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Acute ureteral colic presents with a complex of acute and characteristic flank pain that usually indicates the presence of a stone in the urinary tract. Diagnosis and management of renal colic have undergone considerable evolution and advancement in recent years. The application of noncontrast helical computed tomography (CT) in patients with suspected ureteral colic is one major advance in the primary diagnostic process. The superior sensitivity and specificity of helical CT allow ureterolithiasis to be diagnosed without the potential side effects of contrast media. Initial management is based on three key concepts: (A) rational and fast diagnostic process (B) effective pain control (C) and understanding of the impact of stone location and size on the natural course of the disease and definitive urologic management. These concepts are discussed in this review with reference to contemporary literature.

Fluorescence cystoscopy of the urinary bladder allows to better identify tumors and altered bladder mucosa (e.g. Carcinoma in situ). Instillation of 5-aminolevulinic acid or hexyl aminolevulinate approx. two hours before transurethral resection leads to metabolism of these compounds in the Häm-biosynthesis and to accumulation of protoporphyrin IX (PPIX). PPIX is an excellent fluorochrom, which lights up red when illuminated by blue light. During transurethral resection all tumors and all suspicious mucosal areas can be completely resected. As a consequence recurrence rate drops and patients need less re-operations and hospitalizations.

Background: Despite good efficacy, even in our days, TURP remains a potentially difficult procedure to perform and is associated with significant risks for the patient. Several alternatives have been tried to reduce the known perioperative morbidity. We report our first experiences with 80 W potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP) laser vaporization of the prostate in patients with symptomatic BPH., Patients and Methods: In 70 patients 80 W KTP laser vaporization was performed successfully. Mean age was 70.5 years (46-93 years) and mean transrectal prostate volume was 48.1 ml (10-250 ml)., Results: Mean operating time was 41 min ( n=22), 64 min ( n=33), and 80 min ( n=15) for a 26 ml, 46 ml, and a 91 ml prostate, respectively. At time of discharge, after 1 month, and 6 months the urinary peak flow increased by 75.4%, 166.8%, and 168.6%, respectively., Conclusion: The 80 W KTP laser vaporization of the prostate combines the tissue-debulking properties of transurethral resection of the prostate with the known good hemostatic properties of other laser procedures. It is a safe procedure for the patient and provides a virtually bloodless operation and immediate improvement of voiding.