How I Do It: Teaching holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP).

Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) is considered a size-independent technique to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia. This safe and effective procedure is increasingly being adopted in urology training programs worldwide, yet limited teaching strategies have been described. Endoscopic handling during HoLEP allows for a simultaneous interaction between the surgeon and trainee, facilitating a guided teaching strategy with increasing difficulty as experience grows. In this article, we describe our stepwise approach for teaching HoLEP as part of a structured surgical training curriculum. We also evaluate the association of our method with intraoperative efficiency parameters and immediate postoperative surgical outcomes of 200 HoLEP procedures.

Pulse modulation in En-Bloc HoLEP: does it really matter? A propensity score matched analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) is an established option in the surgical treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia. Pulse modulation, such as MOSES® technology, has recently been introduced and may offer potential advantages in HoLEP. METHODS: Perioperative data from 117 patients who underwent MOSES® laser enucleation of the prostate (MoLEP) were collected. Propensity score matching using prostate volume, age, body mass index (BMI), and anticoagulant intake was performed using a database of 237 patients treated with HoLEP. In total, 234 patients were included in the analysis. RESULTS: Prostate volume (104 vs. 102 ml), age (70 vs. 71 years), BMI (27 vs. 27), and anticoagulant intake (34 vs. 35%) did not differ significantly between the groups. There were no significant differences in operation time (61.5 vs. 58.1 min, p = 0.42), enucleation efficiency (2.5 vs. 2.6 g/min, p = 0.74), hemostasis time (7.8 vs. 8 min, p = 0.75) and hemoglobin drop (0.9 vs. 0.7 mg/dl, p = 0.48). The complication rates were low in both groups (16.2% for HoLEP and 17.1% for MoLEP). No differences were noted in the Clavien-Dindo Classification (p = 0.63) and the Comprehensive Complication Index (p = 0.24). The rate of complications > CDC IIIa was 0.9% for HoLEP (endoscopic coagulation) and 1.7% for MoLEP (2 cases of endoscopic coagulation). No transfusions were administered. CONCLUSION: Overall, the enucleation efficiency was high in both groups and the procedure time was short. HoLEP is an efficient and safe treatment option in experienced hands, regardless of the use of pulse modulation technology.

Revisiting the issue of "beach balls" in holmium laser enucleation of prostate: clinical and histological characterization.

PURPOSE: To clinically and histologically characterize prostatic nodules resistant to morcellation ("beach balls," BBs). PATIENTS AND METHODS: We reviewed a consecutive cohort of 559 holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) procedures performed between January 2020 and November 2023. The BBs group comprised 55 men (10%) and the control group comprised 504 men (90%). The clinical, intraoperative, outcome, and histologic data were statistically processed for the prediction of the presence of BBs and their influence on the perioperative course and outcome. RESULTS: The BBs group in comparison to the controls was older (75 vs 73 years, respectively, p = 0.009) and had higher rates of chronic retention (51 vs 29%, p = 0.001), larger prostates on preoperative abdominal ultrasound (AUS) (140 vs 80 cc, p = 0.006E-16), longer operating time (120 vs 80 min, p = 0.001), higher weights of removed tissue (101 vs 60 gr, p = 0.008E-10), higher complication rates (5 vs 1%, p = 0.03), and longer hospitalization (p = 0.014). A multivariate analysis revealed that larger prostates on preoperative AUS and older age independently predicted the presence of BBs which would prolong operating time. ROC analyses revealed that a threshold of 103 cc on AUS predicted BBs with 94% sensitivity and 84% specificity. BBs were mostly characterized histologically by stromal component (p = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS: BBs are expected in older patients and cases of chronic retention. Prostatic volume is the most reliable predictor of their presence. They contribute to prolonged operating time and increased risk of complications. The predominantly stromal composition of the BBs apparently confers their resistance to morcellation.

