180-W XPS GreenLight laser vaporization for benign prostate hyperplasia: 12-month safety and efficacy results for glands larger than 80 mL

Bladder neck contracture following transurethral surgery of prostate: a retrospective single-center study

PURPOSE

Bladder neck contracture (BNC) is a rare but intolerant complication after transurethral surgery of prostate. The present study aims to investigate the incidence and risk factors of BNC in patients diagnosed benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) and following transurethral resection or enucleation of the prostate (TURP/TUEP).

METHODS

This retrospective study included 1008 BPH individuals who underwent transurethral surgery of the prostate between January 2017 and January 2022. Patients' demographics, medical comorbidities, urologic characteristics, perioperative parameters, and the presence of BNC were documented. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to identify the risk factors.

RESULTS

A total of 2% (20/1008) BPH patients developed BNC postoperatively and the median occurring time was 5.8 months. Particularly, the incidences of BNC were 4.7% and 1.3% in patients underwent Bipolar-TURP and TUEP respectively. Preoperative urinary tract infection (UTI), elevated PSA, smaller prostate volume (PV), bladder diverticulum (BD), and B-TURP were significantly associated with BNC in the univariate analysis. Further multivariate logistic regression demonstrated preoperative UTI (OR 4.04, 95% CI 2.25 to 17.42, p < 0.001), BD (OR 7.40, 95% CI 1.83 to 31.66, p < 0.001), and B-TURP (OR 3.97, 95% CI 1.55 to 10.18, p = 0.004) as independent risk factors. All BNC patients were treated with transurethral incision of the bladder neck (TUIBN) combined with local multisite injection of betamethasone. During a median follow-up of 35.8 months, 35% (7/20) of BNC patients recurred at a median time of 1.8 months.

CONCLUSION

BNC was a low-frequency complication following transurethral surgery of prostate. Preoperative UTI, BD, and B-TURP were likely independent risk factors of BNC. TUIBN combined with local multisite injection of betamethasone may be promising choice for BNC treatment.

Combination of 180-W GreenLight XPS laser and bipolar transurethral resection of prostate for the treatment of large prostates beyond 100 ml: a novel hybrid technique

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the 180-W GreenLight laser (GL) XPS™ plus bipolar transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) for the treatment of a prostate volume (PV) beyond 100 ml.

STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS

From January 2014 to December 2022, 79 patients with PV > 100 ml who underwent GL-XPS plus bipolar TURP were enrolled. The median follow-up time was 13.7 months. The International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), PV, uroflow study, post-void residual (PVR) volume, and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) before and after the operation were recorded. Subgroup analysis was performed to compare the outcomes between the patients with follow-up times of < 36 months and > 36 months.

RESULTS

Statistically significant improvements in all the postoperative parameters were observed in both < 36 months and > 36 months groups. There was no blood transfusion or transurethral resection (TUR) syndrome in this series. Most of all, a second TURP was unnecessary during the follow-up. Only one (1.3%) Clavien-Dindo grade 3b complication was noted.

CONCLUSIONS

The hybrid technique of 180-W XPS™ GreenLight laser plus bipolar TURP can be safely and efficiently performed on patients with a prostate volume of > 100 ml.

Functional outcomes of GreenLight 180-W photoselective vaporization in patients with large (≥ 80 cc) prostates: an analysis of over 3000 men in the Global Greenlight Group (GGG) database

INTRODUCTION

GreenLight photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) has gained widespread adoption as an option to traditional transurethral resection of the prostate. Prior reports expressed concern with the use of PVP in large prostates. The aim of this study was to investigate the adjusted outcomes of GreenLight PVP in men with large (≥ 80 cc) vs. small prostates (< 80 cc).

METHODS

Data were obtained from the Global Greenlight Group which pools data from 7 high volume centers. Men with established benign prostatic hyperplasia who underwent GreenLight PVP using the XPS-180 W system between 2011 and 2019 were eligible and assigned into two groups based on their prostate size (≥ 80 and < 80 cc). 11 functional and perioperative covariates were collected. Analyses were adjusted for patient age and presence of median lobe.

