A prospective randomized comparison of transurethral resection to visual laser ablation of the prostate for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia

Laser endoscopic procedures on the prostate: it is the small details that count

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review aims to highlight the pros and cons of each laser device and to consider additional possible milestones for the development of laser technologies in the surgical treatment of benign prostate hyperplasia.

RECENT FINDINGS

Over the last three decades, lasers' role in endourology has gone from strength to strength. Specifically, the primary techniques where laser surgery for BPO relief is concerned are vaporization and enucleation. The idea behind vaporization is that lasers are able to vaporize substantial amounts of tissue due to deep ablation depth and increased power. The most efficient devices for vaporization are those affecting hemoglobin as primary chromophore and/or using a continuous firing mode (KTP/LBO:YAG, diode lasers, Tm:YAG). As for enucleation, multiple devices have been suggested for the adequate anatomical enucleation of the prostate (EEP). As it is a skill-dependent technique, the EEP is effective irrespective of which device the surgeon uses. However, some devices have shown significant advances where enucleation is concerned.

SUMMARY

The choice of device should be based primarily on the technique the surgeon prefers. Although the most suitable lasers for vaporization are hemoglobin-targeting and/or continuous wave devices, the EEP may be done with any enough powered laser, yet some provides specific effects which you should be aware before the surgery.

Laser procedures in the treatment of BPH: a bibliometric study

PURPOSE

To perform a bibliometric analysis of lased-based BPH treatment publications and to obtain an understanding of the publication trends over time.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The Medline database was searched for articles in English language regarding laser-based BPH therapy up to 2018. Matching articles were assigned to at least one of the following categories: Ho:YAG, Tm:YAG, green light, diode, Nd:YAG laser and review articles. The laser categories were analysed using bibliometric procedures regarding citation rate, authors, country of origin and journal of publication. Moreover, the articles on laser BPH therapy included in the EAU, AUA and JUA guidelines were analysed to evaluate the most influential articles.

RESULTS

In total, 982 articles were included: 317 articles were assigned to green light, 283 to Ho:YAG, 101 to Tm:YAG, 74 to Nd:YAG and 39 to diode lasers. The publication rate for Nd:YAG laser has declined, but continues to grow for Ho:YAG and Tm:YAG lasers. We found a positive correlation between number of authors and year of publication (R = 0.3, p < 0.001*). Articles on Ho:YAG lasers are cited the most (mean 23.0 ± 37.1). Asia has contributed the most articles. Mostly, countries with high health and research and development (R&D) expenditures influenced the guidelines regarding laser-based approaches. Yet, after adjustment of all search results to GDP, health and R&D expenditure, India and China were the most prolific countries.

CONCLUSION

Laser-based approaches for BPH treatment are increasing but have not been implemented worldwide. Asia's contribution should be acknowledged. An inflationary trend regarding the number of authors per article is confirmed.

Bladder neck stenosis after transurethral prostate surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Bladder neck stenosis (BNS) is a long-term complication of surgical procedures for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). We performed a systematic literature review and a meta-analysis of the incidence of BNS after transurethral procedures for BPH.

METHODS

We performed a systemic literature review using MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Controlled Register of Trials. We accepted only randomized trials comparing transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) vs. other transurethral surgery for BPH that were grouped in Ablation vs. Enucleation modalities. The incidences of BNS were pooled using the Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel Method with the random effect model and expressed as Risk Ratios, 95% Confidence Intervals, and p values. Study heterogeneity was assessed utilizing the I² value.

RESULTS

72 studies were identified for meta-analysis, 46 comparing TURP vs. Ablation and 26 TURP vs. Enucleation. The pooled incidence of BNS was 1.3% after TURP, 0.66% after enucleation and 1.2% after Ablation. The incidence of BNS was higher after TURP than after Enucleation but the difference was not statistically significant (RR 1.75 95% CI 0.81-3.79, p = 0.16). There was no significant heterogeneity among the studies (I² 0%, Chi² 4.11, p = 0.90). The incidence of BNS was higher after TURP than after Ablation, but the difference was not statistically significant (RR 1.31, 95% CI 0.82-2.11, p = 0.26) with no significant heterogeneity (I² 0%, Chi² 21.1, p = 0.51).

CONCLUSION

Our study showed no difference in the rate of BNS incidence among randomized trials comparing TURP vs. Ablation vs. Enucleation and can be used as a reference to counsel patients undergoing BPH surgery.

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.

Is loss of power output due to laser fiber degradation still an issue during prostate vaporization using the 180 W GreenLight XPS laser?

PURPOSE

To investigate whether heat-induced fiber degradation and loss of power output, which occurred during GreenLight laser vaporization (LV) of the prostate using the first- and second-generation 80 and 120 W laser, are still an issue during LV using the upgraded third generation 180 W GreenLight XPS™ laser.

METHODS

Laser beam power output of 53 laser fibers was measured at baseline and after every 25 kJ of delivered energy during routine 180 W GreenLight XPS™ LV in 47 patients with prostatic bladder outflow obstruction. After the procedures, the fiber tips were microscopically examined.

RESULTS

The median applied energy per patient was 178 kJ [interquartile range (IQR): 106-247]. Loss of power output during the procedure was detectable in all fibers. After the application of 25, 150, and 250 kJ, the median power output decreased to 77% (IQR 59-87), 57% (IQR 32-71), and 51% (IQR 37-64) of the baseline value. Nine fibers (17%) remained on a relatively high power output level (> 80% of the initial output), while 13 fibers (25%) showed an end-of-procedure power output of less than 20%. Microscopy of the fiber tip revealed mild-to-moderate overall degradation and increasing degradation with higher energy delivered.

CONCLUSION

Despite changes in fiber design, heat-induced fiber damage and loss of power output remain an issue during 180 W GreenLight XPS™ LV. Whether modifications of the surgical technique can prevent impairment of fiber performance needs to be further evaluated.