Hysteroscopic Metroplasty Using Holmium: YAG Laser for Treatment of Septate Uterus.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate the safety, efficacy, and ease of hysteroscopic metroplasty using holmium:YAG (Ho:YAG) laser for treatment of septate uterus. DESIGN: Stepwise demonstration of surgical technique with narrated video footage. SETTING: Septate uterus is the most common type of uterine anomaly. The incidence of uterine septum in women presenting with infertility and recurrent abortions is 15.4% [1,2]. Hysteroscopic septal incision is associated with improvement in live-birth rate in these women [3]. Hysteroscopic metroplasty for septate uterus can be done with the use of scissors and energy sources such as monopolar and bipolar electrosurgery and lasers. Ho:YAG laser is commonly used by urologists for various surgeries because of its "Swiss Army Knife" action of cutting, coagulation, and vaporization [4]. Ho:YAG laser is known for its precision. It causes lesser depth of tissue injury and necrosis and minimal collateral thermal damage compared with the electrosurgical devices and other lasers used for hysteroscopic surgery [5-8]. This is advantageous in hysteroscopic metroplasty given that it reduces the risk of uterine perforation during surgery and hence uterine rupture in the subsequent pregnancy. Reduced collateral damage to the surrounding endometrium helps promote early endometrial healing and prevent postoperative intrauterine adhesions. A 28-year-old patient with history of 2 spontaneous abortions came to our hospital for investigations. 3D transvaginal sonography of the patient showed presence of partial septate uterus with a fundal indentation of 1.5 cm (Supplemental video 1). INTERVENTION: Diagnostic hysteroscopy followed by septal incision using Ho: YAG laser was planned. We used a 2.9 mm BETTOCCHI Hysteroscope (Karl Storz SE & Co.) with a 5 mm operative sheath. Normal saline was used as the distending medium and the intrauterine pressure was maintained at 80 to 100 mm Hg. The procedure was done under total intravenous anesthesia using propofol injection. Vaginoscopic entry into the uterus (without any cervical dilatation) showed evidence of a partial uterine septum with tubal ostia on either side of the septum. A 400 micron quartz fiber was passed through a laser guide into the 5-Fr working channel of the operative hysteroscope. Ho:YAG laser (Auriga XL 50-Watt, Boston Scientific) with power settings of 15 watts (1500 mJ energy at 10 Hz) was used. Incision of the septum was started at the apex of the septum in the midline and continued in a horizontal manner from side to side toward the base (Supplemental video 2). Incision of the septum is continued till the tip of the hysteroscope can move freely from one ostium to the other (Supplemental video 3). The operative time was 12 minutes. There were no intra- or postoperative complications. Postoperative estrogen therapy was given for 2 months in the form of estradiol valerate 2 mg (tablet, Progynova, Zydus Cadila) 12 hourly orally for 25 days and medroxyprogesterone acetate 10 mg (tablet, Meprate, Serum Institute of India, Ltd) 12 hourly orally added in the last 5 days [9]. 3D transvaginal ultrasound was done on day 8 of menses. It showed a triangular uterine cavity with a very small fundal indentation of 0.37 cm. A second look hysteroscopy that was done on day 9 of menses showed an uterine cavity of good shape and size [10]. Few fundal adhesions were seen and they were incised using Ho:YAG laser. The patient conceived 5 months after the primary surgery and delivered by cesarean section at 38 weeks, giving birth to a healthy baby of 2860 grams. There were no complications during her pregnancy and delivery. A comparative study is essential to prove its advantages over other energy sources for this surgery. CONCLUSION: Hysteroscopic metroplasty using Ho:YAG laser for treatment of septate uterus is a simple, precise, safe, and effective procedure. VIDEO ABSTRACT.

Carbon Dots for Multiuse Platform: Intracellular pH Sensing and Complementary Intensified T1-T2 Dual Imaging Contrast Nanoprobes.

