[KTP laser photovaporization of the prostate]

Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is the operation most frequently performed in urology. In view of the morbidity associated with this procedure, technological research has been conducted to propose an endoscopic alternative to TURP The most promising studies concern application of high energy lasers, including KTP (potassium-titanyl phosphate) laser. The objective of this study was to conduct a review of the literature concerning the use of KTP laser for the endoscopic treatment of BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia). Preliminary results published in the international literature concerning KTP laser photovaporization of the prostate confirm that this technique is effective with decreased morbidity. This review of the literature appears to reveal several advantages related to the PVP technique: shorter duration of catheterization and decreased postoperative bleeding, no irrigation fluid absorption syndrome, short learning curve and possibility to treat patients on anticoagulant therapy or presenting a high operative risk, but histological examination of the resected tissue cannot be performed. Although these results are encouraging, the PVP technique cannot be proposed as an alternative to TURP in the absence of a multicentre, prospective, randomized trial. TURP currently remains the reference endoscopic treatment for BPH and the PVP technique represents an emergent technology that requires multicentre medico-economic evaluation.