Catheter Removal on the Same Day of Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate: Outcomes of a Pilot Study

Holmium Laser Enucleation Of The Prostate (HOLEP) Learning Curve - Resident Perspective: Survey Of Senior Residents From High-Volume Tertiary Center

OBJECTIVE

We aim to report the learning curve and experience performing holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HOLEP) from a resident standpoint trained at a tertiary high-volume center.

METHODS

An electronic survey was distributed to ten surveyees that included recently graduated chief residents trained at Indiana University in the last 3 years i.e. between 2020-2022 with a 100% response rate. The questionnaire focused on HOLEP training experience based on a recently established mentorship curriculum in training the residents through each individual step of the surgery.

RESULTS

The average learning curve for performing HOLEP was reported to be greater than 25 cases with 50% of the residents reporting >50 cases to master the technique. The surgical difficulty of steps of the HOLEP were rated on a subjective scale of 1-5: 1 = very easy, 2 = easy, 3= neutral, 4 = hard, and 5 = very hard. The common challenging steps in decreasing the order of difficulty as reported are performing apical enucleation, joining anterior and posterior planes, and dividing anterior commissure with a mean rating of 3.5, 3.1, and 3.1 respectively. The most difficult aspect of the surgery to master was performing apical dissection (60%). Comparing operative parameters for HOLEP to transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) in aspects of resection volume and times, 70 % of candidates reported it better for HOLEP whereas 20% had similar times for both procedures. 90 % of the residents felt confident to offer HOLEP as part of their practice without the need for any further training.

CONCLUSION

We believe HOLEP can be performed immediately after residency training and incorporated into practice with high volume, repeated exposure to HoLEP surgery throughout residency based on study results. The average learning curve reported for performing HOLEP was greater than 25 case.

Same-day Catheter Removal and Hospital Discharge After Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate: A Prospective Study

OBJECTIVE

To assess the feasibility, safety, and predictive factors for the success of holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) with catheter removal and hospital discharge on the same day of the procedure.

METHODS

This prospective study included 34 patients who underwent HoLEP using a 60-W holmium laser device and the Wolf Piranha morcellation system. Surgeries began at 10:30 am and the patients were expected to be discharged by 5 pm on the same day. The patients underwent a voiding trial to remove the urinary catheter before hospital discharge. Functional outcomes were assessed 90 days after the procedure.

RESULTS

Mean (range) age, prostate-specific antigen value, and prostate weight were as follows: 63.4 (50-80) years, 4.81 (0.19-14) ng/mL, and 89.3 (33-258) g, respectively. The mean (range) enucleation and morcellation times were 56.2 (29-91) minutes and 14.67 (3-45) minutes, respectively. Thirty-one patients (91.1%) were discharged on the same day of the procedure after urinary catheter removal.

CONCLUSION

The performance of HoLEP is safe on an outpatient basis. Same-day catheter removal is feasible and does not affect hospital discharge.

Same-day catheter removal after holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP): a systematic review

PURPOSE

To summarize all existing evidence regarding the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of same-day trial of void and catheter removal after Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP). Although there have been many reports of the safety and efficacy of same-day discharge from the hospital for selected patients undergoing HoLEP, in most of these reports, patients return to the hospital, usually on postoperative day one, to undergo a trial of void and catheter removal.

METHODS

PubMed®, Scopus®, and Cochrane® primary databases were systematically screened, from inception to 17 January 2023. The search strategy used the PICO (Patient, Intervention, Comparison, Outcomes) Framework. We followed the recommendations of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement.

RESULTS

Six studies met all the predefined criteria and were included in the final qualitative synthesis. Four studies were retrospective and two were prospective. Four studies were non-comparative, while two were comparative ones. The same-day catheter removal success rate ranged from 85.5 to 90% among studies, while only one grade-IIIb Clavien-Dindo complication was reported, which was unrelated to surgery.

CONCLUSION

Same-day catheter removal is a feasible, safe, and efficient approach for selected patients undergoing HoLEP. Certain factors, such as intraoperative furosemide administration, were found to improve same-day catheter-free rates, while preoperative PVR and urinary retention were independent predictive factors of same-day trial of void failure.

Is day-case surgery feasible for laser endoscopic enucleation of the prostate? A systematic review

PURPOSE

Laser endoscopic enucleation of the prostate (EEP) for benign prostatic obstruction has become increasingly prevalent worldwide. Considering the medical cost-savings and concomitantly fewer nosocomial infections, the feasibility of same-day postoperative discharge of patients who have undergone laser EEP in terms of its safety and effectiveness has become a subject matter of growing interest. We aimed to review those studies focussing on day-case surgery (DCS) in patients undergoing laser EEP.

METHODS

A systematic search was conducted using PubMed-MEDLINE and Web of Science databases until October 2022 with the following search terms: "same day discharge AND laser enucleation of the prostate", "day-case AND laser enucleation of the prostate", "same day surgery AND laser enucleation of the prostate" and "one day surgery AND laser enucleation of the prostate" by combining PICO (population, intervention, comparison, outcome) terms. We identified 15 eligible studies.

