Holmium laser bladder neck incision versus holmium enucleation of the prostate as outpatient procedures for prostates less than 40 grams: a randomized trial

Reoperation after surgical treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia: a systematic review

Context

Surgical treatment is important for male lower urinary tract symptom (LUTS) management, but there are few reviews of the risks of reoperation.

Objective

To systematically evaluate the current evidence regarding the reoperation rates of surgical treatment for LUTS in accordance with current recommendations and guidelines.

Evidence acquisition

Eligible studies published up to July 2023, were searched for in the PubMed® (National Library of Medicine, Bethesda, MD, USA), Embase® (Elsevier, Amsterdam, the Netherlands), and Web of Science™ (Clarivate™, Philadelphia, PA, USA) databases. STATA® (StataCorp LP, College Station, TX, USA) software was used to conduct the meta-analysis. Random-effects models were used to calculate the pooled incidences (PIs) of reoperation and the 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Evidence synthesis

A total of 119 studies with 130,106 patients were included. The reoperation rate of transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) at 1, 2, 3, and 5 years was 4.0%, 5.0%, 6.0%, and 7.7%, respectively. The reoperation rate of plasma kinetic loop resection of the prostate (PKRP) at 1, 2, 3, and 5 years was 3.5%, 3.6%, 5.7%, and 6.6%, respectively. The reoperation rate of holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) at 1, 2, 3, and 5 years was 2.4%, 3.3%, 5.4%, and 6.6%, respectively. The reoperation rate of photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) at 1, 2, 3, and 5 years was 3.3%, 4.1%, 6.7%, and 7.1%, respectively. The reoperation rate of surgery with AquaBeam® at 1, 2, 3, and 5 years was 2.6%, 3.1%, 3.0%, and 4.1%, respectively. The reoperation rate of prostatic artery embolization (PAE) at 1, 2, 3, and 5 years was 12.2%, 20.0%, 26.4%, and 23.8%, respectively. The reoperation rate of transurethral microwave thermotherapy (TUMT) at 1, 2, 3, and 5 years was 9.9%, 19.9%, 23.3%, and 31.2%, respectively. The reoperation rate of transurethral incision of the prostate (TUIP) at 5 years was 13.4%. The reoperation rate of open prostatectomy (OP) at 1 and 5 years was 1.3% and 4.4%, respectively. The reoperation rate of thulium laser enucleation of the prostate (ThuLEP) at 1, 2, and 5 years was 3.7%, 7.7%, and 8.4%, respectively.

Conclusion

Our results summarized the reoperation rates of 10 surgical procedures over follow-up durations of 1, 2, 3, and 5 years, which could provide reference for urologists and LUTS patients.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO, identifier CRD42023445780.

Feasibility and safety of bipolar-plasmakinetic transurethral enucleation and resection of the prostate in day surgery mode

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the feasibility and safety of bipolar-plasmakinetic transurethral enucleation and resection of the prostate (B-TUERP) in day surgery.

METHODS

From January 2021 to August 2022, 34 patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) underwent B-TUERP in day surgery in the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University. Patients completed the screening and anesthesia evaluation before admission and received the standard surgery which implements "anatomical enucleation of the prostate" and "absolute bleeding control" on the same day of admission, and by the same doctor. Bladder irrigation was stopped, catheter was removed and the discharge evaluation was performed on the first day after operation. The baseline data, perioperative conditions, time of recovery, treatment outcomes, hospitalization costs, and postoperative complications were analyzed.

RESULTS

All operations were successfully conducted. The average age of the patients was (62.2±7.8) years, average prostate volume was (50.2±29.3) mL. The average operation time was (36.5±19.1) min, the average hemoglobin and blood sodium were decreased by (16.2±7.1) g/L and (2.2±2.0) mmol/L, respectively. The average postoperative length of hospital stay, and total length of hospital stay were (17.7±2.2) and (20.8±2.1) h, respectively, and the average hospitalization cost was (13 558±2320) CNY. All patients were discharged on the day after surgery except for one patient who was transferred to a general ward. Three patients received indwelling catheterization after catheter removal. The 3-month follow-up results showed a substantial improvement in the International Prostate Symptom Score, quality of life score and maximum urinary flow rate (all P<0.01). Three patients experienced temporary urinary incontinence, 1 patient experienced urinary tract infection, 4 patients were diagnosed with urethral stricture and 2 patients experienced bladder neck contracture. No complications above Clavien grade Ⅱ occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

The preliminary results showed that B-TUERP ambulatory surgery is a safe, feasible, economical and effective treatment for appropriately selected patients with BPH.

