Holmium Laser Ablation Versus Photoselective Vaporization of Prostate Less Than 60 cc: Long-Term Results of a Randomized Trial

Laser Technology Advancements in the Treatment of Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Lasers have had a significant impact on the treatment of benign prostatic hypertrophy. This article attempts to distill the advancements in laser technology for the treatment of benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) into key and understandable points to help make this topic more accessible to urologists.

RECENT FINDINGS

The holmium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet (YAG) laser, one of the most significant lasers in the field of urology, has recently been improved with pulse modulating technology (Moses™ technology). New thulium:YAG technology allows both pulsed and continuous wave modes. The thulium fiber laser is one of the newer lasers to come to market and has been shown to have effective and safe outcomes. GreenLight™ lasers are predominantly used in photovaporization procedures and have also been studied extensively, although less in recent years. The modern urologist is fortunate to have many high-quality lasers and a wide variety of surgical techniques to choose from when treating BPH. Understanding the basic laser principles and applications will help urologists to select the best treatment options for their patients with BPH.

Holmium Laser Xpeeda Vaporization vs GreenLight XPS Vaporization of the Prostate for Benign Prostatic Obstruction: 1-Year Results from a Randomized Controlled Clinical Study

Introduction and Objective: To compare the safety and efficacy of Holmium Laser Xpeeda Vaporization and GreenLight XPS Vaporization of the prostate in patients with prostate size ≤80 g. Methods: Ninety-two men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate size ≤80 g scheduled for laser prostatectomy were included in this prospective randomized trial. Outcome measures were collected and compared, including International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), quality of life (QoL), flow rate, postvoid residual urine volume (PVR), International Index of Erectile Dysfunction (IIEF)-15, prostate-specific antigen (PSA), transrectal ultrasound prostate volume, and catheterization time. Perioperative complications were also recorded. Patients were offered a trial of void (TOV) 3 hours after their procedures. All patients were followed-up at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. Results: There were no significant differences in preoperative baseline data between the two surgical groups. Operative parameters and postoperative outcomes were comparable. Effective same-day TOV was noted in 73.1% and 72.7% of the Xpeeda and GreenLight XPS patients, respectively (p = 0.98). All patients were discharged home within 24 hours of their surgeries. The laser energy and postoperative complications were significantly lower in the Xpeeda group (p = 0.002 and p = 0.026, respectively). At 3 months, the PSA levels significantly dropped in both groups (p = 0.002 and p < 0.001). There were no significant differences in functional and sexual outcomes between the two groups at 12 months. Conclusions: Holmium Laser Xpeeda Vaporization and GreenLight XPS Vaporization are safe and effective in the treatment of BPH. Same-day discharge with early TOV is a feasible option. Clinical Trials.gov Identifier: NCT04386941.

[Quality of life and outcome after holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP)]

BACKGROUND

Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP) was established 20 years ago as an alternative to Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TUR-P) based on improved morbidity in patients with benign prostate syndrome (BPS). HoLEP can be applied independently to almost all sizes of prostate glands and is recommended in national and international guidelines. Although the HoLEP procedure has a good reputation, many patients still prefer conservative treatment due to fears of side-effects such as pain and urinary incontinence. The aim of this study was to identify patients' feelings, fears and perception of their HoLEP treatment based on Patient-reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) via questionnaires.

MATERIAL UND METHODS

During the time period from June to December 2020, 152 consecutive patients were treated by HoLEP due to BPS and were interviewed based on questionnaires right after their surgical treatment and 3 months later concerning their satisfaction as well as micturition and continence. Based on a written informed consent, 112 patients were included in the study, and a complete 3-month follow-up was available for 88 patients.

RESULTS

The mean volume of enucleated prostate tissue was 62.1 [g] and the mean prostate volume estimated pre-operatively (trans-rectal ultrasound) was 83.1 [cm3]. Overall patient-reported satisfaction with the hospital stay including surgical treatment was 94.6%; after 3 months it was 91.8%. Concerning micturition, 76.5% of the patients reported satisfaction after surgery and 80.4% were satisfied after 3 months. Urinary incontinence was reported in 8.3% initially and in 9.1% after 3 months. Positive answers to questions concerning the quality of life index [L] were obtained in 62.1% initially and their number increased to 85.7% after 3 months. The share of negative answers decreased from 11.7% after surgery to 3.4% within the 3-month follow-up.

