Objectives: To determine the long-term efficacy and complications of contact laser prostatectomy in the treatment of the benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
Methods: 32 patients in a prospective clinical trial of contact laser prostatectomy were followed for 5 years. Patients were assessed by physical examination, International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), uroflowmetry, post void residual urine, transrectal ultrasound and PSA.
Results: From the initial cohort, three patients had died from concomitant diseases. Three patients (9%) had undergone reoperation (TURP). Seven Patients (22%) received alpha blockers for irritative symptoms. IPSS and maximum flow improved significantly and remained stable at five years. There were not statistically significant differences in prostate volume or PSA level.
Conclusions: Contact laser prostatectomy is a safe and effective treatment for BPH in the long-term. It has minimal morbidity and durable therapeutic effects. Nevertheless, in our experience postoperative irritative voiding symptoms (22%) are the major disadvantage.