Clinical outcomes of laser hemorrhoidoplasty with feeding vessels suture ligation: a retrospective study in a single center.

BACKGROUND: Laser hemorrhoidoplasty has demonstrated significant therapeutic effectiveness. To diminish postoperative bleeding and enhance overall outcomes, we have additionally adopted suture ligating the feeding vessels. This study aimed to understand the treatment outcomes and any associated complications. METHODS: This study comprised patients with symptomatic grade II-III hemorrhoids who underwent laser hemorrhoidoplasty with feeding vessel suture ligation and Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy between 1 September 2020, and 31 August 2022. Surgical-related details, postoperative pain, discomfort after discharge, hemorrhoid recurrence, and any complications were collected from inpatient records, outpatient follow-ups, and telephone interviews. Initially, we will analyze the distinctions between the laser group and the traditional group, followed by an investigation into complications and satisfaction within the laser surgery subgroup. RESULTS: The study included 323 patients, with 173 undergoing laser hemorrhoidoplasty (LHP) and 150 undergoing Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy. Regarding pain assessment, the LHP group exhibited superior performance compared to traditional surgery at postoperative 4 h, before discharge, and during the first and second outpatient visits, with statistically significant differences. Additionally, the LHP group had a lower rate of urinary retention and experienced significantly less pain, with statistically significant differences. CONCLUSIONS: Laser hemorrhoidoplasty with feeding vessels suture ligation has been shown to reduce postoperative pain and appears to be a promising minimally invasive treatment option for symptomatic grade II and III hemorrhoids.

In vivo biological safety investigation of Yb-CALGO femtosecond laser dental surgery.

While lasers have found their successful applications in various clinical specialties, in clinical dental practice, traditional mechanical drills are still predominantly utilized. Although erbium-doped lasers have been demonstrated for dental therapy, their clinical performance is still not satisfactory due to the long pulse width, low peak power, and small repetition rate. To attain a smaller thermal diffusion thus better biological safety and surgical precision, as well as more rapid ablation, the advancement of femtosecond laser techniques has opened another route of dental surgery; however, no biological safety investigation has been reported. Here, we present a systematic study of dental ablation by a Yb:CaAlGdO4 regenerative amplifier with a central wavelength of 1040 nm and pulse width of 160 fs. The in vivo experiment of dental surgery investigating the inflammatory response has been reported, for the first time to the best of our knowledge. It is demonstrated that dental surgery by Yb:CaAlGdO4 femtosecond laser ablation has better biological safety compared to the turbine drilling, thanks to its non-contact and ultrafast heat dissipation nature.

The Effect of Transurethral Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate in the Treatment of High-Risk Elderly Patients with BPH and Its Influence on Quality of Life.

BACKGROUND: Transurethral holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) has a good therapeutic effect on benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical efficacy of HoLEP in the treatment of high-risk elderly patients with BPH and assess its impact on the inflammatory response, vascular endothelial function and quality of life (QoL). METHODS: Patients at high risk of BPH who were hospitalised in Chengde Central Hospital from February 2021 to December 2022 were retrospectively selected as the study objects, and a total of 100 cases were included. The control group underwent transurethral resection of the prostate, and the observation group underwent HoLEP. Perioperative indexes, urodynamic indexes, QoL 6 months after surgery and incidence of postoperative complications were compared between the two groups. Moreover, serum levels of inflammatory factors and vascular endothelial factors were detected in two groups. RESULTS: We found no significant difference in general data between the two groups of patients (p > 0.05). The operation time, perioperative bleeding, bladder flushing time and hospitalisation time of the observation group were significantly shorter than those of the control group (p < 0.05). On the 7th day after surgery, the serum levels of tumour necrosis factor alpha, interleukin-1ß, interleukin-6, vascular endothelial growth factor, basic fibroblast growth factor and endothelin-1 in the observation group were significantly lower than those in the control group (p < 0.05). Six months after surgery, the maximal urinary flow rate and QoL scores of the patients in the observation group were significantly higher than those of the control group (p < 0.05), and the residual urine volume and International Prostate Symptom Score of observation group were significantly lower than those of the control group (p < 0.05). The incidence of postoperative complications in the observation group was significantly lower than that in the control group (χ2 = 7.440, p = 0.006). CONCLUSIONS: HoLEP can effectively remove hyperplasia of the prostate and reduce the inflammatory response in the patient's body when treating BPH in high-risk elderly patients. It can also regulate the levels of vascular endothelial factors and effectively improve the patient's QoL.

