Urodynamic effect of 80 watt photoselective laser vaporization of the prostate

Abstract

Objective. The aim of the analysis was to measure the pressure–flow urodynamic changes following GreenLight™ laser vaporization of the prostate based on pressure–flow studies. Material and methods. Sixty-two patients suffering from voiding dysfunction due to lower urinary tract symptoms underwent potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP) laser vaporization. A pressure–flow study was performed at baseline and at 3 months postoperatively. Symptoms and quality of life (QoL) were assessed using the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and questions regarding sexuality were assessed using the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF). Results. IPSS and QoL scores changed from 24 and 5 at baseline to 6 and 2 at 3 months, respectively. The initial median prostate volume was 35 ml (range 16–60 ml), the median maximum uroflow (Qmax) was 9.2 ml/s (4–14.9 ml/s) and the median postvoiding residual urine was 80 ml (20–400 ml) (95% confidence interval 89.14, 135.44). The median IPSS and QoL score were significantly improved (p < 0.001). There was a significant decrease in median detrusor pressure at Qmax from 83.1 to 40.45 cmH2O, and the median obstruction grade according to Schäfer's classification was also decreased significantly, from 4 to 1 postoperatively. Conclusion. This study showed that significant deobstruction can be demonstrated using a pressure–flow study at 3 months postoperatively.