Frequently Asked Questions
Is BPH a type of cancer?
Do I have to stay in the hospital after a GreenLightTM procedure?
Where is the procedure performed?
Will the GreenLightTM Laser Therapy treatment affect my sexual function?
How long before my symptoms improve?
Will I continue to need BPH medications after the GreenLightTM Laser Therapy treatment?
How soon can I return to work and other normal activities?
How long do the results last?
Is GreenLight™ Therapy covered by insurance?
How many GreenLightTM procedures have been performed?
Will I need to wear a catheter?
Will I have discomfort after the procedure?
Can I have a GreenLightTM Laser procedure if I've had previous enlarged prostate treatments or surgery?
My doctor has recommended that I have a TURP. Can I still have the GreenLightTM procedure?
How do I know if I am a candidate for GreenLightTM?
Is BPH a type of cancer?
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is not a type of cancer and it is not known to influence the risk of cancer.
Do I have to stay in the hospital after a GreenLightTM procedure?
GreenLightTM is generally an outpatient procedure. Typically, no overnight stay in the hospital is required, but it will depend on your individual condition.
Where is the procedure performed?
The procedure can be performed in a hospital outpatient center or an office-based surgical facility. Typically, no overnight stay is needed. However, when a patient travels a long distance, has other medical conditions to consider, or is in frail condition, an overnight stay may be recommended.
Will the GreenLightTM Laser Therapy treatment affect my sexual function?
Less than 1% of patients experience sexual dysfunction.1 However, 33% of patients experience retrograde ejaculation after the procedure.1
How long before my symptoms improve?
Most patients experience rapid relief of symptoms and improvement in urine flow within 24 hours of the procedure.2,3 However, medical history, health conditions, and other factors can influence treatment and recovery.
Will I continue to need BPH medications after the GreenLightTM Laser Therapy treatment?
As with any medication, ask your doctor what regimen is appropriate for you. However, most patients are able to discontinue taking their BPH medications within a few weeks of treatment.
How soon can I return to work and other normal activities?
Most patients can resume normal activities within a couple of days.4,5 Strenuous activities can be resumed within 2 weeks.5 Your urologist will discuss this and your specific condition with you during your consultation.
How long do the results last?
Clinical studies report that GreenLightTM Laser Therapy offers rapid and lasting symptom relief for at least 5 years.6
Is GreenLightTM Therapy covered by insurance?
Medicare and most private insurance plans cover the procedure.
How many GreenLightTM procedures have been performed?
More than 500,000 patients worldwide have been treated with the GreenLightTM Laser System.
Will I need to wear a catheter?
Many patients do not require a catheter following the procedure. If one is required, it is typically removed in less than 24 hours. However, patients with compromised bladder function or those who require prolonged catheterization as a result of severe urinary symptoms may require a catheter for a longer period of time.
Will I have discomfort after the procedure?
Most patients experience mild discomfort, such as slight burning during urination, for a week or so. This can be managed with mild pain and anti-inflammatory medications.
Can I have a GreenLightTM Laser procedure if I've had previous enlarged prostate treatments or surgery?
Many patients who have had previous treatments have been successfully treated with GreenLightTM.
My doctor has recommended that I have a TURP. Can I still have the GreenLightTM procedure?
In general, patients suitable for TURP can be considered for a GreenLight™ procedure. However, you and your doctor will need to make that determination based upon your individual condition and desired outcomes.
How do I know if I am a candidate for GreenLightTM?
Only your urologist can determine if you are a candidate, based upon your history and physical examination, as well as his or her clinical judgment.
REFERENCES:
- Choi B, Tabatabaei S, Bachmann A, et al. GreenLight HPS 120-W laser for benign prostatic hyperplasia: comparative complications and technical recommendations. Eur Urol. 2008; 7(suppl):384-392.
- Malek RS, Barrett DM, Kuntzman RS. High-power potassium-titanyl-phosphate (KTP/532) laser vaporization prostatectomy: 24 hours later. Urology. 1998;51:254-256.
- Sarica K, Alkan E, Luleci H, Tasci AI. Photoselective vaporization of the enlarged prostate with KTP laser: long-term results in 240 patients. J Endourol. 2005;19:1199-1202.
- Malek RS, Kuntzman RS, Barrett DM. High-power potassium-titanyl-phosphate laser vaporization prostatectomy. J Urol. 2000;163:1730-1733.
- Mueller EJ. A series of 60 GreenLight photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) patients with results equal to standard TURP with much decreased morbidity and much quicker return to full normal unrestricted activity. Paper presented at: 52nd Annual James C Kimbrough Urological Seminar; Jan.16-21, 2005; Honolulu, HI. Abstract 41.
- Van Hest P, D’Ancona F. The management of benign prostatic hyperplasia: update in minimal invasive therapy in benign prostatic hyperplasia. Minerva Urol Nefrol. 2009;61:257-268.