RESULTS

While 14 of the studies focussed on holmium laser EEP, one focused on thulium laser vapoenucleation of the prostate. We observed an improvement in functional parameters in all studies we reviewed, and DCS success and readmission rates ranged between 35.3-100% and 0-17.8%, respectively. The complication rates varied between 0 and 36.7%, most of the complicatons were Clavien-Dindo (CD) I and II. CD ≥ III complications did not significantly differ between same day discharge (SDD) and non-SDD groups in the studies.

CONCLUSION

Laser EEP is feasible and promising DCS treatment option delivering improved functional parameters compared to baseline values, and lower perioperative complication and readmission rates in certain patients.

Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate vs Transvesical Single-port Robotic Simple Prostatectomy for Large Prostatic Glands

OBJECTIVE

To compare the perioperative outcomes of transvesical single-port robotic simple prostatectomy (SP-RASP) and holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective review was performed of patients undergoing SP-RASP and HoLEP from 2019 to 2022 with preoperative prostatic volume (PPV) >80 cm3. Percent of prostate adenoma removed (%PAR) was estimated by specimen weight normalized by PPV. Univariate analysis was performed using chi-square, Fisher exact, and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests. A subgroup analysis with 1:1 matching for PPV was also performed.

RESULTS

A total of 50 SP-RASP and 90 HoLEP cases were analyzed. The median (interquartile range) PPV was 169 (128-244)cm3 for SP-RASP and 129 (100-150)cm3 for HoLEP, (P < .01). The median (interquartile range) %PAR was 57(44-68) for SP-RASP vs 51(42-62) for HoLEP (P = .10). Overall, 11(12%) HoLEP and 5(10%) SP-RASP patients experienced complications (P = .51). Same-day discharge occurred in 24(48%) SP-RASP vs 7(8%) HoLEP patients (P < .01). Median foley catheter duration was longer in SP-RASP (6 vs 1 day, P < .01) and trial of void was successful at first attempt in >94% (P = .68). Transient de novo incontinence was reported in 24(28%) HoLEP vs 2(5%) SP-RASP (P < .01). No differences in voiding parameters were observed at latest follow up. Subgroup postmatched analysis revealed analogous findings.

CONCLUSION

SP-RASP and HoLEP have similar favorable perioperative outcomes for management of large prostatic adenomas. SP-RASP may be considered in patients unwilling to accept the risk of transient incontinence and in those with unfavorable urethral access, large bladder stone burden, or diverticula.

Robotic assisted simple prostatectomy versus other treatment modalities for large benign prostatic hyperplasia: a systematic review and meta-analysis of over 6500 cases

BACKGROUND

Current guidelines recommend simple prostatectomy or endoscopic enucleation of the prostate (EEP) as treatment of choice for bladder prostatic obstruction (BPO) caused by large prostate glands. We aimed to provide a wide-ranging analysis of the currently available evidence, comparing safety and effectiveness of robot-assisted simple prostatectomy (RASP) versus open simple prostatectomy (OSP), laparoscopic simple prostatectomy (LSP), and laser EEP.

METHODS

A systematic search was performed across MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases for retrospective and prospective studies comparing RASP to OSP or LSP or laser EEP (HoLEP/ThuLEP). Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) recommendations were followed to design the search strategies, selection criteria, and evidence report. A meta-analysis evaluated perioperative safety and effectiveness outcomes. The weighted mean difference and risk ratio were used to compare continuous and dichotomous variables, respectively. Quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale and the Cochrane Collaboration's tool for RCT article assessing risk of bias.

RESULTS

15 studies, including 6659 patients, were selected for meta-analysis: 13 observational studies, 1 non-randomized prospective study, and 1 randomized controlled trial. RASP was associated with statistically significant longer operative time (OT) and lower postoperative complication rate, length of stay (LOS), estimated blood loss (EBL), and transfusion rate (TR) compared to OSP. LSP showed longer LOS and lower postoperative SHIM score, with no difference in OT, EBL, and complications. Compared to laser EEP, RASP presented longer LOS and catheterization time and higher TR. ThuLEP presented shorter OT than RASP. No difference were found in functional outcomes between groups both subjectively (IPSS, QoL) and objectively (Qmax, PVR).

CONCLUSION

RASP has become a size-independent treatment for the management of BPO caused by a large prostate gland. It can duplicate the functional outcomes of OSP while offering a better safety profile. When compared to LSP, the latter still stands as a valid lower-cost option, but it requires solid laparoscopic skill sets and therefore it is unlikely to spread on larger scale. When compared to laser EEP, RASP offers a shorter learning curve, but it still suffers from longer catheterization time and LOS.

