The number of HoLEP (Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate) procedures, a technically advanced surgical treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), has significantly increased in clinic-level medical institutions. This trend suggests that more patients with BPH are choosing surgical treatment not only at university hospitals but also at specialized clinics with sufficient expertise.
According to health authority statistics, the number of HoLEP surgeries performed at clinic-level institutions in Korea increased from 676 cases in 2020 to 1,517 cases in 2023, representing a rise of approximately 2.2 times. This growth is believed to reflect improved accessibility to medical care and an increasing number of clinics that have developed specialized capabilities to perform the procedure.
BPH is a common urologic condition among middle-aged and older men. It occurs when the prostate enlarges and compresses the urethra, causing urinary symptoms such as frequent urination, a weak urinary stream, and a sensation of incomplete bladder emptying. If these symptoms are left untreated, they may lead to complications including decreased bladder and kidney function, as well as urinary tract infections.
HoLEP surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a holmium laser to separate and remove enlarged prostate tissue. Because the laser provides effective hemostasis during the procedure, it typically results in less bleeding and faster recovery. Compared with open surgery, it also has a lower risk of complications such as urinary incontinence. Another advantage is that the procedure can be applied regardless of prostate size, making it suitable for a wide range of patients.
Dr. Ryu Je-man of Goldman Urology Clinic’s Seoul Station branch explained that the increase in HoLEP procedures at clinics is largely due to the growing number of clinics equipped with experienced surgeons and specialized surgical infrastructure. He also noted that more patients with BPH are now seeking early diagnosis and proactive treatment.
Dr. Ryu emphasized that patients should seek medical evaluation before bladder function begins to decline, particularly when urinary symptoms begin to interfere with daily life. In such cases, consulting a urology specialist for a thorough diagnosis and an individualized treatment plan is essential.
HoLEP surgery may be particularly useful in patients whose bladder function has begun to deteriorate, those with a large amount of residual urine and increased risk of complications, or individuals whose prostate middle lobe has enlarged and is compressing the urethra. It may also be considered when PSA levels are elevated, when the bladder neck has become narrowed, or when the prostate protrudes significantly into the bladder or urethra.
Dr. Ryu stressed that symptoms of BPH should not simply be dismissed as a natural part of aging. When symptoms appear, seeking evaluation and treatment from a urology specialist is an important step toward maintaining health and quality of life in later years.