High-intensity diode laser in combination with bipolar transurethral resection of the prostate: A new strategy for the treatment of large prostates (>80 ml)

Background and Objective The ideal treatment of large prostates with symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) remains controversial. We compare the efficacy and safety of monopolar transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) with high-intensity diode laser in combination with bipolar TURP (DL?+?b-TURP) in the treatment of large prostates. Materials and Methods We retrospectively analyzed all patients with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) secondary to BPH with prostates larger than 80?ml, undergoing monopolar TURP (n?=?36) or DL?+?b-TURP (n?=?37) between January 2008 and March 2010. The preoperative and follow-up functional parameters including International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), post-void residual urine (PVR), maximum flow rate (Qmax), quality of life score (QoLs), prostate size, and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) were assessed. The operative data, peri- and post-operative complications were also recorded. Results The demographic data were comparable between the two groups. Preoperative prostate volume was 110.8 +/-?28.9?ml in the DL?+?b-TURP group and 103.7?+/-?31.2?ml in the TURP group. TURP group had significantly shorter operative time; however, the catheterization time and hospital stay were in favor of the DL?+?b-TURP group (P?<?0.001). The decrease in hemoglobin was statistically significantly greater in the TURP group. Late complications were also comparable. Both groups could achieve significant improvements in functional outcomes during the follow-up of 24 months. Conclusions With regard to the operative safety and functional results, high-intensity diode laser combined with bipolar TURP is feasible for BPH treatment with large prostates. Lasers Surg. Med. 44: 699704, 2012. (c) 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.