En bloc holmium laser enucleation of prostate in octogenarians and nonagenarians: clinical characteristics and outcome

Extended longevity leads to greater numbers of elderly patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) who seek surgical solutions. We assessed the clinical characteristics and outcomes of octogenarians and nonagenarians with BPH who underwent en bloc holmium laser enucleation of prostate (HoLEP). Retrospective cohort of all consecutive HoLEP patients treated in our medical center between January 2020 and January 2023. Cohort was divided into group aged < 80 years (n = 290) and group aged ≥ 80 years (n = 77). Their demographics, presentations, indications, and outcomes were compared. Octogenarians and nonagenarians had higher rates of indwelling catheters (p = 0.00001), chronic retention (p = 0.00006), larger prostates (p = 0.03), higher American Anesthesiology Association scores (p = 0.000001), and more antiplatelet medications (p = 0.0003) at presentation. They had longer operations (median 115 vs 90 min, respectively, p = 0.0008), longer hospital stay (median 2 vs 1 day, p = 0.01E-7), a higher complication rate (17% vs 7%, p = 0.02), and a higher transitory urinary incontinence (TUI) rate (54% vs 9%, p = 0.00001). TUI was more prevalent in the older group with indwelling catheters (61% vs, 13%, p = 0.00001). The functional outcome was similar for both age groups, and all patients could void spontaneously after the procedure. En-bloc HoLEP improves urinary symptoms and quality of life in patients ≥ 80 years of age despite larger prostates, more comorbidities, and higher complications rate, compared to younger men. HoLEP bestows a significant improvement in urologic quality of life regardless of age.

An Outcomes Comparison Between Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate, Open Simple Prostatectomy, and Robotic Simple Prostatectomy for Large Gland Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy

OBJECTIVE

To compare perioperative outcomes between Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP), open simple prostatectomy (OSP), and robotic simple prostatectomy (RSP) for large prostates (> 80 cc).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective study of 340 patients who underwent HoLEP (n = 209), OSP (n = 66), or RSP (n = 65) at a large academic medical center between January 2013 - September 2021 was performed. Length of stay (LOS), operative time, catheter duration, estimated blood loss (EBL), blood transfusion, and 30-day ED visits and readmissions were compared between the three groups. Univariate analyses consisted of ANOVA with Tukey's corrections and Chi-square tests. Linear and multivariate logistic regression was also performed. All tests were two-sided and a p-value <0.05 was pre-determined to be statistically significant. Analyses were performed with SAS v9.4.

RESULTS

HoLEP was found to have the shortest: operative time (1.4 vs 2.7 vs 3.8h), LOS (0.65 vs 4.2 vs 2.6d), and catheter duration (0.38 vs 9.9 vs 11.2d) compared to OSP and RSP, respectively (all P <.0001). HoLEP also had the lowest EBL (66 vs 795 vs 326 mL, P <.0001). HoLEP and RSP had a lower risk of blood transfusion compared to OSP (P <.0001). These associations remained significant on multivariable analyses.

CONCLUSION

HoLEP is a minimally invasive treatment option for large prostates that was found to have shorter operative time, LOS, and catheter duration as well as lower EBL compared to OSP and RSP.

Impact of American Society of Anesthesiologists score on postoperative holmium enucleation of the prostate outcomes and complications

INTRODUCTIONS

The American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status Classification System (ASA) is a validated risk stratification method for patients undergoing surgery. There is an increased prevalence of benign prostatic hyperplasia and comorbidities in our aging population. The role of ASA related to postoperative complications in patients undergoing holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) has not been described.

METHODS

A review of our database was performed for patients who underwent HoLEP from July 2018 to December 2020. Patients were stratified based on ASA score. Preoperative, perioperative, and complication data were analyzed using SAS analytics software.

RESULTS

Of 472 patients undergoing HoLEP, 320 (67.8%) were ASA 3-4 patients. There was a statistically significant difference found in age (72.3 ± 9.8 vs. 69.1 ± 9.0 years, p < 0.001), body mass index (BMI) (29.0 ± 5.9 vs. 27.3 ± 4.2, p = 0.004), and use of antiplatelet/anticoagulant medications (14.6% vs. 2.6%, p < 0.001) in the ASA 3-4 group. There was no significant difference between prostate volume (p = 0.158) or catheter-dependent urinary retention (p = 0.376). No difference was found in enucleation time (52.76 ± 24.8 vs. 54.16 ± 23.7 min, p = 0.587), OR specimen weight (70.24 ± 58.5 vs. 81.53 ± 65.9, p = 0.094). or intraoperative complications (2.8% vs. 1.3%, p = 0.330). There were higher postoperative complications in the ASA 3-4 group (12.8% vs. 7.9%, p = 0.03), but no difference in Clavien ≥3 complications (p = 0.068). ASA 3-4 patients had similar postoperative international prostate symptom score (p = 0.159).

CONCLUSION

HoLEP is feasible and effective in patients who are ASA 3-4. The high-risk cohort had an increased rate of low-grade complications. Patients with an ASA score of 3-4 should be counseled regarding a higher rate of low-grade complications.

Neuromuscular Paralysis is not a Barrier to Same Day Catheter Removal After HoLEP

OBJECTIVE

To determine if same day catheter removal is feasible in a population of holmium laser enucleation of the prostate patients who received paralysis and if bladder pressure monitoring could predict successful catheter removal.

