Questions & Answers about the Greenlight XPS Laser - the most
important FAQ's:
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How is the Greenlight XPS laser procedure performed?
A thin laser fiber is guided via an endoscopic system through
the urethra to the enlarged prostate. The fiber delivers the laser
energy which completely vaporizes the tissue, thereby removing
the offending tissue. The endoscopic system (cystoscope) enables
the urologist to control the procedure safely.
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Is it necessary to stay in hospital for Greenlight PVP laser
treatment?
The treatment only takes between 40 minutes and three hours -
depending on the volume of the prostate. You will stay in the
clinic not longer than two or three days.
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Will I feel any pain during treatment?
No. The anesthetist ensures that there will be no pain of any
kind by administering a local anesthetic in combination with a
sedative.
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Will I have to wear a catheter?
Many patients do not need a catheter at all. If the urologist
decides that a catheter is necessary, it can normally be removed
after 24 to 48 hours.
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Will I have any discomfort after the treatment?
Virtually no discomfort is anticipated. The study by the American
Mayo Clinic shows that only six per cent of patients experienced
any pain while passing water. Should pain be experienced, it very
slight and can be rectified immediately using conventional remedies.
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What risks does the therapy involve?
The treatment is minimally invasive. This means that in principle
any operative risks are already minimized. Your doctor will explain
the details to you carefully.
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How soon will I be able to see results?
You should usually have a strong urinary flow as little as 24
hours after treatment and should notice that the discomfort has
completely disappeared.
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How soon can I return to work?
Most patients can resume their normal activities within a few
hours or days. Strenuous activity such as lifting, straining and
carrying should be avoided for the first two weeks.
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Is my sex life likely to be affected?
After the treatment you will probably not notice any change in
erection and orgasm. Many patients have even reported an improvement
in their sex life. A relatively small number of patients may possibly
experience a retrograde ejaculation (dry climax). This problem
is caused by the recently widened opening of the neck of the bladder,
but will only cause slight discomfort for some, and it is not
medically significant. In any event, you can rely on the detailed
advice from your doctor.
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How much does the treatment cost?
While laser treatment is based on decades of experience with
laser radiation of BPH, the Greenlight XPS laser is a completely
new development. Many private health insurers and benefit agencies
will accept the costs in full or in part. It is a good idea for
patients to consult their insurance company in advance.
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Which company is behind the development of the Greenlight PVP
laser?
The new Greenlight XPS laser procedure has been developed by
the renowned company > American Medical Systems (AMS) in Minnesota/USA. > More details
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| Should you have any further questions?
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We will be happy to answer them. |