Influence of High-Power Potassium-Titanyl-Phosphate Photoselective Vaporization of the Prostate on Erectile Function: A Short-Term Follow-Up Study

Abstract

Erectile function after high-power potassium-titanyl-phosphate (KTP) photoselective laser vaporization of the prostate has not been investigated systemically. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of high-power KTP photoselective laser vaporization of the prostate on erectile function in men with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS)/benign prostatic hyperplasia. A total of 45 patients with mean age of 68.3 years (range 56-86) were included in the primary analysis. At baseline and at 6-month postoperative visit, the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), maximum flow rate (Qmax), and post-void residual urine (PVR) volume were evaluated. The primary efficacy outcome was changes in the "erectile function" domain and other sexual functions. The secondary outcome was changes in LUTS. Six months after surgery, data of the IPSS, Qmax, and PVR volume improved (P < 0.05). All IIEF domains also improved 6 months after surgery (P < 0.05). "Erectile function" domain increased from a baseline of 11.3 +/- 1.8 to 14.7 +/- 1.7 (P = 0.015). Overall, the IIEF total sum increased from a baseline mean of 27.4 +/- 3.8 to 34.9 +/- 3.7 after KTP photoselective vaporization of the prostate (P = 0.010). The present results suggest that 6 months after high-power KTP laser vaporization, sexual functions including erectile function improved. However, as with any new technique, a longer follow-up and a larger cohort are needed further to validate these findings.