VLAP Versus TURP for BPH

Summary:

Laser treatment in particular for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is finding greater application as an alternative method. This paper presents the authors' experience with visual laser ablation of the prostate (VLAP) and transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) for BPH over the past 2 years. From August 1992 to August 1994, VLAP and TURP were conducted on 52 and 54 patients, respectively. Forty-two of 45 (93.3 %), 31 of 36 (86.1 %), and 26 of 29 (89.7 %) VLAP cases were categorized as being effectively treated at 3, 6, and 12 months, postoperatively. Forty of 45 (90.9 %), 21 of 24 (87.5 %) and 12 of 12 (100.0 %) TURP cases showed effectiveness of treatment at 3, 6, and 12 months, postoperatively. Although TURP remains the standard surgical treatment for BPH, VLAP is attended with less morbidity and expense as compared to TURP. VLAP in conjunction with TURP may result in less risk of postoperative urinary retention.

Key words:

Benign prostatic hyperplasia - TURP - VLAP