GreenLight laser therapy (photoselective vaporisation of the prostate, or PVP) is an effective, minimally invasive treatment for an enlarged prostate. Using a precisely targeted high-powered laser, obstructing prostate tissue is vaporised through an endoscope with minimal bleeding. It is particularly suited to patients on blood-thinning medication who may not be safe candidates for conventional options.
TREATMENTS
GreenLight Laser Prostatectomy
When Is GreenLight Laser Recommended?
GreenLight PVP is a well-established alternative to TURP, with particular advantages in specific patient groups:
• Men on anticoagulant therapy (warfarin or newer blood thinners) where bleeding risk is a concern
• Patients with significant medical comorbidities who benefit from a shorter anaesthetic and rapid recovery
• Men who prefer a shorter catheter time and earlier discharge — often day surgery or one night
• Small-to-moderate sized prostates; very large glands may be better served by HoLEP or robotic simple prostatectomy
Risks and Considerations
All procedures carry risks, which your surgeon will discuss with you in detail. These may include:
• Retrograde ejaculation in roughly 1/2 -1/3 of men
• Irritative urinary symptoms (burning, frequency) for a few weeks
• A small rate of retreatment over the years
• Because tissue is vaporised, no specimen is available for pathology testing
Recovery at a glance: Often day surgery or one night; catheter usually removed within 24 hours.
1
Pre-Operative Assessment
Symptom scores, flow rates, prostate sizing (ultrasound), and a medication review — especially anticoagulants — confirm suitability.
2
Endoscopic Laser Treatment
The laser fibre is passed through the urethra under anaesthesia. Obstructing prostate tissue is vaporised in a controlled, precise manner with minimal bleeding.
3
Rapid Recovery
Most patients have a urinary catheter for 12–24 hours. The urinary channel continues to improve over the first few weeks.
4
Outcome Monitoring
Symptom and flow improvement is reassessed at 6–12 weeks.
Our Approach