High-intensity versus low-level laser in musculoskeletal disorders.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the current evidence comparing low level to high level laser therapy to reveal any superiorities in the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders. METHODS: Five databases were searched till September 2022 to obtain relevant RCTs comparing high intensity and low-level laser therapies in the management of musculoskeletal disorders. Two authors assessed the methodological quality of the included studies using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database scale and meta-analysis was conducted for studies that showed homogeneity. RESULTS: Twelve articles were included in this systematic review with a total population of 704 participants across various musculoskeletal pathologies including tennis elbow, carpal tunnel syndrome, chronic non-specific low back pain, knee arthritis, plantar fasciitis, and subacromial impingement. There were no statistical differences between the two interventions in pain, electrophysiological parameters, level of disability, quality of life, postural sway or pressure algometer, however, Low level laser therapy showed superiority in increasing grip strength compared to high intensity laser therapy while results were significant in favour of high intensity laser therapy regarding long head of biceps diameter and cross sectional area, supraspinatus thickness and echogenicity and acromio-humeral distance. CONCLUSION: The current literature suggests no superiority of both types of laser therapy in musculoskeletal disorders, however, more RCTs with larger sample size are required to reach a definitive conclusion regarding the superiority of either form of laser therapy in musculoskeletal disorders.

Comparison of the effects of Ho: YAG laser virtual Basket™ pulse modulation and Thulium fiber laser on kidney tissue - an ex vivo experimental study.

Through an ex vivo experimental study, we aimed to compare the effects of the Ho: YAG laser Virtual Basket (VB™) modulation and a Thulium fiber laser (TFL) on kidney tissue in different environments and using laser configurations. The 100 W Ho: YAG (Cyber Ho, Quanta System, Italy) and 60 W TFL (Fiber Dust, Quanta System, Italy) laser devices were used. The following laser settings were selected: power in the range of 10-60 W, frequency of 20-40 Hz, and energy of 0.5-1-1.5 J. A medium pulse duration of 600 µsec was used for VB™, while short (spdTFL; 50 µsec) and long (lpdTFL; 15,000 µsec) were used for TFL. The tissue's incision depth (ID), vaporization area (VA), coagulation area (CA), total laser area (TLA = VA + CA), surface section (SS), and lateral effect (LE) were measured. In total, 108 experiments were conducted. No statistically significant difference in mean VA, TLA, ID, LE, or SS was observed between VB™, spdTFL, and lpdTFL in the low-power output group in saline (p > 0.05). However, the mean CA was statistically significantly higher for VB™ (p = 0.005). In saline and high-power output group, the mean VA, CA, TLA, LE, and ID were higher when using lpdTFL than other pulse durations (p = 0.001, p = 0.001, p = 0.001, p = 0.006, and p = 0.001, respectively). Similar to lpdTFL, VB™ may provide controlled dissection and incision as well as haemostasis. At different laser settings, the individual effects of laser properties (such as pulse length, energy and frequency) on tissue may be more significant.

Single-Cell Synchro-Subtractive-Additive Nanoscale Surgery with Femtosecond Lasers.

Herein, an in situ "synchro-subtractive-additive" technique of femtosecond laser single-cell surgery (FLSS) is presented to address the inadequacies of existing surgical methods for single-cell manipulation. This process is enabled by synchronized nanoscale three-dimensional (3D) subtractive and additive manufacturing with ultrahigh precision on various parts of the cells, in that the precise removal and modification of a single-cell structure are realized by nonthermal ablation, with synchronously ultrafast solidification of the specially designed hydrogel by two photopolymerizations. FLSS is a minimally invasive technique with a post-operative survival rate of 70% and stable proliferation. It opens avenues for bottom-up synthetic biology, offering new methods for artificially synthesizing organelle-like 3D structures and modifying the physiological activities of cells.

