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Multiple use of fibres in the visual laser ablation of the prostate
Author(s) -
Gilbert H.W.,
O'Boyle P.J.,
McLoughlin J.,
Speakman M.J.
Publication year - 1996
Publication title -
british journal of urology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.773
H-Index - 148
eISSN - 1464-410X
pISSN - 0007-1331
DOI - 10.1046/j.1464-410x.1996.02012.x
Subject(s) - prostate , ablation , laser , materials science , laser ablation , medicine , optics , physics , cancer
Objective To investigate the possibility of re‐using laser fibres for the visual laser ablation of the prostate (VLAP). Patients and methods Thirty‐four patients, each with a mean maximum urinary flow rate of <14.0 mL/s and an American Urological Association symptom score of >19, were evaluated. All underwent VLAP; laser energy, generated by a Neodymium:YAG system, was delivered with a side‐firing fibre. The laser generator was fitted with a custom‐built power meter that measured the energy delivered by the fibre. Fibres were re‐used until the energy output fell below 60 W despite increases in laser generator power. Each patient was followed for at least 12 months. Results A total of seven fibres was used to treat the 34 patients; between one and nine patients were treated with each fibre. The outcome obtained with the first use of a fibre compared well with those obtained with each subsequent use. After 12 months, 25 patients (74%) expressed satisfaction with the results of their operation. Five patients (15%) had urinary tract infections. As each fibre costs about £650, multiple use saved a mean of £516 for each patient treated. Conclusion This evaluation implies that there is no justification for the single use of laser fibres on the basis of efficacy, provided that a power meter is used to monitor the efficiency of the delivery device.