Measurement of pH in living cells is a great and decisive factor for providing an early and accurate diagnosis factor. Along with this, the multimodal transverse and longitudinal relaxivity enhancement potentiality over single modality within a single platform in the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) field is a very challenging issue for diagnostic purposes in the biomedical field of application. Therefore, this work aims to design a versatile platform by fabricating a novel nanoprobe through holmium- and manganese-ion doping in carbon quantum dots (Ho-Mn-CQDs), which can show nearly neutral intracellular pH sensing and MRI imaging at the same time. These manufactured Ho-Mn-CQDs acted as excellent pH sensors in the near-neutral range (4.01-8.01) with the linearity between 6.01 and 8.01, which could be useful for the intracellular pH-sensing capability. An innumerable number of carboxyl and amino groups are present on the surface of the prepared nanoprobe, making it an excellent candidate for pH sensing through fluorescence intensity quenching phenomena. Cellular uptake and cell viability experiments were also executed to affirm the intracellular accepting ability of Ho-Mn-CQDs. Furthermore, with this pH-sensing quality, these Ho-Mn-CQDs are also capable of acting as T1-T2 dual modal imaging contrast agents in comparison with pristine Ho-doped and Mn-doped CQDs. The Ho-Mn-CQDs showed an increment of r1 and r2 relaxivity values simultaneously compared with only the negative contrast agent, holmium in holmium-doped CQDs, and the positive contrast agent, manganese in manganese-doped CQDs. The above-mentioned observations elucidate that its tiny size, excitation dependence of fluorescence behavior, low cytotoxicity, and dual modal contrast imaging capability make it an ideal candidate for pH monitoring in the near-neutral range and also as a dual modal MRI imaging contrast enhancement nanoprobe at the same time.

Salvage holmium laser enucleation of the prostate after previous interventions: a systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the feasibility, safety and efficacy of holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) in the re-treatment setting (salvage HoLEP) and compare it to the primary HoLEP procedure that is commonly used for the treatment of benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement, PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane databases were systematically screened, from inception to 8 August 2022. Other potentially eligible studies were retrieved using the reference lists of the included studies. Retrospective and prospective studies, both comparative and non-comparative, were included. RESULTS: A total of 12 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the final qualitative synthesis. One study was prospective comparative (non-randomised), seven studies were retrospective comparative, and four studies were retrospective non-comparative or case series. In total, 831 patients were treated with salvage HoLEP in the above studies. Previous intervention before salvage HoLEP ranged among studies. The most commonly performed was transurethral resection of the prostate. Intraoperative parameters of salvage HoLEP were comparable with those reported during primary HoLEP, while all postoperative outcomes were significantly improved after salvage HoLEP and were similar with those observed after primary HoLEP. No major complications were noted after salvage HoLEP according to Clavien-Dindo classification. CONCLUSIONS: Salvage HoLEP after previous interventions for treating recurrent or residual BPH is a feasible, safe, and efficient procedure. Data presented in selected studies, along with the holmium laser's physical properties to resect more tissue and to dissect along the true anatomical plane of BPH, render HoLEP an ideal salvage treatment modality for recurrent or residual BPH symptoms.

From Consensus to Validation: A Multicenter Study for Design and Development of a Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate Hydrogel Simulation Platform.

Background: Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) has emerged as a new gold standard for treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia; however, its steep learning curve hinders generalization of this technique. Therefore, there is a need for a benchtop HoLEP simulator to reduce this learning curve and provide training. We have developed a nonbiohazardous HoLEP simulator using modern education theory and validated it in a multicenter study. Materials and Methods: Six experts established key components for a HoLEP simulator through a Delphi consensus over three rounds including 250 questions. After consensus, a digital design was created and approved by experts, then used to fabricate a physical prototype using three-dimensional printing and hydrogel molding. After a process of iterative prototype testing, experts completed a survey assessing the simulator with a 5-point Likert scale for final approval. The approved model was validated with 56 expert and novice participants at seven institutions using subjective and objective performance metrics. Results: Consensus was reached on 85 of 250 questions, and experts found the physical model to adequately replicate 82.5% of required features. Objective metrics were statistically significant (p < 0.0001) when comparing experts and novices for enucleation time (37.4 ± 8.2 vs 16.7 ± 6.8 minutes), adenoma weight (79.6 ± 20.4 vs 36.2 ± 9.9 g), and complications (6 vs 22), respectively. Conclusion: We have effectively completed a multicenter study to develop and validate a nonbiohazardous benchtop simulator for HoLEP through modern education theory. A training curriculum including this simulator is currently under development.

Does Resectoscope Sheath Size Influence Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate Outcomes? A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial.