METHODS

From February 2021 to February 2022, we evaluated same day catheter removal for patients undergoing holmium laser enucleation of the prostate. Criteria for proceeding with same day catheter removal included: an uncomplicated procedure, continuous bladder irrigation weaned within 120 minutes of arrival to PACU, minimal postoperative hematuria and a bladder pressure over 30 cmH₂0 as measured using the VP Test device (SRS Medical).

RESULTS

One hundred and eight patients were enrolled, with a median age of 68 years (IQR: 62.0-73.0) and prostate volume 80.8cc (IQR: 64.8-112.3). Criteria for catheter removal was met by 83/108 (76.9%) patients. Of those that attempted a trial of void, 69/83 passed for an effective pass rate of 83.1%. Median maximum detrusor pressure for those that passed and failed were 51.0 cmH₂0 (IQR: 40.5 -68.0) and 48.0 cmH₂0 (IQR: 38.8-61.8) [P = .53], respectively. Intraoperative Lasix administration was associated with a higher rate of trial of void (TOV) success and preoperative PVR was associated with lower TOV success, with OR (95%CI) of 5.8 (1.4, 29.5) [P = .02] and 0.6 (0.4, 0.9) [P = .01], respectively.

CONCLUSION

Same day catheter removal is feasible in those who receive neuromuscular paralysis, with a success rate >80%. Bladder pressure monitoring did not assist with differentiating which patients will pass or fail a trial of void. Intraoperative Lasix administration may be helpful in increasing success for same day catheter removal while elevated preoperative PVR was associated with TOV failure.

Same-day trial of void and discharge following standard vs. MOSESTM holmium laser enucleation of the prostate: A single-center experience

INTRODUCTION

We aimed to compare perioperative and postoperative outcomes and to assess the safety and feasibility of same-day trial of void (TOV) in patients who underwent standard holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) vs. MOSES^TM HoLEP (MoLEP).

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review of prospectively collected data of patients that underwent HoLEP (100 W) or MoLEP (120 W) with same-day catheter removal three hours postoperatively at our institution from August 2018 to September 2021. Patient demographics, intraoperative parameters, and postoperative outcomes were analyzed. Data were compared as means with standard deviation and medians with interquartile range (IQR) or numbers and percentages. Continuous and categorical variables were assessed using the Mann-Whitney U test and Chi-squared test, respectively. Predictors of shorter enucleation time and failed same-day TOV were investigated.

RESULTS

Of the 90 patients included, 28 underwent HoLEP while 62 had MoLEP. There was no significant difference between the groups in terms of the successful TOV (23 [82%] vs. 58 [93.5%], p=0.1) and readmission rate (3 [10.7%] vs. 1 [1.6%], p=0.08); however, the MoLEP group had a significantly shorter mean enucleation time (p<0.001), mean hemostasis time (p<0.001), mean morcellation time (p=0.003), and lower mean energy used (p<0.001). On the logistic regression model, MoLEP (odds ratio [OR] 0.03, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.007-0.19, p<0.001), lower preoperative prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test (OR 1.25, 95% CI 1.01-1.55, p=0.03), and smaller prostate size (OR 1.06, 95% CI 1.02-1.09, p<0.001) were independent predictors of shorter enucleation time. History of preoperative retention was the only significant factor associated with a failed same-day TOV (p=0.04). There was no difference in intraoperative or postoperative complication rates or postoperative functional outcomes between the two technologies.

CONCLUSIONS

Same-day TOV and discharge are feasible following standard HoLEP and MoLEP, with comparable outcomes; however, the use of MOSES^TM technology offered better enucleation efficiency with excellent hemostatic potential. Preoperative retention was the only predictor of failed same-day TOV.

Predictors of Failed Same-Day Catheter Removal After Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate

OBJECTIVE

To determine factors associated with failure of same-day trial of void (SDTOV) following holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP).

BACKGROUND

HoLEP is increasingly utilized for patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia. Advancements in technology have improved operative efficiency and hemostasis making same-day, catheter-free discharge possible.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review on 190 patients undergoing HoLEP from July, 2021 to January, 2022 by a single center. We assessed pre- and intra-operative variables associated with our primary outcome: failure of same-day catheter removal. Post-operative complications and outcomes at a ≤7 days and 3-month follow up were examined. Continuous and categorical variables were analyzed using unpaired t-tests (Mann Whitney) and chi-square, respectively. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression models were fitted to examine the associations of failed SDTOV.

RESULTS

Of 190 candidates for a SDTOV, 90% (171/190) were successful. We found no difference between SDTOV success and failures with regards to age, comorbidities, presence of pre-operative urinary retention, anesthesia factors, operative time, volume resected, enucleation time, and morcellation time (all P>0.05). Pre-operatively, 26.3% (50/190) were on antiplatelet and 6.3% (12/190) were on anticoagulation. While pre-operative antiplatelet therapy was not associated with SDTOV failure (P=0.78), pre-operative anticoagulation use was (4.7% vs. 21.1%, P=0.021). Patients who continued anticoagulation through surgery had the highest rate of SDTOV failure (2.3% (4/171) vs. 15.8% (3/19), P=0.023). For those with successful SDTOV, 4.1% (7/171) required catheterization following discharge. At 3 months, no patient required catheterization.

