Greenlight: from potassium-titanyl-phosphate to lithium triborate or from good to better?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To report on the latest data in the recent literature regarding the so-called 'Greenlight laser vaporization of the prostate'. Specifically to comment on the evolution of the 80-W KTP (potassium-titanyl-phosphate) system to the more recent 120-W LBO (lithium triborate) system.

RECENT FINDINGS

In general, in spite of the broad clinical acceptance of this innovative technique, high-quality studies on the more recent 120-W LBO device are scarce. However, one randomized mid-term trial comparing the 120-W LBO version with conventional transurethral resection of the prostate has very currently been published. Moreover, experimental data on the updated system are now available.

SUMMARY

Even though no direct comparison of the 80-W KTP and the 120-W LBO system is accessible, the very recent data promise a further enhancement of Greenlight laser vaporization. This especially applies to improved tissue ablation leading to shorter operation times. However, time is not standing still, as we await data on the 180-W LBO system, which has just been launched. Hopefully, we can expect sound clinical and experimental data in the very near future.