Photoselective Vaporisation Prostatectomy (PVP): The Derriford Experience
20/9/2005

P. Crow, S. Natale, A. Dickinson

Introduction
PVP is a novel, minimally invasive technique developed with a view to facilitating day case prostatic surgery to relieve LUTS. The system employs a 532mm KTP laser, via a 23F side-firing resectoscope, to vaporise prostatic tissue. This wavelength is preferentially absorbed by Haemoglobin promoting haemostasis. We report the Derriford PVP experience.

Methods
Over the last year PVP was offered to patients considered for TURP at Derriford Hospital. The procedure was performed under general anaesthesia in the Day Case Unit, with urinary catheter removed at 24 hours. Voiding function was assessed with Qmax, PMR and IPSS measured pre-operatively and at three months post-operatively. Operative factors, complications and patient satisfaction were also studied. The results for the first 17 consecutive procedures are presented.

Results
The mean patient age was 75 years, with prostatic volumes of 24.5-117ml. the mean Qmax, PMR and IPSS improved from 9.2ml/s, 244ml and 23.9 pre-operatively to 17.9ml/s, 60ml and 6.4 post-operatively. There were no serious complications but one patient was converted to TURP for bleeding and two patients required repeat procedures. Patient questionnaires showed high levels of satisfaction.

Conclusions
PVP is a safe, effective, well tolerated procedure which may have utility in facilitating day case prostatic surgery.