What is Thulium Fiber Laser Prostate Enucleation (ThuFLEP) Treatment?
Developments in laser technologies have led to major changes in urological surgery. Especially in recent years, advances in this field have brought significant convenience for both patients and physicians. In this sense, one of the developments discussed is Thulium Fiber Laser.
Thulium fiber laser, a powerful laser technology, uses an element called thulium to produce laser light. Thulium fiber lasers are fiber lasers in which the element thulium is used as the active medium.
"Thulium Fiber Laser Prostate Enucleation (ThuFLEP)" is a surgical procedure used in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). In this procedure, which is performed by the endoscopic method, the enlarged benign prostate tissue (adenoma) is completely removed endoscopically using thulium fiber laser. This method is also important because it can be used in the treatment of prostate enlargement of all sizes, including large-volume prostates.
ThuFLEP treatment is a less harmful option to the patient than other traditional surgical methods; Advantages such as very low risk of bleeding, short hospitalization and catheterization time (1 day) are also important for the patient.
In Which Urological Diseases is Thulium Fiber Laser Used?
Thulium Fiber Laser is a method that is used in the treatment of many urological problems, especially benign prostate hyperplasia. However, patient suitability must be evaluated by the physician.
It is possible to summarize the usage areas of Thulium Fiber Laser under the following headings:
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia-Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) Treatment:
In this method used for benign prostate enlargement (ThuFLEP), the enlarged benign prostate tissue (adenoma) is removed with an endoscopic (closed) operation without bleeding. This method aims to reduce BPH complaints by improving urine flow.
Treatment of Urinary System Stones:
Thulium Fiber Laser can also be used to endoscopically break and remove stones in the urinary system. The high-energy laser beam provides effective treatment by breaking down the stones or turning them into sand. With Thulium Fiber Laser technology, urinary tract stones (kidney, ureter and bladder stones) are broken down much faster than other methods. This shortens the operation time.
Another advantage of this method is that the stones are much smaller and turn into powder compared to other stone crushing methods. After the operation, the broken stones are excreted in the form of sand with urine. In this way, the stone-free rate after the operation is higher.
Treatment of Urethral Strictures (Urinary Tract Stenosis):
Thulium Fiber Laser can also be used in the treatment of urethral strictures that cause narrowing or obstruction in the urethra. It is possible to restore normal urine flow by opening the narrowed area with a laser beam.
Treatment of Urological Tumors:
Thulium Fiber Laser can be used in the endoscopic removal of superficial bladder tumors. At this point, appropriate patient selection is important.
![Thulium Fiber Lazer](/sites/default/files/styles/webp/public/2024-05/Thulium%20Fiber%20Laser.jpg.webp?itok=14eX1WVB)
How is the ThuFLEP (Thulium Fiber Laser) Method Applied?
It is ensured that the patient does not feel pain during the procedure performed under general anesthesia or spinal anesthesia. During the procedure, an endoscope (a type of thin, flexible tube) is inserted through the urethra and into the prostate. Thulium fiber laser is directed to the prostate gland through the endoscope. With the help of laser beam, the enlarged prostate tissues are separated from the capsule surrounding the prostate without bleeding and sent into the bladder. These tissues are then removed from the bladder endoscopically with a morcellator (tissue disintegrator). After the procedure is completed, the endoscope is removed and a catheter is placed into the bladder. Patients usually stay in the hospital for one day, and the next day the catheter is removed and the patient is discharged after it is observed that he urinates easily.
What are the Obteinments (Advantages) of Thulium Fiber Laser (ThuFLEP) Treatment?
Less Invasive: ThuFLEP is a less invasive option than other traditional surgical methods. This results in less tissue damage, less blood loss and faster recovery times.
Less Bleeding: Thulium fiber laser has the ability to seal blood vessels during the cutting process, resulting in reduced bleeding during the procedure.
Fast Recovery: ThuFLEP may be associated with faster recovery times than other surgical methods. This can allow patients to return to normal activities sooner.
Less Pain: Because it is less invasive and has less tissue damage, ThuFLEP is often associated with less postoperative pain.
Good Clinical Results: ThuFLEP provides effective results in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and other urological problems. Positive clinical outcomes such as good urine flow and reduction of symptoms can be achieved.
Fewer Urinary Tract Complications: ThuFLEP may reduce the risk of post-operative urinary tract complications.
These advantages make ThuFLEP a preferred surgical option for many patients. However, as with any surgical procedure, ThuFLEP may have some risks and complications. Therefore, it is important to consult a specialist when considering treatment options.
Thulium Fiber Laser (ThuFLEP) Frequently Asked Questions
It is important to consult a doctor in these rare cases:
Dark red blood color
Is accompanied by fever, chills or other signs of infection
Severe difficulty or pain in urinating
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See Also
- ThuFLEP Treatment Improves Quality of Life in Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
- Treatment of Urinary System Stones with Thulium Fiber Laser
- What is Prostate Cancer? Symptoms and Treatment
- What is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, How is it Treated?
- Early Diagnosis Saves Lives in Insidiously Progressing Kidney Tumors
- The Rate Of Kidney Stones Has Begun To Increase In Women
- HoLEP Eliminates 85 percent of Drug Use in the Treatment of Benign Prostate Enlargement
- Chronic Pelvic Pain
- One in Every Four Men Diagnosed with Cancer Has Prostate Cancer
- Ways to Protect Prostate Health
- Surgical Treatment of Prostate Diseases
- Ways to Get Rid of Kidney Stones
- Prostate Preventive Cancer Treatment: Focal HIFU
- HIFU Focal Treatment for Prostate Cancer
- The Things You Should Know About Prostate Cancer
- HoLEP Method in Closed Prostate Surgery
- Benign Prostate Enlargement
- Who Can Undergo HoLEP Procedure?
- 6 Misconceptions About Kidney Stones