Evaluation of photoselective vaporization of the prostate used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia

This study evaluated photoselective vaporization using laser (PVL) for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). This study found PVL to be an effective and safe treatment for BPH. 

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. BPH can impede the flow of urine. This leads to lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) such as dribbling of urine and a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying. Photoselective vaporization laser (PVL) can be used to treat BPH. This procedure uses a laser to remove prostate tissue that is blocking urine flow. 

The long-term effects of PVL are unclear. 

This study included 77 men with BPH. All patients were treated with PVL. The evaluation included urinary symptoms, prostate size, and patient satisfaction. They were followed up for 36 months.

Patient's urinary symptoms improved over the 36 months. Quality of life also improved. There were few side-effects of surgery. There were no serious complications during surgery such as bleeding or perforation.

This study found PVL to be an effective and safe treatment for BPH. 

This study had a very small number of participants. Also, the authors acknowledge a drawback of the procedure of not being able to obtain prostate tissue for cell analysis (biopsy).