Sigurd experienced urinary retention for three months and had a catheter inserted by doctors in Norway, but surgery for his enlarged prostate had not yet been scheduled. In late July, he visited his wife's family in Vietnam and sought treatment at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City. Dr. Phan Truong Nam, from the Department of Urology, diagnosed an enlarged prostate causing pressure and leading to prolonged urinary retention and a urinary tract infection. Sigurd also had hypertension and diabetes.

Dr. Nam prescribed medication to address the urinary tract infection. Five days later, Sigurd underwent holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) surgery. The prostate tissue was enucleated using laser energy and then morcellated and removed through the urethra.

According to Dr. Nam, compared to traditional surgery, HoLEP is less painful, has a lower risk of bleeding, removes the maximum amount of prostate tissue, allows for faster recovery and shorter hospital stays, and has a very low recurrence rate.

Dr. Nam (center) and the surgical team performing HoLEP surgery on Sigurd. *Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital*

Three days after the procedure, Sigurd recovered, resumed normal activities, and his urinary retention was resolved. Dr. Nam advised him to rest, avoid strenuous activities and sexual intercourse initially, and adhere to follow-up appointments to monitor his health and prevent complications.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or an enlarged prostate, can cause symptoms such as frequent urination, especially at night, difficulty urinating, a weak stream, and the feeling of incomplete emptying. The risk of BPH increases with age, particularly in men over 50. Other risk factors include a family history of BPH, being overweight or obese, lack of exercise, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, having conditions like diabetes or heart disease, and exposure to harmful chemicals.

To prevent BPH, men should maintain a healthy diet, limit red meat and processed foods, avoid stimulants and tobacco, moderate alcohol intake, and exercise regularly. Regular check-ups can help detect and treat the condition early.

BPH is benign and treatable if detected and addressed promptly. Men 50 and older experiencing urinary problems should consult a doctor for a digital rectal exam, ultrasound, or prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test. Treatment options include medication or surgery.

Ha Thanh

*The patient's name has been changed.