RESULTS

3426 men met the inclusion criteria. 34.6% (n = 1187) of patients had a large prostate size. Baseline age and prostate volume were significantly different between the groups. The magnitude of absolute improvement in unadjusted international prostate symptom score was significantly greater in the large (≥ 80 cc) prostate group at 12 months, with an absolute change of 19.17 points (95% CI 18.46-19.88; p < 0.01). There was also a significant drop in PVR at both 6- (p = 0.007) and 12 months (p = 0.005). There were no significant differences in transfusion (p = 0.42), hematuria (p = 0.80), or 30-day readmission rates (p = 0.28).

CONCLUSIONS

Greenlight PVP is a safe and effective alternative for patients with prostate sizes ≥ 80 cc, with durable outcomes relatively independent from prostate size.

Safety, efficacy and functional outcomes of photoselective vaporisation of the prostate: A single-centre experience

Objective:

The objective of this study was to report the safety, efficacy and functional outcomes following photoselective vaporisation of prostate (PVP) with GreenLight laser for benign prostatic enlargement (BPE).

Material and methods:

We retrospectively analysed men who underwent PVP from April 2011 to August 2019 for BPE. Preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative details were retrieved from electronic data software. The perioperative and functional outcomes were analysed.

Results:

A total of 147 patients, with a mean age of 65.4 years, underwent PVP (51 patients – high performance system (HPS), 120 Watts; 96 patients – xcelerated performance system (XPS), 180 Watts). In 20 (13.6%) patients, antiplatelet or anticoagulant were continued in the perioperative period. The mean operative time, lasing time, catheterization time and hospital stay were 54.4 minutes, 38.0 minutes, 48.7 hours and 2.73 days, respectively. Postoperatively, all the functional outcomes IPSS (international prostate symptom score), QOL (quality of life), Qmax (maximum flow rate) and PVR (postvoid residue) were significantly improved from the baseline. The most common complication was dysuria (36.7%). There was no significant perioperative bleeding complications in high-risk men who were on antiplatelet or anticoagulant therapy.

Conclusion:

PVP is a safe, efficacious and durable surgical option in BPE including patients on antiplatelet or anticoagulant therapy.

Level of evidence:

Level 4

Changing paradigms: Green laser vaporization for prostates over 80 ml. A comparative study

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

Benign prostatic enlargement (BPE) and big prostates are common. Photovaporization of the prostate (PVP) with Greenlight™ laser 180 W XPS, is considered a standard therapy for prostates smaller than 80 mL and an alternative for the treatment of bigger ones in selected cases. The aim of this study is to evaluate efficacy, safety and functional outcomes of PVP among patients with prostates over and under 80 mL.

METHODS

A cohort of 840 patients with BPE who underwent PVP with Greenlight™ laser between 2012-2019 in a single center was evaluated. Groups were stratified according to prostate volume, to less and greater than 80 mL(Groups 1 and 2 respectively). The primary outcomes were efficacy (PSA drop, improvement of IPSS and quality of life) and variables regarding safety of the procedure. Peri and postoperative outcomes were analyzed. Complications were assessed according to Clavien-Dindo classification. Overall patient satisfaction was evaluated with visual analogue scale.

RESULTS

Preoperative variables showed no statistical difference among groups. Mean follow up was 47 [IQR=26-70]months. Longer operative time and a higher energy use was seen in bigger prostates(p<0.001). Efficacy was similar between groups, with a reduction of ≥4 points in IPSS score in 83.1% and 89.5% in Groups 1 and 2(p=0.053), PSA drop was 1±2.6 and 1.7±4.7 (p=0.32). Group 2 had a higher conversion rate(0.3 vs. 4.9 %, p<0.001) and higher blood transfusion rate(0 vs. 2.4 %, p<0.001). There were no differences in hospital stay, catheterization time, urethral stricture or retreatment rates.

CONCLUSIONS

GreenLight PVP is a safe and effective procedure in prostates ≥80 mL. It shows the same advantages demonstrated for those under that volume, particularly short hospital stay and catheterization time. Surgeons experience is important to avoid complications, such as conversion and transfusion. PVP should be considered a first line alternative for the treatment of bigger prostates.

