Transrectal ultrasonography before and after neodymium-YAG laser irradiation of localized prostatic carcinoma

Transrectal ultrasonography was used to evaluate 54 patients with localized prostatic carcinoma treated with neodymium-YAG laser irradiation. Both pre- and postirradiation scans were obtained in 30 patients, while additional 24 cases were examined after laser irradiation only. The procedure represents a valuable contribution to proper preoperative staging and is mandatory for the follow-up of patients selected for this particular treatment. The shrinkage of the capsule is negligible after laser irradiation. No specific ultrasonic changes due to the laser effect are to be found. Abnormal parenchymal echoes and capsular irregularities are the major parameters indicating early recurrence of disease. The presence of malignancy must be confirmed by biopsy.