DAYCASE TRANSURETHRAL INCISION OF THE PROSTATE USING THE HOLMIUM-YAG LASER - INITIAL EXPERIENCE

Objective To ascertain whether the holmium:YAG laser can be used for t ransurethral incision of the prostate (TUIP), without the need for pos t-operative catheterization. Patients and methods The study comprised 100 men with symptomatic bladder outlet obstruction and clinically ben ign glands (<30 g). The International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), n ow rates and post-void residual urine volume were measured before and 6 weeks after surgery. The first 22 patients were admitted overnight f or observation, but the remaining 78 patients were discharged on the d ay of the procedure, once they had successfully voided. Results Ninety -seven men voided successfully on the day of the procedure. The mean I PSS, now rate and residual urine volume were all significantly improve d at the time of review, Six patients developed a urinary tract infect ion post-operatively and eight men reported retrograde ejaculation. Co nclusion The holmium:YAG laser facilitates a bloodless TUIP thus avoid ing catheterization, allowing the procedure to be carried out as a day case.