Greenlight laser photoselective vaporization vs open simple prostatectomy: long-term functional outcomes after treatment of large volume prostates (> 80 cc)

PURPOSE

To compare long-term outcomes between photoselective vaporization (PVP) and Open simple prostatectomy (OSP) for prostates > 80 cc.

METHODS

Men operated either by PVP or OSP for BPH > 80 cc were included in two expert centres. Functional and uroflowmetric outcomes were assessed pre- and postoperatively. Data were collected prospectively in the PVP group and retrospectively in the OSP group and compared at long-term follow-up. Complications and re-intervention rates were used as main outcomes.

RESULTS

332 men underwent surgery: 132 PVP were performed in a fist expert-centre and 200 OSP were performed in a second one with a median follow-up of 54 and 48 months, respectively. Mean Prostate volume was similar between OSP and PVP group (119 vs 116 cc). Major complications were more common in the OSP group (12.5 vs 1.5%, p < 0.001). At long-term follow-up, Qmax was higher and PVR was lower (p < 0.05) in the OSP group. IPSS score was similar between groups (p = 0.45) but the Qol was better in the OSP group (0.9 vs. 1.6; p < 0.05). There were more re-interventions in the PVP group compared to OSP (15.2 vs. 0%, p < 0.005).

CONCLUSION

PVP is a good alternative for prostates > 80 cc particularly for fragile patients as it is associated with a lower complication rate. At long-term follow-up, IPSS was similar between groups, but Qol was better in the OSP group. Patients treated by PVP should be informed that they could require reoperation in 15% of the cases.

Photoselective Vaporization of the Prostate in the Management of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms in Prostate Cancer Patients on Active Surveillance

OBJECTIVE

To demonstrate the safety and efficacy of photoselective vaporization of the prostate in alleviating refractory lower urinary tract symptoms in prostate cancer patients who are managed with active surveillance and to explore the association of this procedure with prostate specific antigen (PSA) levels and cancer progression rates.

METHODS

Between 2008-2018, active surveillance patients who had refractory symptoms and needed surgery were studied. Perioperative functional variables were collected and analyzed. Disease progression was defined as an upgrade or upstage on surveillance biopsies or multiparametric prostate magnetic resonance imaging. Mean postop scores were estimated using locally-weighted methods. The risk of progression was reported using Kaplan-Meier's method.

RESULTS

Seventy-one patients were included in the study. The median age was 68 years and the median surveillance time before surgery was 4 years. At 12 months, there were substantial improvements in the mean International Prostate Symptom Score (18-5.9), maximum flow rate (6.8-14 mL/s), postvoid residual (240-73mL), PSA (8.1-5.2 ng/mL), and prostate volume (85-57mL). At 30-days, only 2 patients with grade-III complications. Late consequences included tissue regrowth in 4 and urethral stricture (requiring a single dilation) in 3 patients. PSA levels decreased by 36% at 12 months postoperatively. With a median follow-up of 3.7 years, 7 men progressed and received radical treatment. At 3 years, the probability of remaining on surveillance was 93% (95% CI 87%- 100%).

CONCLUSION

Photoselective vaporization of the prostate offers substantial relief of symptoms in active surveillance patients with refractory symptoms, without adverse effects on disease progression rates.

A randomized trial comparing bipolar transurethral vaporization of the prostate with GreenLight laser (xps-180watt) photoselective vaporization of the prostate for treatment of small to moderate benign prostatic obstruction: outcomes after 2 years

OBJECTIVE

To test the non-inferiority of bipolar transurethral vaporization of the prostate (TUVP) compared to GreenLight laser (GL) photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) for reduction of benign prostatic hyperplasia-related lower urinary tract symptoms in a randomized trial.

METHODS

Eligible patients with prostate volumes of 30-80 mL were randomly allocated to GL-PVP (n = 58) or bipolar TUVP (n = 61). Non-inferiority of symptom score (International Prostate Symptom Score [IPSS]) at 24 months was evaluated. All peri-operative variables were recorded and compared. Urinary (IPSS, maximum urinary flow rate and post-void residual urine volume) and sexual (International Index of Erectile Function-15) outcome measures were evaluated at 1, 4, 12 and 24 months. Need for retreatment and complications, change in PSA level and health resources-related costs of both procedures were recorded and compared.

