ThuLEP (Thulium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate) is a modern endoscopic technique for the surgical treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia. Is identical to HolEP , with the only difference being the laser source, in which in this case is the Thulium fiber laser (TFL)
The surgical procedure and its basic principles are essentially the same as those of HoLEP: the hyperplastic prostate tissue is anatomically detached and removed through the urethra, without external incisions. The main difference concerns the energy source used. ThuLEP uses a Thulium laser, while HoLEP uses a Holmium laser.
Both techniques offer effective restoration of urinary flow and can be applied to prostates of different sizes. The choice of the most appropriate technique is individualised according to the patient’s characteristics, the anatomy of the prostate, and the assessment of the specialist urologist.
For detailed information about the procedure, preparation, hospital stay, recovery and expected results, please refer to the HoLEP – Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate section.
Two laser systems — the choice depends on the case
Dr. Angelos Economides has both laser systems, Holmium and Thulium fiber laser (TFL). HoLEP uses Holmium laser, while ThuLEP uses Thulium laser. The two technologies interact with tissue in a slightly different way, but both can be used for complete anatomical enucleation.
The choice is not based on the view that one laser is always “better” than the other. It is made according to each case, considering the size and shape of the prostate, the tissue characteristics, the risk of bleeding, previous treatments, bladder function, and the surgical technique planned. The availability of both systems allows the procedure to be individualised and does not limit the choice to a single technology.
For the patient, the goal is the same: effective removal of the obstructive tissue, better urinary flow, safe bladder emptying and a long-term result.