Correlation between transurethral interventions and their influence on type and duration of postoperative urinary incontinence: results from a systematic review and meta-analysis of comparative studies

Objective To perform a systematic review to assess the incidence of transient (<6-month) and persistent (>6-month) stress (SUI), urge (UUI), and mixed urinary incontinence (MUI) after transurethral surgeries for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Materials and Methods A systematic literature search was performed using Embase, PubMed, and Web of Science. We included studies comparing monopolar(M)/bipolar(B) TURP vs ablation vs enucleation procedures. Incidence of incontinence was assessed using Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel Method and reported as odds ratio (OR), 95% confidence interval (CI), and p-values. Statistical significance was set at p <0.05 Evidence synthesis 28 studies were included. Incidence of transient SUI was 4.6%, 6.0%, 3.0%, 2.4% after ablation, enucleation, M-TURP, and B-TURP, respectively. Incidence of persistent SUI was 1.1% after ablation, 1.7%, after enucleation and M-TURP, 1.0% after B-TURP. Incidence of transient UUI was 2.0%, 7.3%, 4.4%, 2.8% after ablation, enucleation, M-TURP, and B-TURP, respectively. Incidence of persistent UUI was 2.2% after M-TURP. The incidence of transient MUI was 5.1%, 0.8%, 5.4%, 0.9% after ablation, enucleation, M-TURP, and B-TURP, respectively. Incidence of persistent MUI was 3.1% after ablation, and 4.8% after M-TURP. Incidence of transient and persistent SUI and UUI did not differ after TURP vs enucleation. Incidence of transient (OR 3.32, 95% CI 0.41-26.65, p=0.26) and persistent SUI (OR 4.79, 95%CI 0.52-43.89,p=0.17) was not significantly higher after ablation. Incidence of transient UUI was not significantly higher after ablation (OR 2.62, 95%CI 0.04-166.01,p=0.65), whilst persistent UUI did not differ. Incidence of transient MUI was significantly higher after enucleation (OR 3.26, 95%CI 1.51-7.05,p=0.003). Incidence of transient and persistent MUI did not differ after TURP vs ablation. Conclusions Ablation, enucleation, and TURP have an impact on all forms of incontinence but this is transient in most cases with no difference between the groups, except for MUI which was higher after enucleation vs M-TURP.

The feasibility and safety of photoselective vaporization for prostate using a 180-W XPS Greenlight laser in day-surgery pattern in China

To evaluate the feasibility and safety of photoselective vaporization for prostate (PVP) with a 180-W XPS Greenlight laser as day surgery in the Chinese population. We retrospectively collected 114 cases undergoing the day surgery PVP and 198 cases undergoing conventional inpatient surgery PVP from April 2017 to March 2020. All patients' data including baseline characteristics, peri-operative data, post-operative outcomes, and complications were recorded and evaluated. The day-surgery procedures were successful in 110 patients. There were no significant differences in baseline characteristics in both groups. The catheterization time and hospitalization time were much shorter and economic cost was much lower in the day-surgery group than in the conventional inpatient surgery group. As for the post-operative complications, the incidence rate of the urinary retention is higher in the day-surgery group than in conventional inpatient surgery group. During the follow-up periods, the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), quality of life (QoL), maximal urinary flow rate (Qmax), and post-void residual urine (PVR) improved significantly in both groups, and no differences were observed between the two groups. Compared to the conventional inpatient surgery, the day-surgery PVP is feasible and safe, which can reduce the hospitalization time and economic cost.

Changing Trends in Management Following Artificial Urinary Sphincter Surgery for Male Stress Urinary Incontinence: An Analysis of the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Database

OBJECTIVE

To characterize the safety and practice patterns of artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) placement on a population level. Increasingly AUS implantation has shifted to be an outpatient surgery; however, there is a lack of large-scale research evaluating factors associated with early (≤ 24 hours) versus late (>24 hours) discharges and complications in men following AUS placement. We utilized the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database to identify and compare factors and outcomes associated with each approach.

METHODS

NSQIP database was queried for men undergoing AUS placement between 2007 and 2016. Patients were classified as either early discharge (ED ≤ 24 hours) and late discharge (LD > 24 hours). Baseline demographics, operating time, and complications were compared between the 2 groups. Multivariate logistic regression evaluated factors associated with discharge timing and 30-day complications.

RESULTS

A total of 1176 patients were identified and were classified as ED in 232 and LD in 944 patients. Operative time was shorter in ED (83 minutes) compared to LD (95 minutes, P < .001). Hypertension was more prevalent among LD patients (60.3% vs 69.1% for ED and LD respectively, P < .001). The 30-day complication rate was similar in both groups (ED: 4.3% vs LD: 3.4%, P = .498). Multivariable analysis revealed that surgery after 2012 was associated with ED (OR = 3.66, P < .001).

CONCLUSION

At the national level, there are no differences in postoperative morbidity between early and late discharges. There is a trend toward more ED, specifically after 2012. A prospective study on the feasibility and safety of outpatient AUS is needed.

The role of photovaporization of the prostate in small volume benign prostatic hyperplasia and review of the literature

Objective

Our objective was to characterize the safety and efficacy of the 180 W XPS-GreenLight laser in men with lower urinary tract symptoms secondary to a small volume benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed for all patients who underwent 180 W XPS-laser photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) vaporization of the prostate between 2012 and 2016 at two-tertiary medical centers. Data collection included baseline comorbidities, disease-specific quality of life scores, maximum urinary flow rate (Q_max), postvoid residual (PVR), complications, prostate volume and prostate-specific antigen (PSA). The secondary endpoints were the incidence of intraoperative and postoperative adverse events. Complications were stratified using the Clavien-Dindo grading system up to 90 days after surgery.

