A new study out of Pune, India, suggests that thulium laser may be effective for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The treatment may be useful for reducing tissue with minimal blood loss, and has also been associated with a drop in prostate specific antigen (PSA). The report, “Thulium laser enucleation of the prostate is a safe and a highly effective modality for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia — Our experience of 236 patients,” appeared in the journalUrology Annals.
As men age, their prostates grow, often leading to BPH. Although this disease — common in aging societies — can have troubling symptoms, it is not life-threatening, nor does it cause cancer. Symptoms may include problems urinating, weakness, infection, reduced kidney function, or bladder stones.