Introduction: Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) is routinely performed with a 24F, 26F, or a 28F scope. Proponents of the larger scopes propose that a bigger sheath size allows for superior flow and visibility leading to a more efficient operation and better hemostasis. Those utilizing the smaller scopes suggest that the smaller sheath is less traumatic, resulting in lower stricture rates and temporary incontinence. We sought to compare outcomes of ambulatory HoLEP using the 24F and 28F laser scope. Materials and Methods: From May 2022 to March 2023, we randomized patients undergoing HoLEP (<200 cm3 in size) 1:1 to either a 24F or 28F scope. The primary outcome was differences in surgical duration between groups (minutes). Secondary outcomes included surgeon scope evaluation and postoperative patient results. Results: There was no difference in patient characteristics in those randomized to 28F (n = 76) vs 24F (n = 76) (p > 0.05) scopes. Procedural duration and efficiencies were not different between groups (all p > 0.05). The 28F scope was associated with improved surgeon-graded irrigation flow and visibility (p < 0.001). Patients treated with the 28F scope were more likely to achieve effective same-day trial of void (SDTOV) (28F 94.3% vs 24F 82.1%, p = 0.048) and have a shorter length of stay (LOS) (28F 7.0 vs 24F 11.9 hours, p = 0.014), however, rates of same-day discharge (SDD) were not statistically different (28F 87.8% vs 24F 78.4%, p = 0.126). There was no difference between the cohorts in rates of 90-day emergency room presentations, re-admissions, complications, or functional ouctomes (p > 0.05). Conclusions: We identified no clear advantage of scope size with regard to intraoperative or postoperative outcomes at 3-month follow-up due to scope size. However, if SDD is part of your postoperative pathway, the 28F scope may shorten LOS and increase rates of effective SDTOV. Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT05308017.

Same-day catheter removal after holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP): a systematic review.

PURPOSE: To summarize all existing evidence regarding the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of same-day trial of void and catheter removal after Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP). Although there have been many reports of the safety and efficacy of same-day discharge from the hospital for selected patients undergoing HoLEP, in most of these reports, patients return to the hospital, usually on postoperative day one, to undergo a trial of void and catheter removal. METHODS: PubMed®, Scopus®, and Cochrane® primary databases were systematically screened, from inception to 17 January 2023. The search strategy used the PICO (Patient, Intervention, Comparison, Outcomes) Framework. We followed the recommendations of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. RESULTS: Six studies met all the predefined criteria and were included in the final qualitative synthesis. Four studies were retrospective and two were prospective. Four studies were non-comparative, while two were comparative ones. The same-day catheter removal success rate ranged from 85.5 to 90% among studies, while only one grade-IIIb Clavien-Dindo complication was reported, which was unrelated to surgery. CONCLUSION: Same-day catheter removal is a feasible, safe, and efficient approach for selected patients undergoing HoLEP. Certain factors, such as intraoperative furosemide administration, were found to improve same-day catheter-free rates, while preoperative PVR and urinary retention were independent predictive factors of same-day trial of void failure.

Holmium (III)-doped multifunctional nanotheranostic agent for ultra-high-field magnetic resonance imaging-guided chemo-photothermal tumor therapy.

Ultra-high-field (UHF) MRI has shown great advantages over low-field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Despite being the most commonly used MRI contrast agents, gadolinium chelates perform poorly in high magnetic fields, which significantly weakens their T1 intensity. In comparison, the rare element Holmium (Ho)-based nanoparticles (NPs) have demonstrated great potential as T2-weighted MRI contrast agents in UHF MRI due to their extremely short electron relaxation times (∼ 10-13s). In this study, a multifunctional nanotherapeutic probe was designed for UHF MRI-guided chemotherapy and photothermal therapy. The Ho (III)-doped mesoporous polydopamine (Ho-MPDA, HM) nanosphere was loaded with the chemotherapeutic drug mitoxantrone (MTO) and then coated with 4T1 cell membranes to enhance active targeting delivery to breast cancer. The prepared nanotherapeutic probe MTO@HMM@4T1 (HMM@T) exhibited good biocompatibility, high drug-loading capability and great potential as Ho (III)-based UHF MRI contrast agents. Moreover, the biodegradation of HMM@T in response to the intratumor pH and glutathione (GSH) promotes MTO release. Near-infrared (NIR) light irradiation of HM induced photothermal therapy and further enhanced drug release. Consequently, HMM@T effectively acted as an MRI-guided tumor-targeting chemo-photothermal therapy against 4T1 breast cancer. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Ultra-high-field (UHF) MRI has shown great advantages over low-field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Although gadolinium chelates are the most commonly used MRI contrast agents in clinical practice, they exhibit a significantly decreased T1 relaxivity at UHF. Holmium exhibits outstanding UHF magnetic resonance capabilities in comparison with gadolinium chelates currently used in clinic. Herein, a theranostic nanodrug (HMM@T) was designed for UHF MRI-guided chemo-photothermal therapy. The nanodrug possessed remarkable UHF T2 MRI properties (r2 = 152.13 mM-1s-1) and high drug loading capability of 18.4 %. The biodegradation of HMM@T NPs under triple stimulations of pH, GSH, and NIR led to an efficient release of MTO in tumor microenvironment. Our results revealed the potential of a novel UHF MRI-guided multifunctional nanosystem in cancer treatment.

