The Particulars: Data are lacking on the morbidity and perioperative outcomes of laser surgery for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) among octogenarians.
Data Breakdown: A retrospective review of laser surgeries to treat BPH found a complication rate of 19.6%. No patients involved in the study died after surgery. Most complications (82.3%) were low-grade. Longer operating time was an independent risk factor for perioperative morbidity. Significant improvement in urine flow was reported throughout the first year of follow-up.
Take Home Pearl: Among octogenarians, laser surgery for BPH appears to have limited morbidity, achieve good functional outcomes, and help patients maintain quality of life.