Results

Mean age of men was 67.8 years old, with a mean body mass index of 29.7 kg/m². Mean prostate volume as measured by transrectal ultrasound was 29 mL. Anticoagulation use was 47% and urinary retention with catheter at time of surgery was 17%. Mean hospital stay and catheter time were 0.5 days. Median follow-up time was 6 months with the longest duration of follow-up being 22.5 months (interquartile range, 3–22.5 months). The International Prostate Symptom Score improved from 22.8 ± 7.0 at baseline to 10.7 ± 7.4 (p < 0.01) and 6.3 ± 4.4 (p < 0.01) at 1 and 6 months, respectively. The Q_max improved from 7.70 ± 4.46 mL/s at baseline to 17.25 ± 9.30 mL/s (p < 0.01) and 19.14 ± 7.19 mL/s (p < 0.001) at 1 and 6 months, respectively, while the PVR improved from 216.0 ± 271.0 mL preoperatively to 32.8 ± 45.3 mL (p < 0.01) and 26.2 ± 46.0 mL (p < 0.01) at 1 and 6 months, respectively. The PSA dropped from 1.97 ± 1.76 ng/mL preoperatively to 0.71 ± 0.61 ng/mL (p < 0.01) and 0.74 ± 0.63 ng/mL at 1 and 6 months, respectively. No patient had a bladder neck contracture postoperatively and no capsular perforations were noted intraoperatively.

Conclusion

The 180 W GreenLight XPS system is safe and effective for men with small volume BPH. PVP produced improvements in symptomatic and clinical parameters without any safety concern. It represents a safe surgical option in this under studied population.

Evaluation of the Learning Curve for Transurethral Plasmakinetic Enucleation and Resection of Prostate Using a Mentor-based Approach

Objective

To analyze the mentor-based learning curve of one single surgeon with transurethral plasmakinetic enucleation and resection of prostate (PKERP) prospectively.

Materials and Methods

Ninety consecutive PKERP operations performed by one resident under the supervision of an experienced endourologist were studied. Operations were analyzed in cohorts of 10 cases to determine when a plateau was reached for the variables such as operation efficiency, enucleation efficiency and frequency of mentor advice (FMA). Patient demographic variables, perioperative data, complications and 12-month follow-up data were analyzed and compared with the results of a senior urologist.

Results

The mean operative efficiency and enucleation efficiency increased from a mean of 0.49±0.09g/min and 1.11±0.28g/min for the first 10 procedures to a mean of 0.63±0.08g/min and 1.62±0.36g/min for case numbers 31-40 (p=0.003 and p=0.002). The mean value of FMA decreased from a mean of 6.7±1.5 for the first 10 procedures to a mean of 2.8±1.2 for case numbers 31-40 (p<0.01). The senior urologist had a mean operative efficiency and enucleation efficiency equivalent to those of the senior resident after 40 cases. There was significant improvement in 3, 6 and 12 month’s parameter compared with preoperative values (p<0.001).

Conclusions

PKERP can be performed safely and efficiently even during the initial learning curve of the surgeon when closely mentored. Further well-designed trials with several surgeons are needed to confirm the results.

Efficacy of Holmium Laser Transurethral Incision of the Prostate in Symptomatic Mild-to-Moderate Benign Prostate Enlargement Based on Preoperative Characteristics

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the efficacy of Holmium laser transurethral incision of the prostate (Ho-TUIP) with preoperative characteristics based on urodynamic parameters.

METHODS

The medical records of 40 consecutive cases of Ho-TUIP in patients unresponsive to medical treatment were retrospectively reviewed. The efficacy of Ho-TUIP was analyzed according to preoperative factors, including urodynamic parameters. Treatment success was confirmed if overall efficacy demonstrated an improvement that was "good or greater" according to the criteria developed by Homma et al. Predictive factors of treatment success were analyzed using logistic regression analysis with demographics, symptom questionnaires, prostate size, and urodynamic parameters. Postoperative complications and Global Response Assessment (GRA) were investigated.

RESULTS

Mean age was 60.9 years (range 37-84), mean follow-up period was 36.6 months (range 6.3-114.8), and mean prostate size was 23.5 mL (range 12.7-39.5). All patients underwent medical treatment before Ho-TUIP, and mean medication duration was 50.5 months (range 3.4-140.0). The treatment success rate was 60.0%. Treatment success rates were higher in the bladder outlet obstruction index (BOOI) ≥20 group (n = 26) than in the BOOI <20 group (n = 14) (p = 0.003). In logistic regression analysis, BOOI ≥20 was a predictor of treatment success (OR 7.60, 95% CI 1.60-35.90, P = 0.010). Among patients who maintained an active sex life, 77.8% (14/18) reported retrograde ejaculation. In terms of GRA, 81.5% (31/38, two patients expired) of patients improved at the final follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Ho-TUIP is an effective procedure with tolerable complications for the treatment of symptomatic mild-to-moderate BPE in patients with BOOI ≥20 that are unresponsive to medical treatment.

