Comparative study of laser versus electrocautery prostatic resection: 18-month followup with complex urodynamic...

A total of 25 patients with symptomatic bladder outlet obstruction due to benign prostatic hyperplasia was entered into a prospective, randomized trial comparing prostatectomy done with the Urolase right angle firing neodymium:YAG laser fiber and standard transurethral electroresection of the prostate. Efficacy of treatment, as assessed by standardized American Urological Association symptom scores, patient assessment of symptom improvement, peak urinary flow rates, post-void residual urine volumes and complex urodynamic evaluation, including assessment of opening pressure and maximum detrusor voiding pressure, was equivalent for the 2 treatment groups through 1 year. Ultrasonic assessment of prostatic volumes at 1 year showed a mean decrease in total volume of 59% for standard electrocautery resection compared to 28% for laser prostatectomy. Symptom scores and peak urinary flow rates remained equivalent for both groups through 18 months.