In a nutshell
This study looks at the safety and effectiveness of laser therapy in treating overactive bladder (OAB). It also compared laser therapy to common OAB medications. It concludes that laser therapy is safe, effective and non-invasive in OAB treatment.
Some background
Overactive Bladder (OAB) is a sudden, frequent urge to urinate. It may result in urge incontinence (inability to hold on to urine). OAB urination is emptying of the bladder usually eight or more times a day and two or more times at night. OAB can have a negative impact on quality of life. Medications can be taken to calm the muscles and nerves which cause OAB. Medications however, can carry side effects. Laser therapy is another option. Laser therapy promotes blood flow to the region. Increased blood flow promotes tissue growth. This helps to strengthen the muscles around the bladder. It is important to research the safety and effectiveness of laser therapy.
Methods & findings
50 women with OAB were included in this study. The women were divided into three groups. Group 1 received 4 mg fesoterodine (Toviaz) once daily. Group 2 received 25 mg mirabegron (Myrbetriq) once daily. Group 3 had laser therapy once a month for 3 months. Patient's OAB symptoms were assessed by questionnaire at 1 year after beginning treatment. Patient's vaginal health was assessed by physical exam. Patients were followed for 1 year.
Each group showed improved numbers of urinations, night time urinations and urgent urinations. Only the laser therapy group showed an improvement in vaginal health. 2 patients from group 1 switched treatments because of dry mouth. 2 patients in group 2 switched treatments because they felt it was ineffective. 1 patient from group 3 switched treatments because they felt it was ineffective. No complications occurred in the laser therapy group.
The bottom line
This study concluded that laser therapy is a safe and effective OAB treatment.
The fine print
The authors note that a single doctor saw all of the patients. This may affect this study's results.
What’s next?
If you would like to learn more about laser therapy to treat OAB, talk to your doctor.
Published By :
World Journal of Urology
Date :
Jan 28, 2019
