Transperineal interstitial laser ablation of the prostate, a novel option for minimally invasive treatment of benign prostatic obstruction

Background: In the algorithm of treatment of benign prostatic obstruction (BPO), the shift from medical therapy to surgery is steep in terms of invasiveness. Recently, a lively interest has developed on alternative micro-invasive options. Transperineal interstitial laser ablation (TPLA) was recently proposed for BPO treatment.

Objective: This work aims to illustrate feasibility, efficacy and safety profile of TPLA in BPO treatment.

Design, setting, and participants: We prospectively analyzed the results of TPLA performed between September 2018 and March 2019 for LUTS due to BPO, in men with prostate volume <100 ml.

Surgical procedure: TPLA was performed in OR, under local anesthesia, using Soracte Lite-EchoLaserX4. Diode laser light is conveyed through 300 μm optical fibers introduced transperineally by 21 Ga needles and placed at a security distance from urethra and bladder neck. EchoLaser Smart Interface eases needle positioning and increases the safety.

Measurements: The primary endpoint was the variation of Qmax and IPSS at 1, 3 and 6 months. We also assessed the ejaculatory function and recorded complications. These outcomes were further investigated at 12 months by phone call.

Results and limitations: 21 men with prostate volume of 43.5 ± 8.5 ml underwent TPLA. All were discharged after 24 h, keeping the transurethral catheter for 8.7 ± 2.5d. At one month all patients but one discontinued medical therapy, showing significant advantage in Qmax (+3.4 ± 5.7 ml/s; p < 0.01) and IPSS (-5.6 ± 7.0; p < 0.01). Functional results were still progressing at 6 months, with Qmax (+4.7 ± 6.0 ml/s; p < 0.01) and IPSS improvement (-13.1 ± 4.7; p < 0.01). The ejaculatory function was preserved as the MSHQ-EjD increased (p < 0.05). The only complication was a prostatic abscess, treated with transperineal drainage and antibiotic.

Conclusions: TPLA is a micro-invasive treatment for BPO showing good functional and safety outcomes.

Patient summary: This work illustrates the results of TPLA to treat LUTS due to BPO, showing high efficacy, preservation of the ejaculation, and low complication rate.