Bachmann A et al. (2005) Photoselective vaporization of the prostate: the basel experience after 108 procedures. Eur Urol 47: 798–804

A recent study by Bachmann et al. has provided welcome clinical data on the safety and efficacy of the 80 W high-power potassium–titanyl–phosphate (KTP) laser, a relatively new alternative treatment to transurethral resection for men with lower urinary tract symptoms secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia.

The researchers carried out KTP laser vaporization of the prostate on 108 patients, and obtained follow-up data at discharge, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months (105 patients at discharge reducing to 73 patients at 12 months). Follow-up assessment included measurement of both maximum urinary flow rate and postvoid residual volume, and completion of the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) questionnaire.

The vaporization procedure was carried out successfully in all 108 patients, and no intraoperative complications, such as severe bleeding or bladder neck perforation, were observed. The authors found a highly significant increase of 111% in maximum urinary flow rate (P <0.001) at discharge, which at 12 months had risen to 252%. Highly significant rises in postvoid residual volume and IPSS scores were also reported directly following surgery (P <0.001), and were sustained throughout the follow-up period. Additionally, patients reported a low complication rate over the 12 months.

In conclusion, the authors found KTP laser vaporization of the prostate to be a safe and effective surgical treatment for lower urinary tract symptoms secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia, and one that is associated with low rates of perioperative and postoperative complications.