Boston Scientific welcomes NICE backing for GreenLight XPS

Boston Scientific has welcomed the recommendation of its GreenLight XPS laser therapy system for use by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).

The device was backed by the UK regulator as a method of treating prostatic enlargement, known as benign prostatic hyperplasia, under the NHS for patients who are not deemed to be at high risk.

NICE estimates that broad adoption of GreenLight XPS could result in savings of up to 3.2 million pounds annually for the NHS compared to transurethral resection of the prostate, as GreenLight XPS therapy is typically done on an outpatient day-case basis.

In reaching the decision to recommend the Boston Scientific device, NICE assessed data from studies such as GOLIATH, a trial of 291 patients conducted in nine European countries showing that the laser therapy has associated with fewer initial serious post-procedure complications, lower hospital readmissions and positive outcomes.

Michael Phalen, executive vice-president and president of Boston Scientific's MedSurg business, said: "NICE is internationally recognised for its evidence-based review process and this guidance demonstrates the importance of continually evaluating how we can make improvements in caring for patients."