Objectives. To directly compare holmium laser resection of the prostate (HoLRP) with neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet visual laser ablation of the prostate (VLAP), which represent two fundamentally different methods of laser prostatectomy.

Methods. In a randomized, prospective comparison, a total of 44 men with symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) were treated with either HoLRP or VLAP. Standard preoperative assessment included American Urological Association (AUA) symptom score, peak urinary flow rates (Qmax), ultrasound prostate volume, and residual urine measurements. Pressure-flow urodynamics were performed preoperatively and at 3 months postoperatively. Intraoperative and perioperative factors were assessed. The patients were followed at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months following the procedure.

Results. There were no significant differences between the patient groups for any preoperative parameter. The mean total operating time was longer in the HoLRP group (52 minutes) compared with the VLAP group (41 minutes) (P <0.01). The mean catheter times were 1.4 days (HoLRP) and 11.6 days (VLAP) (P <0.001). These times included the 9% of patients undergoing HoLRP and 36% of patients undergoing VLAP who required recatheterization. Immediate postoperative dysuria scores were higher in the VLAP group compared with the HoLRP group. There were no significant differences in AUA scores between the two treatment groups at any postoperative interval. The Qmax values were greater at follow-up in the HoLRP group, but statistical significance was not achieved at 12 months. However, both PdetQmax and Schäfer grade measurements taken at 3 months postoperatively were significantly lower in the patients undergoing HoLRP. Three patients (14%) required reoperation in the VLAP treatment arm but no patient who underwent HoLRP has required reoperation to date.

Conclusions. HoLRP results in significantly improved patient outcomes compared to VLAP.