ABSTRACT
Combined techniques using the Barnes stent Endoscopic laser ablation of the prostate Endoscopic laser ablation of the prostate (ELAP) using a side-firing technique is becoming established as an alternative to endoscopic resection, transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), in small and mediumsized glands (< 50 cm3).5-8 Several disadvantages of this technique have been established and are applicable to other coagulative techniques of the prostate. These include the use of a urinary catheter (urethral or suprapubic) for a minimum of 48 hours, the delayed improvement in flow and symptoms (6 weeks +), the poor reported results in the presence of urinary retention, and the frequently reported ‘prostatitis’ symptoms. These drawbacks, which reflect the delayed relief of the bladder outflow obstruction, must affect the patients’ overall perception of the technique.
