Greenlight laser in benign prostatic hyperplasia: turning green into gold.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The purpose of this review is to present recent clinical data published upon the photoselective vaporization of the prostate procedure and introduce new ideas about the future influence of this new technology upon the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia.

RECENT FINDINGS: Published studies have provided significant evidence that the photoselective vaporization of the prostate laser procedure is efficient, safe, easy to learn and early results show that it can compete with transurethral resection of the prostate. The major advantages of this technique are that it is a bloodless procedure, the patient goes home after a few hours and it can be applied to all patient categories. The cost of the photoselective vaporization of the prostate procedure is being investigated and a few studies addressing this issue seem to conclude that this surgical option is a cost effective decision. Lately, thoughts about early surgical intervention with the photoselective vaporization of the prostate laser are being expressed but properly designed studies are needed.

SUMMARY: The photoselective vaporization of the prostate laser procedure is getting worldwide fast recognition and it is the first time that transurethral resection of the prostate and open prostatectomy are being threatened. The cost of this procedure is being examined but it is difficult to draw solid conclusions since reimbursement strategies differ between various countries.