Comparative efficacy and safety of greenlight and thulium laser vaporization techniques for benign prostatic hyperplasia: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

This meta-analysis evaluates the efficacy and safety of greenlight (PVP) and thulium laser vaporization (ThuVAP) in Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) treatment. A systematic literature search was conducted in databases including PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, CNKI, Wangfang, and VIP in November 2023. Following the PRISMA guidelines, a systematic review and meta-analysis of the primary outcomes of interest were performed. The review was prospectively registered on PROSPERO under the registration number CRD42023491316. A total of 13 studies were included. The results of the meta-analysis showed that compared to PVP, ThuVAP had a shorter operation time (MD: 8.56, 95% CI: 4.10 ~ 13.03, p = 0.0002), and higher postoperative transfusion (OR:0.26, 95% CI: 0.10 ~ 0.64, p = 0.004). However, no significant differences were observed between the two groups in terms of length of stay (MD: -0.32, 95% CI: -0.78 ~ 0.14, p = 0.17), catherization time (MD: 0.03, 95% CI: -0.13 ~ 0.19, p = 0.73), international prostate symptom score improvement (MD: 0.23, 95% CI: -0.36 ~ 0.81, p = 0.45), quality of life improvement (MD: 0.04, 95% CI: -0.04 ~ 0.12, p = 0.29), maximum urinary flow rate improvement (MD: -0.59, 95% CI: -1.42 ~ 0.24, p = 0.16), postvoid residual urine volume improvement (MD: 1.04, 95% CI: -6.63 ~ 8.71, p = 0.79), overall postoperative complications (OR:1.15, 95% CI: 0.65 ~ 2.03, p = 0.63), postoperative bleeding (OR:1.18, 95%  CI: 0.67 ~ 2.07, p = 0.56), re-peration (OR:0.55, 95% CI: 0.16 ~ 1.95, p = 0.35), urethral stricture (OR:0.90, 95% CI: 0.46 ~ 1.75, p = 0.75), and urinary incontinence (OR:1.07, 95% CI: 0.64 ~ 1.78, p = 0.80). The results of subgroup analysis showed that the results of comparing thulium vaporesection or vapoenucleation with PVP were consistent with the results of the pooled analysis. Both greenlight and thulium laser vaporization are effective and safe, with comparable surgical and functional outcomes. The choice between these methods should be based on patient-specific factors.

Efficacy and safety of Vibegron for the treatment of residual overactive bladder symptoms after laser vaporization of the prostate: A single-center prospective randomized controlled trial (VAPOR TRIAL).

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Vibegron for the treatment of residual overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms after laser vaporization of the prostate (photo-selective vaporization of the prostate, contact laser vaporization of the prostate, and thulium laser vaporization). METHODS: This randomized, open-label, parallel-group, single-center superiority trial with a 12-week observation (jRCTs071190040) enrolled male patients with OAB aged 40 years or older who had undergone laser vaporization of the prostate for not less than 12 weeks and not more than 1 year earlier. Patients were allocated to receive Vibegron 50 mg once daily or follow-up without treatment for 12 weeks. RESULTS: Forty-seven patients were enrolled between January 2020 and March 2023. The median age (interquartile range) was 75.5 (72.5-78.5) years for the Vibegron group and 76.5 (71.0-81.0) years for the control group. The intergroup difference in the mean change (95% confidence interval) in the 24-hour urinary frequency at 12 weeks after randomization was -3.66 (-4.99, -2.33), with a significant decrease for the Vibegron group. The Overactive Bladder Symptom Score, International Prostate Symptom Score, IPSS storage score, and Overactive Bladder Questionnaire score significantly improved for the Vibegron group. Voided volume per micturition also increased for the Vibegron group. CONCLUSIONS: The administration of 50 mg of Vibegron once daily for 12 weeks showed significant improvement compared with follow-up without treatment in bladder storage (OAB) symptoms after laser vaporization of the prostate for symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Clinical outcomes of holmium laser enucleation of the prostate: A large prospective registry-based patient cohort study under regular follow-up protocol.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) in a large prospective cohort of patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) through systematic follow-up at a single institution. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Clinical outcomes were analyzed between August 2008 and June 2022. Patients were followed-up at 2 weeks, 3 months and 6 months postoperatively. RESULTS: A total of 3,000 patients (mean age, 69.6±7.7 years) underwent HoLEP. Baseline total International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) was 19.3±7.7 and maximum flow rate (Qmax) was 9.4±4.8 mL/s. Mean total prostate volume was 67.7±3.4 mL. Total operation time was 60.7±31.5 minutes, and catheterization time was 1.0 days (range, 1.0-1.0 days). At 6 months postoperatively, the total IPSS decreased to 6.6±5.8 and Qmax increased to 22.2±11.3 mL/s. Complications at 6 months postoperatively included stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in 36 patients (1.9%), urgency urinary incontinence (UUI) in 25 (1.3%), bladder neck contracture (BNC) requiring transurethral incision (TUI) in 16 (0.5%), and urethral stricture in 29 (1.0%). Eleven patients (0.4%) with prostatic fossa stones required stone removal. Sixty-one patients (2.0%) required secondary surgery (transurethral coagulation, 16 [0.5%]; TUI for BNC, 16 [0.5%]; stone removal for prostatic fossa stones, 11 [0.4%]; and endoscopic internal urethrotomy for urethral stricture, 18 [0.6%]). CONCLUSIONS: Mid-term follow-up results after HoLEP in BPH patients showed excellent efficacy and low complication rates. Unlike previous reports, the incidence of SUI and UUI after HoLEP was low, but the occurrence of de novo stone formation in prostatic fossa was notable.

