Tri-lobar HoLEP vs En-bloc HoLEP: learning curves in men with enlarged prostates
Official title: Comparison of the Learning Curves of Tri-lobar Versus En-bloc Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate: A Prospective Randomized Clinical Trial
Run by Tanta University · NCT07890103 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether the tri-lobar or en-bloc HoLEP technique is easier to learn for surgeons new to HoLEP in men with BPH and prostate sizes 80–150 cc.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 50 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | Men only |
| Enrollment | 120 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Tanta University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Tanta) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | November 2026 |
| Main results expected | October 2027 |
| Study ends | October 2027 |
| Registry record updated | November 4, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07890103 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are men with BPH and prostate volume 80–150 cc who have not previously learned or performed HoLEP.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients whose prostatic anatomy or comorbidities necessitate alternative procedures may not benefit from these learning-curve findings.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This interventional study compares two HoLEP techniques—tri-lobar and en-bloc—for learning curves in surgeons without prior independent experience in either method. It uses a prospective alternating design to minimize bias from increasing experience, aiming to see which technique is learned more quickly and how each affects early performance and safety. Eligible participants are men with BPH requiring HoLEP and prostate volumes between 80 and 150 cc, operated on by HoLEP-naïve surgeons. Outcomes will focus on feasibility, adverse events, and technical milestones during the initial adoption of each technique. The study is conducted at Tanta University, led by the Faculty of Medicine at Tanta University, with no stated collaborators.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the study could guide training strategies and help surgeons choose the technique that offers a smoother learning curve.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have explored HoLEP techniques separately, but direct comparison of learning curves using a prospective alternating design is less common and this approach is relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * BPH requiring HoLEP * Prostate 80-150 cc * Performed by surgeons with no previous independent experience in the evaluated techniques Exclusion Criteria: * Previous prostate surgery * Neurogenic bladder * Prostate cancer * Simultaneous bladder surgery * Extremely large prostates (\>150 cc)
Where it's running
-
Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University
Tanta, Egypt Recruiting
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.