GOLD-TIP LASER SLEEVE FOR A BARE FIBER

A gold-tip laser sleeve for a bare laser fiber has been used for Nd:YA G laser irradiation of the prostate in both the canine model and a pil ot clinical series. In the animal model, irradiation was undertaken us ing the Ablaser catheter through an open suprapubic cystotomy, and the procedure was monitored by video endoscopy via a perineal urethrostom y. Intraprostatic heating profiles were determined using real-time int erstitial thermometry. As long as no carbonization occurred, irradiati on with higher wattage resulted in higher intraprostatic temperatures. The ''popcorn effect'' caused a superficial temperature reduction but did not alter the ability of thermal conduction to heat deeper in the prostate. A small series of patients has been treated, with good resu lts.