The 10-year outcomes of PVP (photoselective vaporization of the prostate) for treating BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia)

Abstract

(Purpose) Photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) was introduced in Japan about 10 years ago, and there has been few studies regarding long-term outcomes so far. Herein we report our 10-year follow up result of PVP. (Patients and methods) From January 2006 to June 2006, 31 patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) underwent PVP and 20 patients were evaluable in 10 years after PVP. Patients were evaluated preoperatively, at 6 months and at 10 years after surgery by International Prostate Symptom Score(IPSS)and Quality of life score (QOL score). The surgery used 80 watt potassium-titanyl-phosphate laser that was an old model. (Results) The mean IPSS preoperatively, at 6 months and at 10 years was 21.1, 5.5 and 9.4, respectively. The mean QOL score preoperatively, at 6 months and at 10 years was 5.3, 2.2 and 2.5, respectively. Both IPSS and QOL score were significantly improved at 6 months and at 10 years compared with preoperatively. However, among 20 patients re-operation for residual adenoma was required in 4 patients (20%) during the follow-up period. (Conclusion) PVP is an effective method for BPH treatment, allowing sustained long-term improvement of the voiding function.