Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition experienced by men as they age. It occurs when the prostate gland enlarges and presses against the urinary tract, causing symptoms such as frequent urination, weak urine flow, or the sensation of incomplete emptying after urination. These symptoms can significantly interfere with daily activities and affect quality of life.
Fortunately, men with prostate enlargement no longer need to worry about undergoing major surgery, as Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital now provides a modern, incision-free laser solution called ThuLEP that effectively treats BPH.
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What Is ThuLEP and How Does It Work?
Thulium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (ThuLEP) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure designed to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia. It uses thulium laser energy to precisely remove excess prostate tissue, helping restore normal urine flow and improving patient comfort.
The ThuLEP procedure is performed through the urinary tract using an instrument called a cystoscope, without any external incisions. Compared to traditional open surgery, ThuLEP provides faster recovery, lower complication risks, and shorter hospital stays. Most patients can return to their normal activities within 1–2 weeks after the procedure.
How the ThuLEP Procedure Is Performed
Below are the general steps of the ThuLEP procedure performed at Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital:
- The procedure is done under general anesthesia without any external incision.
- The doctor inserts a cystoscope (a thin tube with a camera) through the urethra to reach the prostate area.
- A thulium laser fiber is then used to vaporize and remove the enlarged prostate tissue (enucleation process).
- The thulium laser offers high precision and controlled energy delivery, allowing tissue removal without damaging surrounding structures.
- Its wavelength produces minimal heat injury, promoting faster healing and reducing the risk of complications.
- The procedure typically takes 2–3 hours, and patients are usually fitted with a urinary catheter, which can be removed within 1–2 days.
Advantages of ThuLEP Compared to Conventional Prostate Surgery
ThuLEP offers multiple benefits for men with benign prostatic hyperplasia. In addition to improving urinary function, the procedure ensures a quicker recovery process and helps maintain overall quality of life, including sexual function.
Some of the main benefits of ThuLEP include:
- Rapid improvement of urinary symptoms
- High precision with minimal impact on surrounding tissues
- Minimal blood loss during the procedure
- Low risk of heat injury or complications
- Short hospital stay (usually one night)
- Faster recovery and return to normal activities
- Low risk of sexual dysfunction
- Long-lasting symptom relief
ThuLEP Specialist Urologist at Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital
The ThuLEP procedure at Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital is performed by an experienced team of urology specialists, including Prof. dr. Ponco Birowo, Sp.U(K), Ph.D.
Prof. Ponco is a highly respected urology consultant with expertise in managing various urological conditions, including benign prostatic hyperplasia.
He completed his general medical and urology specialist education at the University of Indonesia, followed by subspecialty training in andro-urology.
His academic journey continued with a Ph.D degree from Hannover Medical School, Germany, in 2009, graduating with Magna Cum Laude honors. Currently, he also serves as a Professor at the University of Indonesia, contributing actively to the advancement of urology in Indonesia.
Conditions treated by Prof. Ponco include:
- Kidney stones (using RIRS, PCNL, and other minimally invasive methods)
- Bladder disorders
- Prostate problems, including BPH
- Kidney abnormalities
One of his main areas of expertise is minimally invasive kidney stone treatment without large incisions, using RIRS (Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery) and PCNL (Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy) procedures that are safe and effective for patients.
Prof. dr. Ponco Birowo, Sp.U(K), Ph.D’s consultation schedule at Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital:
- Tuesday: 4.00 PM – 6.00 PM
- Thursday: 4.00 PM – 6.00 PM
Consultation and Appointment Booking
If you wish to consult about ThuLEP or prostate enlargement in general, you can visit Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital directly.
For your convenience, use the Chat via WhatsApp, Book Appointment, or Care Dokter app available on Google Play and App Store to view queue numbers, doctor schedules, and other detailed service information.
