GreenLight for BPH
Surgery is designed to open the prostate channel by ‘removing’ the excess tissue in the area. Traditionally, the excess tissue is removed using a small electrical loop in a procedure known as transurethral resection of the prostate or TURP. While this procedure is considered the gold standard therapy, it does require an overnight hospitalization and has a higher risk of bleeding than the other procedures mentioned.
GreenLight Laser Therapy is a proven treatment that has helped more than 1 million men around the world gain relief from the frustrating and life-changing symptoms of BPH.
What is GreenLight Laser Therapy?
GreenLight Laser Therapy uses a laser to remove excess prostate tissue. The laser treatment is delivered through a thin, flexible fiber, which is inserted into the urethra through an instrument called a cystoscope.
Do I have to stay in the hospital after a GreenLight procedure?
GreenLight Laser Therapy is generally an outpatient procedure. Typically, no overnight stay in the hospital is required, but it will depend on your individual condition.
What are the risks of GreenLight Laser Therapy?
All surgical treatments have inherent and associated risks. The GreenLight Laser System is intended for removal of soft tissue, including vaporization of the prostate for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Potential risks include irritative symptoms, bleeding, retrograde ejaculation and urinary tract infection.
How long does it take until symptoms are relieved?
Most patients experience relief of symptoms and improvement in urine flow within 24 hours of the procedure. However, medical history, your health conditions and other factors can influence treatment and recovery.1
How soon can I return to work or normal activity?
Most patients can resume normal activities within a couple of days. Strenuous activities can be resumed within a short time.1 Your doctor will discuss any restrictions and your specific condition during your visit following your procedure.
Does the GreenLight procedure affect sexual function?
In a recent study, 86% of patients reported improved or unchanged sexual satisfaction; 14% worsened. Similar outcomes were seen for erectile function.2
Is GreenLight Laser Therapy covered by insurance?
Medicare and most private insurers cover the GreenLight Laser Therapy procedure. It is the responsibility of the patient to contact their insurance provider for specific coverage information.
How do I know if I am a candidate for GreenLight Laser Therapy?
Additional Resources:
Click here to download the GreenLight patient brochure
Click here to download a quiz to assess your BPH symptoms
For more information on BPH and GreenLight Laser Therapy, please visit www.TreatMyBPH.com.
- Bachmann A, Tubaro A, Barber N, et al.180-W XPS GreenLight Laser Vaporisation Versus Transurethral Resection of the Prostate for the Treatment of Benign Prostatic Obstruction: 6 Month Safety and Efficacy Results of a European Multi-Centre Randomised Trial – The GOLIATH Study. Euro Urol. May 2014; 65(5): 931-942.
- Lukacs B, Loeffler J, Bruyère F, et al. Photoselective vaporization of the prostate with GreenLight 120-W laser compared with monopolar transurethral resection of the prostate: A multicenter randomized controlled trial. Eur Urol. 2012;61(6):1165-73.