CONCLUSION

On the day of surgery, patients eligible for SDTOV successfully voided 90% of the time. History of preop anticoagulation, whether continued or held, increased SDTOV failure.

Predictive Value of Voiding Efficiency After Active Void Trial in Men Undergoing BPH Surgery

OBJECTIVES

To determine the predictive value of voiding efficiency on acute urinary retention after discharge from BPH surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed a prospective observational cohort study of three surgeons' practices from 2019 to present. All men included underwent trial of void on post-operative day one after transurethral resection of prostate or Holmium enucleation of prostate . Active filling void trials were performed on all patients and voiding efficiency (percent of bladder volume emptied) was calculated. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to determine predictors of developing acute urinary retention.

RESULTS

During the study period, 188 men met inclusion criteria. 110 (59%) men underwent Holmium enucleation of prostate , and 78 (41%) underwent transurethral resection of prostate. The median age of our cohort was 70 (IQR 65-75). The median prostate size was 100g (IQR 61-138g). Nineteen patients (10%) returned after discharge with acute urinary retention requiring catheterization. On post-operative day one, the median voiding efficiency was 75% (IQR 55%-94%). On multivariable analysis, patients with a voiding efficiency less than 50% were 3.8 times more likely (95% confidence interval 1.1-12.8) to develop subsequent retention compared to a voiding efficiency of greater than 75%. Increasing pre-operative prostate size was associated with lower risk of urinary retention after discharge (aOR 0.8, 95%CI 0.6-0.9).

CONCLUSIONS

Voiding efficiency after an active void trial helps stratify risk of urinary retention in patients undergoing benign prostate surgery. High-risk patients include those with voiding efficiencies less than 50% and smaller pre-operative prostate sizes (<80g).

Holmium: yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser with Moses: does it make a difference?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Moses effect is an inherent physical principle of Ho:YAG laser functioning. Moses Technology is a pulse modulation modality of Ho:YAG laser, which became commercially available for the treatment of two urological conditions: urinary stones and benign prostatic obstruction. The purpose of this narrative review is to distinguish between Moses effect and Moses Technology, as well as to summarize the latest evidence on Moses Technology and its main application in the urological field.

RECENT FINDINGS

During laboratory lithotripsy, Moses Technology seems to reduce stone retropulsion and determine higher ablation volume compared with regular lithotripsy. However, this technology presents similar characteristics to long pulse Ho:YAG laser, and several studies showed no significant difference between Moses Technology and standard lasers. When used in prostate enucleation, Moses Technology promises to reduce operating time by increasing the efficiency of prostate resection and improve the hemostasis. Moreover, some studies state that it is possible to reduce the HoLEP morbidity. Despite this, the clinical impact of the time reduction remains uncertain and different studies either present relevant limitations or are burdened by significant bias.

SUMMARY

Although Moses effect has been extensively described and characterized, and several studies have been published on the usage of Moses Technology for both laser lithotripsy and laser enucleation of the prostate with Holmium YAG, solid clinical evidence on the real improvement of surgical outcomes is still missing.

Laser fiber degradation following holmium laser enucleation of the prostate utilizing Moses technology versus regular mode

PURPOSE

We sought to objectively compare laser fiber degradation for holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) cases performed with 550 μm standard fibers versus 550 μm Moses 2.0 fiber in BPH mode on a macroscopic and microscopic level.

METHODS

We prospectively collected outcomes for 50 standardized HoLEP cases using 550 μm Moses fiber with 2.0 BPH mode compared to our historical cohort of 50 patients using 550 μm standard fibers on regular mode. Macroscopic degradation length was the difference in length of exposed fiber at the start and end of each case. Five consecutive 550 μm standard fibers, five 550 μm Moses fibers and their respective controls underwent novel utilization of three objective corroborating imaging techniques: Brightfield high resolution microscopy, high resolution 3-D microCT and Confocal Reflection Surface Analysis. Mann-Whitney U, 2-tailed T tests and Chi-squared tests were used.

RESULTS

Standard fibers demonstrated greater degradation than the Moses fibers with 2.0 BPH mode [2.9 cm (IQR 1.7-4.3 cm) vs 0.2 cm (IQR 0.1-0.4 cm), p < 0.01]. This difference remained significant when comparing degradation per energy used, per minute enucleation and per gram enucleated (all p < 0.05). None of the cases with Moses fiber and 2.0 BPH mode required intraoperative interruption to re-strip the fiber. Objective fiber degradation by three microscopic techniques confirmed more damage to the standard fibers with regular mode.

CONCLUSION

Overall, use of the 550 μm Moses fiber with 2.0 BPH mode resulted in less fiber degradation compared to a standard 550 μm fiber with regular mode as confirmed using 4 corroborating macroscopic and microscopic techniques.