Benign Prostatic Obstruction Relief in Patients with Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Suggestive of Benign Prostatic Enlargement Undergoing Endoscopic Surgical Procedures or Therapy with Alpha-Blockers: A Review of Urodynamic Studies

Benign prostatic obstruction (BPO) contributes to the genesis of lower urinary tract symptoms as well as to pathologic remodeling of the lower and upper urinary tract in patients with benign prostate enlargement. Urodynamic studies demonstrate that both medical therapy with alpha-blockers (ABs) and endoscopic surgical procedures provide BPO relief. However, the magnitude of improvement is higher after surgery. Among ABs, silodosin is associated with the highest improvement of bladder outlet obstruction index (BOOI). A complex relationship exists between BOOI improvement and variations of both maximum urinary flow (Q _max) and detrusor pressure. When the reduction of BOOI is small, the improvement of Q _max is clinically irrelevant and the BOOI is mainly influenced by a decrease of detrusor pressure. In contrast, when the magnitude of BOOI reduction is robust, a meaningful improvement of both detrusor pressure and urinary flow is evident. When clustering ABs according to their receptor pharmacologic selectivity and urodynamic efficacy, three subgroups can be identified,with silodosin being the only member of a subgroup characterized by the highest levels of BOOI improvement and α-1A/α-1B receptor affinity ratio.

[S2e guideline of the German urologists: Instrumental treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia]

This report summarizes the relevant aspects of the S2e guideline of the German Urologists for the instrumental treatment of the lower urinary tract symptoms due to benign prostatic hyperplasia. Recommendations are given regarding open and transurethral procedures (TUR-P, bipolar TUR-P, TUI-P, HE-TUMT, TUNA, and the different Laser techniques). Recommendations are also given concerning intraprostatic stents and injection therapies. The influence of the different therapeutic options on bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) is described in detail.

Holmium Laser vs Monopolar Electrocautery Bladder Neck Incision for Prostates Less Than 30 Grams: A Prospective Randomized Trial

OBJECTIVE

To compare the efficacy and results of bladder neck incision (BNI) in bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) in men with a small prostate using holmium laser vs conventional monopolar electrocautery technique.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study included 140 patients of BOO (prostate size ≤ 30 cc, American Urological Association (AUA) score ≥ 8, Qmax ≤ 15 mL/sec, and Schäfer grade ≥ 2) who were randomly assigned to holmium laser BNI (HoBNI) or conventional BNI (C-BNI). AUA score and Qmax were assessed preoperatively and postoperatively at 3, 6, and 12 months. At 6 months, detrusor pressure at Qmax, Schäfer grade, and postvoid residual were assessed.

RESULTS

The incidence of postoperative hematuria and blood transfusion in the C-BNI group were 4.2% and 2.8%, respectively. No patient in the HoBNI group developed hematuria or required blood transfusion. Qmax and AUA score at each follow-up, and Pdet Qmax, Schäfer grade, and postvoid residual at 6 months were comparable between two groups but showed significant improvement when compared to baseline in both the groups. At 6 months, 2.9% patients in the HoBNI group and 4.3% in the C-BNI group remained obstructed urodynamically and underwent reoperation (P > .05). The incidence of retrograde ejaculation was significantly higher in HoBNI (22.9% vs 6.1%, P -.02) CONCLUSION: Both procedures are equally efficient in relieving BOO in patients with prostate size < 30 cc and have similar success rates. The risk of postoperative hematuria is less with HoBNI because of its better hemostatic properties, but its use must be counterbalanced with significant increase in incidence of retrograde ejaculation.

Holmium laser transurethral incision of the prostate: Can prostate size predict the long-term outcome?

INTRODUCTION

We determine the impact of prostate size on the long-term outcome of holmium laser transurethral incision of the prostate (Ho-TUIP) for bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) secondary to benign prostate enlargement (BPE).

METHODS

A retrospective review of prospectively collected data was performed for patients undergoing Ho-TUIP by a single surgeon for patients presenting with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) secondary to BOO. Patients were stratified into 2 groups: Group 1 included patients with prostate ≤30 cc and Group 2 included patients with prostate >30 cc. Demographic, operative and follow-up data were recorded and analyzed. In addition, intraoperative and long-term adverse events were included.

RESULTS

In total, 82 patients underwent surgery between March 1998 and March 2013, including 9 (11%) reoperated patients. Only prostate size independently predicted reoperation after Ho-TUIP (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 95% confidence interval [CI] 7.12 [2.92-9.14], p = 0.01). The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis showed an optimal cutoff value of prostate volume of 29 cc to characterize long-term reoperation after TUIP, with area under the curve (AUC) of 0.96, sensitivity of 89.7 and specificity of 88.9. Group 1 included 51 patients and Group 2 included 31 patients. The international prostate symptoms score (IPSS) and peak flow rate (Qmax) significantly improved in both groups at different follow-up points. At the 12-month follow-up, the percent change in IPSS and Qmax were comparable between both groups. However, after 12 months, the degree of improvement in all voiding parameters was significantly higher in Group 1 (p < 0.001 at all points of follow-up). After a median follow-up of 5.3 years (range: 1-13), both groups had comparable early and late adverse events with significantly higher reoperation rate in Group 2 (3.9% vs. 22.6%, p = 0.02). Overall retrograde ejaculation was detected in 25.6% of sexually active men and it was comparable between both groups (23.5% vs. 29%, p = 0.61). On multivariable analysis, patients with prostate volume >30 cc were associated with significantly higher reoperation for BOO (aOR 95% CI 5.72 [2.83-8.14], p = 0.02), significantly higher IPSS (aOR 1.72), higher quality of life index (aOR 1.72) and lower Qmax (aOR 0.28).