Different lasers in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia: a network meta-analysis

All available surgical treatments for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) have their individual advantages or disadvantages. However, the lack of head-to-head studies comparing different surgeries makes it unavailable to conduct direct analysis. To compare the efficacy and safety among different lasers and transurethral resection of prostate (TURP) for BPH, randomized controlled trials were searched in MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane library, WHO International Clinical Trial Registration Platform, and Clinical Trial.gov by 2015.5; and the effectiveness-, perioperation- and complication-related outcomes were assessed by network meta-analysis. 36 studies involving 3831 patients were included. Holmium laser through resection and enucleation had the best efficacy in maximum flow rate. Thulium laser through vapo-resection was superior in improving international prostate symptom score and holmium laser through enucleation was the best for post-voiding residual volume improvement. Diode laser through vaporization was the rapidest in removing postoperative indwelling catheter, while TURP was the longest. TURP required the longest hospitalization and thulium laser through vapo-resection was relatively shorter. Holmium and thulium lasers seem to be relatively better in surgical efficacy and safety, so that these two lasers might be preferred in selection of optimal laser surgery. Actually, more large-scale and high quality head-to-head RCTs are suggested to validate the conclusions.

Lower urinary tract symptoms in men

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a highly prevalent and costly condition that affects older men worldwide. Many affected men develop lower urinary tract symptoms, which can have a negative impact on their quality of life. In the past, transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) was the mainstay of treatment. However, several efficacious drug treatments have been developed, which have transformed BPH from an acute surgical entity to a chronic medical condition. Specifically, multiple clinical trials have shown that α adrenoceptor antagonists can significantly ameliorate lower urinary tract symptoms. Moreover, 5α reductase inhibitors, alone or combined with an α adrenoceptor antagonist, can reverse the natural course of BPH, reducing the risk of urinary retention and the need for surgical intervention. Newer medical regimens including the use of antimuscarinic agents or phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors, have shown promise in men with predominantly storage symptoms and concomitant erectile dysfunction, respectively. For men who do not adequately respond to conservative measures or pharmacotherapy, minimally invasive surgical techniques (such as transurethral needle ablation, microwave thermotherapy, and prostatic urethral lift) may be of benefit, although they lack the durability of TURP. A variety of laser procedures have also been introduced, whose improved hemostatic properties abrogate many of the complications associated with traditional surgery.

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.

Best laser for prostatectomy in the year 2013

Lasers have come a long way in the management of benign prostatic hyperplasia. Over last nearly two decades, various different lasers have been utilized for prostatectomy. Neodymium: yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser that started this journey, is no longer used for prostatectomy. Holmium laser can achieve transurethral enucleation of the prostatic adenoma producing a fossa that can be compared with the fossa after Freyer's prostatectomy. Green light laser has a short learning curve, is nearly blood-less with good immediate results. Thulium laser is a faster cutting laser while diode laser is a portable laser device. Often laser prostatectomy is considered as a replacement for the standard transurethral resection of prostate (TURP). To be comparable, laser should reduce or avoid the immediate and long-term complications of TURP, especially bleeding and need for blood transfusion. It should also be safe in the ever increasing patient population on antiplatelet and anticoagulant drugs. We need to take stock of the situation and identify, which among the present day lasers has stood the test of time. A review of the literature was performed to see if any of these lasers could be called the “best laser for prostatectomy in 2013.”

Review of current laser therapies for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia

The gold standard for symptomatic relief of bladder outlet obstruction secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia has traditionally been a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). Over the past decade, however, novel laser technologies that rival the conventional TURP have multiplied. As part of the ongoing quest to minimize complications, shorten hospitalization, improve resection time, and most importantly reduce mortality, laser prostatectomy has continually evolved. Today, there are more variations of laser prostatectomy, each with several differing surgical techniques. Although abundant data are available confirming the safety and feasibility of the various laser systems, future randomized-controlled trials will be necessary to verify which technique is superior. In this review, we describe the most common modalities used to perform a laser prostatectomy, mainly, the holmium laser and the potassium-titanyl-phosphate lasers. We also highlight the physical and clinical characteristics of each technology with a review of the most current and highest-quality literature.

The evolution of lasers in urology

The world's first laser was developed by Theodore Maiman in 1960. Over the course of the past five decades, this technology has evolved into a highly specialized entity, also finding a niche market in the field of urology. Lasers obtained from various lasing mediums producing amplified light of different wavelengths have been tested for urological applications. Today, these lasers are most commonly used in the surgical management of benign prostatic hyperplasia and as intracorporeal lithotripters. Other uses include ablation of various urologic tumors and incising strictures of the upper- and lower urinary tract. A continuous process of evolution of this technology is taking place, resulting in surgical lasers becoming ever safer, more effective, and more affordable.

Bloodless management of benign prostatic hyperplasia: medical and minimally invasive treatment options

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a medical condition affecting a wide range of the aging male population resulting in various degrees of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). Today, a variety of medical therapies and minimally invasive BPH treatment modalities are available. Medical therapy includes α(1) blockers, 5()α reductase inhibitors and combination therapy. When these options fail, surgery is indicated. Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is still considered the gold standard surgical treatment for BPH. Nevertheless, numerous minimally invasive treatment alternatives are available that are comparable in effectiveness to TURP, with significantly less morbidity. In this article, current treatment options for BPH are reviewed with respect to their indications, long-term safety and efficacy in relieving BPH related LUTS. The selection of the type of BPH treatment should be based on the physician's experience, patient's co-morbidities as well as the prostate size and clinical disease progression.

