LASER PROSTATECTOMY FOR PATIENTS WITH BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIA - A PROSPECTIVE RANDOMIZED STUDY COMPARING 2 DIFFERENT TECHNIQUES USING THE PROLASE-II FIBER

Laser prostatectomy for patients with complaints due to benign prostat ic hyperplasia is a relatively new treatment option. The most effectiv e procedure for coagulation and vaporization of the prostate is not ye t known. In a prospective randomized study of 30 patients, 2 technique s for the delivery of laser energy were compared at 40 W for 90 s. The complications were minimal and antegrade ejaculation was preserved in 15 of 18 potent men. In 24 patients urodynamics evaluation was possib le. In both groups a significant reduction in the symptom score was ob served. The decrease in detrusor pressure at maximal flow and the incr ease in flow rate were, however, disappointing. No significant differe nce in the results was found between the two groups. The power setting needs to be changed in further studies.