DISCUSSION

HoLEP is a well-established treatment of BPS with lower side-effects compared with TUR-P according to the literature. To address doubts and misgivings, it is important to perform surveys on subjective patient satisfaction after the surgical procedure and over time. The high patient satisfaction could help future patients and the urologists treating them to establish the indication for HoLEP treatment earlier in order to avoid severe LUTS or catheterization.

Erectile Function Following Surgery for Benign Prostatic Obstruction: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials

CONTEXT

Benign prostatic obstruction (BPO) is associated with sexual dysfunction. Furthermore, numerous BPO interventions may themselves impact sexual function.

OBJECTIVE

To perform a systematic review with network meta-analysis to evaluate how BPO interventions affect erectile function.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

Three databases were searched for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing surgical interventions for BPO. The primary outcome was postoperative International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5) score at ten time points up to 72 mo. A random-effects Bayesian network meta-analysis with meta-regression was performed. In comparison to monopolar transurethral resection (mTURP), the mean difference (MD) with 95% credible interval (CrI) and rank probability (rank p) were calculated for interventions. The mean baseline score was studied in meta-regression. τ² values were used to quantify heterogeneity.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

A total of 48 papers (33 RCTs, 5159 patients, 16 interventions) were included. Prostatic urethral lift (PUL) ranked highest at 1 mo (MD 3.88, 95% CrI -0.47 to 8.25; rank p = 0.742), 6 mo (MD 2.43, 95% CrI -0.72 to 5.62; rank p = 0.581), 12 mo (MD 2.94, 95% CrI -0.26 to 6.12, rank p = 0.782), and 24 mo (MD 3.63, 95% CrI 0.14 to 7.11; rank p = 0.948), at which point statistical significance was reached. At time points up to 60 mo, there were no statistically significant comparisons for other interventions. Analyses were not possible at 18, 48, or 72 mo. β did not reach statistical significance in meta-regression. τ² was highest at 1 mo (0.56) and 60 mo (0.55).

CONCLUSIONS

PUL ranked highly and resulted in erectile function improvement at 24 mo compared to mTURP, but direct evidence is lacking. We did not observe significant differences in erectile function following other interventions up to 60 mo. Owing to heterogeneity, our conclusions are weakest at 1 and 60 mo. Further RCTs comparing sexual function outcomes are recommended, such as PUL versus holmium laser or bipolar enucleation.

PATIENT SUMMARY

Different surgical treatments can be used to treat benign enlargement of the prostate causing urinary problems. We compared the effects of various treatments on erectile function at time points up to 5 years after surgery. Compared to surgical removal of some of the prostate gland (transurethral resection of the prostate, TURP), a technique called prostatic urethral lift resulted in better erectile function scores at 24 months. However, other treatments did not differ in their effect on erectile function.

Holmium laser technologies versus photoselective greenlight vaporization for patients with benign prostatichyperplasia: a meta-analysis