The impact of minimally invasive surgeries for the treatment of symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia on male sexual function: a systematic review

A systematic review of randomized controlled trials and cohort studies was conducted to evaluate data for the effects of minimally invasive procedures for treatment of symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) on male sexual function. The studies searched were trials that enrolled men with symptomatic BPH who were treated with laser surgeries, transurethral microwave therapy (TUMT), transurethral needle ablation of the prostate (TUNA), transurethral ethanol ablation of the prostate (TEAP) and high-intensity frequency ultrasound (HIFU), in comparison with traditional transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) or sham operations. A total of 72 studies were identified, of which 33 met the inclusion criteria. Of the 33 studies, 21 were concerned with laser surgeries, six with TUMT, four with TUNA and two with TEAP containing information regarding male sexual function. No study is available regarding the effect of HIFU for BPH on male sexual function. Our analysis shows that minimally invasive surgeries for BPH have comparable effects to those of TURP on male erectile function. Collectively, less than 15.4% or 15.2% of patients will have either decrease or increase, respectively, of erectile function after laser procedures, TUMT and TUNA. As observed with TURP, a high incidence of ejaculatory dysfunction (EjD) is common after treatment of BPH with holmium, potassium-titanyl-phosphate and thulium laser therapies (> 33.6%). TUMT, TUNA and neodymium:yttrium aluminum garnet visual laser ablation or interstitial laser coagulation for BPH has less incidence of EjD, but these procedures are considered less effective for BPH treatment when compared with TURP.

Therapeutic options in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia

Current theraputic options for the treatment of symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) are reviewed. Therapeutic options for mild lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), as defined by the American Urological Association, are generally treated medically. Moderate to severe LUTS can be treated medically or with surgical therapy. Current medical and surgical treatments for LUTS secondary to BPH are reviewed and evolving treatments are explored.

Thermal ablation of prostate diseases: advantages and limitations

Both benign and malignant conditions affecting prostate gland are very common in elderly men. However, the conventional treatment of these conditions can be associated with significant side effects and complications, and less invasive treatment alternative has been always searched for. Because of the anatomical location and easy accessibility of prostate, many newer treatment modalities using thermal ablation have been applied to the organ. These include not only heating of the pathological tissue but also freezing. Some of such treatment techniques have shown to be effective and safe and been clinically used widely. In this review article, various tissue ablation techniques using temperature change applied to prostate gland are covered. Each procedure's advantages and disadvantages are compared and discussed.

Greenlight Prostatectomy: A Challenge to the Gold Standard?

The use of lasers to carry out resection of the prostate gland is an ever-evolving field which has seen several different modalities of laser light used with varying success. This review looks at what makes the traditional transurethral resection of prostate the gold standard and provides the evidence on the evolution of the laser prostatectomy in trying to usurp it as the favored procedure for symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia. In particular, we show how the latest laser technology in the form of the Greenlight laser is challenging not only other lasers such as the holmium laser, but may form a strong contender to replace the transurethral resection of prostate.

Is the minimally invasive treatment as good as transurethral resection for benign prostatic hyperplasia?

Despite the development of new technologies, transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is still considered the gold standard for surgical treatment of the benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH). In general, new minimally invasive treatments have not demonstrated better outcomes than TURP in evidence based medicine trials published to date, and should be reserved for patients who prefer to avoid surgery, who are unsuitable candidates for surgery or who no longer respond favorably to medication. TUMT and TUNA appears to be more effective than medical therapy but less effective than TURP. Both treatments can be given under topical anesthesia or local prostatic or perineal block. Efficacy of transurethral vaporization appears similar to TURP, but the studies are short-term and the glands operated on are relatively small. In patients with small prostates, the transurethral incision of the prostate can also be a good option, associated with less morbidity than TURP. Bipolar resection of the prostate is similar to TURP in effectiveness, but the data are inconclusive regarding blood loss, length of catheterization and hospital stay. Long-term comparative trials are needed to determine if the minimally invasive therapies are superior to standard TURP.

Suprapubic Prostatectomy With a Novel Catheter

PURPOSE

We evaluated the postoperative morbidity and technical complications of a new handmade catheter used for suprapubic prostatectomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 146 patients with lower urinary tract symptoms who had indications for open prostatectomy were enrolled in the study from January 2003 to August 2004. Of the patients 96 were treated with a novel technique without a urethral catheter but with a special handmade cystostomy catheter, while the other 50 underwent the traditional procedure using cystostomy and a urethral catheter. The same surgical team operated on the 2 groups. Clot retention episodes, hemoglobin decreases, irritative symptoms, voiding status after cystostomy removal and incontinence were evaluated postoperatively. Three months later we followed the patients with symptom score, maximum flow rate and cystoscopic examination.

RESULTS

Preoperatively mean International Prostate Symptom Score was 31.6 in each group. Postoperatively none of the patients with the novel catheter complained of significant irritative urinary symptoms, clot retention and true or stress urinary incontinence. Of the cohorts 94% were satisfied with voiding but 86% of controls were satisfied. There was no report of urinary tract infection or epididymo-orchitis in the cohorts, while we found epididymo-orchitis in 4 controls (8%). Three months after the operation the mean International Prostate Symptom Score was 4.4 (range 1 to 7) and the mean maximum flow rate was 22.6 ml per second (range 14 to 25) in patients with the novel catheter, and 4.2 (range 1 to 7) and 22.5 ml per second (range 15 to 25), respectively, in those with the traditional catheter. At followup there was no bladder neck contracture but 4 patients (4.1%) showed some degree of membranous urethral stricture. We also noted 7 controls (14%) with urethral stricture.

CONCLUSIONS

Transurethral prostate resection has been introduced as the surgical treatment of choice in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia. However, open adenomectomy still has a place. Urethral catheter-free suprapubic prostatectomy can be safely applied with a low postoperative risk of infection, incontinence and stricture formation.

Laser treatment of symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia

The treatment of lower urinary symptoms secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) after failure of medical therapies remains controversial for most urologic surgeons. The complications of traditional surgery are the driving force behind the development of several minimally invasive treatments of symptomatic BPH. Laser prostatectomy is one of the most investigated such modalities. In this article we reviewed the results of the most common types of lasers used in prostatic surgery.

