Laser treatment for transitional cell cancer of the bladder

: The neodymium (ND):YAG laser has become popular among urologists during the past 10 years. Laser irradiation can be used for the treatment of superficial transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder. The ND:YAG laser rays have 3 properties that make them particularly suited to urology: a 4-6 mm depth of penetration, transmissibility via quartz fibers, and non-absorbability by water. 7 men and 4 women, aged 55-77 years (mean 73), underwent ND:YAG laser irradiation of recurrent low-stage tumors as outpatients, under local anesthesia. Catheters were not left in and the patients were discharged about 30 minutes after treatment. In a short follow-up of 2-6 months there were no recurrences; cystoscopic follow-up continues.