Objective: To evaluate the long-term efficacies and complications of thulium laser resection of prostate-tangerine technique (TmLRP-TT) in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
Methods: From November 2004 to December 2009, a total of 348 BPH patients undergoing TmLRP-TT at our hospital were evaluated retrospectively for long-term efficacies and complications. The follow-up data included international prostate symptom score (IPSS), quality of life score (QOL), maximum urinary flow (Qmax) and post void urinary residual (PVR).
Results: After 4 years, IPSS decreased 70% (22.7 ± 7.7 vs 6.8 ± 5.1) , QOL decreased 65% (4.3 ± 0.7 vs 1.5 ± 1.0), Qmax increased 212% (6.0 ± 2.6 ml/s vs 18.7 ± 4.6 ml/s) and PVR decreased 83% (104.7 ± 34.3 ml vs 17.7 ± 10.7 ml). Cumulative incidences of long-term complications was 6.0% (n = 21), including a second TmLRP-TT due to BPH recurrence (n = 4, 1.2%), urethral stricture (n = 8, 2.3%) and bladder neck contracture (n = 9, 2.6%). Overall, 93% were satisfied with surgical outcomes.
Conclusion: TmLRP-TT has excellent efficacies with a low rate of long-term complications. Most patients are satisfied with surgical outcomes.