Transurethral laser treatment in bladder neoplasms

Within one year 38 patients with bladder tumors--most malignant--were treated by argon-laserbeam (6 Watt and 15 Watt). We now survey altogether 45 endoscopic operations. To bring the laserbeam into the waterfilled bladder, we use a special light-conductor and a normal operation-cystoscope. Laser therapy takes place after conventional electro-resection (TUR) by coagulation of the tumor ground or independently by destroying small relapses of tumors. We have observed some advantages of argon-laser treatment compared to electro-surgery: 1. No convulsions of bladder muscle with the danger of perforation, sometimes produced by current impulses. 2. Painlessness. Laser treatment is possible without anesthesia. 3. More therapeutic range. 4. Cases of absence of recidivation. We hope that the new therapy will be able to reduce the recidivation of bladder tumors and to improve the poor results of operative treatment.