Is complete anatomical endoscopic laser enucleation of the prostate always necessary? Yes, it is!

Urologia. 2019 May;86(2):93-95. doi: 10.1177/0391560318812302. Epub 2018 Nov 20.

Abstract

Introduction: Thulium laser enucleation of the prostate is gaining popularity due to its short learning curve and low postoperative morbidity. The aim of Thulium laser enucleation of the prostate is the complete endoscopic enucleation of the adenoma. We report an unusual case of bladder outlet obstruction developed 6 weeks after Thulium laser enucleation of the prostate.

Case description: A 74-year-old man complained of severe voiding phase symptoms lasting 2 weeks, starting 6 weeks after Thulium laser enucleation of the prostate. He underwent a transrectal ultrasound, which showed a wide prostatic fossa. A cystoscopy revealed that the prostatic fossa was filled with whitish tissue arising from two tiny residual adenomas. The obstructing tissue was resected with the aid of Thulium laser and the histopathology report showed necrotic prostatic glands.

Conclusion: Partially enucleated and left inside adenoma may become necrotic and cause bladder outlet obstruction several weeks after Thulium laser enucleation of the prostate. Transrectal ultrasound control at the end of enucleation may help reduce this complication.

Keywords: Laser therapy; benign prostatic hyperplasia; postoperative complications; prostatectomy; transurethral enucleation of the prostate.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Endoscopy*
  • Humans
  • Laser Therapy*
  • Male
  • Postoperative Complications / surgery*
  • Prostatectomy / methods*
  • Prostatic Hyperplasia / pathology*
  • Prostatic Hyperplasia / surgery*
  • Thulium*
  • Urinary Bladder Neck Obstruction / surgery*

Substances

  • Thulium