Prospective study shows MRI-guided laser ablation for BPH is safe and effective

The Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology (JVIR) will feature a study of MRI-guided prostate laser ablation for BPH on the cover of its November issue! Researchers at the Prostate Laser Center found a significant decrease in the severity of patients’ urinary symptoms at 2, 4, 6, and 24 months after ablation. The average International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) dropped about 75% at 2 years. There were few side effects and no damage to either erectile function or urinary continence, likely due to the precision of MRI guidance. These results are very promising, and hopefully the article will raise awareness about this valuable new option for BPH treatment.