HoLEP (Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate)
HoLEP is a minimally invasive laser surgery used to treat urinary symptoms caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH, or enlarged prostate). Q: How does HoLEP compare to TURP or other procedures? HoLEP offers complete tissue removal, low retreatment rates, faster recovery, and is effective for prostates of all sizes.
Temporary burning, blood in the urine, frequent urination, or mild temporary urine leakage may occur. Retrograde ejaculation (semen flowing into the bladder) is very common but not harmful.
Kidney Stones
Kidney stones form when minerals in the urine crystallize, often due to dehydration, diet, or genetic factors.
Typical symptoms include severe flank pain, nausea, blood in the urine, and less commonly urinary urgency or frequency.
Treatment depends on size and location. Small stones may pass with hydration and medication, while larger stones may require procedures like ureteroscopy or percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL).
Ureteroscopy (URS)
Ureteroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure where a small scope is inserted through the bladder into the ureter or kidney to treat stones or other problems.
Most patients go home the same day. Temporary urinary urgency, frequency, or mild discomfort is common, especially if a stent is placed.
Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL)
PCNL is typically used for large, complex, or multiple kidney stones that cannot be treated effectively with other methods.
A small incision is made in the back, and a working channel is created directly into the kidney to remove stones.
Hospital stay is usually 1–2 days. Most patients return to normal activities in 3–4 weeks.
Robotic and Laparoscopic Kidney Surgery
These approaches are often used for kidney tumors, obstruction, or reconstruction, offering a minimally invasive alternative to open surgery.
Smaller incisions, less pain, shorter hospital stays, quicker recovery, and precise outcomes with excellent visualization.
Most patients go home in 1–2 days and return to normal activities in about 4 weeks.
Ureteral Stents
A ureteral stent is a soft, flexible tube placed temporarily in the ureter (the tube connecting the kidney to the bladder) to ensure urine drains properly after procedures such as ureteroscopy or PCNL.
Stents help prevent blockage from swelling, stones, or blood clots, and protect the ureter while it heals.
Patients may experience urinary urgency, frequency, burning, flank discomfort, or blood in the urine. These are temporary and resolve once the stent is removed.
General
Treatment decisions are individualized based on your symptoms, imaging results, overall health, and personal preferences. Dr. Gao will work with you to choose the safest and most effective option.