Transperineal laser ablation (TPLA) of the prostate for benign prostatic obstruction: the first 100 patients cohort of a prospective, single-center study.

PURPOSE: Transperineal laser ablation (TPLA) is a new minimally-invasive surgical treatment for patients with benign prostatic obstruction (BPO). We report the perioperative and mid-term functional results of the first 100 consecutively patients undergoing TPLA at our institution. METHODS: Clinical data from consecutive patients undergoing TPLA at our institution from April 2021 to July 2023 were prospectively collected. Primary endpoints were the postoperative changes in IPSS, QoL and MSHQ 3-item questionnaires and in Qmax and post-void residual volume (PVR). RESULTS: Overall, 100 consecutive patients underwent the procedure. Median age and prostate volume were 66 (IQR 60-75) years and 50 (IQR 40-70) ml, respectively. In the cohort, 14 (14%) patients had an indwelling catheter and 81 (81%) were under oral BPO therapy at the time of TPLA. Baseline median Qmax (ml/s) and PVR (ml) were 9.1 (IQR 6.9-12) and 90 (IQR 50-150), respectively, while median IPSS and QoL were 18 (IQR 15-23) and 4 (IQR 3-4). At all the follow-up timepoints, the evaluated outcomes on both symptoms and functional parameters showed a statistically significant improvement (p < 0.001). Antegrade ejaculation was preserved in all sexually active patients. No postoperative Clavien-Dindo > 2 complications were recorded. CONCLUSIONS: TPLA represents a safe option for selected well-informed patients swith LUTS due to BPO. Our prospective study confirms the feasibility and favorable perioperative and functional outcomes in a real-world cohort with heterogenous prostate volumes and patient characteristics.

Comparative analysis of changes in retinal layer thickness following femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery and conventional cataract surgery.

BACKGROUND: To investigate the influence of femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) on macula by examining changes in retinal layers after FLACS and to compare these changes with those after conventional cataract surgery (CCS). METHODS: This study included 113 unrelated Korean patients with age-related cataract who underwent CCS or FLACS in Severance Hospital between September 2019 and July 2021. Optical coherence tomography was performed before and 1 month after surgery. The total retinal layer (TRL) was separated into the inner retinal layer (IRL) and outer retinal layer (ORL); moreover, the IRL was subdivided into the retinal nerve fiber layer, ganglion cell layer, inner plexiform layer, inner nuclear layer (INL), outer plexiform layer, and outer nuclear layer. We performed between-group comparisons of the postoperative thickness in each retinal layer and the postoperative differences in retinal thickness. The average retinal thickness of the four inner macular ring quadrants was used for comparative analysis. RESULTS: Compared with the CCS group, the FLACS group exhibited a thicker ORL (P = 0.004) and a thinner INL (P = 0.007) after surgery. All retinal layer thickness values showed significant postoperative changes regardless of the type of surgery (P < 0.05). The postoperative increase in TRL and IRL thickness was significantly smaller in the FLACS group than in the CCS group (P = 0.027, P = 0.012). CONCLUSIONS: The 1-month postoperative retinal changes were less pronounced in the FLACS group than in the CCS group.

