[Application possibilities for Neodym-YAG lasers in urology]

Because of the still relatively small, inhomogeneous number of cases and the still too short period of observation it has not yet been possible to give a definitive evaluation of Neodym-Yag laser irradiation in the therapy of bladder tumours. However, results to date support the hope that laser coagulation will one day take its place among the methods of transurethral therapy, whereby the combination of transurethral resection and irradiation of the tumour base to destroy intramural nests of tumour cells appears particularly suitable. Our own first results with a selected group of patients are reported. Laser irradiation of benign tumours of the external genitals is a very simple and successful procedure. With carcinomas of the penis or urethra, irradiation is only indicated for very superficial tumours which have not yet metastasized or when partial amputation of the penis is refused by the patient. The successes achieved so far justify the assumption that also here the Neodym-Yag laser will take its place in the range of therapy.