places in NSW, but the new GreenLight HPS laser system is available primarily in Sydney. The Mayo Private Hospital is the only hospital on the Mid North Coast to offer this technology today.
Submit your question
To send in a question concerning GreenLight HPS laser treatment for BPH, please use the convenient form below. Your personal information will not be shared. If your question and its answer are added to the FAQ, your name will not be published.
