Dr Martin Loehr talking to patients

Treating BPH with the Evolve Laser from Biolitec

New laser method

When it comes to treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), among the tools we use at our clinic is a new laser method, one that is directed primarily at middle-aged patients for whom it is important to retain a full ejaculation even after treatment for their prostate disorder. This demands an extremely accurate and precise treatment of the prostate by laser, one that has now been made possible thanks to the so-called Evolve Laser method developed by the German company Biolitec based in Jena.

Graphic absorption spectrum

Evolve is a minimal-invasive procedure. Laser energy is used to remove obstructive prostate tissue from around the urethra that causes the symptoms usually associated with BPH. The laser operates in the infrared range, and in this method uses two wavelengths of 1470 and 980 nanometers (nm) running in parallel. This has the advantage that an optimal absorption is achieved in water and hemoglobin, which in turn means a high rate of ablation in combination with a good hemostatic (blood-staunching) effect. In plain text: the proliferative prostate tissue is swiftly and effectively ablated and the free off-flow of retained urine is completely restored. The Evolve Laser also ensures that the internal structures of the prostate gland that enable ejaculation are spared. Thus, for the very first time there is now a method available that enables so-called retrograde ejaculation to be prevented. In particular middle-aged men between 40 and 50 years of age who may still have the wish to sire children can draw new hope even if they are suffering from BPH. The excellent hemostatic profile has a positive impact on the healing process: there is virtually no loss of blood, and the surrounding tissue is spared. The patient experiences relief directly following the treatment and no longer feels the constant and uncomfortable urge to urinate.

What is so special about Evolve Laser?

The invisible infrared laser beam is led through a specially shaped glass-fiber light conductor directly to where it is needed. Here the smoothed tip of the instrument comes into contact with the tissue and hence achieves an extremely high degree of ablation compared with conventional laser methods. The new treatment method is also suited for high-risk patients, since there is no longer any need for strong anesthesis, and any anticoagulation medication that these patients are often obliged to take can be recontinued a short time after the treatment.

What are the benefits of the Evolve Laser for the patient?

Safe and minimal-invasive treatment Short duration of treatment Immediate results Minimal side-effects or complaints following treatment In most cases no impact on sexuality and continence Swifter reconvalescence Additional safety thanks to microsurgical precision Treatment possible both on an inpatient and outpatient basis Postsurgical catheterization is in many cases necessary only for a short time or not at all Very short stay in the clinic (in most cases just one night under observation)

The typical course of treatment

A healthy prostate resembles a walnut in size and shape
A healthy prostate gland is roughly the same size and shape as a walnut and weighs approximately 30 grams. When the prostate is enlarged, this constricts the urethra, resulting in an impaired off-flow of the urine.
The illustration shows the prostate enlarged and in lateral view.
This image shows the prostate in enlargement and from the side.
At the beginning of the treatment, the probe is pushed up through the urethra.
The treatment commences by inserting the probe upwards through the urethra.
Aus der Sonde wird der Sondenkopf geschoben.
The head of the probe is pushed out of the probe.
Infrared light, invisible to the human eye, emerges from the probe head.
Infrared light invisible to the human eye is discharged from the probe head.
The surgeon controls the probe and thus removes the tissue in a circular pattern.
The operator steers the probe, rotating it to ablate the tissue in a circular motion.
In the process, the entire probe is pulled back further and further.
The entire probe is gradually retracted.
Der Trichter vergrößert sich Schritt für Schritt.
The funnel grows larger step by step.
At the end of the treatment, the probe is pulled out of the prostate again.
At the end of the treatment the probe is completely withdrawn from the prostate.
In the end, the urine can drain off again without any problems.
Urine can once again flow off freely.