RESULTS

Baseline and peri-operative variables were similar in the two groups. At 1, 4, 12 and 24 months, 117, 116, 99 and 96 patients, respectively, were evaluable. Regarding urinary outcome measures, there was no significant difference between the groups. The mean ± sd IPSS at 1 and 2 years was 7.1 ± 3 and 7.9 ± 2.9 (P = 0.8), respectively, after GL-PVP and 6.3 ± 3.1 and 7.2 ± 2.8, respectively, after bipolar TUVP (P = 0.31). At 24 months, the mean difference in IPSS was 0.7 (95% confidence interval -0.6 to 2.3; P = 0.6). The median (range) postoperative PSA reduction was 64.7 (25-99)% and 65.9 (50-99)% (P = 0.006) after GL-PVP, and 32.1 (28.6-89.7)% and 39.3 (68.8-90.5)% (P = 0.005) after bipolar TUVP, at 1 and 2 years, respectively. After 2 years, retreatment for recurrent bladder outlet obstruction was reported in eight (13.8%) and 10 (16.4%) patients in the GL-PVP and bipolar TUVP groups, respectively (P = 0.8). The mean estimated cost per bipolar TUVP procedure was significantly lower than per GL-PVP procedure after 24 months (P = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

In terms of symptom control, bipolar TUVP was not inferior to GL-PVP at 2 years. Durability of the outcome needs to be tracked. The greater cost of GL-PVP compared with bipolar TUVP is an important concern.

The efficacy of green light laser prostatectomy in the management of urinary retention due to prostate hyperplasia

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of 120 W potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP) in the treatment of urinary retention (UR) due to benign prostate hyperplasia in high-risk patients. Forty-six male patients with mean age of 73.78 ± 9.82 years who اhad UR and underwent 120 W KTP laser vaporization of the prostate between January 2015 and June 2017 were included. We evaluated perioperative parameters including serum prostate specific antigen, prostate volume, period of postoperative catheterization, vaporization time, delivered energy, hospitalization period, as well as intraoperative and postoperative complications. In the follow-up protocols, International Prostate Symptom Score and quality-of-life questionnaire (IPPS-QoL) and postvoid residual volume (PVR) were also assessed. The mean follow-up period was 15.57 ± 9.26 (1-42) months. All patients get rid of UR, except 1 patient (2.1%) remained on Foley catheter and standard TURP was done. Mean vaporization time was 8.57 ± 4.19 min, and mean energy delivered was 51.7 ± 29.9 kJ. No intraoperative complications were observed and no blood transfusion was done. The mean postoperative IPSS at the last follow-up was 9.64 ± 6.65 and the QoL score was 1.61 ± 1.31. Green light laser prostatectomy is a safe, simple, and effective procedure for the treatment of UR secondary to BPH in high-risk patients. Short hospitalization, low rate of intra operative and postoperative complications with rapid improvements in the objective, and subjective voiding parameters are important considerations of this procedure.

Management of greenlight laser plus transurethral resection of prostate for elderly men

The study is aiming to evaluate the treatment safety and efficacy of greenlight laser photovaporization of the prostate (PVP) combined with transurethral electrovaporization resection (TUVP) for elderly (≥ 70 years) men with lower urinary tract symptoms due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH/LUTS) with a large prostate volume (≥ 80 mL). One hundred twelve BPH/LUTS patients treated with PVP were divided into 2 groups according to prostate volume (PV), the outcomes of the 2 groups were assessed at 12 months after the operation. Patients in the PV ≥ 80 group (n = 51) had a higher level of maximum detrusor pressure (Pdet.max) than those in the PV < 80 group (n = 61) (97.14  ±  36.68 vs 70.70 ± 32.55, P < .001). Pdet.max level of the 2 groups was significantly decreased at the end of follow-up. International Prostate Symptom Score questionnaires (IPSS) score, maximum flow rate (Qmax), and residual urine volume (PVR) were significantly improved in comparison to the preoperative status (P < .001). PVP combined with TUVP can significantly improve outcomes (IPSS, Qmax, PVR) and is a safe and effective technique for elderly BPH/LUTS patients with a large prostate volume.

