Anatomic and Clinical Effects of Focal Laser Ablation of the Prostate on Symptomatic Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) affects 50% of men over the age of 50, increasing to 80% of those over 80 years. While behavioral or medical therapy is effective in at least half of symptomatic cases, surgical treatments should be considered in patients refractory to conservative care. Earlier definitive treatment is also supported by studies revealing the side effects of medications taken chronically for BPH, including dementia, depression, and decreased sexual drive and function. While a host of minimally invasive cystoscopically directed surgical treatments (MISTs) for BPH are available, transrectal or transperineal laser ablation for debulking BPH is emerging as a safe, effective, and economical alternative. This study looks at the urinary benefits of laser prostate ablation weighed against any negative side effects. If laser ablation proves safe and effective, the impact on men’s health is significant as the procedure is inexpensive, repeatable, and independent of an operating room environment or expensive cystoscopic apparatus.