Local anesthesia for laser prostatectomy

Abstract

The technique of visual laser-assisted prostatectomy (VLAP) with a noncontact right-angle delivery system (Urolase) under local anesthesia is described. The advantages of local anesthesia include the facilitation of early patient discharge (2-3 hours after the procedure), avoidance of the risks of spinal and general anesthesia in high-risk patients, and, potentially, the enabling of VLAP as an outpatient office procedure. This technique was employed in 52 men with symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) as an outpatient procedure without significant morbidity. The mean AUA Symptom Scores and uroflow measures all improved significantly with 1-year follow-up. Outpatient VLAP under local anesthesia is a promising treatment alternative for men with BPH.