Efficacy of Transurethral Bladder Neck Incision with 2-Micron Continuous Wave Laser (RevoLix) for the Management of Bladder Outlet Stricture in Women

PURPOSE: To report the short-term outcome of transurethral bladder neck incision with 2-micron continuous wave laser (RevoLix) in the management of bladder outlet stricture in women.MATERIALS AND METHODS:In a prospective study, between January 2011 and February 2012, a total of 14 patients with the complaint of difficulty in voiding underwent transurethral bladder neck incision with 2-micron 120-W continuous wave laser (RevoLix) using low energy setting (24W). Pre-operative investigations included international prostate symptom score (IPSS) and quality of life index evaluation, multi-channel urodynamic study, and urethrocystoscopy. Postoperative clinical and urodynamic improvement were compared with the pre-operative data.RESULTS: Of 14 patients, 4 and 10 subjects suffered from chronic urinary retention and difficulty in voiding, respectively. The mean age of the patients was 55.1 years (range, 40 to 67 years). Mean operation time and postoperative follow-up period were 23.8 minutes (range, 15 to 30 minutes) and 10.2 months (range, 6 to 18 months), respectively. Median IPSS improved significantly from 28 points at baseline to 11 points postoperatively (P = .005). Median quality of life score also improved from 4.2 points to 1.5 points (P = .005). None of the patients needed re-operation. Median post void residual urine decreased significantly after the procedure (101 mL versus 17 mL; P = .003). No significant complications and de-novo incontinence were noted in this study.CONCLUSION: Transurethral bladder neck incision with 2-micron continuous wave laser (RevoLix) may be used safely in the management of bladder outlet stricture in women with satisfactory short-term clinical outcomes.