Holmium laser enucleation for large (greater than 100 mL) prostate glands

BACKGROUND: To evaluate the holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) using the transurethral soft tissue morcellator (TUSTM), as a primary surgical treatment for symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) with prostate glands > 100 mL. METHODS: Eighteen patients with preoperative prostate volumes > 100 mL underwent the HoLEP procedure. The criteria for surgery were determined by a preoperative International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), a prior failure of medical therapy, and urinary retention. RESULTS: The mean preoperative IPSS and prostate gland size were 13.8 and 142.3 mL, respectively. The total energy used by the laser was 288.4 kJ. The mean catheter time was 23.8 h and, perioperatively, no patients had electrolyte abnormalities or required blood transfusions. The 3-week postoperative IPSS was 2.8, with minimum long-term complications. CONCLUSIONS: Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate with TUSTM is a safe and effective alternative to open prostatic surgery for glands > 100 mL.