This study aims to compare the efficacy and safety of holmium laser technologies (HoL-Ts) and photoselective greenlight vaporization (PVP) for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and to perform a meta-analysis according to the Preferred Reporting Items of Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines on PubMed, EMBASE, ClinicalTrial.gov, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials up to August 2019. Functional outcomes, perioperative parameters, and complications were included and analyzed. Review Manager 5.3 (Cochrane Collaboration, Oxford, UK) was used to perform all analyses. A total of six articles composed of 2014 patients were included in this review. In comparison with PVP, HoL-Ts had a better performance in 1-, 3-, and 6-month Qmax (P = 0.02, but I² = 81%), with less postvoid residual urine volume (PVR) (MD = -33.85, 95% CI -52.13 to -15.57, P = 0.0003) and less total energy used (MD = -31.66, 95% CI -58.99 to -4.33, P = 0.02). Moreover, HoL-Ts had a relatively lower risk of conversion rate (OR = 0.08, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.60, P = 0.01) associated with enough enucleation and less intraoperative bleeding. Subgroup analysis of holmium laser enucleation of prostate (HoLEP) versus PVP suggested that HoLEP presented better results in 1-, 3-, 6-month and 1-year Qmax with less PVR, less energy consumption, and lower conversion rate. Compared with PVP, HoL-Ts had higher 1-, 3-, and 6-month Qmax, less PVR, and less total energy consumption with a relatively lower risk of conversion rate. In subgroup analyses, HoLEP had shown better results in accordance with all HoL-Ts. Nevertheless, well-designed RCTs including overall functional indicators are required to confirm our findings.

Optimal Monitoring of Prostate-Specific Antigen Detects Prostate Cancer at the Localized Stage after Photoselective Vaporization for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Introduction

Photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) does not provide prostate tissue for pathologic analysis. Here, we carried out early monitoring for prostate cancer by measuring prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels and assessing clinicopathological features after PVP.

Materials and Methods

Patients (n = 800) who underwent PVP and were followed-up for more than 12 months were analyzed retrospectively. After PVP, PSA levels were measured at 3 and 12 months and each year thereafter. Prostate biopsies were performed when PSA levels increased continuously. We assessed the characteristics of patients diagnosed with prostate cancer.

Results

The mean follow-up period was 49 months. After PVP, 54 patients underwent biopsies, and 23 patients were diagnosed with prostate cancer. Overall, 10, 10, and 3 patients had clinical stage T1c, T2a, and T2b disease, respectively, and there were no cases of stage T2c disease or greater.

Conclusions

We found that it was possible to diagnose prostate cancer at a localized stage under our optimal PSA monitoring schedule before and after PVP.

Transurethral procedures in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia: A systematic review and meta-analysis of effectiveness and complications

BACKGROUND

With the progress of surgical techniques and instruments, various minimally invasive surgical therapies were developed to treat benign prostatic hyperplasisa (BPH). However, the efficacy and safety of different transurethral procedures for the treatment of BPH are still undefined.

METHOD

A systematic search was performed for all randomized controlled trials (RCTs), which compared the transurethral procedures for BPH from 1995 to 2016. The clinical baseline characteristics, International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), quality of life (QoL), postvoid residual (PVR), maximum flow rate (Qmax), short-term and long-term complications were analyzed using RevMan and ADDIS software.

RESULT

Eighty-eight randomly controlled trials and fifteen procedures were included in the network meta-analysis. HoLEP greatly inproved PVR. TmLRP had the best efficacy in improving QoL score. Diode laser vaporization of prostate was superior in improving IPSS and Qmax. Diode laser through vaporization required the shortest time in catheterization, while Nd:YAG was the longest procedure. For the hospitalization time, TUR was the longest and HoLEP was the shortest. TmLRP was related to the lowest postoperative hemoglobin decrease. TmLEP had the least rates of occurrence of hematuria, reoperation and erectile dysfunction. HoLEP was the best choice to reduce the incidence of recatheterization, urinary retention, urinary tract infection, stress urinary incontinence and retrograde ejaculation. The complications such as blood transfusion, urethral stricture, bladder neck contracture were relatively rare in the patients who underwent diode laser vaporization of prostate.

CONCLUSION

Compared with other transurethral procedures, thulium, holmium and diode lasers were associated with better efficacy and fewer complications.

Photoselective Vaporesection of the Prostate via an End-firing Lithium Triborate Crystal Laser

The occurrence of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common problem with a high incidence in the aging male population. Although it is not a life-threatening disease, BPH causes problems that seriously impact the quality of life. Here, we introduce a new technique called photoselective vaporesection of the prostate (PVRP) in treating BPH, which can be seen as a variation of photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP). This procedure presents several advantages compared to the PVP technique including less laser energy loss, less intraoperative complications as well as more tissue resection rate.

