Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), or enlarged prostate, is a common condition affecting older men and can cause significant urinary symptoms, discomfort, and disruption to daily life. Surgical treatment is often required when medication is no longer effective.

Currently, most patients are treated using Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP). While effective, TURP can only remove around 65% of prostate tissue and cannot be used on all sizes of prostates. This means some patients require repeat procedures or cannot be treated at all.

Thulium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (THuLEP) is a minimally invasive technique already well established across Europe but offered on a limited basis at only 2 centres in England. It allows surgeons to remove up to 85% of enlarged prostate tissue, delivering more complete and longer-lasting results. Crucially, THuLEP can treat prostates of all sizes so no patients with BPH will be able to be treated. It also offers the possibility to treat patients on anticoagulants, and decreases the risks of postoperative bleeding compared to other techniques.  

The Hampshire Medical Fund previously helped secure a Thulium laser for kidney stone treatment at Winchester Hospital. By upgrading the resectoscope equipment, this existing laser can also be used to deliver THuLEP, transforming prostate care locally. More than 200 patients per year across HHFT would benefit, with numbers expected to grow.

Key Benefits

• Longer-Lasting Results – Removes more prostate tissue (85% vs 65% with TURP).
  • Treats All Gland Sizes – No upper size limitation, ensuring equitable access for all patients.
  • Safer for High-Risk Patients – Suitable for men on anticoagulants, with reduced bleeding risk.
  • Fewer Repeat Procedures – More complete treatment reduces likelihood of further surgery.
  • Centre of Excellence – By investing in the THuLEP kit, HHFT would be one of the only few centres offering this service in England, improving outcomes for hundreds of men in Hampshire each year and positioning RHCH as a leading centre for this treatment of BPH.