Introduction: Photoselective vaporization of prostate (PVP) by 120W HPS laser emerged as an efficient, bloodless, and durable first line alternative to transurethral resection of prostate for treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) secondary to benign prostatic enlargement (BPE). In this study, we assessed effects of PVP by HPS laser on erectile function.
Material and methods: Between January 2012 and February 2014, 143 consecutive patients presenting with LUTS secondary to BPE, who underwent PVP by 120W HPS laser, were prospectively enrolled in the study. Patient's (Group A: International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5) ≥19; Group B: IIEF <19) preoperative, perioperative and follow-up data were recorded. IIEF-5 was used to assess preoperative and postoperative erectile function at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. Recorded data was analyzed statistically.
Results: Preoperative and perioperative data of the two groups were comparable. Significant improvement in IPSS, Qmax, QoL, and post void residual urine at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months were observed in both groups with no significant difference between them. Although IIEF-5 scores declined in both groups postoperatively (Group A: 21.06±1.21 to 19.84±1.55, P=0.43; Group B: 14.67±2.05 to 12.79±1.42, P=0.53), it was not statistically significant in either group. No significant difference was noted in IIEF-5 score between patients with or without indwelling catheter in either of the two groups.
Conclusions: In patients undergoing PVP by 120W HPS laser for LUTS secondary to BPE, no significant effect was observed in sexual function at 1 year follow-up.