CONCLUSION

Ho-TUIP is a durable, safe and efficient treatment of BOO secondary to a small-sized prostate. The long-term outcome could be improved and the re-operation rate could be minimized with appropriate selection of cases, with prostate glands no bigger than 30 cc.

Reoperation After Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate for Management of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: Assessment of Risk Factors with Time to Event Analysis

PURPOSE

To determine risk factors of reoperation after holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) for management of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) with time to event analysis.

METHODS

A prospectively maintained database was reviewed for patients undergoing HoLEP. Baseline and follow-up data were compared in terms of International Prostate Symptoms Score, quality of life, peak flow rate, residual urine, and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) at 1, 6, and 12-months and then annually. Perioperative and late adverse events were recorded. Reoperation was defined as the need for any surgical intervention to relieve bothersome LUTS after HoLEP. Multivariate logistic regression was used to determine covariates associated with reoperation and the Kaplan-Meier curve assessed the time to reoperation.

RESULTS

A total of 1216 HoLEP procedures were performed between March 1998 and October 2013 with a mean prostate volume of 94.8 ± 52.7 cc. Catheter time and hospital stay were 1.4 ± 1.9 and 1.3 ± 1.6 days, respectively. After a median follow-up of 7.6 years (1-14 years), 52 (4.3%) patients needed reoperation for recurrent LUTS, including 13 (1.07%) for residual/recurrent adenoma, 14 (1.15%) for bladder neck contracture (BNC), and 25 (2.05%) for de novo urethral stricture. In multivariate regression, smaller prostate size (< 62 cc), PSA reduction < 50%, and history of previous prostate surgery were significantly associated with recurrence of adenoma. BNC was significantly associated with smaller glands (< 54 cc) while longer operative time and postoperative catheterization were significantly associated with urethral stricture. Kaplan-Meier curve demonstrates post-HoLEP freedom from reoperation of 96.9% at 5 years and 95.1% at 10 years.

CONCLUSIONS

In a single center large series, HoLEP has 95% reoperation-free probability at 10 years. Relatively small-size prostate may have an impact on recurrence of adenoma and bladder neck contracture. PSA reduction < 50% was significantly associated with recurrence of adenoma while longer operative time and postoperative catheterization were significantly associated with postoperative urethral stricture.

Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate: a paradigm shift in benign prostatic hyperplasia surgery

Holmium laser enucleation (HoLEP) was developed in the 1990s as a more efficient and cost effective method of benign prostatic hyperplasia surgery than laser vaporization and resection techniques. As a true anatomical enucleation it mimics open prostatectomy and is as durable. There is a significant body of level 1 evidence in support of HoLEP, including 2 meta-analyses and 14 randomized trials which compare HoLEP with a number of other procedures. This review describes the development of and summarizes the evidence for HoLEP.

Technical aspects of holmium laser enucleation of the prostate for benign prostatic hyperplasia

Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) is a minimally invasive procedure and a size-independent treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia with excellent long-term surgical outcome. HoLEP has become an alternative to conventional transurethral resection of the prostate or open prostatectomy owing to its efficacy and safety. Although HoLEP is known to have a steep learning curve, very few articles have addressed the technical aspects of HoLEP. Herein, we described detailed techniques and tips for HoLEP as performed at Seoul National University Hospital in a step-by-step manner with extensive review of the literature.

The Effect of Modified TURP (M-TURP) in Intra and Postoperative Complications

BACKGROUND

Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is the most common surgical treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the present study was to compare the conventional bipolar transurethral resection of prostate (TURP) with a modified transurethral resection of the prostate (M-TURP) in men with mild to moderate symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

To compare and evaluate the clinical outcomes of M-TURP, a new electrosurgical suggested method, with the standard treatment, transurethral resection of prostate (TURP), 200 patients with benign prostatic enlargement causing moderate to severe clinical lower urinary symptoms were selected and divided into two equal groups of A and B. Patients of group A underwent M-TURP (incomplete bladder neck resection), resecting only from 1 to 11 O'clock position and group B underwent conventional TURP. These patients were evaluated between Jun 2008 and April 2011, after excluding 24 patients, finally 176 men were studied, 98 in the conventional monopolar transurethral resection of prostate (TURP) group and 78 in the (M-TURP) group. Postoperative follow up to assess the results of the surgeries and the complication rates, began from the operation and continued with postoperative visits of the patient at 24 hour after the catheter remove, two weeks, three months and finally six months.