Over-the-counter medication availability could augment self-management of male lower urinary tract symptoms

In this review, we focus on current trends in the management of male lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), defined here as LUTS, namely, storage, voiding, and post-micturition symptoms presumed secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and discuss possible novel approaches toward better care. According to results of a PubMed database search covering the last 10 years and using keywords pertaining to male LUTS, this condition continues to be globally undiagnosed or diagnosed late, partly because of men's hesitation to seek help for perceived embarrassing problems or problems considered a normal part of aging. In addition, the prevalence of male LUTS is continually increasing because of a constantly aging population. Male LUTS can be bothersome and affect the quality of life (QoL) and sexual function. Additional effective alternatives for managing this condition need to be identified and incorporated into the current care model. Considering that most male LUTS such as frequency, hesitancy, urgency, and intermittency are easy to self-identify, a self-management approach toward male LUTS is proposed. Limited evidence supports the efficacy of phytotherapies and herbals as self-management options for male LUTS. However, introducing over-the-counter (OTC) medication with proven efficacy, accompanied by lifestyle and behavioral modifications, may be a promising approach that will encourage more men to treat their symptoms in a timely manner. Formal guidelines, along with appropriate education programs for patients and support from the healthcare community, will be needed to ensure that the promise of this approach is fully materialized.

Photoselective vaporization of the prostate with the 180-W XPS-Greenlight laser: Five-year experience of safety, efficiency, and functional outcomes

INTRODUCTION

Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is still considered the gold standard surgical treatment for symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). However, photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) has gained widespread global acceptance in national guidelines as a safe and effective alternative option. Nevertheless, further evidence is required to assess the durability of Greenlight PVP. Herein, we report our five years of PVP experience with the Greenlight 180W XPS laser system.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted on a prospectively gathered database of 370 consecutively included patients who underwent PVP using Greenlight XPS-180 W laser system (Boston Scientific, Boston, MA, U.S.) performed by a single experienced laser surgeon between 2011 and 2016. Preoperative characteristics, intervention parameters, postoperative functional, uroflowmetry outcomes, and complications were collected. Outcomes are reported over a period of five years.

RESULTS

Mean age was 68 years, with a mean prostate volume of 78.8 cc (95% confidence interval [CI] 70.9-78.7]). The mean followup was 59.4 months (55.4-63.5). Mean energy, operative time, and energy/cc were 270.2 kJ (255.2-285.2), 62.7 minutes (59.6-65.7), and 3.7 kJ/cc (3.6-3.9), respectively. Compared to preoperative values, International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), maximum flow rate (Qmax), and post-void residual (PVR) parameters were significantly improved and sustained over the five postoperative years. Of note, only 66 patients (out of 370) had a complete five-year followup. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) reached nadir at one year, with a drop of 67% from the mean preoperative value of 6.2 ng/mL. Mean IPSS nadir was reached at three years, with a drop of 80.4% (-21.1 points). Similarly, mean quality of life (QoL) score dropped by 82.8% after three years (preoperative mean of 4.7). With respect to mean Qmax, there was an increase by 72.7% (+14.7 mL/s) at one year, reaching the value of 19.9 mL/s. Moreover, mean PVR was 32.8 mL at four years compared to 345 mL preoperatively. At five years followup, PSA, IPSS, QoL, and PVR dropped by 59.7% (3.7 ng/mL), 75.2% (19.7 points), 78.72% (3.7 points), and 84.4% (291.3 mL), respectively. Qmax increased by 12.9 mL/s. Clavien complication rates were low, with bladder neck stenosis observed in seven (1.6%) men. During the five-year followup, only four patients (1%) required BPH surgical re-intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first long-term reporting of Greenlight XPS-180W laser system. In experienced hands, the observed outcomes appear to demonstrate that Greenlight XPS-180 W laser system is safe, efficacious, and durable for the treatment of bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) secondary to BPH.

