Transperineal Laser Ablation vs TURP for BPO: Ejaculatory Function and Qmax

What is it about?

The study compares the effectiveness of transperineal interstitial laser ablation of the prostate (TPLA) and transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) in preserving ejaculatory function. TPLA was found to be more effective in preserving ejaculatory function (96%) and provided significant relief from benign prostatic obstruction (BPO). The study also found that both treatments significantly improved maximum urinary flow rate and international prostate symptom score. The study had a randomized, open-label design and included 55 patients who were randomized to either TPLA or TURP treatment groups.

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Why is it important?

This study is important because it evaluates the reliability of transperineal interstitial laser ablation of the prostate (TPLA) in preserving antegrade ejaculation compared to transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) for patients with benign prostatic obstruction (BPO). The preservation of ejaculatory function is crucial for the patient's quality of life, and this study provides insight into the effectiveness of TPLA in preserving ejaculation compared to TURP. Key Takeaways: 1. The study randomized 55 patients to either TPLA (experimental group) or TURP (reference standard group). 2. No differences in pain perception and IIEF-5 score were found between the groups. 3. The distribution of ejaculatory function assessed by the EJ-MSHQ remained unmodified after TPLA, while a median 30% decrease in EJ-MSHQ score was observed after TURP. 4. Absence of antegrade ejaculation was reported in one patient in the TPLA group (vs 18 patients in the TURP group). 5. TPLA preserved ejaculatory function in 96% of cases in addition to providing significant relief from BPO. 6. The median operating time was significantly shorter in the TPLA treatment group, and no intra-operative or peri-operative complications occurred.