Serial endoscopy following visual laser ablation of prostate (VLAP)

Abstract

Visual laser ablation of the prostate (VLAP) was evaluated by serial video-endoscopy and six months of clinical correlation in 7 men suffering from advanced prostatism and urinary retention. Images of the prostatic urethra were obtained before and at various intervals from two to nineteen weeks after the procedure. A substantial tissue defect evolved within three months; complete healing required an even longer period. Except in the 1 patient with middle lobe obstruction, spontaneous urination was restored in all patients (including 2 cancer patients additionally treated with androgen deprivation). No operative complications were encountered. Thus, a safe and visually successful prostatectomy was the usual result of VLAP in the present patients. As a minimally invasive method to remove an obstructing prostate, laser treatment warrants further study.

• Authors: L S Marks
• Journal: Urology (Urology) Vol. 42 Issue 1 Pg. 66-71 (Jul 1993) ISSN: 0090-4295 [Print] United States
• PMID: 7687080 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)

Topics

• Aged
• Aged, 80 and over
• Endoscopy (methods)
• Follow-Up Studies
• Humans
• Laser Therapy
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Postoperative Period
• Preoperative Care
• Prostatectomy (methods)
• Prostatic Hyperplasia (surgery)
• Time Factors
• Video Recording