High-power potassium-titanyl-phosphate photoselective laser vaporization of prostate for treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia in men with large prostates

OBJECTIVES

To study the safety and efficacy of high-power potassium-titanyl-phosphate photoselective laser vaporization of the prostate in men with prostate volumes greater than 60 cm3.

METHODS

A total of 64 men with symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia and large-volume prostates underwent photoselective laser vaporization of the prostate between May 2002 and September 2003. Medical therapy had failed in all men, and 18 presented with urinary retention. The preoperative evaluation included the maximal flow rate, postvoid residual urine volume, prostate volume, serum sodium, creatinine, and hematocrit, and International Prostate Symptom Score. Transurethral prostatectomy was performed with an 80 W potassium-titanyl-phosphate (KTP) side-firing laser system through a 23F continuous-flow cystoscope with normal saline as the irrigant. The operative time, anesthesia type, length of stay, and postoperative serum sodium, creatinine, and hematocrit were recorded. The International Prostate Symptom Score, maximal flow rate, and postvoid residual urine volume were measured at each follow-up visit.

RESULTS

The mean preoperative prostate volume was 101 +/- 40 cm3. The mean operative time was 123 +/- 70 minutes. No transfusions were required. Of the 64 patients, 62 were discharged within 23 hours. The serum sodium level did not change significantly. The International Prostate Symptom Score decreased from 18.4 preoperatively to 9.9, 8.6, 7.2, and 6.7 at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively, and the maximal flow rate increased from 7.9 mL/s preoperatively to 16.4, 16.2, 20.0, and 18.9 mL/s at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. The postvoid residual urine volume also decreased from 189 mL preoperatively to 78, 78, 67, and 109 mL at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively.

CONCLUSIONS

Photoselective laser vaporization of the prostate is safe and efficacious, with durable results for men with symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia and large-volume prostates.

Lasers for lower urinary tract symptoms secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia: when is the fuss worth it?

In the recent past, several endoscopic procedures using laser technology have evolved for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia. The term "laser treatment of the prostate" comprises a variety of different application systems, different laser wavelengths, and different surgical techniques to eliminate bladder outlet obstruction. The aim of laser prostatectomy is to be less invasive than transurethral electroresection, but equally effective. Promising short-term results led to a booming laser decade in the 1990s, stimulating the development of several devices. However, the emergence of medium-term data has shown that some of these techniques did not stand the test of time due to the lack of long-term efficacy, unacceptable morbidity, and high retreatment rates. Nevertheless, the results of transurethral resection of the prostate are challenged by some of the newer laser devices, putting the so-called "gold standard" into question.

Die 80-Watt-Kalium-Titanyl-Phosphat- (KTP-)Laservaporisation der Prostata

BACKGROUND

Despite good efficacy, even in our days, TURP remains a potentially difficult procedure to perform and is associated with significant risks for the patient. Several alternatives have been tried to reduce the known perioperative morbidity. We report our first experiences with 80 W potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP) laser vaporization of the prostate in patients with symptomatic BPH.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In 70 patients 80 W KTP laser vaporization was performed successfully. Mean age was 70.5 years (46-93 years) and mean transrectal prostate volume was 48.1 ml (10-250 ml).

RESULTS

Mean operating time was 41 min ( n=22), 64 min ( n=33), and 80 min ( n=15) for a 26 ml, 46 ml, and a 91 ml prostate, respectively. At time of discharge, after 1 month, and 6 months the urinary peak flow increased by 75.4%, 166.8%, and 168.6%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The 80 W KTP laser vaporization of the prostate combines the tissue-debulking properties of transurethral resection of the prostate with the known good hemostatic properties of other laser procedures. It is a safe procedure for the patient and provides a virtually bloodless operation and immediate improvement of voiding.

PHOTOSELECTIVE VAPORIZATION OF THE PROSTATE FOR THE TREATMENT OF BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIA: 12-MONTH RESULTS FROM THE FIRST UNITED STATES MULTICENTER PROSPECTIVE TRIAL

PURPOSE

We report the 1-year efficacy and safety of photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) for symptomatic and obstructive benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A prospective clinical trial was performed in 139 men clinically diagnosed with symptomatic bladder outlet obstruction secondary to BPH who were enrolled and treated with a high power, 80 W, quasicontinuous wave potassium-titanyl-phosphate laser at 6 American medical centers across the country. Efficacy parameters were mean and percent changes from baseline in the American Urological Association Symptom Index (AUA-SI) score, quality of life score (QOL), peak urinary flow rate (Qmax), post-void residual urine volume (PVR) and transrectal ultrasound prostate volume measurement. Patients were evaluated 1, 3, 6 and 12 months following treatment. At each followup evaluation side effects were elicited.

RESULTS

Significant improvements in AUA-SI score, QOL score, Qmax and PVR were noted as early as 1 month after PVP treatment. At 12 months the mean AUA-SI score decreased from 23.9 to 4.3 (p <0.0001) and the QOL score decreased from 4.3 to 1.1 (p <0.0001), while mean Qmax increased from 7.8 to 22.6 ml per second (p <0.0001). PVR decreased from 114.3 to 24.8 ml (p <0.0001), while the transrectal ultrasound volume reduction went from 54.6 ml at baseline to 34.4 ml. There was no significant blood loss or fluid absorption during or immediately after PVP. Complications consisted of transient hematuria, dysuria and urinary retention in 12 (8.6%), 13 (9.3%) and 7 (5%) patients, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

PVP is a unique, safe and effective outpatient modality that provides immediate symptomatic and urodynamic relief of bladder outlet obstruction secondary to BPH. Long-term followup is needed to validate further the maintenance of clinical efficacy beyond 1 year.