Robot-Assisted Versus Open Simple Prostatectomy for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia in Large Glands: A Propensity Score-Matched Comparison of Perioperative and Short-Term Outcomes

OBJECTIVE

To report the largest comparative analysis of robotic vs open simple prostatectomy (OSP) for large-volume prostate glands.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 103 patients that underwent open and 64 patients that underwent robotic simple prostatectomy from 2012 to 2016 at a single institution. A propensity score-matched analysis was performed with five covariates, including age, body mass index, race, Charlson comorbidity index, and prostate volume. Perioperative, postoperative, and functional outcomes were compared between groups.

RESULTS

After propensity score matching there were 59 patients in each group available for comparison. There was no statistically significant difference between groups for all preoperative demographic variables. Robotic compared with OSP demonstrated a significant shorter average length of stay (LOS) (1.5 vs 2.6 days, p < 0.001), but longer mean operative time (161 vs 93 minutes, p < 0.001). The robotic approach was also associated with a lower estimated blood loss (339 vs 587 mL, p < 0.001) and lower percentage hematocrit drop (12.3% vs 19.5%, p = 0.001). Two patients required blood transfusions in the robot group compared with four in the open group, but this was not significant (p = 0.271). Improvements in maximal flow rate, International Prostate Symptom Score, quality of life, postvoid residual, and postoperative prostate-specific antigen levels were similar before and after surgery for both groups, but there was no difference between groups. There was no difference in complications between groups.

CONCLUSION

Robotic simple prostatectomy is a safe and effective treatment for the surgical management of benign prostatic hyperplasia. It provides similar function outcomes to the open approach; however, offers the advantage of reduced LOS and reduced blood loss.

Bladder Neck Contracture After Endoscopic Surgery for Benign Prostatic Obstruction: Incidence, Treatment, and Outcomes

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

In recent years, new endoscopic techniques have been developed to reduce the morbidity of transurethral resection of the prostate. Nonetheless, complications are still frequently encountered and bladder neck contracture (BNC) is a well-described complication after endoscopic surgery for benign prostatic obstruction (BPO). Our aim is to review and discuss the contemporary incidence, the relevant treatment strategies, and their outcomes.

RECENT FINDINGS

Findings suggest that BNC is a common complication with an acceptably low incidence but can range in complexity. Most contractures were usually managed successfully with conservative measures; nevertheless, in patients with refractory BNC, various valuable management strategies were employed with different kinds of success and re-treatment rates. In consideration of these challenging possibilities, the treatment of BNC requires a tailored approach with patient-specific management that can range from simple procedures to complex surgical reconstruction.

[Outcomes of GreenLight XPS-180W laser photovaporization for BPH larger than 80mL]

AIM

To evaluate the results of GreenLight XPS photovaporization (PVP/XPS) with intraoperative transrectal ultrasonographic monitoring for the treatment of large Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) (>80mL).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Operative and perioperative data of 82 patients were collected prospectively. Complications and functional outcomes (IPSS, quality of life (QoL) score, maximal flow rate and post-void residual (PVR)) were evaluated at 1, 3, 12 months post-operatively prostate volume and PSA were assessed at 3 and 12 months post-operatively.

RESULTS

Median patient age was 68.5years (50-85). Twenty percent had an indwelling catheter and 5%/22% were on anticoagulant/antiplatelet therapy. Median prostate volume and PSA were 103mL (80-220) and 6.4ng/mL (0.66-44.0). Median operative time and energy delivered were 107min (46-219) and 581kJ (212-1193). Energy delivered/prostate volume was 5.4kJ/mL (1.6-10.5). Transurethral catheter was removed at day 1 or 2 in 96% of cases. Patients were discharged as outpatient, p.o. day 1 or day 2 in 4%, 55% and 21% of cases, respectively. Transfusion and Clavien≥3 complication rates were 1.2% and 3.7%. Significant improvement of IPSS (4 vs 19.5), QoL (1 vs 5), maximum flow rate (19.1 vs 8.2mL/s) and PVR (26 vs 100mL) was observed (P<0.001) at 12-months evaluation. PSA and prostate volume were decreased by 61 and 62%. Late complications were urethral strictures (6%), stress incontinence (1.2%). Eighty-five percent of patients had no antegrade ejaculation.

CONCLUSION

The treatment of large BPH with PVP/XPS is safe and effective, with a long operative time. The functional outcomes are good and stable at mid-term evaluation.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4.