Expanded Criteria Same Day Catheter Removal Following Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP)

Introduction and Objectives Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) is a highly effective treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Technical advances and improved hemostatic properties of Holmium lasers have allowed for increased efficiency and outcomes. Same day catheter removal following HoLEP was described at our institution in 2020 following a 30-patient pilot trial. We now present an expanded update following widespread adoption at our facility. Methods We reviewed patients who underwent same day catheter removal after HoLEP between 1/1/2020 and 3/21/2021. Unlike previous trials, there were no limitations to prostate size. Other changes included catheter removal in phase two of recovery when nursing was available rather than the urology clinic. Descriptive statistics are presented of preoperative, operative, and postoperative data. Univariate and multivariate analysis was performed to assess associations with failure of same day void trial. Results The success rate of same-day catheter removal for the 114 identified patients was 87.7%. Mean age was 69.1  8.6 years and prostate volume was 109.2  61.5cc, 35% were dependent on catheterization for urinary retention preoperatively and 9% were on antiplatelet/anticoagulant therapy. A total of 26.5% of patients with ASA 3 or 4 failed catheter removal compared to 3.9% of patients with ASA 1 or 2 (Likelihood ratio 9.32, p=0.002), ASA status lost significance on multivariate analysis (p=0.076). Successful catheter removal was not significantly associated with age, BMI, prostate size, catheter dependency, anticoagulation/antiplatelet therapy, AUA symptom score, prior BPH surgery, or prostate cancer in final pathology. Conclusion Regardless of prostate size, same day catheter removal is a safe and reliable method of post-HoLEP patient management. Patients with an ASA 3 or 4 should be counseled regarding potential risks of temporary re-catheterization. Given ongoing nationwide shortages in hospital beds and staffing, same day discharge and catheter removal may allow for wider availability of surgical treatment for BPH.

Robot assisted simple prostatectomy versus endoscopic enucleation of the prostate: A systematic review and meta-analysis of comparative trials

Robot assisted simple prostatectomy (RASP) and endoscopic enucleation of the prostate (EEP) are two minimally invasive alternatives to simple prostatectomy, which is considered the standard treatment in large prostate glands. It remains unclear which of the two is superior in terms of outcome and complications. To compare perioperative and functional outcomes of robot assisted simple prostatectomy (RASP) versus endoscopic enucleation of the prostate (EEP) systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted according to the recommendations of the Cochrane Collaboration and in line with the PRISMA criteria. The database search included clinicaltrials.gov, Medline (via PubMed), CINAHL and Web of Science and was using the PICO criteria. All comparative trials were considered. Risk of bias was assessed with the revised ROBINS-I tool. 760 studies were identified, four of which were eligible for qualitative and quantitative analysis, reporting on a total of 901 patients with follow-up up to 24 months. Hemoglobin drop (MD[CI]: 0.34 g/dl [0.09; 0.58]), the rate of blood transfusions (OR[CI]: 5.01 [1.60; 15.61]) catheterization time (MD[CI]: 3.26 d [1.30; 5.23]) and length of hospital stay (LoS) (MD[CI]: 1.94 d [1.11; 2.76]) were significantly lower in EEP. No significant differences were seen in operating time and enucleation weight. No significant differences were observed in the incidence of postoperative urinary retention, postoperative transient incontinence and complications graded according to the Clavien-Dindo Classification. Functional results were similar, with no significant differences in International Prostate Symptom Score and maximum urinary flow rate at follow-up. Conclusion: Both EEP and RASP offer excellent improvement of symptoms due to prostatic hyperplasia. EEP has lower blood loss, shorter catheterization time and LoS and should be the first choice if available. RASP remains an attractive alternative for extremely large glands, in concomitant diseases or whenever EEP is not available.

Barriers to Implementation of a Same-Day Discharge Pathway for Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate

OBJECTIVE

To investigate perceived barriers to successful same-day discharge (SDD) after holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) from the perspective of surgical and nursing staff members.

METHODS

A 17-question survey was administered to intraoperative and postoperative surgical staff in June 2021 after a six-month period of implementing a SDD HoLEP pathway with same-day catheter removal. McNemar's and Stuart-Maxwell tests were performed for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

Surveys were completed by 30 respondents. The majority of respondents had less than 5 years of surgical experience (63%). Almost all respondents (96%) felt that HoLEP patients could be discharged safely on day of surgery. Overall, 60% felt that HoLEP had a lower risk of post-operative bleeding compared to other transurethral surgeries. There was a significant decrease in number of respondents that felt apprehensive when comparing initiation of SDD HoLEP pathway to 6-months post-implementation (43% vs 7%, P = .003). The most common factors causing apprehension both pre- and post-implementation included: degree of hematuria (43% vs 40%, P = .56), risk of failure of trial of void (40% vs 30%, P = .26), and risk of readmission or unplanned emergency department (ED) visit (33% vs 30%, P = .48). There was a significant decrease in the number of respondents who were apprehensive about lack of experience with SDD after HoLEP comparing pre- and post-implementation (20% vs 0%, P = .01).