A Systematic Review of Holmium Laser Prostatectomy for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

PURPOSE

We undertook a systematic review to assess the safety and efficacy of holmium laser prostatectomy compared to transurethral resection of the prostate.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We searched literature databases through August 2002. Holmium laser studies, including holmium laser resection of the prostate (HoLRP) and holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP), of any design, and the transurethral prostatectomy (TURP) arms of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with sample sizes greater than 50 patients, date restricted to 1995 onward, were included for comparison.

RESULTS

Three RCTs comparing HoLRP and TURP, and 2 RCTs comparing HoLEP and TURP were identified. For each of the holmium procedures there was also 1 nonrandomized comparative study and a number of case series (HoLRP 13, HoLEP 10). With the exception of 1 randomized trial the quality of the available evidence was poor, with the other RCTs lacking information regarding methods of randomization, allocation concealment and blinding. The majority of studies were characterized by relatively short followup periods and significant losses to followup. In terms of safety the data suggest that the holmium laser procedures are superior to TURP with regard to a number of key indicators of blood loss (transfusion rates, postoperative bladder irrigation, duration of catheterization and length of hospital stay), although amount of blood loss was rarely reported. In terms of efficacy the holmium laser procedures appear to be similarly effective to TURP in relieving the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia.

CONCLUSIONS

Holmium laser prostatectomy is at least as effective as TURP for managing the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia. However, at the present time the long-term durability of the holmium procedures with respect to TURP cannot be determined due to a lack of published studies with sufficient followup.

Laser prostatectomy for benign prostatic obstruction

BACKGROUND

Symptomatic benign prostatic obstruction is a common problem for older men. The gold standard treatment, transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), significantly improves urinary symptoms and urinary flow. However, TURP has up to a 20% morbidity. Currently, there are a number of minimally invasive procedures that may be safe, effective alternatives to TURP. One promising surgical technique is laser prostatectomy.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the therapeutic efficacy and safety of laser prostatectomy techniques for treating men with symptomatic benign prostatic obstruction.

SEARCH STRATEGY

Randomized controlled trials were identified from the Cochrane Collaboration Library, MEDLINE, EMBASE, bibliographies of retrieved articles and reviews, and contacting expert relevant trialists and laser manufacturers.

SELECTION CRITERIA

All randomized controlled trials evaluating laser prostatectomy treatment for men with symptomatic BPH. Trials were eligible if they (1) were randomized comparisons of a laser technique with TURP, (2) included at least 10 men with BPO in each treatment arm, (3) provided at least 6-months follow-up, and (4) included clinical outcomes such as urologic symptom scales or urodynamic measurements.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Data extraction and assessment of methodologic quality was performed independently by two reviewers. Information on study design, subject and treatment characteristics, adverse events, urinary symptoms, and urinary flow were extracted using a standard form.

MAIN RESULTS

20 studies involving 1898 subjects were evaluated, including studies 4 with multiple comparisons. We found 8 comparisons of TURP with contact lasers, 8 with non-contact lasers, 4 with hybrid techniques, and one with interstitial laser coagulation (ILC). Two studies compared transurethral electrovaporization (TUVP) with contact lasers, one study compared interstitial laser coagulation with transurethral microwave thermotherapy (TUMT), and one study compared holmium contact lasers (HoLRP) with open prostatectomy. Among the studies comparing laser prostatectomy with TURP, follow-up duration ranged from 6 to 36 months. Mean age (67.2 yrs), mean baseline symptom score (20.2), and mean baseline peak urinary flow (9.2 ml/s) did not differ by treatment group. The pooled percentage improvements for mean urinary symptoms ranged from 59% to 68% with lasers and 63% to 77% with TURP. The improvements for mean peak urinary flow ranged from 56% to 119% with lasers and 96% to 127% with TURP. Overall, laser subjects were less likely to receive transfusions or develop strictures and their hospitalizations were shorter. Non-contact laser subjects were more likely to have dysuria, urinary tract infection, and retention. Re-operation occurred more often following laser procedures.

REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS

Laser techniques are a useful alternative to TURP for treating BPO. Small sample sizes and differences in study design limit any definitive conclusions regarding the preferred type of laser technique. Data were insufficient to compare laser techniques with other minimally invasive procedures.

Nd:YAG laser ablation plus transurethral resection for large prostates in high-risk patients

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the outcome and morbidity rate of combined visual laser ablation of the prostate and transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) in high-risk symptomatic patients with large prostates.

METHODS

A total of 28 patients evaluated according to the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification to have ASA grade 3 or greater and who had a prostate volume of 50 cm3 or greater, and peak urinary flow rate of less than 15 mL/s underwent visual laser ablation of the prostate plus TURP for severe lower urinary tract symptoms due to benign prostatic hyperplasia. The postoperative evaluation included the American Urological Association symptom score index, maximal urinary flow rate measurement, postvoid residual urine volume, and morbidity.

RESULTS

The mean baseline prostate volume and duration of surgery was 85 cm3 (range 50 to 120) and 70 minutes (range 55 to 105), respectively. Surgery was performed under local and spinal anesthesia in 18 and 10 patients, respectively. No perioperative bleeding requiring transfusion or TURP syndrome developed. Urethral catheter drainage was continued for an average of 1.7 days. Only 1 patient developed irritative voiding symptoms. The postoperative follow-up period ranged from 6 to 21 months (median 11). Improvement in the evaluation parameters was noted in all cases.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of our study show that visual laser ablation of the prostate plus TURP has the advantage of excellent homeostasis and lower morbidity in men with large prostates. When the patient's medical condition precludes TURP, this combination of techniques may be considered an option in such cases for symptomatic relief of obstructive urinary symptoms due to benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Free-Beam and Contact Laser Coagulation

Laser coagulation of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) encompasses a variety of techniques using different laser wavelengths, application systems, and surgical techniques to achieve contrasting tissue effects. During transurethral laser coagulation, known as visual laser ablation of the prostate (VLAP), the prostate is irradiated by free-beam Nd:YAG or diode laser energy. The coagulated and necrotic tissue sloughs off within weeks to months. In randomized studies comparing laser coagulation and transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), symptoms and some voiding parameters improved significantly after laser coagulation, although not to the level obtained with TURP. However, the operative duration and the length of hospitalization have been shorter than for TURP, and major complications have not occurred. Follow-up clinical data and retreatment rates are available for up to 5 years with a remarkable variability. Although retreatment rates may be high, patients who are "responders" to the treatment after 2 to 3 years seem to have durable results after 4 to 5 years and even longer.