Fractional picosecond laser treatment of non-acne atrophic scars and scar erythema in Chinese patients.

BACKGROUND: Fractional picosecond lasers (FPL) are reported to be effective and safe for atrophic acne scars and post-acne erythema. However, there is no evidence regarding the effectiveness and safety of FPL treatment for non-acne atrophic scars and scar erythema among Chinese patients. METHODS: In this retrospective study, 12 Chinese patients with non-acne atrophic scars, including nine with scar erythema, were treated with one to three sessions of 1064 nm FPL treatment. Clinical improvement was objectively assessed through blinded evaluations by external physicians. A modified Manchester Scar Scale (mMSS) and the Clinician Erythema Assessment Scale (CEAS) were individually used to evaluate atrophic scars and scar erythema based on photographs. Physician-assessed and subject-assessed Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) were used to assess changes before and after FPL treatment. Patient satisfaction and adverse events were also documented. RESULTS: Total mMSS scores, as well as three parameters (color, distortion, and texture), were significantly decreased after FPL treatment, with a mean reduction of 3.18 ± 1.60 in total scores (p < 0.05). The CEAS scores were significantly reduced from 2.41 ± 0.98 before treatment to 0.41 ± 0.40 at the final visit (p < 0.05). Based on physician-assessed and subject-assessed GAIS scores, 11 (91.7%) patients were improved after FPL treatment. 33.3% of patients were very satisfied, and 41.7% were satisfied. No serious, prolonged (> 3 weeks) adverse events were observed. CONCLUSION: Our study suggests that 1064 nm FPL treatment may be a promising option for non-acne atrophic scars, especially with scar erythema. Further studies are needed to confirm our results.

Assessing the readability and quality of online patient information for laser tattooremoval.

Just as tattoos continue to increase in popularity, many people with tattoos also seek removal, often due to career concerns. Prospective clients interested in laser tattoo removal may do research about the procedure online, as the internet increasingly becomes a resource to get preliminary health information. However, it is important that the online health information on the topic be of high quality and be accessible to all patients. We analyzed 77 websites from a Google search query using the terms "Laser tattoo removal patient Information" and "Laser tattoo removal patient Instructions" to assess this. The websites were evaluated for their readability using multiple validated indices and comprehensiveness. We found that websites had a broad readability range, from elementary to college, though most were above the recommended eighth-grade reading level. Less than half of the websites adequately discussed the increased risk of pigmentary complications in the skin of color clients or emphasized the importance of consulting with a board-certified dermatologist/plastic surgeon before the procedure. Over 90% of the websites noted that multiple laser treatments are likely needed for complete clearance of tattoos. The findings from our study underscore a significant gap in the accessibility and quality of online information for patients considering laser tattoo removal, particularly in addressing specific risks for patients with darker skin tones and emphasizing the need for consulting a board-certified physician before undergoing the procedure. It is important that online resources for laser tattoo removal be appropriately written to allow better decision-making, expectations, and future satisfaction for potential clients interested in the procedure.

A new technique to implant intracorneal ring-segments from the perilimbal region: one-year prospective pilot study report.