CONCLUSION

While staff report initial apprehension regarding implementation of a SDD HoLEP pathway, adequate support to intraoperative and postoperative teams helps build experience that alleviates these concerns.

Contemporary Outcomes for Patients Undergoing Concurrent Surgeries at the Time of Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate Before and After Moses 2.0 BPH Mode

Background: Outcomes of holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) for benign prostatic hyperplasia has been well studied. As comfort with the procedure has improved, the number of concurrent surgeries performed with HoLEP has increased. Technology and technique optimization have safely transitioned HoLEP toward same-day catheter removal and discharge. We aim to assess the success and safety of transitioning toward a same-day care pathway for patients undergoing concurrent surgeries with HoLEP. Materials and Methods: With institutional review board approvals, we queried the electronic medical record and retrospective clinical registry to examine perioperative characteristics and outcomes of patients who underwent HoLEP performed by two endourologists at two centers between July 1, 2016, and June 1, 2021, in which ≥1 concurrent surgical procedure was performed. Results: There were 188 patients with an average age of 72.3 years, who underwent HoLEP with ≥1 concurrent surgical procedure within the study period. In total, 221 non-HoLEP procedures were performed with 30/188 (16.0%) undergoing ≥3 total procedures in a single operation. The four-most common concurrent procedures were cystolitholapaxy 86/221 (38.9%), ureteroscopy 57/221 (25.8%), transurethral resection of bladder tumor 14/221 (6.3%), and percutaneous nephrolithotomy 14/221 (6.3%). Postoperatively, 3 (1.6%) patients required transfusion. After transitioning to a same-day care path, the proportion of patients who had successful same-day catheter removal and same-day discharge increased (all p < 0.05). Median length of stay decreased (from 23 hours 11 minutes to 3 hours 49 minutes, p = 0.008). Our 90-day readmission rate for urology complication was 7.9%, and only 3.6% of patients undergoing concurrent stone surgery required an additional stone surgery within 90 days. The overall Clavien-Dindo ≥3b rate was 4.8% (9-3b, 0-4, 0-5). Conclusions: Advances in HoLEP technique and technology allow for safe same-day discharge for concurrent surgery performed at the time of HoLEP. Few patients were readmitted within 90 days and no patients experienced Clavien-Dindo ≥4 complications.

Ex Vivo Comparison of Efficiency, Safety, and Surgeon Satisfaction in Four Commercial Morcellators

Introduction: Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) is a size-independent treatment option for the management of benign prostatic hypertrophy. Although advancements in laser technology have led to clinical improvements in the enucleation portion of HoLEP, the morcellation aspect of HoLEP is often the rate-limiting step. We sought to compare efficiency and surgeon satisfaction in four commercial morcellators. Methods: This was an ex vivo study comparing four commercial morcellators: the Wolf Piranha™, the Lumenis VersaCut™, the JenaSurgical MultiCut Solo™, and the Hawk™ Morcellator. Four surgeons with significant experience performing HoLEPs participated. Surgeons tested each device to morcellate two different prostate models (1) morcellating as much microwave-cooked chicken breast in 10 minutes and (2) timed morcellation of bull testicles. Surgeons completed subjective surveys after each morcellator trial. Objective outcomes included the following: morcellation efficiency (g/min morcellated) and aspiration power (time to aspirate 1 L of saline). Means of continuous variables were compared using analysis of variance. Categorical variables were compared using chi-square tests. Statistical analyses were performed using SAS 9.4 (2019). Results: Comparing subjective outcomes, the Piranha™ was chosen as the safest morcellator (p = 0.0058). The least safe morcellator was thought to be the MultiCut by 75% of surgeons (p = 0.046). The Piranha™ was chosen as the most effective morcellator by 75% of surgeons (p = 0.046). Comparing objective parameters between the morcellators, the Piranha™ had the fastest aspiration time (43.50 ± 10.34 seconds, p = 0.0116). There were no significant differences in morcellation efficiency when using chicken breast (p = 0.3096). However, when comparing the morcellation efficiency using bull testicles, the Piranha™ had the highest efficiency at 39.68 ± 3.57 g/min (p = 0.0268). Conclusion: In this ex vivo study comparing four different commercially available morcellators, the Piranha™ had the highest aspiration power. No significant differences were found in morcellation efficiency using microwave-cooked chicken breast. The Piranha™ was felt to be the safest and most effective morcellator.

Electrosurgery or laser for benign prostatic enlargement: trumpcard or pitfalls

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To summarize and comment on publications of the last 2 years in the field of endoscopic surgery for benign prostatic enlargement, focusing on similarities and differences of laser and electrosurgery.

RECENT FINDINGS

Because of good hemostasis and safety, invasive endoscopic surgery has evolved to a choice of treatment for vulnerable patients with ongoing antithrombotic medication and in same-day surgery. Recent publications show a good perioperative course and no deterioration in the postoperative outcome. Furthermore, alterations to the original surgical techniques of resection, enucleation, and vaporization have increased the preservation rate for antegrade ejaculation, advancing them to an appealing choice of treatment for sexually active men. Favorable outcomes can be achieved in both laser and electrosurgery. Only the choice of the surgical technique determines the outcome.