A 4-year follow-up of a randomized prospective study comparing transurethral electrovaporization of the prostate with neodymium: YAG laser therapy for treating benign prostatic hyperplasia

OBJECTIVE

To compare the safety, efficacy and durability of neodymium (Nd):YAG laser prostatectomy with transurethral electrovaporization of the prostate (TUVP) for treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From March 1995 to March 1997, 180 patients with bladder outlet obstruction secondary to BPH were randomized equally either to Nd:YAG laser therapy or TUVP. Laser therapy combined two different techniques, side-fire coagulation of the lateral lobes and contact vaporization of the median lobe. Before treatment the two groups had a comparable International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), quality-of-life score (QoL), maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax), postvoid residual urine volume (PVR), and prostate and adenoma volume. In all, 62 and 78 patients completed the 1, 2, 3 and 4-year follow-up from the laser and TUVP groups, respectively.

RESULTS

At each follow-up, the IPSS, QoL, Qmax and PVR were significantly better and more durable in the TUVP than in the laser group. In the TUVP and laser groups respectively, at the 4-year follow-up the mean value of the IPSS was 3.7 vs 11.9, the QoL 1.3 vs 3.1, the Qmax 21.4 vs 13.6 mL/s and the PVR 25.1 vs 64.6 mL (all P < 0.001). The mean prostate and adenoma volume were significantly lower after TUVP than after laser therapy (P < 0.001) at the 1- and 4-year follow-up, with final values of 27.9 vs 35.9 and 11.7 vs 20 mL (both P < 0.001) for the TUVP and laser groups, respectively. Retrograde ejaculation was significantly more common after TUVP (63%) than after laser therapy (18%; P < 0.001). Impotence was reported in 8% of men after TUVP and in none after laser therapy (P = 0.040). The re-operation rate was 12% after TUVP and 38% after laser treatment (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

These 4-year follow-up results confirm that TUVP is significantly more effective and durable than the Nd:YAG laser for treating BPH. Residual obstructing adenoma was the main cause of failure in the laser group, which reflects the inadequacy of laser therapy for removing the adenoma.

Current indications for transurethral resection of the prostate and associated complications

Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is the most common surgical procedure for relieving symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia. Here, we report our experience of current indications for TURP and their associated outcomes at Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital (KMUH). A total of 111 patients who underwent TURP at KMUH between May 2000 and December 2001 were included in this retrospective review. For each patient, the surgical indication was categorized into acute urinary retention, chronic complications (including renal impairment, recurrent urinary infection, bladder stone/diverticulum, post-void residue, and recurrent hematuria), and symptomatic prostatism. Thirty-five patients (31%) had acute urinary retention, 28 (27%) had chronic complications, and 48 (42%) had symptomatic prostatism. Most patients chose TURP only when medical treatment had failed to relieve symptoms, no matter what category they belonged to. Patients with acute urinary retention and chronic complications had larger prostates (p = 0.002) and more tissue resected (p = 0.05) than those with symptomatic prostatism. Patients with acute urinary retention seemed to be at greater risk of postoperative complications such as recurrent urinary retention and urinary tract infection. We suggest that urodynamic study may be necessary to rule out concomitant bladder dysfunction before surgery and that adequate prophylactic antibiotic treatment be used to decrease the risk of urinary tract infection during or after TURP, especially when pyuria is noted preoperatively in patients with acute urinary retention.

Laser prostatectomy versus transurethral resection for treating benign prostatic obstruction: a systematic review

PURPOSE

We conducted a systematic review of randomized controlled trials evaluating the efficacy and safety of laser prostatectomy techniques compared to transurethral resection of the prostate for symptomatic benign prostatic obstruction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We searched MEDLINE, the Cochrane library and reference lists of retrieved studies to identify randomized trials of 6 months or greater in duration with at least 10 subjects in each treatment arm. We extracted data on study design, subject and treatment characteristics, adverse events, urinary symptoms and urinary flow.

RESULTS

A total of 16 studies involving 1,488 subjects were evaluated, including 8 comparisons of transurethral resection with contact lasers, 7 with noncontact lasers and 4 with hybrid techniques. Study duration ranged from 6 to 36 months. Mean patient age (67.4 years), baseline symptom score (20.2) and peak urinary flow (9.5 ml. per second) did not differ by treatment group. Transurethral resection of the prostate provided slightly greater improvement in urinary symptoms and flow. The pooled mean percentage improvement for urinary symptoms ranged from 59% to 68% with lasers and 63% to 77% with transurethral resection. Improvement for peak urinary flow ranged from 56% to 119% with lasers and 96% to 127% with transurethral resection of the prostate. Laser procedures resulted in fewer transfusions (less than 1% versus 7%) and strictures (0% to 7% versus 8%), and required shorter hospitalizations. Reoperation occurred more often (RR = 5.7) following laser procedures.

CONCLUSIONS

Laser techniques are a useful alternative to transurethral resection of the prostate for treating benign prostatic obstruction. Small sample sizes and differences in study design limit any definitive conclusions regarding the preferred type of laser technique.

