[Laser treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia]

This review article describes the different methods of laser treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia and their development. Published treatment results are compared with our own results obtained with different procedures. The aim of therapy is to reduce the volume of the gland by coagulation, with subsequent secondary ablation or primary vaporization. Due to the desired volume effects Nd:-YAG lasers are used almost exclusively. The technique most frequently used is transurethral laser coagulation of the prostate. Radiation is done in the non-contact mode with beam-detecting applicators, with either direct vision (VLAP) or ultrasound guidance (TULIP). In interstitial laser coagulation of the prostate (ILC) laser energy is applied by light guides inserted into the tissue either transurethrally or transperineally. Contact lasers are used for incision of the prostate or superficial ablation.