Optimising patient outcomes with photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP): a review

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common pathology causing lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and may significantly impact quality of life. While transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) remains the gold standard treatment, there are many evolving technologies that are gaining popularity. Photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) is one such therapy which has been shown to be non-inferior to TURP. We aimed to review the literature and discuss factors to optimise patient outcomes in the setting of PVP for BPH. A comprehensive search of the electronic databases, including MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science and The Cochrane Library was performed on articles published after the year 2000. After exclusion, a total of 38 papers were included for review. The evolution of higher powered device has enabled men with larger prostates and those on oral anticoagulation to undergo safely and successfully PVP. Despite continued oral anticoagulation in patients undergoing PVP, the risk of bleeding may be minimised with 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitor (5-ARI) therapy however further studies are required. Pre-treatment with 5-ARI’s does not hinder the procedure however more studies are required to demonstrate a reliable benefit. Current data suggests that success and complication rate is largely influenced by the experience of the operator. Post-operative erectile dysfunction is reported in patients with previously normal function following PVP, however those with a degree of erectile dysfunction pre-operatively may see improvement with alleviation of LUTS.

Photoselective Vaporesection of the Prostate with an End-firing Lithium Triborate Crystal Laser

Background:

Photoselective vaporization of the prostate is a technique that is widely used for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and has pronounced advantages compared to the traditional transurethral resection of the prostate. Following the recent introduction of end-firing lithium triborate lasers, we have created a new technique called photoselective vaporesection of the prostate (PVRP). This study described our initial experience using the PVRP technique for the treatment of BPH.

Methods:

This prospective study included a total of 35 patients with BPH who underwent PVRP from August 2013 to July 2014. The chief clinical parameters were obtained and evaluated during the perioperative period and follow-up, including the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), quality of life (QoL) score, maximum urinary flow rate, and prostate volume. All variables were evaluated for statistically significant differences compared to baseline values using the analysis of variance.

Results:

The mean subgroup IPSS and QoL scores significantly improved during follow-up; the respective decreases in IPSS storage score, IPSS voiding score, IPSS nocturia score, and QoL score were 75.3%, 83.6%, 51.4%, and 71.7%, respectively (all P < 0.001 compared with baseline). Three patients were diagnosed with prostate cancer based on postoperative pathological examinations. There were no serious perioperative complications.

Conclusion:

The PVRP technique demonstrates satisfactory short-term clinical outcomes and perioperative safety in the treatment of BPH.

[S2e guideline of the German urologists: Instrumental treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia]

This report summarizes the relevant aspects of the S2e guideline of the German Urologists for the instrumental treatment of the lower urinary tract symptoms due to benign prostatic hyperplasia. Recommendations are given regarding open and transurethral procedures (TUR-P, bipolar TUR-P, TUI-P, HE-TUMT, TUNA, and the different Laser techniques). Recommendations are also given concerning intraprostatic stents and injection therapies. The influence of the different therapeutic options on bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) is described in detail.

The impact of surgical treatments for lower urinary tract symptoms/benign prostatic hyperplasia on male erectile function: A systematic review and network meta-analysis

Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS)/benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is common in adult men and can impair erectile function (EF). It was believed surgical treatments for this illness can improve EF due to the relief of LUTS while they were also reported harmed EF as heating or injury effect. Current network meta-analysis aimed to elucidate this discrepancy.Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were identified. Direct comparisons were conducted by STATA and network meta-analysis was conducted by Generate Mixed Treatment Comparison. Random-effects models were used to calculate pooled standard mean difference and 95% confidence intervals and to incorporate variation between studies.Eighteen RCTs with 2433 participants were analyzed. Nine approaches were studied as transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), plasmakinetic resection of the prostate (PKRP), plasmakinetic enucleation of the prostate (PKEP), Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP), Holmium laser resection of the prostate (HoLRP), photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP), Thulium laser, open prostatectomy (OP), and laparoscopic simple prostatectomy (LSP). In direct comparisons, all surgical treatments did not decrease postoperative International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF)-5 score except PVP. Moreover, patients who underwent HoLEP, PKEP, Thulium laser, and TURP had their postoperative EF significantly increased. Network analysis including direct and indirect comparisons ranked LSP at the highest position on the variation of postoperative IIEF-5 score, followed by PKRP, HoLEP, TURP, Thulium laser, PKEP, PVP, HoLRP, and OP. In subgroup analysis, only PVP was found lower postoperative EF in the short term and decreased baseline group, whereas TURP increased postoperative IIEF-5 score only for patients with normal baseline EF. However, HoLEP and PKEP showed pro-erectile effect even for patients with decreased baseline EF and short-term follow-up. Our novel data demonstrating surgical treatments for LUTS/BPH showed no negative impact on postoperative EF except PVP. Moreover, HoLEP and PKEP were found pro-erectile effect for all subgroups. New technologies, such as LSP, PKRP, and Thulium laser, were ranked at top positions in the network analysis, although they had no pro-erectile effect in direct comparison due to limited original studies or poor baseline EF. Therefore, further studies and longer follow-up are required to substantiate our findings.

Risk Factors for Reoperation After Photoselective Vaporization of the Prostate Using a 120 W GreenLight High Performance System Laser for the Treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

OBJECTIVE

We investigated risk factors in a large cohort of patients who underwent reoperation after photoselective vaporization of the prostate using the 120 W GreenLight High Performance System laser for treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia.

BACKGROUND DATA

Complications such as recurrent/residual adenoma, urethral stricture, or bladder neck might occur after photoselective vaporization of the prostate for treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We reviewed the data of 1040 patients who underwent photoselective vaporization of the prostate between April 2009 and December 2014, and analyzed the clinical data of 630 patients who completed >12 months of follow-up. Patients were evaluated for perioperative and late complications. Reoperation was defined as the necessity for any surgical intervention to resolve recurrent/residual adenoma, urethral stricture, or bladder neck contracture. Patients with recurrent/residual adenoma, urethral stricture, or bladder neck contracture were compared with those without complications to identify the risk factors for reoperation. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to estimate the risk of reoperation.

RESULTS

Reoperation was performed in 25 of 630 patients (3.9%) at 35.5 months mean follow-up: 12 had recurrent/residual adenoma, 5 had urethral stricture, and 8 had bladder neck contracture. Multivariate analysis revealed that a higher prostate-specific antigen (PSA) (OR, 1.129; p = 0.023) and longer lasing time (OR, 0.883; p = 0.024) were predictors of recurrent/residual adenoma. Urethral stricture was associated with a history of transurethral surgery (OR, 1.321; p = 0.042). Preoperative small prostate volume was a risk factor for bladder neck contracture (OR, 0.901; p = 0.011).

CONCLUSIONS

In our study, the significant factors related to recurrent/residual adenoma were a high preoperative PSA and longer lasing time. A history of transurethral surgery was significantly associated with urethral stricture, whereas preoperative small prostate volume was significantly associated with bladder neck contracture.

Changing patients' profile presenting for surgical management of benign prostatic hyperplasia over the past 16 years: A single-centre perspective

INTRODUCTION

We assessed the change of patients' profile presenting for symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) over 16 years and its impact on surgical outcomes over this time.

METHODS

We reviewed a prospectively maintained database of patients treated with laser for symptomatic BPH since March 1998. Patients were divided into 3 consecutive time-based groups: Group 1 for patients who underwent surgery before April 2004; Group 2, between April 2004 and March 2009; and for Group 3 from April 2009 to August 2014. We reviewed demographic and preoperative data, including prostate volume; international prostate symptoms score (IPSS), quality of life (QoL), and peak flow rate (Qmax). We also recorded any perioperative and long-term complications.

