[Endoscopic obliteration of tumors of the bladder using laser (author's transl)]

In the period between June 1976 and August 1979 we treated 302 bladder tumors up to a tip of thumb-size by Neodymium-YAG-laser. 196 larger bladder tumors were removed by transurethral resection combined with laser irradiation one week later. All tumors were pTA to pT3a, NO, MO. Two months after treatment we found local recurrence in 9% following use of the rigid laser endoscopes. In contrast, the local recurrence rate was only 2, 1% using laser endoscope with modified Albarran insert. In cases of small, multiple and flat bladder tumors the Neodymium-YAG-laser application is an effective and gentle procedure.