New in-office BPH laser treatment is efficient, cost-effective

Biolitec has launched the 150-watt Evolve side-firing diode laser unit, which the company says precisely ablates andcoagulates prostate tissue, resulting in shorter procedures and recovery times.

The 980-nm laser wavelength allows equal energy absorption in water and hemoglobin for effective, char-free coagulation andhemostasis with minimal complications and minimal post-treatment discomfort. The operator can select from continuous orpulsed-wave operation.

Procedures can be performed in the office in as little as 30 minutes per patient, and are reimbursed as in-officeprocedures.

Because the procedure requires only a prostatic block and a single injection of lidocaine, the patient remains conscious. Theneed for post-procedure catheterization is limited. In addition, patients can return home after a brief recovery periodwithout the expense of a hospital stay, although the manufacturer advises that patients with prostates larger than 80 grams beadmitted to a hospital.

The portable, air-cooled unit features plug-and-use simplicity and a space-saving footprint without the need for a dedicatedwater line.