Feasibility and Utility of a Prehabilitation Program for Use in Patients With Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Who Have Elected to Undergo Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP).
This study explores a special program called 'prehabilitation' for men having surgery for an enlarged prostate (a condition called BPH). Many older men experience BPH, which can cause bothersome bladder problems. The surgery, called HoLEP, is very effective, but men often experience temporary difficulty controlling their bladder afterwards, which can be upsetting. Prehabilitation involves guided exercise, information, and emotional support in the months leading up to surgery. It's already shown promise in other areas. This study will see if this kind of preparation can safely help men having HoLEP recover better, especially by reducing the time they experience temporary bladder control issues after their operation.
At a glance
What is this study about?
If you're a man experiencing problems with an enlarged prostate, you're not alone. This condition, known as benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH, becomes more common as men get older, affecting many over 45 and most over 70. While it's not cancer, BPH can cause uncomfortable urinary symptoms like difficulty peeing, frequent infections, or even bladder stones. For severe cases, a surgery called HoLEP (Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate) is often recommended. It’s a very effective operation for dealing with BPH.
After HoLEP surgery, it's quite common for men to have a temporary period where they struggle with bladder control. This can be understandably worrying and frustrating. This study is looking at whether a special program, known as 'prehabilitation,' can help men prepare for their HoLEP surgery and improve their recovery, especially by shortening the time they experience these temporary bladder control issues.
'Prehabilitation' isn't a new concept; it's like training for a marathon, but for your surgery. It involves activities and support in the weeks or months before your operation. In this study, it includes special exercises for your pelvic floor muscles (which help with bladder control), access to helpful information, and even emotional support or counseling. Researchers want to see if this preparation makes a real difference in how quickly men recover and feel better after their HoLEP surgery.
Key takeaways
- This study evaluates pre-surgery preparation ('prehabilitation') for men undergoing HoLEP.
- It aims to see if targeted exercise, information, and support improve recovery and bladder control after surgery.
- BPH is a common condition causing bothersome urinary symptoms in older men.
- HoLEP is an effective surgery, but temporary bladder control issues are common afterwards.
- Participants will either receive standard care or a 12-week prehabilitation program.
- Data will be collected before, during, and up to one year after surgery.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for men who have decided to have HoLEP surgery for an enlarged prostate (BPH). To join, your prostate should be estimated to be larger than 60ml. It's important that your doctor has given you permission to exercise, as this is a key part of the program.
You also need to have access to a computer or smartphone and the internet. This is so you can fill out questionnaires during the study and look at online educational materials that are part of the program.
Men cannot take part if they have other medical or mental health conditions that would prevent them from exercising safely or using online learning tools. The study is open to men aged 18 and older.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you having HoLEP surgery for an enlarged prostate (BPH)?
- Has your doctor said your prostate is estimated to be over 60ml in size?
- Has your doctor given you the go-ahead to start an exercise program?
- Do you have easy access to a computer or smartphone and the internet?
- Are you 18 years old or older?
What does participation involve?
If you take part in this study, you'll be put into one of two groups by chance (like flipping a coin). One group will receive the usual care before their HoLEP surgery. The other group will take part in a 'prehabilitation' program for at least 12 weeks leading up to their surgery. This program includes specialized exercises for your pelvic floor muscles, extra information, and support for your emotional well-being, possibly including one-to-one or couples counseling.
Regardless of which group you're in, the study team will collect some general information about you and your health. You'll also be asked to complete several questionnaires that check your bladder function. You'll do these questionnaires three times: before any prehabilitation starts, just before your surgery, and periodically for up to one year after your surgery. The goal is to see how your bladder function changes over time.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Southern Alberta Institute of UrologyVerified postcodeCalgary, Canada
Common questions
What is HoLEP surgery?
HoLEP is a very effective surgery for men with an enlarged prostate (BPH) that uses a laser to remove the excess prostate tissue which is causing urinary problems.
What does 'prehabilitation' mean?
Prehabilitation is like 'pre-op training' – it's a program of exercises, learning, and support you do before surgery to help you recover better afterwards.
Will I definitely get the prehabilitation program?
Because this is a study, participants are randomly assigned to either the prehabilitation group or the standard care group, like drawing names from a hat.
What are 'pelvic floor exercises'?
These are exercises specifically designed to strengthen the muscles that support your bladder and help with bladder control. You'll be taught how to do them correctly.
How long will the study follow me?
The study will track your progress and ask you to complete questionnaires for up to one year after your HoLEP surgery.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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