Dr Beltrán brings prostate surgery to Andorra that previously required patients to travel abroad
The urologist says he has performed the country’s first three HoLEP procedures, with patients discharged the following day without a urinary catheter
Dr Beltrán has introduced holmium laser prostate surgery, known as HoLEP, in Andorra to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia.
Speaking to La Veu Lliure, he explained that he has already performed the first three procedures using this technique in the Principality, all on patients with enlarged prostates, with favourable outcomes.
The physician says that all three patients were discharged the day after surgery without a urinary catheter. A fourth procedure is already scheduled, and other patients are awaiting surgery.
According to Beltrán, this technique was not previously available in Andorra, meaning patients requiring the treatment had to be referred abroad. Its introduction makes this surgical option available within the country.
A procedure performed through the urethra
Benign prostatic hyperplasia is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, which becomes more common as men age. It can cause difficulty urinating, a weak urine stream, the need to get up several times during the night or, in some cases, an inability to urinate.
Surgery may be considered when symptoms are severe, complications develop or medication does not provide sufficient relief, as outlined by the British Association of Urological Surgeons.
HoLEP, or holmium laser enucleation of the prostate, is an endoscopic procedure. The urologist passes instruments through the urethra and uses a laser to separate and remove the prostate tissue causing the obstruction. It requires no external incisions and is performed under general or spinal anaesthesia, Beltrán explains.
An option for large prostates
The physician highlights that one advantage of this technique is its suitability for prostates of different sizes, including very large glands, such as those of the three patients he has treated in Andorra.
Beltrán says that, compared with other procedures, it can offer less bleeding, shorter hospital stays and faster recovery, as well as lasting results. In the cases he has treated in Andorra, patients stayed in hospital only until the day after surgery.
The urologist emphasises that the technique has been established for years across Europe, including Spain, and in the United States, and says he has extensive experience performing it. With the first procedures completed and further cases scheduled, he plans to continue offering the treatment in Andorra.