Preliminary results of prostate vaporization in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia by using a 200-W high-intensity diode laser.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a 200-W high-intensity diode laser in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia.


METHODS
The prostate was vaporized by using a side-firing laser fiber (diode laser: power, 150-200 W; wavelength, 980 nm; Limmer, Germany). The following parameters were assessed at baseline, and after a follow-up period of 1- and 6 months: International Prostate Symptom Score, maximum uroflow rate, postvoid residual urine volume, and quality of life score. Prostate volume and prostate-specific antigen levels were assessed at baseline and 6 months postoperatively.


RESULTS
This study included 55 patients diagnosed with lower urinary tract symptoms secondary to BPH, who were treated between December 2007 and July 2008. The recatheterization rate was 10.9%. None of these patients required a blood transfusion or had transurethral resection syndrome. Statistically significant improvements (P < .001) were observed in the values of International Prostate Symptom Score, Q(max), postvoid residual urine volume, and quality of life score at 1- and 6 months of follow-up as compared with the respective baseline values. Transient urge incontinence was noted in 8 patients (8/55, 14.5%).Sloughing of necrotic tissues was observed on cystoscopy in 8 patients within several weeks or months after the operation. The retreatment rate (secondary transurethral resection of the prostate) was 7.3%.


CONCLUSIONS
From our preliminary data, it was evident that diode laser prostatectomy can achieve excellent hemostasis, and provide immediate relief from obstructive voiding symptoms. However, the postoperative irritative symptoms and sloughing of necrotic tissues remained to be an important issue that needed to be resolved.
Chen
Chien-Hsu
CH
Department of Urology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital-Kaohsiung Medical Center, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Niaosung, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
Chiang
Po-Hui
PH
Chuang
Yao-Chi
YC
Lee
Wei-Ching
WC
Chen
Yen-Ta
YT
Lee
Wei-Chia
WC
D000368:Aged; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D006801:Humans; D054023:Lasers, Semiconductor / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008297:Male; D011470:Prostatic Hyperplasia / Q000601:surgery*; D020728:Transurethral Resection of Prostate; D016896:Treatment Outcome