A randomized trial comparing transurethral resection of the prostate, laser therapy and conservative treatment of men with symptoms associated with benign prostatic enlargement: The CLasP study.

Purpose: We evaluated the effectiveness of a new technology (noncontact laser therapy) versus that of standard surgery (transurethral prostatic resection) and conservative management for lower urinary tract symptoms associated with benign prostatic enlargement.Materials and Methods: Men with uncomplicated lower urinary tract symptoms, that is no acute or chronic urinary retention, were randomized to receive laser therapy with a noncontact, side firing neodymium:YAG probe, standard transurethral prostatic resection or conservative management, including monitoring without active intervention, in a large multicenter pragmatic randomized controlled trial called the CLasP study. Primary outcomes were International Prostate Symptom Score (I-PSS), maximum urinary flow rate, a composite measure of success based on I-PSS and maximum urinary flow rate categories, I-PSS quality of life score and post-void residual urine volume. Secondary outcomes included treatment failure, hospital stay and major complications. Fol...