Three-year follow-up of laser prostatectomy versus transurethral resection of the prostate in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia

OBJECTIVES

To present our 3-year data comparing laser prostatectomy and transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Laser prostatectomy was one of the first new minimally invasive treatment modalities for BPH, and few reports of the long-term results of this treatment regimen have been published.

METHODS

One hundred men with BPH in whom medical therapy had failed were randomized to undergo either laser prostatectomy or TURP. Preoperative measurements included American Urologic Association symptom score, prostate-specific antigen, uroflowmetry, and transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS). Laser prostatectomy was performed using the potassium titanyl-phosphate/neodynium:yttrium aluminum-garnet laser. TURP was performed in a standard manner with video monitoring. Patients were seen in follow-up at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months and every 12 months thereafter, with the following data obtained: symptom score, peak urinary flow rate, prostate-specific antigen level, and TRUS volume.

RESULTS

A total of 100 patients were entered into the study, with 50 patients in each treatment group. The mean age was 68.2 years (range 45 to 90) for the laser patients and 67.4 years (range 54 to 82) for the TURP group. The mean symptom score decreased from 22.0 to 9.9 at 36 months of follow-up for the laser patients compared with 21.2 to 7.7 for the TURP patients. The mean peak flow rate increased from 8.2 to 12.3 mL/s at 36 months for the laser group with a similar increase from 7.3 to 12.8 mL/s for the TURP patients. The mean TRUS volume for the laser patients decreased from 33.9 to 32.9 cm3 at 36 months compared with a mean TRUS volume of 29.6 cm3 preoperatively for the TURP patients that decreased to 26.3 cm3 at 36 months.

CONCLUSIONS

At 36 to 72 months of follow-up, the durability of results achieved by the patients in the laser cohort was similar to that for patients undergoing TURP.

Interstitial laser coagulation combined with minimal transurethral resection of the prostate for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia

BACKGROUND

Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) represents the gold standard in the surgical treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). However, this method still has significant morbidity mainly associated with irrigation fluid absorption and blood loss.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A combination of interstitial laser coagulation (ILC) with limited TURP was established to reduce specific risks of transurethral resection and was applied in 41 patients with bladder outlet obstruction caused by BPH. In these patients, a subtotal resection of the prostate was not possible because of anesthesiologic risk factors. After insertion of a suprapubic catheter, ILC was performed under visual control using an Nd:YAG laser followed by resection of the bladder neck or the median lobe. Isotonic carbohydrate solution with 1% ethanol was used for irrigation, and irrigation fluid uptake was quantified by measurements of the ethanol concentration in the patients' exhaled breath. Additional measures such as blood loss, need for blood transfusions, and operative time were evaluated.

RESULTS

The operations were performed without major complications with a mean operative time of 35 +/- 11 minutes for the entire procedure. An irrigation fluid uptake of 9 +/- 32 mL and no TUR syndrome were observed. The mean blood loss was minimal with a change in the hemoglobin of -1.3 +/- 1.1 g/dL and no need for blood transfusions.

CONCLUSION

These results demonstrate that ILC with subsequent minimal TURP is an applicable method in the surgical treatment of BPH with reduction of blood loss and of the risk of TUR syndrome. This procedure may help to reduce the morbidity of TURP, especially in high-risk patients.

Neodymium:YAG visual laser ablation of the prostate: 7 years of experience with 230 patients

PURPOSE

We evaluated the short and long-term outcome of neodymium:YAG visual laser ablation prostatectomy for treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 230 patients with symptomatic BPH underwent visual laser ablation prostatectomy. Evaluation measures included the American Urological Association symptom score, maximum urinary flow rate, post-void residual urine volume and morbidity.

RESULTS

Median followup was 36 months (range 6 to 79). Of the patients 220, 196, 180, and 167 were available at 6 months, 1, 2 and 3 years, respectively. Moreover, 98 patients were followed for a minimum 5 years. At 6 months maximum urinary flow rate increased from 6.7 to 17.9 ml. per second, post-void residual urine volume decreased from 159 to 52 ml. and the American Urological Association symptom score was reduced from 22 to 7.2. Improvement in the evaluation parameters also continued at 5 years. Early complications consisted of prostatitis, urinary retention, and bleeding in 6 (2.6%), 3 (1.4%) and 1 (0.4%) patient, respectively. Irritative symptoms persisting greater than 4 weeks were seen in 28 (12.2%) patients. Late complications were bladder neck contracture, urethral stricture, and urinary retention in 3 (1.4%), 2 (0.9%) and 2 (0.9%) patients, respectively. Of the 153 sexually active men 5 noticed erectile impotence at 6 months. There were 20 (12.0%) patients who reported retrograde ejaculation. The reoperation rate was 5.5%.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results further confirmed that visual laser ablation prostatectomy is a safe and effective treatment for BPH. It has minimal morbidity and durable therapeutic effects. However, the major disadvantage is postoperative irritative voiding symptoms.

Computer-assisted transurethral laser resection of the prostate (CALRP): theoretical and experimental motion plan

Computer-Assisted transurethral laser resection of the prostate (CALRP) is a treatment modality that was designed and developed based on an integrated system of computer, robotics and laser technology in association with a minimally invasive surgery known as laser transurethral resection of the prostate (LRP). CALRP possesses complementary capabilities that could remedy many of the problems faced by surgeons in conventional LRP by delivering a treatment with repeatability and reliability. The work deals primarily in determining the feasibility study of the computer-assisted lasing motion plan (planned motion sequence controlled by a program) for LRP. A theoretical motion plan that analyzes numerically the lasing motion of the fiber was designed by calculating the profile removal rate and in vitro experiments conducted on human cadaveric prostate to verify and validate the designed motion plan. The novel motion plan, which was executed experimentally using the LaserTrode lightguide, accomplished the objective of resecting the enlarged prostate with the aid of computer and robotics technology.