SUMMARY

Various invasive endoscopic surgical techniques are available, offering different advantages and disadvantages for the patient. All of them can be performed with laser and electrosurgery. Therefore, focusing on the proper choice of surgical technique instead of the energy source will guarantee the patient to benefit most.

Holmium Laser Enucleation of Prostate: What is the True Rate of Postoperative Opioid Use?

OBJECTIVES

To determine if patients were obtaining opioids after HoLEP from other sources - despite our opioid-free postoperative pathway - we utilized a national prescription drug monitoring program (PDMP) to review all patients who underwent HoLEP at our institution.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of all HoLEPs completed by two fellowship-trained surgeons. We utilized a national PDMP to determine the true rate of postoperative opioid use. The primary outcome was filling of an opioid prescription within 31 postoperative days. Student t-tests and chi-square tests were used to compare continuous and categorical variables, respectively.

RESULTS

From July 2018-July 2020, 284 men underwent HoLEP. Despite our opioid-free pathway, 35 men (12.4%) received postoperative opioids. Unfortunately, 41.2% of opioids were prescribed by our inpatient physician assistant on his own accord. To prevent confounding, these patients were excluded from primary analyses. Thus, only 7.4% of patients received postoperative opioids. On univariate analysis, surgeon experience, chronic opioid use, any opioid exposure, benzodiazepine use, and chronic pain were associated with postoperative opioid use. On multivariate analysis, only preoperative opioid exposure (OR 41.9, P = 0.0383) was identified as a significant variable.

CONCLUSION

92.6% of patients did not obtain postoperative opioids on our opioid-free post-HoLEP pathway, but 7.4% of patients did obtain opioids from outside sources. Proper education of the surgical team is key to prevent inappropriate opioid prescribing. On multivariate analysis, we identified that any preoperative opioid exposure was associated with an increased risk of obtaining postoperative opioids.

Same-Day Discharge Following Holmium Laser Enucleation in Patients Assessed to Have Large Gland Prostates (≥175 cc)

Background: Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) is a highly effective and durable minimally invasive surgery for benign prostatic hyperplasia. Historically, alternative treatments for large glands (≥175 cc) are associated with prolonged length of stay (LOS) and postoperative catheterization. However, advances in laser technology combined with surgical technique optimization have early evidence supporting same-day discharge. We look to examine contemporary same-day discharge outcomes for large glands. Materials and Methods: With Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval we queried our electronic medical record and retrospective clinical registry to examine perioperative outcomes of large gland (≥175 cc) prostates that underwent HoLEP with consideration for same-day discharge. Results: From December 10, 2019 to September 29, 2020 we identified 55 patients with a preoperative prostate size ≥175 cc (39 CT, 12 MRI, 4 transrectal ultrasound), of which 45 were scheduled for same-day discharge and 10 for admission. Mean preoperative prostate size was 229.9 cc (range 175-535 cc) and 36 (65.5%) were in urinary retention. Mean preoperative prostate-specific antigen (PSA) was 8.58 ng/mL, American Urological Association Symptom Score (AUASS) 22.3, and Qmax 8.8 mL/second. At 3 months postoperative follow-up mean AUASS was 6.7, PSA 0.87 ng/mL and Qmax 20.4 mL/second. All comer same-day discharge rate was 70% (38/55). Of patients planned for same-day discharge 38/45 (84%) were effective. Average LOS for all patients was 11.8 hours with catheterization of 21.2 hours. When compared with 2010 published large gland outcomes, our current LOS represents a 220% reduction. Looking specifically at patients planned for same-day discharge, average LOS and catheter duration was 8.8 and 17.0 hours, whereas LOS and catheter duration for patients planned for admission was 25.7 and 39.4 hours, respectively. Conclusions: We report the first outcomes of preoperatively planned same-day discharge for HoLEP in large glands (≥175 cc). A combination of technologic advances and optimization of technique have allowed for a safe adoption of same-day discharge, providing additional advantages over alternative large gland treatments.

The constant search for the greater good: evolving from TURP to anatomic enucleation of the prostate is a safe bet

PURPOSE

In a troubling moment in history with an ongoing world pandemic and the impending economic crises, there is today a plethora of commercially available options for the minimally invasive treatment of BPH. New industry-driven evaluation criteria of these treatments, the logical marketing hype, a short follow-up for many of them, make challenging to interpret the role they will finally adopt in the armamentarium to treat BPH.

METHOD

The author comments on recently published literature based in own experience and insight.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

In this situation, choosing to evolve from TURP to the next step of endoscopic treatment, the size-independent anatomic endoscopic enucleation of the prostate is a safe bet. It is now exceedingly feasible when the paradigm of AEEP has changed, due to better learning opportunities and technological and surgical technique modifications that have refined this procedure significantly since its inception.