A randomized trial of holmium laser vs thulium laser vs bipolar enucleation of large prostate glands.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the outcome and morbidity of bipolar transurethral enucleation of the prostate (B-TUEP) and thulium laser enucleation of the prostate (ThuLEP) with those of holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) in the treatment of large symptomatic benign prostatic obstruction (BPO) through a non-inferiority randomized controlled trial (NCT03916536). PATIENTS AND METHODS: A total of 155 patients were recruited from a single centre between February 2019 and August 2020. All had BPO, with a prostate volume ≥80 ml. Patients were randomly assigned to HoLEP, ThuLEP or B-TUEP using computer-generated random tables in a 1:1:1 ratio. Participants, investigators and surgeons were blinded to group assignment until the date of the operation. Thereafter, the patients were followed up at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months. The primary outcome was maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax ) at 6 months. Secondary outcomes included assessment of other functional urinary variables, peri-operative records, and adverse events. RESULTS: There were 138 and 120 patients available for analysis at 6 and 12 months. There was no significant difference in Qmax between the groups at 6 and 12 months (P = 0.4 and P = 0.7, respectively), and no significant difference regarding International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), quality of life (QoL) or postvoid residual urine volume (PVR). The median (interquartile range) prostate-specific antigen (PSA) reductions (ng/ml) were similar in the three groups at last follow-up point (4.7 [2.2-7.1]; 5.6 [2.3-9.5] and 5 [3.4-10] after HoLEP, ThuLEP and B-TUEP, respectively). Differences in enucleation time, enucleation efficiencies and auxiliary manoeuvres were statistically insignificant (P = 0.1, 0.8 and 0.07, respectively). At 1 year, patients with prostate volumes >120 ml showed significant IPSS improvement in favour of HoLEP and ThuLEP (P = 0.01). Low- and high-grade adverse effects were recorded in 31 and five cases, respectively, with no statistically significant difference between the groups. CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that ThuLEP and B-TUEP are as safe and effective as HoLEP for the treatment of large-sized BPO. Significant PSA reductions indicate that there was effective adenoma enucleation with all three approaches. The study provides objective evidence that endoscopic enucleation of the prostate is a technique rather than energy dependent procedure.

Preoperative Frailty Scores Predict the Early Postoperative Complications of Holmium Laser Enucleation of Prostate.

Background: Frailty is a recent multidimensional concept of a contemporary growing interest for understanding the complex health status of elderly population. We aimed to assess the impact of frailty scores on the outcome and complication rate of holmium laser enucleation of prostate (HoLEP). Methods: A 7-year data of HoLEP patients in a single tertiary referral center were reviewed. The preoperative, operative, early, and late postoperative outcome data were collected and compared according to the preoperative frailty scores. Frailty was assessed preoperatively using the Modified Hopkins frailty score. Results: The study included 837 patients categorized into two groups: group I included 533 nonfrail patients (frailty score = 0), whereas group II included 304 frail patients (frailty score ≥1). The median (interquartile range) age was 70 (11) and 75 (11) years for groups I and II, respectively (<0.001). The 30-day perioperative complication rate (p = 0.005), blood transfusion (p = 0.013), failed voiding trial (p = 0.0015), and 30-day postoperative readmission (p = 0.0363) rates were significantly higher in frail patients of group II. The two groups were statistically comparable regarding postoperative international prostate symptom score (p = 0.6886, 0.6308, 0.9781), incontinence rate (p = 0.475, 0.592, 0.1546), postvoid residual (p = 0.5801, 0.1819, 0.593) at 6 weeks and 3 months, and 1-year follow-up intervals, respectively. Conclusion: In elderly patients undergoing HoLEP, the preoperative frailty scores strongly correlate with the risk of perioperative complications. Frail patients should be counseled regarding their relative higher risk of early perioperative complications although they gain the same functional profit of HoLEP as nonfrail patients.