GreenLight laser photoselective vaporization of the prostate for treatment of benign prostate hyperplasia/lower urinary tract symptoms in patients with different post-void residual urine

The purpose of this study is to assess the safety and efficacy of GreenLight laser photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) for the treatment of benign prostate hyperplasia/lower urinary tract symptoms (BPH/LUTS) in patients with different post-void residual urine (PVR). BPH/LUTS patients treated with PVP from January 2014 to January 2016 were enrolled in the present study. All patients were divided into PVR > 50, 50 ≤ PVR < 400, and PVR ≥ 400 ml groups, and standard general and urological methods for BPH/LUTS were carried out. PVP surgery was performed, and the follow-up outcome was investigated 6 months after surgery. A total of 429 patients were included, and there were no significant differences in comorbid diseases or habits among the three groups. The maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax) differed significantly among the groups (P < 0.001), while patients in the PVR < 50 ml group had higher maximum detrusor pressure (Pdet.max) level than the other two groups (P < 0.001). Patients in 50 ≤ PVR < 400 (P < 0.001) and PVR ≥ 400 (P < 0.001) ml groups were more likely to develop detrusor underactivity than those in the PVR < 50 ml group. All patients were treated with PVP, and there were no severe complications requiring rehospitalization or reoperation except nine designed re-treatments. Follow-up data of 387 patients were available. Significant improvement in outcome parameters (International Prostate Symptom Score [IPSS], Qmax, and PVR) was observed in comparison with baseline measurements for the three groups. PVP significantly improved the IPSS, Qmax, and PVR in patients with different PVR; PVP is a safe and effective procedure for BPH/LUTS patients.

Management of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Larger than 100 ml: Simple Open Enucleation Versus Transurethral Laser Prostatectomy

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is one of the most common causes of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in aging men. Over the age of 60, more than a half of men have BPH and/or bothersome LUTS. Contemporary guidelines advocate surgery as the standard of care for symptomatic BPH after failure of medical therapy, where the choice of the appropriate surgical procedure depends on the prostate size. Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) and simple open prostatectomy (OP) have been considered for decades the reference-standard techniques for men with prostate smaller and larger than 80 ml, respectively. However, both procedures are potentially associated with considerable perioperative morbidity which prompted the introduction of a variety of minimally invasive surgical techniques with comparable long-term outcomes compared to TURP and OP. Nevertheless, the management of prostates larger than 100 ml remains a clinical challenge. Transurethral anatomical enucleation of the prostate utilizing different laser energy represents an excellent alternative concept in transurethral BPH surgery. These procedures gained popularity and demonstrated similar outcomes to OP with the advantages of favorable morbidity profiles and shorter catheter time and hospital stay. Despite the fact that OP remains a viable treatment option for patients with bothersome LUTS secondary to very large prostates, this procedure has been to a large extent replaced by these emerging enucleation techniques. Given the advent of surgical alternatives, the current review presents an evidence-based comparison of the efficacy and safety profile of the currently available transurethral laser techniques with the standard OP for the management of BPH due to adenomas larger than 100 ml.

Safety and Efficacy of GreenLight XPS Laser Vapoenucleation in Prostates Measuring Over 150 mL

INTRODUCTION

The GreenLight™ XPS Laser System (GL-XPS) is a safe and efficacious treatment for lower urinary tract symptoms due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), but there is limited evidence on its use in prostates over 150 mL. We demonstrate the safety and efficacy of the GL-XPS system using a vapoenucleation technique in prostate glands measuring over 150 mL.

METHODS

We prospectively collected data on all consecutive patients with prostates measuring over 150 mL on transrectal ultrasound treated with the GL-XPS (AMS, Inc., Minnetonka, MN) at a tertiary referral center from September 2011 to October 2015. Data collected include prostate volume, International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and quality of life (QoL) scores, maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax), postvoid residual (PVR), prostate-specific antigen, complications, and reintervention rates.

