This method developed in the United States combines the advantages of endoscope prostate removal (TURP) with those of the laser therapy. It is performed under general anesthesia by placing a telescope into the urethra up to the level of the prostate. The laser fiber is guided through the scope and the prostate tissue is then quickly and gently removed in layers. The surgeon controls the laser operation at the monitor to the nearest millimeter. Because the laser does not penetrate the tissue that deeply, little or no bleeding occurs, which is a great advantage for patients who depend on blood thinning medication. Other benefits are the procedure only involves a short stay in the hospital, and in individual cases even on an outpatient basis. A urethral catheter is often only placed for one night; in many cases, a catheter is not at all necessary.