BACKGROUND: Recently a new surgical technique for intracorneal ring-segments (ICRS) assisted by femtosecond laser (FSL) called ByLimB was developed, involving the creation of the incision from a paralimbic region. This study aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the ByLimb technique following one year of follow-up. METHODS: A prospective, single-center study was conducted at the Zaldivar Institute in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Keratoconus patients with indication for ICRS-FSL assisted procedure, operated with the ByLimb technique were included. By using the ByLimb technique, the ICRS are placed without affecting the tunnel's roof, and the end of the ICRS is always away from the incision area. Visual acuity, topographic astigmatism, and the occurrence of complications were evaluated. Safety index was the main outcome and efficacy indes was a complimentary outcome. RESULTS: A total of 17 eyes completed the 12-month follow-up period. The safety index was 1.10 (mean postoperative corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) in decimal: 0.76/preoperative CDVA: 0.69), while the efficacy index was 0.89 (mean postoperative uncorrected distance visual acuity UDVA in decimal: 0.62/preoperative CDVA: 0.69). Mean preoperative astigmatism was 5.3 ± 2.3, decreasing twelve months after surgery at 2.1 ± 1.2 (p < 0.001). No eye loss lines of vision and no intraoperative complications were observed. During the first month after surgery, an improper positioning of the ICRS based on topographic assessment was detected in five cases. A second procedure was performed, which consisted of opening the incision and introducing a Sinsky hook, through which the ICRS was mobilized and placed in its correct position. No incisional alterations, signs of infection, anterior segment anomalies, or fundus alterations were observed. CONCLUSION: FSL-assisted ICRS implantation through the perilimbal region has demonstrated an adequate safety index one year post-surgery. Additionally, this technique has facilitated accurate realignment of ICRS during secondary surgical interventions within one-month post-surgery. While the current findings are promising, continued follow-up of these cases is warranted.

A novel laser resection approach: efficacy of rotatable bi-channel en bloc resection of bladder tumor in a pilot in-vivo study.

En bloc resection of bladder tumor (ERBT) involves removing bladder tumors and their base. Laser resection has been used to reduce complications including bleeding and obturator nerve reflex (ONR). We developed a novel approach (rotatable bi-channel en bloc resection of bladder tumor (RBC-ERBT)) and assessed its efficacy in a pilot in-vivo study to enhance laser ERBT's applicability in challenging bladder regions. In the laser RBC-ERBT procedure, lesions were excised by inserting a holmium laser through the rotating external working channel, while forceps were inserted through the internal working channel provided traction on the tissue. Fifteen laser RBC-ERBT procedures were performed in five different bladder areas of three live pigs. The technical success rate (TSR), procedure time, lesion size, occurrence of complications (bleeding, perforation, ONR), and detrusor muscle (DM) presence rate and DM thickness were evaluated. All 15 procedures were performed with a 100% TSR. The resections were successful in all bladder regions (posterior, left, right and anterior walls and dome). Median procedure time was 20 min. The resected specimen size was 10 mm × 7 mm to 17 mm × 13 mm. Mild bleeding occurred in two procedures (13.3%) but was effectively managed. No incidents of ONR or perforation were observed. Histological examination confirmed presence of DM in all specimens with a median DM thickness of 1.26 mm. Our pilot in-vivo study suggested the feasibility and effectiveness of laser RBC-ERBT for bladder tumors in various locations. This technique offers effective traction, improved visualization, and enhanced laser accessibility. Further studies are required to validate its effectiveness in humans.

Preoperative factors predicting poor therapeutic efficacy of holmium laser enucleation of the prostate in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia.

OBJECTIVES: We assessed preoperative factors predicting the poor therapeutic efficacy of holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) in benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) patients. METHODS: The present study included 159 patients who underwent HoLEP between August 2015 and June 2021 at our institution. Overall therapeutic efficacy was divided into good and poor therapeutic efficacies according to changes in the international prostate symptom score (IPSS), IPSS quality of life (IPSS-QOL), and the maximum urinary flow rate. Patients were divided into good and poor therapeutic efficacy groups based on findings obtained 3 months after HoLEP, and comparative assessments were performed between the two groups. RESULTS: The therapeutic efficacy of HoLEP was poor in 53 (33.3%) out of 159 patients. Intravesical prostatic protrusion (IPP), IPSS, IPSS-QOL, post-void residual volume (PVR), and the presence of overactive bladder (OAB) were significantly higher in the poor therapeutic efficacy group than in the good therapeutic efficacy group. A multivariable analysis of several factors identified the preoperative presence of OAB and short IPP as independent risk factors for the poor therapeutic efficacy of HoLEP. When treatment efficacy was divided according to risk factors, poor therapeutic efficacy was observed in only 14% of patients with prolonged IPP and the absence of OAB. CONCLUSIONS: The therapeutic efficacy of HoLEP may be poor in patients with OAB and short IPP, resulting in the significant deterioration of lower urinary tract symptoms. Accordingly, it is important to consider the presence or absence of OAB and IPP measurements when selecting indications for HoLEP.