RESULTS

Seventy male patients with a median prostate size of 202 mL (range 152-376 mL) were included. There were 41 patients (59%) in preoperative urinary retention with an indwelling catheter preoperatively. Thirty-seven (53%) patients were American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) class 2 and 33 (47%) were class 3. Median operative time was 180 minutes, laser time 97 minutes, energy utilization 674 kJ, and energy density 3.3 kJ/mL, with median 3 fibers used per case. Median length of stay and length of catheterization were 1 day. IPSS and QoL scores demonstrated significant improvements from baseline at all endpoints, improving from 16 to 3.5 and from 4 to 1 at 24 months, respectively (p = 0.001). At 12 months, Qmax and PVR improved from 10.1 to 22.4 mL/s (p = 0.043) and from 84 to 31.4 mL (p = 0.015), respectively. Retreatment was required in two patients (2.9%).

CONCLUSION

GL-XPS vapoenucleation provided durable subjective and objective improvements in symptoms and voiding parameters, with no serious adverse events in men with prostates >150 mL.

The role of lasers in modern urology

INTRODUCTION

The functioning of modern urological departments and the high level of service they provide is possible through, among other things, the use of modern laser techniques.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Open operations have been replaced by minimally invasive procedures, and classical surgical tools by advanced lasers. The search for new applications with lasers began as technology developed. Among many devices available, holmium, diode and thulium lasers are currently the most popular.

RESULTS

Depending on the wavelength, the absorption by water and hemoglobin and the depth of penetration, lasers can be used for coagulation, vaporization and enucleation. In many centres, after all the possibilities of pharmacological treatment have been exhausted, lasers are used as the primary treatment for patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia, with therapeutic results that are better than those obtained through open or endoscopic operations. The use of lasers in the treatment of urolithiasis, urinary strictures and bladder tumours has made treatment of older patients with multiple comorbidities safe, without further necessity to modify the anticoagulant drug treatment. Laser procedures are additionally less invasive, reduce hospitalization time and enable a shorter bladder catheterization time, sometimes even eliminating the need for bladder catherterization completely. Such procedures are also characterized by more stable outcomes and a lower number of reoperations.

CONCLUSIONS

There are also indications that with the increased competition among laser manufacturers, decreased purchase and maintenance costs, and increased operational safety, laser equipment will become mandatory and indispensable asset in all urology wards.

Contemporary review of the 532 nm laser for treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a condition that occurs increasingly with age. The established gold standard treatment for BPH has been the electrocautery-based transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). TURP, however, is associated with several complications and side effects. Therefore, there is an increasing interest in a number of emerging minimally invasive therapies as alterative treatment options. Laser therapy using the Greenlight laser is a promising alternative to the traditional TURP. Selective absorption by hemoglobin allows rapid, hemostatic vaporization of prostate tissue. Additional advantages include avoidance or minimization of complications such as intraoperative fluid absorption, and bleeding, retrograde ejaculation, impotence, and incontinence, as well as its use in treating high volume BPH. We review the use of the Greenlight laser in the treatment of BPH, when comparing complications and advantages in relation to TURP.

Safety, efficacy and reliability of 180-W GreenLight laser technology for prostate vaporization: review of the literature

PURPOSE

The aim of this study is to investigate the efficacy and safety of 180-W XPS GreenLight laser technology for photoselective prostate vaporization.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A systematic search of the electronic databases was performed. Inclusion criteria were: full-text peer-reviewed journal article, with original data analysis that evaluates the feasibility and the outcome only of 180-W XPS GL laser system. Data at baseline and during follow-up have been taken into account. Intra-operative and postoperative (functional results and complications) data were collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

We found 165 articles in our research, among which only nine articles were selected (total 991 patients). A certain grade of variability is present in all the studies in terms of scientific design, sample size and methods of reporting functional results and complications. Nevertheless, a homogenous benefit for patients in terms of symptom score improvement, post-void residual volume reduction and urinary max flow rate improvement was shown. According to Clavien-Dindo classification, 292 (83.7%) adverse events were recorded ≤ grade 2. Adverse events ≥ grade 3 were 57 (16.3%), among which bleeding, urinary retention and residual obstructive tissue represented the wide majority. No mortality was reported. Male sexual function was poorly investigated.

CONCLUSIONS

The 180-W XPS GL laser technique is feasible and safe, with a remarkable clinical benefit. Long-term evidence on outcomes and complications are suitable even in the sphere of male sexuality.