RESULTS

A total of 1835 patients were included in our study, including 542 (29.5%) in Group 1, 614 (33.5%) in Group 2, and 679 (37%) in Group 3. Preoperative prostate volume was positively correlated with age at surgery (r = 0.62, p < 0.001), total energy used (r = 0.47, p < 0.001), and total operative time (r = 0.47, p < 0.001). Patients in Group 3 were significantly older (75.28 ± 8.47 in Group 3 vs. 71.11 ± 8.9 in Group 2 vs. 65.3 ± 9.04 years in Group 1, p <0.001), were more coagulopathic (18.7% Group 3 vs. 12.3% Group 2 vs. 5.9% Group 1, p < 0.001), and had significantly larger prostates (87.96 ± 49.80 in Group 3 vs. 78.44 ± 50.84 in Group 2 vs. 74.50 ± 46.53 Group 1, p < 0.001). Preoperative prostatic medications significantly increased over time (72.6% in Group 1 vs. 85.5% in Group 2, vs. 87.4% Group 3, p < 0.001). IPSS, QoL and Qmax were significantly abnormal in patients in Group 3 (p < 0.001). After a mean follow-up of 3 years, the number of patients who did not require reoperation progressively increased (94.1% Group 1 vs. 96.1% Group 2 vs. 98.3% Group 3). Age (>72 years), prostate volume (>80 cc), operative time (>95 minutes), and preoperative PSA (>6 ng/dL) were significantly associated with postoperative urinary incontinence.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients presenting for surgery due to symptomatic BPH over the last 16 years were significantly older, more morbid, and had larger prostates and more abnormal voiding parameters. Over time, patients used prostatic medications more frequently. Despite the changes in patient profiles, perioperative safety and complication rates between groups were comparable, likely due to advancements in laser technology and techniques. Age (>72 years), prostate volume (>80 cc), operative time (>95 minutes), and preoperative PSA (>6 ng/dL) were significantly associated with reversible postoperative urinary incontinence.

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.

Vaporization of the prostate with 150-w thulium laser: complications with 6-month follow-up

Purpose: To analyze the efficacy and safety of vaporization of the prostate (VP) with the 150-W thulium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Tm:YAG) laser.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In a prospective series of 55 patients with small- and medium-size prostates undergoing major outpatient surgery (MOS), the primary objectives were to analyze changes in maximum flow (Qmax) and International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) after 6 months. Immediate (<30 days) and late (>30 days) complications were subsequently recorded.

RESULTS

An increase in mean Qmax of 9.33 mL/s (95% confidence interval [CI] of the mean difference 6.73-11.93; P<0.001) was recorded, and mean IPSS was reduced by 16.88 points (95% CI 14.22-19.54; P<0.001). The immediate complications recorded were acute urinary retention (one patient), urinary tract infection without fever (two patients), and macroscopic hematuria (two patients). The only late complication observed was bladder neck sclerosis (one patient).

CONCLUSION

After 6 months, VP with 150-W Tm:YAG presents promising results in the clinical improvement of patients with small- and medium-size prostates. Its complication rate is low and it offers excellent hemostasis. The data from our study provide the basis for the design of clinical trials to compare this technique with other procedures.

[European Association of Urology guidelines on laser technologies]

CONTEXT

The European Association of Urology (EAU) Guidelines Office has set up a guideline working panel to analyse the scientific evidence published in the world literature on lasers in urologic practice.

OBJECTIVE

Review the physical background and physiologic and technical aspects of the use of lasers in urology, as well as current clinical results from these new and evolving technologies, together with recommendations for the application of lasers in urology. The primary objective of this structured presentation of the current evidence base in this area is to assist clinicians in making informed choices regarding the use of lasers in their practice.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

Structured literature searches using an expert consultant were designed for each section of this document. Searches were carried out in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Medline and Embase on the Dialog/DataStar platform. The controlled terminology of the respective databases was used, and both Medical Subject Headings and EMTREE were analysed for relevant entry terms. One Cochrane review was identified.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Depending on the date of publication, the evidence for different laser treatments is heterogeneous. The available evidence allows treatments to be classified as safe alternatives for the treatment of bladder outlet obstruction in different clinical scenarios, such as refractory urinary retention, anticoagulation, and antiplatelet medication. Laser treatment for bladder cancer should only be used in a clinical trial setting or for patients who are not suitable for conventional treatment due to comorbidities or other complications. For the treatment of urinary stones and retrograde endoureterotomy, lasers provide a standard tool to augment the endourologic procedure.