Experimental study of transurethral robotic laser resection of the prostate using the LaserTrode lightguide

A longer operating time and steeper learning curve in mastering the techniques for transurethral laser resection of the prostate are the main problems faced by surgeons in addition to the existing ones in standard transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). However, these disadvantages can be alleviated with the introduction of a treatment procedure designed and developed based on an integrated system of computer, robotics and laser technology. In vitro experiments were carried out to determine variables affecting the vaporization and coagulation lesions, in order to study the effectiveness and feasibility of robotics for this procedure. Human cadaveric prostates and fresh tauted chicken breast tissues were irradiated with different parameters using the LaserTrode lightguide in contact with the tissue. The effects of irrigant flow rate, fiber/tissue angle of inclination, number of passes, direction, speed and power of lase on the volume of tissue vaporized and coagulated, were assessed. The final phase of the experiments includes executing the robotic motion plan for the laser resection procedure on the human cadaveric prostate tissue embedded in an anatomically alike prostate phantom. It was concluded from our study that power and speed of lase are the most significant parameters influencing the volume of the vaporized and coagulated lesion. Comparison of removal rate using the new treatment procedure of robotic laser resection of the prostate with TURP and HoLRP evinced equivalent results.

Changing therapeutic regimens in benign prostatic hyperplasia. Clinical and economic considerations

About one-quarter of men aged 50 years and older experience voiding problems due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Until about 10 years ago, surgery (particularly transurethral resection of the prostate) was the only effective treatment for symptomatic BPH. Over the last decade, several new treatments have been introduced. These include different types of medication (alpha-blockers and finasteride), thermotherapy, laser prostatectomy, needle ablation and vaporisation methods. The diffusion of these less invasive treatment modalities has resulted not only in a decrease in the age-adjusted surgery rates, but also in an increase of the total number of men treated for BPH. A large number of studies on clinical benefits and risks reveal that the conventional types of surgery remain the most effective treatments, whereas new interventional therapies require a shorter hospital stay and result in fewer short term complications. The efficacy of medication is lower than that of interventional treatments. Adverse effects include dizziness and orthostatic hypotension (alpha-blockers) and decreased sexual function (finasteride), but are generally mild. There is some evidence that medication and minimally invasive treatments may preclude eventual surgical treatment, but the precise effect is difficult to estimate because of differences in the study populations and the relatively short study periods. As a result of the dynamic nature of BPH treatment and the lack of long term data, the cost effects of the introduction of the various new treatments are also difficult to assess. Given the aging of the population and the growing percentage of patients with BPH for whom any type of treatment can be considered, a considerable increase of total costs can be expected. Long term prospective studies are necessary to gain insight into the most cost-effective treatment for different patient groups.

Quality-of-life assessment in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia: effects of various interventions

A literature search was conducted to review quality-of-life (QOL) measurement in patients with benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH). The different QOL instruments are discussed in relation to their correlation with symptom evaluation in studies of treatment options for BPH. Symptom evaluation of BPH has been standardised internationally with the International Prostatic Symptom Score (IPSS), but there is neither agreement nor data to decide which QOL instrument is preferable. The most widely used QOL instrument is the disease-specific QOL single question added to the IPSS. Other QOL instruments have been used, but none has gained unanimous approval. The results of QOL assessments obtained from comparative clinical studies of treatment options for BPH are discussed. These studies compare treatment options such as watchful waiting, drug treatment and surgery. Disease-specific QOL domains (interference with daily activities) tend to improve more with treatment interventions than general health measures (i.e. general well-being). The use of QOL instruments to evaluate patients with BPH, and their many treatment options, is still open to debate with regard to which instruments are preferred and their importance to the clinical evaluation of the patient. The challenge remains to find an acceptable disease-specific QOL instrument that adds information to currently used disease measures of BPH.

Cost effectiveness of microwave thermotherapy in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia: part I-methods

OBJECTIVES

To present the method used to evaluate the cost effectiveness, from the societal perspective, of transurethral microwave thermotherapy relative to medical therapy (alpha-blocking agents) and transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) for a hypothetical cohort of 65-year-old men with moderate-to-severe benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) symptoms.

METHODS

We constructed a decision-analytic Markov model with 25 health states describing the 3 treatments, 5 short-term clinical events, and 17 possible long-term outcomes. Each health state had an associated cost and utility. Utility weights, reflecting an individual's preference for a specific health outcome, range from 0, indicating death, to 100, indicating perfect health. Utility estimates were obtained by interviewing 13 men with moderate-to-severe BPH symptoms using the standard gamble preference measurement technique. On the basis of their risk attitudes, the patients were classified as risk averse or non-risk averse. The rates of remission, temporary and permanent adverse events, retreatment, and mortality were obtained from the Targis System (Urologix) randomized clinical trial, published reports, and a consensus panel. The costs during the 5 years after treatment initiation were estimated using national Medicare reimbursement schedules. The costs are reported in 1999 U.S. dollars.

RESULTS

Eliciting utility values from patients with BPH was feasible and generated internally consistent and externally valid measures. In the non-risk-averse group, the utility value for significant remission, moderate remission, no remission, and worsening BPH symptoms without an adverse event was 99.1, 97.1, 94.4, and 87.3, respectively. As expected, the risk-averse individuals (n = 6) exhibited higher utility values than those in the non-risk-averse group (n = 7). In the non-risk-averse group, thermotherapy was the preferred treatment, and in the risk-averse group, medical therapy was preferred. In both groups, TURP was the least preferred therapy. The initial thermotherapy procedure costs without complications were estimated at $2629, and the initial TURP procedure costs without complications were estimated at $4597. Time-dependent probabilities were developed to reflect treatment durability.

CONCLUSIONS

The resulting model parameters appear to be suitable for evaluating the cost effectiveness of thermotherapy relative to medical therapy and TURP in 65-year-old men with moderate-to-severe BPH symptoms.