Hemorrhoidal laser ablation procedure: a minimally invasive treatment for grades II, III, and IV using a 1470 nm diode laser.

<b>Indroduction:</b> Hemorrhoids often cause pain, and achieving painless outcomes through surgery is challenging. Hemorrhoidal Laser Ablation, a method for treating severe hemorrhoids, has limited documentation in clinical trials.</br> <br><b>Aim:</b> This retrospective study aimed to present our experience with Hemorrhoidal Laser Ablation in symptomatic grade II, III, and IV internal hemorrhoids and evaluate the efficacy and safety of this relatively recent technique.</br> <br><b>Material and methods:</b> The cohort included 138 patients with symptomatic hemorrhoids who underwent Hemorrhoidal Laser Ablation at three different medical centers in 2017-2022. Patients were treated with a 1470 nm diode laser. Data were collected on clinical and perioperative characteristics and outcomes.</br> <br><b>Results:</b> No evidence of intraoperative complications occurred. There was no rectal tenesmus or alteration of defecation habits. Early mild postoperative symptoms were observed for an average of one week after the operation. The plateau of symptom resolution and downgrading of hemorrhoid size reached approximately six months post-procedure. The short- -term recurrence rate was 0.8% within roughly a month after the laser surgery, while the long-term recurrence rate was 5% over up to five years of follow-up. The overall satisfaction rate was 95% with symptomatic relief.</br> <br><b>Conclusions:</b> Hemorrhoidal Laser Ablation is a painless outpatient technique that does not require general anesthesia. It is an easy-to-perform, convenient, safe, and efficient modality in reducing symptoms and complications of grades II, III, and IV internal hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoidal Laser Ablation limits postoperative discomfort and allows the patient to return to daily routines quickly.</br>.

Neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd: YAG) laser treatment in ophthalmology: a review of the most common procedures Capsulotomy and Iridotomy.

Nowadays, lasers are used in various medical fields. Ophthalmology was the first medical specialty to utilize lasers in patient treatment and still remains the leading medical field that uses laser energy for both therapeutic and diagnostic purposes. The neodymium: yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Nd: YAG) laser is one of the most common lasers used in ophthalmology. It is a solid-state laser with a wavelength of 1064 nm that works on the principle of photodisruption. Since its introduction in ophthalmology over 40 years ago, it has found various applications, mainly for procedures where cutting or disruption of ocular tissue is required. Compared to surgical alternatives, the use of Nd: YAG lasers on ocular tissue is minimally invasive. In this review, we focus on the two most common ophthalmic applications of Nd: YAG laser - laser peripheral iridotomy and posterior capsulotomy. The history of the techniques, current trends, potential complications, and the prognosis for future use is discussed.

Design and evaluation of a pneumatic actuation unit for a wasp-inspired self-propelled needle.

Transperineal laser ablation is a minimally invasive thermo-ablative treatment for prostate cancer that requires the insertion of a needle for accurate optical fiber positioning. Needle insertion in soft tissues may cause tissue motion and deformation, resulting in tissue damage and needle positioning errors. In this study, we present a wasp-inspired self-propelled needle that uses pneumatic actuation to move forward with zero external push force, thus avoiding large tissue motion and deformation. The needle consists of six parallel 0.25-mm diameter Nitinol rods driven by a pneumatic actuation system. The pneumatic actuation system consists of Magnetic Resonance (MR) safe 3D-printed parts and off-the-shelf plastic screws. A self-propelled motion is achieved by advancing the needle segments one by one, followed by retracting them simultaneously. The advancing needle segment has to overcome a cutting and friction force, while the stationary needle segments experience a friction force in the opposite direction. The needle self-propels through the tissue when the friction force of the five stationary needle segments overcomes the sum of the friction and cutting forces of the advancing needle segment. We evaluated the prototype's performance in 10-wt% gelatin phantoms and ex vivo porcine liver tissue inside a preclinical Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanner in terms of the slip ratio of the needle with respect to the phantom or liver tissue. Our results demonstrated that the needle was able to self-propel through the phantom and liver tissue with slip ratios of 0.912-0.955 and 0.88, respectively. The prototype is a promising step toward the development of self-propelled needles for MRI-guided transperineal laser ablation as a method to treat prostate cancer.