Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ilter Alkan: "Solving Benign Prostate Enlargement with Thulium Fiber Laser"
Benign prostate enlargement, a significant issue that can affect the quality of life for men, particularly in their older years, is seeing groundbreaking treatment improvements thanks to advancements in laser technology.

Benign prostate enlargement, a significant issue that can affect the quality of life for men, particularly in their older years, is seeing groundbreaking treatment improvements thanks to advancements in laser technology. Dr. Ilter Alkan, a Urology Specialist at Yeditepe University Kozyatağı Hospital, has highlighted the pivotal changes brought by the latest technological developments in urological surgery, especially with the introduction of the Thulium Fiber Laser (ThuFLEP) method.
According to Dr. Alkan, the Thulium Fiber Laser technique allows for the complete removal of the benign enlarging prostate tissue (adenoma) through a minimally invasive procedure. "One of the most significant benefits of this treatment is the low depth of the surgical field, which means there is no damage to the surrounding organs during tissue removal. Additionally, blood vessels are sealed during the cut, thereby eliminating the risk of bleeding," stated Dr. Alkan. He further mentioned that this approach significantly reduces the risk of the disease recurring post-surgery. "The prostate can regrow by about 10% over ten years. However, this is considered a very low rate," he added.
Dr. Alkan emphasized the criteria for when surgery is necessary in cases of benign prostate enlargement. Not all cases require surgical intervention. "If a patient has mild symptoms and tests don't show severe obstruction, and their daily life isn't greatly impacted, we can manage the condition with medication alone. However, if symptoms persist or worsen over time despite medication, we consider surgery," he explained.
Postoperative care is also streamlined, with patients typically spending only one night in the hospital with a catheter, which is removed the next day allowing a quick return to daily activities. "This method has revolutionized the treatment of even large prostates that previously would have required open surgery. We can now operate on prostates as large as 150-200 grams using the ThuFLEP method, and the absence of bleeding is particularly beneficial for patients on blood thinners," Dr. Alkan noted.
Furthermore, Dr. Alkan reassured that the sexual function of patients remains unaffected by this procedure, a common concern among many. "Postoperative sexual function remains the same as before the surgery. Unlike prostate cancer surgeries, where there's a higher risk of sexual dysfunction, the ThuFLEP method does not affect sexual capabilities. Patients might experience non-ejaculation in about 70% of cases due to the removal of all tissue, which is known as 'dry ejaculation.' This side effect is generally not a concern in older patients, but it can be significant for younger individuals desiring children. Special techniques can reduce this effect from 70% to around 10%," he clarified.
Dr. Alkan also stressed the importance of regular prostate screenings from the age of 50, regardless of symptoms, particularly for those with a family history of prostate cancer, as early detection is key to effective management.
With the advancement of the Thulium Fiber Laser, the treatment of benign prostate enlargement not only preserves the quality of life but also offers a safer and more efficient solution, reflecting a revolutionary step in medical treatments for urological conditions.