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Updated: May 18, 2026
07:17
Photoselective Vaporesection of the Prostate via an End-firing Lithium Triborate Crystal Laser
Published on: May 9, 2018
[European Association of Urology guidelines on laser technologies]
T R W Herrmann1, E N Liatsikos, U Nagele
1Departamento de Urología y Uro-oncología, Medical School of Hanover (MHH), Hanover, Alemania. Herrmann.Thomas@mh-hannover.de
Actas Urologicas Espanolas
|September 20, 2012
Summary
Lasers offer safe alternatives for bladder outlet obstruction and are standard for urinary stones. However, laser use for bladder tumors and in laparoscopy remains investigational, requiring further research.
Area of Science:
- Urologic oncology
- Endourology
- Laser technology in medicine
Context:
- The European Association of Urology (EAU) Guidelines Office convened a panel to review scientific evidence on lasers in urologic practice.
- This review addresses the physical, physiological, and technical aspects of laser applications in urology.
- It aims to provide clinicians with evidence-based recommendations for using lasers.
Purpose:
- To review the scientific evidence on lasers in urologic practice.
- To analyze the physical, physiological, and technical aspects of laser use.
- To present current clinical results and provide recommendations for laser application in urology.
Summary:
- Evidence for laser treatments varies by publication date, with lasers deemed safe alternatives for bladder outlet obstruction, especially in specific patient groups.
- Laser treatment for bladder cancer is currently investigational and recommended only within clinical trials or for patients unsuitable for conventional therapies.
- Lasers are established tools for treating urinary stones and in retrograde endoureterotomy, and are alternative options for benign prostatic obstruction (BPO).
Impact:
- Provides clinicians with an evidence-based foundation for informed decision-making regarding laser use in urology.
- Highlights the established roles of lasers in treating urinary stones and BPO, while defining the investigational status for bladder tumors and laparoscopy.
- Guides future research and clinical practice by delineating current evidence and future directions for laser technologies in urology.
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