CONCLUSIONS

In benign prostatic obstruction (BPO), laser vaporisation, resection, or enucleation are alternative treatment options. The standard treatment for BPO remains transurethral resection of the prostate for small to moderate size prostates and open prostatectomy for large prostates. Laser energy is an optimal treatment method for disintegrating urinary stones. The use of lasers to treat bladder tumours and in laparoscopy remains investigational.

Holmium laser ablation of the prostate (HoLAP): intermediate-term results of 144 patients

PURPOSE

To retrospectively analyse the intermediate-term outcome of holmium laser ablation of the prostate (HoLAP) of up to 4 years postoperatively in one of the largest series and to define the selection criteria for patients who benefit from potentially lower complications associated with HoLAP.

METHODS

Between June 2006 and November 2010, 144 patients with benign prostatic obstruction were treated at two centres with standardised HoLAP (2.0 J/50 Hz or 3.2 J/25 Hz with Versapulse(®) 80-100 W laser Lumenis(®)). Median follow-up was 21 months (range, 1-54). International prostate symptom score and quality of life (IPSS-QoL), PSA, prostate volume, maximal flow rate (Qmax), postvoiding residual volume (Vres) were evaluated pre- and postoperatively. All complications were graded according to CTCAE (v4.03).

RESULTS

Mean patient age was 70.1 ± 7.7 years (range, 46-90). With a preoperative median prostate volume of 40 ml (range, 10-130), the median operation time was 50 min (range, 9-138). We observed a median catheterisation time of 1 day (range, 0-12) and hospitalisation time of 2 days (range, 1-16). IPSS-QoL, Qmax and Vres were significantly improved after 3 months, and all parameters remained unchanged after 12, 24 and 36 months. The rate of re-operation was significantly lower in patients with prostate volume <40 ml, compared to patients with prostates ≥ 40 ml (9.1 vs. 25 %, p = 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

HoLAP is a safe and effective procedure for the treatment of prostates <40 ml. Patients benefit from HoLAP because of a low bleeding rate and short hospital stay. Due to high recurrence rates, HoLAP should be avoided in prostates >40 ml.

Rapid ambulatory pathway laser prostatectomy is safe: results within the global period

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add? Laser prostatectomy is a commonly performed procedure for BOO, and has been shown to have short- and medium-term results equivalent to the gold standard procedure (i.e. TURP) in various studies. It also has an advantage over TURP in that it can be performed on patients who are taking anticoagulant medication. However, patients in most studies are admitted to the hospital overnight on continuous bladder irrigation and are discharged home the next day. The present study shows that it is safe and feasible to perform laser prostatectomy in an ambulatory fashion with discharge of patients within hours of their surgery. The discharge pathway is associated with minimal morbidity or the need for admission after surgery, and the reported short-term results are in accordance with the available literature on laser prostatectomy.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the feasibility and safety of a rapid ambulatory discharge pathway after holmium laser ablation of the prostate (HoLAP) for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The study group comprised a cohort of 65 consecutive patients undergoing HoLAP scheduled as a day surgical case by a single surgeon between January 2007 and December 2009. Patients were discharged from day surgery with a catheter in place, and returned for a voiding trial on postoperative day 3. Preoperative, intra-operative and postoperative parameters were reviewed with follow-up data for the 90-day global postoperative period. Statistical analysis employed Student's t-test with P < 0.05 (two-tailed) being considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

The mean (range) patient age was 64 (41-87) years; mean (range) American Society of Anesthesiologists score was 2.2 (1-4); mean (sd) operation duration was 44 (17) min; and mean (sd) time after surgery until discharge was 149 (51) min. Postoperative complications included catheter occlusion (1.5%) and admission for haematuria (1.5%). There were no re-admissions after discharge from the hospital. Within the 90-day global period, 13 patients described lower urinary tract symptoms (20%), five patients had postoperative urinary retention (7.7%) and one patient had a urinary tract infection (1.5%). After surgery, mean American Urological Association Symptom Score decreased from 21.3 to 7.6 (P < 0.001); mean quality of life score decreased from 4.04 to 1.38 (P < 0.001); and mean post-void residual decreased from 190.2 to 46.4 mL (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

In appropriately selected patients, HoLAP can be safely performed as an ambulatory case with a rapid discharge pathway and minimal morbidity during the 90-day global period.

