Holmium laser enucleation versus transurethral resection of the prostate: A comparison of clinical results

Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) represents a great potential alternative technique to standard transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). We present 12-month follow up results of a randomized clinical trial, comparing HoLEP with TURP. A total of 40 patients with BPH and prostate volume < 50 g, have been randomized for HoLEP (n = 20) or TURP (n = 20). Urinary tract ultrasound with postvoid residual urine (PVR), International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and Single Question Quality of Life (QoL) Score were evaluated preoperatively and during the follow-up period at 1, 3, 6, and 12 mo postoperatively. Intra- and perioperative data as well as early and late complications were assessed. Operative time was longer in the HoLEP group (p < 0.001); catheterisation time (p < 0.05) and hospital stay (p < 0.05) shorter. Hemoglobin levels drop (p < 0.001) was higher in the TURp group. Early and late postoperative complications were more frequent in the TURp group (p < 0.001). Follow-up data favored the HoLEP group, both regarding IPSS at 6-month (p < 0.05) and 12-month (p < 0.01), and single question QoL score, at 6-month (p < 0.01) and 12-month (p < 0.05). PVR was lower in the HoLEP group at 6-month (p < 0.01). HoLEP demonstrates superiority to TURp in regards to perioperative parameters and follow-up data and has a great potential to become the new gold standard in the surgical treatment of BPH.