Expanded Criteria Same Day Catheter Removal Following Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP)

Abstract

Introduction and Objectives Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) is a highly effective treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Technical advances and improved hemostatic properties of Holmium lasers have allowed for increased efficiency and outcomes. Same day catheter removal following HoLEP was described at our institution in 2020 following a 30-patient pilot trial. We now present an expanded update following widespread adoption at our facility. Methods We reviewed patients who underwent same day catheter removal after HoLEP between 1/1/2020 and 3/21/2021. Unlike previous trials, there were no limitations to prostate size. Other changes included catheter removal in phase two of recovery when nursing was available rather than the urology clinic. Descriptive statistics are presented of preoperative, operative, and postoperative data. Univariate and multivariate analysis was performed to assess associations with failure of same day void trial. Results The success rate of same-day catheter removal for the 114 identified patients was 87.7%. Mean age was 69.1  8.6 years and prostate volume was 109.2  61.5cc, 35% were dependent on catheterization for urinary retention preoperatively and 9% were on antiplatelet/anticoagulant therapy. A total of 26.5% of patients with ASA 3 or 4 failed catheter removal compared to 3.9% of patients with ASA 1 or 2 (Likelihood ratio 9.32, p=0.002), ASA status lost significance on multivariate analysis (p=0.076). Successful catheter removal was not significantly associated with age, BMI, prostate size, catheter dependency, anticoagulation/antiplatelet therapy, AUA symptom score, prior BPH surgery, or prostate cancer in final pathology. Conclusion Regardless of prostate size, same day catheter removal is a safe and reliable method of post-HoLEP patient management. Patients with an ASA 3 or 4 should be counseled regarding potential risks of temporary re-catheterization. Given ongoing nationwide shortages in hospital beds and staffing, same day discharge and catheter removal may allow for wider availability of surgical treatment for BPH.