Laser treatment of benign prostatic obstruction: basics and physical differences.

Context: Laser treatment of benign prostatic obstruction (BPO) has become more prevalent in recent years. Although multiple surgical approaches exist, there is confusion about laser-tissue interaction, especially in terms of physical aspects and with respect to the optimal treatment modality.

Objective: To compare available laser systems with respect to physical fundamentals and to discuss the similarities and differences among introduced laser devices.