Comparative study of transurethral 1.9 μm thulium laser resection and standard transurethral electroresection for treating superficial bladder cancer

Abstract

Objective To compare the efficacy and safety of 1.9 μm thulium laser with transurethral resection of bladder tumor(TURBT) for the treatment of superficial bladder cancer. Methods We reviewed 53 patients with superficial bladder cancer, who were divided into 1.9 μm laser(n=25)and TURBT groups(n=28)from January 2013 to December 2015.The operation time, blood loss volume in operation, catheter indwelling time, hospital stay time, and complications, cumulative recurrence rate were compared between the two groups. Results Compared to TURBT group, 1.9 μm laser group showed significantly lower rate of blood loss volume in operation(21.6±4.6)min, catheter indwelling time(22.4±6.4) h, hospital stay time(2.2±0.7) d, less complications(12%) and recurrence(16%)(P<0.05). Conclusions 1.9 μm thulium laser is safe and effective for the treatment of patients with superficial bladder cancer.The approach has less complications than TURBT. Key words: Urinary bladder neoplasms; 1.9 μm lasers; Electrocautery transurethral resection for bladder tumor; Comparative effectiveness research