RESULTS

The age range of both groups were the same (65-82 years old), preoperative IPSS score in study and control groups were 18 ± 3.3, 17 ± 4.6 (nonsignificant P value = ns) respectively. The size of prostate gland was 58 ± 3.5 g in study and 78 ± 1.2 g in control (ns) preoperatively. Intra and postoperative complications including hematuria (need for transfusion), urine retention (need for catheterization), fever after operation in study and control groups were 2.04%, 6.41%, 1.02% and 0.0%, 3.06%, 6.41% respectively. ISI score (stress incontinence score index) were 7 ± 2.5 and 19 ± 3.6 and UR (urge ratio) were %26 and %70 for study and control groups respectively; P < 0.05. IIEF (international index of erectile function) in study group was better than control (23 ± 3.2 vs. 11 ± 1.7), P < 0.05.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study showed that the support of anterior fibro muscular zone (anterior lobe) of prostate after TUR-P has a significant role in postoperative complications, especially in postoperative stress incontinence. So, we strongly recommend to preserve this segment of prostate for prevention of incontinence and other intra and postoperative complications.

Evaluation of the learning curve for Thulium VapoEnucleation of the prostate (ThuVEP) using a mentor-based approach

INTRODUCTION

To evaluate the learning curve of Thulium:YAG VapoEnucleation of the prostate (ThuVEP) for patients with symptomatic benign prostatic obstruction (BPO) prospectively.

METHODS

ThuVEP was performed using the 120 Watt 2 μm continuous wave Thulium:YAG laser. ThuVEP was done by a resident without experience in transurethral prostate surgery (A, n = 32), an experienced endourologist (B, n = 32), and an experienced surgeon in ThuVEP (C, n = 32), who served as the mentor for A/B. Patients were divided into consecutive subgroups of 8 patients to assess the impact of the learning curve on procedure outcome. Patient demographic, perioperative, and 12-month follow-up data were analysed.

RESULTS

ThuVEP was successfully completed in all patients. Enucleation efficiency (g/min) differed significantly between surgeon A (0.48 ± 0.3), B (0.7 ± 0.36), and C (1.4 ± 0.67) (p ≤ 0.001). Enucleation efficiency correlated significantly with the weight of resected tissue in surgeon A (r = 0.88), B (r = 0.73), and C (r = 0.79) (p < 0.001). ThuVEP was performed by surgeon A and B with reasonable enucleation, morcellation, and overall operation efficiency after 8-16 procedures. At 12-month follow-up, 68 (71 %) patients were available for review. IPSS, QoL, Qmax, PVR, PSA, and prostate volume improved significantly at follow-up (p ≤ 0.023). Mean PSA/prostate volume reduction was 81.95/74.5, 80.7/79.4, and 87.6/75.9 % in surgeon A, B, and C, respectively. Urethral stricture and bladder neck contracture developed 2 (A = 1, B = 1; 2.1 %) patients and 1 (C, 1 %) patient each, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

ThuVEP can be performed with reasonable efficiency even during the initial learning course of the surgeon when closely mentored. Previous experience in the field of endourology is beneficial.

Laser prostatectomy of lower urinary tract symptoms due to benign prostate enlargement: a critical review of evidence

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Different transurethral prostatic laser systems are available. In 2011, new Oxford evidence levels (LoEs) were published with significant changes compared with the former version. They are easier to use and incorporate more clinical aspects. Randomized trials of laser systems used before 2002, except Holmium laser, were not included in this critical evidence analysis, as these techniques are not in clinical use any more.

RECENT FINDINGS

Twenty-five [18 Holmium enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) and seven photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP)] randomized trials covering transurethral electroresection of the prostate or HoLEP, PVP or Thulium laser enucleation were identified. According to evidence levels, there is a large gap in terms of long-term follow-up. The majority of randomised controlled trials are of low quality. Typically with HoLEP, many articles were published covering the same patient population (LoE II). Only one randomised controlled trial was published with Tm:YAG prostatectomy (LoE II) and none with diode lasers (980-1340 nm, LoE IV-V). Large cohort studies (LoE III-IV) provide additional evidence for PVP and HoLEP, typically for subgroups.

SUMMARY

In 2011, higher evidence on HoLEP and PVP has been published. Evidence levels for HoLEP and PVP are comparable with meta-analysis (LoE II). However, evidence that laser prostatectomy is better than transurethral electroresection of the prostate in terms of efficacy is lacking (LoE II). All lasers are safer in terms of perioperative bleeding (LoE II).

Serial Changes in Sexual Function Following Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate: A Short-term Follow-up Study

Purpose

To evaluate the serial changes in sexual function in the short-term period after holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and to investigate whether a change in each domain of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) is associated with improvement of micturition.

Materials and Methods

Thirty-eight potent men who underwent HoLEP and in whom complete 12-month follow-up data on the IIEF were available were included in this retrospective study. All patients underwent a baseline evaluation for BPH. The surgical outcome was evaluated at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively by use of the International Prostate Symptom Score, IIEF, and uroflowmetry.

Results

The mean age and body mass index of the patients was 64.5±6.2 years and 24.2±2.6 kg/m², respectively. Mean total prostate volume and transitional zone volume were 48.8±18.8 ml and 24.2±16.1 ml, respectively. Most IIEF domain scores showed a slight decrease at 1, 3, and 6 months after surgery but recovered to the baseline or showed a marginal but nonsignificant increase at 12 months postoperatively compared with baseline. Orgasmic function and the overall sexual satisfaction domain score remained slightly reduced up to 12 months postoperatively. There was no significant correlation between improvement of micturition and change in sexual function throughout the follow-up period after surgery.

