Abstract

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• INTRODUCTION:

  Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is still considered the gold standard to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). However, photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) has gained widespread acceptance as an alternative option requiring preoperative patient selection. Four laser systems are currently in use: holmium, thulium, diode and GreenLight.

  MATERIALS AND METHODS:

  The goal of this article is to review the physics and the basics behind laser prostatectomies, as well as to present the most current literature concerning the results, advantages, disadvantages and international recommendations for each vaporization procedure.

  RESULTS:

  Holmium laser ablation of the prostate (HoLAP) and GreenLight photoselective vaporization of the prostate are an alternative to TURP for small to medium-sized prostates, providing equivalent efficacy and safety. GreenLight is also safe and effective in large-sized prostates and especially beneficial in anti-coagulated individuals compared to TURP. Thulium vaporization of the prostate (ThuVAP) and diode vaporization both require additional randomized trials and long term studies before conclusion is made, despite promising initial results. Diode vaporization provides the best hemostasis overall, but at the cost of increased complication and re-treatment rate, and thus is not recommended except in severely anti-coagulated patients.

  CONCLUSION:

  Laser vaporization is a safe and effective alternative to TURP in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) for carefully selected patients. However, further research is still needed to assess the durability of each technology.