Redefining Clinically Significant Hematuria After Holmium Enucleation of the Prostate.

Introduction and Objective: Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) is often offered for symptomatic prostatic enlargement at high risk for bleeding. However, prior studies define clinically significant hematuria (CSH) narrowly as the need for blood transfusion or significant decrease in hemoglobin. We sought to evaluate risk factors contributing to a broader definition of CSH, which may contribute to alteration of clinical course. Methods: We analyzed 164 patients in a prospectively maintained database who underwent HoLEP at a single institution across two surgeons from November 2020 to April 2023. HoLEP was performed using Moses 2.0 (Boston Scientific) laser and the Piranha enucleation system (Richard Wolf). We defined CSH broadly as follows: clot retention, return to operating room, perioperative management variation due to hematuria, or continued gross hematuria past 1 month postoperatively. Univariable and multivariable ANOVAs were used. Multivariable analysis of CSH risk based on the use of antiplatelet (AP) agents or anticoagulants included correction for age, enucleation time (surrogate for case difficulty), and prostate volume. Results: 17.7% (29/164) of our patients developed CSH after HoLEP. Longer enucleation time was a mild risk factor for developing CSH (multivariate odds ratio [OR] 1.01, p = 0.02). The strongest predictor of CSH was the use of anticoagulation or AP agents (OR 2.71 p < 0.02 on univariable analysis, OR 2.34 p < 0.02 on multivariable analysis), even when aspirin 81 mg was excluded. Conclusion: With a broadened definition, 18% of patients developed CSH following HoLEP, which impacted the clinical course. Our data suggest that the current definition of significant hematuria is too narrow and does not capture many patients whose clinical course is affected by hematuria. While safe, anticoagulants and APs significantly predicted an increased CSH risk, and patients should be counseled accordingly.

Is Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate Truly Size-Independent? A Critical Evaluation at the Extreme Ends of the Spectrum.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the outcomes of holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) at the extremes of the size spectrum, comparing whether the results are consistent for very large and small prostates. METHODS: A retrospective review of 402 patient charts was conducted to compare the outcomes of HoLEP in patients with prostate size ≤40 g (group 1), 41-200 g (group 2), and >200 g (group 3). Various preoperative, perioperative, and postoperative variables were collected. RESULTS: HoLEP showed comparable voiding outcomes among all 3 groups, although patients with small prostates had a higher International Prostate Symptom Score during follow-up (P = .022). We noted a higher rate of perioperative blood transfusion in patients with very large prostates (P = .019) and a higher rate of transient acute urinary retention (AUR) in group 1 when compared to group 3 (P = .048). Patients with smaller prostates had a higher rate of bladder neck stenosis and urethral strictures, but the differences were not found to be statistically significant. The incidence of other complications, length of hospital stay, and catheterization duration did not differ significantly among the groups. CONCLUSION: HoLEP has consistent and safe outcomes across a wide range of prostate sizes. Although, the risk of blood transfusion is higher in patients with very large prostates and the risk of transient AUR is greater in patients with small glands, the overall efficacy and safety of HoLEP are not significantly influenced by prostate size.

Mini-HoLEP (MILEP) vs HoLEP: a propensity score-matched analysis.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Minimal invasiveness improves outcome in many surgical fields including urology. We aimed to assess intraoperative performance and clinical outcome of miniaturized holmium laser enucleation of prostate (MiLEP) (22FR). METHODS: We ran a propensity score-matched analysis among all consecutive laser enucleations of prostate performed between 9/2022 and 2/2023. It resulted in two matched comparison groups: MiLEP 22 FR (n = 40) and holmium laser enucleation of prostate (HoLEP 26 Fr) (n = 40). Statistical analysis was performed. RESULTS: MiLEP was associated with significantly less intraoperative irrigation (20.5 L vs 15 L, p = 0.002E-3), less decrease in body core temperature (0.6°C vs 0.1°C, p = 0.003E-5), and less need for meatal dilation (25% vs 78%, p = 0.01E-3). These parameters were identified as being independent in the multivariate analysis. There was a trend toward less and a shorter period of postoperative stress incontinence (SI) for the MiLEP group compared to the HoLEP group: 15% and 42% (p = 0.01) at 1 month, 8% and 14% (p = 0.07) at 2 months, and 0 and 0.3% (p = 1) at 3 months, respectively. There were no differences in prostatic enucleation effectiveness, operative time, hospital stay, complications, and improvement in the international prostate symptom score and quality of life score. CONCLUSIONS: MiLEP is feasible and provides better maintenance of body core temperature, reduction in amount of fluid irrigation, and decrease in need for meatal dilation without affecting effectiveness in comparison with HoLEP. MiLEP may reduce early postoperative stress incontinence, thereby shortening the recovery period.