Conclusions

Although HoLEP achieves significant improvements in micturition, overall sexual function decreases slightly in the early postoperative period, but recovers to the baseline at 12 months postoperatively. Our data suggest that changes in sexual function after HoLEP are not associated with improvement of micturition.

Operative experience of urological trainees in the UK

What's known on the subject? And what does the study add? One of the main components of surgical training is the development of operative skills which, in part, is related to the extent of the practical operative experience. The operative experience of urological trainees in the UK has not being previously published. We examine trainees' current operative experience and analyse the changes over recent years. With a notable decrease in experience of certain procedures, we highlight the possible reasons and discuss the implications for future training. We have examined the operative experience of urological trainees in the UK over a 6-year period. Between 2004 and 2009, urological trainees submitting their operative logbooks to the Specialist Advisory Committee for the award of Certificate of Completion of Training were analysed. We recorded trainees' experience in eight operative procedures; transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP, including bipolar TURP), transurethral resection of bladder tumour (TURBT), radical nephrectomy (RN, open and laparoscopic), radical cystectomy (RC), radical prostatectomy (RP), percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) and ureteroscopy (flexible and rigid). In all, 251 logbooks were identified over the 6-year period. In 2008/2009, the mean (range) number of cases 'performed' and 'supervised' were as follows; TURP 189 (41-516), TURBT 190 (50-432), open RN 21 (2-78), RC 10 (0-70), RP 13 (0-80), PCNL 19 (0-125), ureteroscopy 131 (14-465), laparoscopic RN 11 (0-97). Latterly there has been a significant reduction in the numbers of TURP, open RNs and RCs. There has been an increase in the use of trainees as assistants for RC, RP and open RN. There was a large variation in numbers of procedures performed between trainees. In summary there has been a recent decline in the numbers of TURP, open RNs and RCs performed. For all procedures, significant variability exists between trainees.

Holmium laser enucleation of prostate in patients with prostate size </=60 cm3

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of holmium laser enucleation of the prostate in patients with small to moderate size prostate.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the data of 224 patients with a preoperative prostate size </=60 cm(3), who had undergone holmium laser enucleation of the prostate at our institution from March 1998 to February 2005. The patient characteristics, indications for surgery, preoperative and postoperative International Prostate Symptom Score, including quality-of-life score, peak urinary flow rate, postvoid residual urine volume, enucleation time, morcellation time, total energy used, enucleated tissue weight, catheterization time, hospital stay, pathologic examination findings, and complications were recorded.

RESULTS

The mean prostate size was 43 +/- 11.1 cm(3), the mean operative time was 80 minutes, and the enucleated tissue weight was 24 g. The mean catheterization time and hospital stay was 1.2 and 1.4 days, respectively. No major intraoperative complications were encountered. Only 2 patients (0.9%), who were receiving anticoagulation therapy, required a postoperative blood transfusion. At 1 year postoperatively, the International Prostate Symptom Score had improved from 17.6 +/- 6.7 to 4.9 +/- 4.4 (72%), the quality-of-life score had improved from 3.5 +/- 1.3 to 1.2 +/- 1.3 (66%), the peak urinary flow rate had increased from 7.5 +/- 3.1 to 21.2 +/- 9.5 mL/s (183%), and the postvoid residual urine volume had decreased from 155 +/- 170 to 27 +/- 48 mL (83%).

CONCLUSIONS

Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate is safe and effective treatment in patients with small to moderate size prostate as well as those with larger prostates, with low morbidity and a short catheterization time and hospital stay.

Peri-operative complications of holmium laser enucleation of the prostate: experience in the first 280 patients, and a review of literature

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate, in a prospective study, the complications in 280 patients undergoing holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) at our institution, and to review previous reports to determine the overall incidence and types of various complications, and analyse their causes and means of prevention.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We analysed the patients' demographic, peri-operative and follow-up data, and the complications during and after surgery.

RESULTS

HoLEP was completed successfully in 268 patients (95.7%); eight required conversion to transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) during the initial experience. The morcellation device and laser malfunctioned in two patients each. A blood transfusion was required during HoLEP in one patient; other complications included capsular perforation (9.6%), superficial bladder mucosal injury (3.9%) and ureteric orifice injury (2.1%). A blood transfusion was needed after HoLEP in 1.4% of patients and cystoscopy with clot evacuation in 0.7%. Transient urinary incontinence was the commonest complication after HoLEP, in 10.7% of patients, but recovered spontaneously in all except two (0.7%). Other rare complications were re-catheterization (3.9%), urinary tract infection (3.2%), epididymitis (0.7%), meatal and submeatal stenosis (2.5%), bulbar urethral stricture (2.1%), bladder neck contracture (0.35%) and myocardial infarction (0.35%).

CONCLUSIONS

There was a low incidence of complications with HoLEP; most were minor and easily managed. Our results are comparable with those published previously, and establish HoLEP as safe and reproducible procedure. While gaining experience, HoLEP can be converted to TURP with no harm to the patient.