EAU guidelines on laser technologies

CONTEXT

The European Association of Urology (EAU) Guidelines Office has set up a guideline working panel to analyse the scientific evidence published in the world literature on lasers in urologic practice.

OBJECTIVE

Review the physical background and physiologic and technical aspects of the use of lasers in urology, as well as current clinical results from these new and evolving technologies, together with recommendations for the application of lasers in urology. The primary objective of this structured presentation of the current evidence base in this area is to assist clinicians in making informed choices regarding the use of lasers in their practice.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

Structured literature searches using an expert consultant were designed for each section of this document. Searches were carried out in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Medline and Embase on the Dialog/DataStar platform. The controlled terminology of the respective databases was used, and both Medical Subject Headings and EMTREE were analysed for relevant entry terms. One Cochrane review was identified.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Depending on the date of publication, the evidence for different laser treatments is heterogeneous. The available evidence allows treatments to be classified as safe alternatives for the treatment of bladder outlet obstruction in different clinical scenarios, such as refractory urinary retention, anticoagulation, and antiplatelet medication. Laser treatment for bladder cancer should only be used in a clinical trial setting or for patients who are not suitable for conventional treatment due to comorbidities or other complications. For the treatment of urinary stones and retrograde endoureterotomy, lasers provide a standard tool to augment the endourologic procedure.

CONCLUSIONS

In benign prostatic obstruction (BPO), laser vaporisation, resection, or enucleation are alternative treatment options. The standard treatment for BPO remains transurethral resection of the prostate for small to moderate size prostates and open prostatectomy for large prostates. Laser energy is an optimal treatment method for disintegrating urinary stones. The use of lasers to treat bladder tumours and in laparoscopy remains investigational.

Long-term results of surgical techniques and procedures in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is one of the most common conditions associated with the aging male. Surgical management of lower urinary tract symptoms attributed to BPH has progressed over time as urologic surgeons search for more innovative and less invasive forms of treatment. Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) has long been the "gold standard" to which all other forms of treatment are compared. There are several different methods of surgical treatment of BPH, including whole gland enucleation/intact removal, vaporization, and induction of necrosis with delayed reabsorption as well as hybrid techniques. As with any form of surgical intervention, long-term results define success. Long-term follow-up consists of examining overall efficacy with attention to associated adverse events. TURP has the luxury of the longest follow-up, while less invasive forms of treatment starting to acquire long-term data. There are several surgical options for BPH; newer methods do show promise, while the "gold standard" continues to demonstrate excellent surgical results.

Bipolar technology for transurethral prostatectomy

Bipolar electrosurgical technology has gained worldwide attention with various companies introducing devices, such as the Gyrus PlasmaKinetic™ Tissue Management System (Gyrus ACMI, MN, USA) and the Olympus(®) UES-40 Surgmaster generator (Olympus, Tokyo, Japan), which is aimed at minimizing the morbidity of standard monopolar transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), whilst also maintaining efficacy and durability. The Gyrus PlasmaKinetic System effectively controls bleeding, resulting in a clear operative field; it greatly reduces risk of transurethral resection syndrome, thus providing a new option among minimally-invasive surgical treatments for benign prostatic hyperplasia. In a meta-analysis of head-to-head comparisons between the monopolar and bipolar TURP, the operation times, transfusion rates, retention rates after catheter removal and urethral complications did not differ significantly. Irrigation and catheterization duration was significantly longer with monopolar TURP.