Comparison of holmium laser enucleation and transurethral resection of prostate in benign prostatic hyperplasia: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is the gold-standard classical method for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). In minimally invasive surgery, holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) is considered an alternative option. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we aimed to comprehensively evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of TURP and HoLEP the treating BPH. We comprehensively searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases for all randomized controlled trials published before 1 December 2022 comparing HoLEP and TURP. The study protocol is registered on INPLASY (DOI: 10.37766/inplasy2023.5.0065). Compared with TURP, HoLEP required longer operation time but shorter catheter duration, hospital stay, and bladder irrigation time, as well as less postoperative irrigation. With HoLEP, maximum urinary flow rate at 12 and 24 months after surgery; post-void residual volume at 1, 6, and 12 months; and International Prostate Symptom Score at 12 months after surgery were superior to those with TURP. HoLEP was associated with significantly lower risk of hyponatremia, blood transfusion, and urethral stricture but greater risk of postoperative dysuria. Compared with TURP, HoLEP had better curative efficacy at 6, 12, and 24 months after operation and lower incidence of adverse events in patients with BPH.

Predictors of early catheter replacement after HoLEP. Results from a high-volume laser center.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of the study was to investigate clinical and surgical factors associated with early catheter replacement in patients treated with Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Data of patients treated with HoLEP at our Institution by a single surgeon from March 2017 to January 2021 were collected. Preoperative variables, including non-invasive uroflowmetry and abdominal ultrasonography (US), were recorded. Bladder wall modifications (BWM) at preoperative US were defined as the presence of single or multiple bladder diverticula or bladder wall thickening 5 mm. Clinical symptoms were assessed using validated questionnaires. Only events occurred within the first week after catheter removal were considered. RESULTS: Overall, 305 patients were included, of which 46 (15.1%) experienced early catheter replacement. Maintenance of anticoagulants/antiplatelets (AC/AP) therapy at surgery (p=0.001), indwelling urinary catheter (p=0.02) and the presence of BWM (p=0.001) were more frequently reported in patients needing postoperative re-catheterization. Intraoperative complications (p=0.02) and median lasing time (p=0.02) were significantly higher in this group. At univariate analysis, indwelling urinary catheter (p=0.02), BWM (p=0.01), ongoing AC/AP therapy (p=0.01) and intraoperative complications (p=0.01) were significantly associated with early catheter replacement. At multivariate analysis, indwelling urinary catheter (OR: 1.28; p=0.02), BWM (OR: 2.87; p=0.001), and AC/AP therapy (OR: 2.21; p=0.01) were confirmed as independent predictors of catheter replacement. CONCLUSIONS: In our experience the presence of indwelling urinary catheter before surgery, BWM and the maintenance of AC/AP therapy were shown to be independent predictors of early catheter replacement after HoLEP.

A Propensity Score-Matched Analysis of Perioperative Outcomes of Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate Between Lumenis Pulse 120H and VersaPulse Select 80W.