Prospective evaluation of the learning curve for holmium laser enucleation of the prostate

PURPOSE

In a prospective manner we evaluated the learning experience of an endourologist inexperienced with holmium laser prostate enucleation and its impact on surgical outcome. We also reviewed the literature to document technical features of holmium laser prostate enucleation at different institutions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patient demographic, perioperative and followup data were analyzed. To assess the impact of the learning curve on postoperative outcome patients were divided into group 1--patients 1 to 50, group 2--51 to 100 and group 3--101 to 162. The effect of the learning curve and weight of resected tissue on enucleation and morcellation efficiency was studied.

RESULTS

Holmium laser prostate enucleation was successfully completed in 93.82% of patients. Eight patients required conversion to transurethral prostate resection. Enucleation and morcellation efficiency was 0.49 and 2.75 gm per minute, respectively. Enucleation efficiency attained a plateau after 50 cases. Postoperative outcome was compared in the 3 patient groups. There was a higher incidence of capsular perforation and stenotic urethral complications in group 1. In the literature a mean of 57.09% of tissue (range -9.6 to 81.9%) was retrieved after holmium laser prostate enucleation and mean efficiency was 0.52 gm per minute (range -0.11 to 1.09). Efficiency increased proportionally with resected prostate weight.

CONCLUSIONS

An endourologist inexperienced with holmium laser prostate enucleation can perform the procedure with reasonable efficiency after about 50 cases with an outcome comparable to that of experts, as described in the literature. During the learning curve conversion to transurethral prostate resection can be done without any harm to the patient.

Holmium laser treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia: an update

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The surgical treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia is a dynamic, evolving field. Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate has been one of the most rigorously analyzed interventions for benign prostatic hyperplasia. In the 12 months since July 2005, a number of important studies have been published concerning this technique.

RECENT FINDINGS

In the 12-month period of this review, there have been a number of articles published on holmium laser enucleation of the prostate. Among these are five randomized controlled trials. These studies emphasize the unique advantages of holmium laser enucleation of the prostate over other surgical treatments for benign prostatic hyperplasia.

SUMMARY

Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate is a more efficient procedure than competitor techniques, when grams of tissue removed per unit time are quantified. Additionally, holmium laser enucleation of the prostate is associated with a reduced length of catheterization and hospitalization when compared with other surgical therapies for men with benign prostatic hyperplasia. Outcome measures for men undergoing holmium laser enucleation of the prostate are in many cases superior to those of other modalities. It is likely that the completeness of adenoma removal with holmium laser enucleation of the prostate confers many of these advantages.

A Randomised Trial Comparing Holmium Laser Enucleation Versus Transurethral Resection in the Treatment of Prostates Larger Than 40Grams: Results at 2 Years

OBJECTIVE

To compare holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) with transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) for treatment of men with bladder outflow obstruction (BOO) secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia with a minimum of 24-month follow-up.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Sixty-one patients were randomised to either HoLEP or TURP. All patients had BOO proven on urodynamic studies pre-operatively (prostate size 40-200 g). One patient died before treatment, which left 30 patients in each group. Perioperative data, as well as symptom scores, Quality of Life (QoL) scores, and maximum urinary flow rates (Qmax) were obtained at one, three, six,12, and 24 months. Post-void residual volumes, transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) volumes, and pressure flow studies were obtained six months post-operatively. Continence and potency data were also recorded.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences between the two surgical groups pre-operatively. Mean pre-operative TRUS volume was 77.8+/-5.6 g (42-152) in the HoLEP group and 70.0+/-5.0 g (46-156) in the TURP group. Patients in the HoLEP group had shorter catheter times and hospital stays. More prostate tissue was retrieved in the HoLEP group. At six months, HoLEP was urodynamically superior to TURP in relieving BOO. At 24 months, there was no significant difference between the two surgical groups with respect to American Urology Association scores, QoL scores, or Qmax values; however, two patients in the TURP group required re-operation.

CONCLUSIONS

HoLEP has less perioperative morbidity and produces superior urodynamic outcomes than TURP, when treating prostates >40 g. At 24 months of follow-up, HoLEP is equivalent to TURP.

From coagulation to enucleation: the use of lasers in surgery for benign prostatic hyperplasia

The application of lasers for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia has evolved over the past 15 years. Early-generation neodymium:yttrium aluminum garnet lasers were used to coagulate and ablate prostatic tissue, but significant postoperative irritative symptoms and high reoperation rates meant that this approach did not seriously challenge the status quo for long. Ablative techniques have recently become popular again with the marketing of the newer-generation, higher-power potassium titanyl phosphate and holmium lasers. Although short-term data are encouraging, there are no comparative trials of significant duration, so it is not yet possible to draw conclusions with regard to efficacy and durability. The holmium laser can also be used as an incisional and dissecting tool that allows resection or enucleation of whole lobes of the prostate, mimicking the action of the index finger in open prostatectomy. The safety, efficacy, durability and cost-effectiveness of the holmium laser have been shown in well-designed randomized controlled trials.