Vaporization of the prostate with the 80 W potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP) laser. Technique and 6 months follow-up after 70 procedures

Background. Despite good efficacy, even in our days, TURP remains a potentially difficult procedure to perform and is associated with significant risks for the patient. Several alternatives have been tried to reduce the known perioperative morbidity. We report Our first experiences with 80 W potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP) laser vaporization of the prostate in patients with symptomatic BPH. Patients and methods. In 70 patients 80 W KTP laser vaporization was performed successfully. Mean age was 70.5 years (46-93 years) and mean transrectal prostate volume was 48.1 ml (10-250 ml). Results. Mean operating time was 41 min (n=22), 64 min (n=33), and 80 min (n=15) for a 26 ml, 46 ml, and a 91 ml prostate, respectively. At time of discharge, after 1 month, and 6 months the urinary peak flow increased by 75.4%, 166.8%, and 168.6%, respectively. Conclusion. The 80 W KTP laser vaporization of the prostate combines the tissue-debulking properties of transurethral resection of the prostate with the known good hemostatic properties of other laser procedures. It is a safe procedure for the patient and provides a virtually bloodless operation and immediate improvement of voiding.