Objectives: Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) is a valid and safe procedure for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia. This study aimed to examine the perioperative outcomes of HoLEP using a new laser platform, Lumenis Pulse™ 120H, and a previous laser platform, VersaPulse Select 80W. Methods: A total of 612 patients who underwent holmium laser enucleation were enrolled, including 188 and 424 patients who underwent enucleation using Lumenis Pulse 120H and VersaPulse Select 80W, respectively. They were matched using propensity scores with preoperative patient characteristics, and the differences between the two groups, including operative time, enucleated specimen, transfusion rate, and complication rate, were examined. Results: Propensity score-matched cohort comprised 364 patients with 182 in the Lumenis Pulse 120H group (50.0%) and 182 in the VersaPulse Select 80W group (50.0%). Operative time was significantly shorter with Lumenis Pulse 120H (55.2 ± 34.4 vs 101.4 ± 54.3 minutes, p < 0.001). In contrast, no significant differences were seen in resected specimen weight (43.8 ± 29.8 vs 39.6 ± 22.6 g, p = 0.36), rate of incidental prostate cancer (7.7% vs 10.4%, p = 0.36), transfusion rate (0.6% vs 1.1%, p = 0.56), and perioperative complication rates, including urinary tract infection, hematuria, urinary retention, and capsular perforation (5.0% vs 5.0%, 4.4% vs 2.7%, 0.5% vs 4.4%, 0.5% vs 0%, respectively, p = 0.13). Conclusions: Lumenis Pulse 120H improved the operative time significantly, which is regarded as one of the disadvantages of HoLEP.

Tranexamic Acid Was Not Associated With a Reduction in Bleeding Complications Related to Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate.

OBJECTIVE: To compare outcomes in males given perioperative tranexamic acid (TXA) during holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) to a historical cohort that did not receive TXA. METHODS: Our cohort included HoLEP patients (N = 1037) from August 2018 through November 2022. Exclusion criteria included history of stroke, transient ischemic attack, or coronary stent placed within 18 months. The primary predictor was TXA during HoLEP. The primary outcome variable was a return to the operating room (RTOR) for bleeding. Secondary outcomes included catheter reinsertion, transfusion, and clotting complications. Multivariable models evaluating associations of TXA with outcomes were adjusted for potential confounders. RESULTS: In our cohort, 214/1035 had one or more complications with 81 having a Clavien-Dindo Grade of 3a or higher, 114/1037 with catheter reinsertion, 36/1037 RTOR for bleeding, and 15/1035 had a transfusion. TXA use was not associated with 30-day RTOR. 3.7% of those without TXA had a RTOR, and 3.1% of those with TXA had a RTOR (adjusted odds ratio 0.63, 95% CI 0.28-1.38, P = .25). Transfusion rates were higher for those without TXA (2.0%) compared to with (0.5%). This was statistically significant after adjustment (adjusted odds ratio 0.13, 95% CI 0.03-0.69, P = .016) and after correction for multiple testing (corrected P = .048). TXA use was not associated with catheter reinsertion or clotting complications. CONCLUSION: Routine perioperative intravenous TXA in HoLEP patients was not associated with a reduction of RTOR for bleeding, catheter reinsertion, or clotting complications. TXA was associated with decreased transfusions with a low overall event rate of 1.4%.

The use of statins is related to a lower PSA level after endoscopic enucleation of the prostate with holmium laser (HoLEP) for the treatment of BPH.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the factors that may be associated with a 2-month high baseline level of Total Prostatic Specific Antigen (PSA) after endoscopic enucleation of the prostate with Holmium Laser (HoLEP). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective study of a prospectively collected database of adult males undergoing HoLEP at a single tertiary institution from September 2015 to February 2021. Pre-operative epidemiological, clinical characteristics and post-operative factors were analyzed and a multivariate analysis was performed to determine factors independently related to PSA decline. RESULTS: A total of 175 men aged 49-92 years with a prostate size ranging from 25 to 450 cc underwent HoLEP, and after excluding data from patients due to loss of follow-up or incomplete data, 126 patients were included in the final analysis. The patients were divided into group A (n = 84), which included patients with postoperative PSA nadir lower than 1 ng/ml, and group B(n = 42), with postoperative PSA levels greater than 1 ng/ml. In the univariate analysis there was a correlation between the variation of the PSA value and the percentage of resected tissue (p = 0.028), for each 1 g of resected prostate there was a reduction of 0.104 ng/mL, furthermore there was a difference between the means of age of group A (71.56 years) and group B (68.17 years) (p = 0.042). In the multivariate analysis, the use of statins and lower postoperative PSA levels (p = 0.024; HR = 3.71) were correlated. CONCLUSIONS: Our results indicate that PSA after HoLEP is correlated with patient's age, the presence of incidental prostate cancer, and the use of statins.