February 28, 2008, East Longmeadow, MA.  Dr. David S. Turk, lead innovator of laser vaporization of the prostate under local anesthesia in the office setting, and urologist with Southwest Urology, Inc. in Cleveland, Ohio, has received the 2007 Thirlby Award, presented by the North Central Section of the American Urology Association.   The award was conferred on Dr. Turk for presentation of his innovative work with laser vaporization using the biolitec EVOLVE 100-watt, 980-nm laser as an alternative treatment option for patients with obstructive symptoms associated with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH).

 Dr. Turk’s technique employs a newer selective light vaporization procedure that cuts and coagulates while maintaining a controlled depth of tissue penetration and minimizing collateral tissue interaction.  The procedure is minimally invasive and considerably less expensive than in-hospital procedures.  The technique provides micro-surgical precision during the soft tissue vaporization and minimizes or eliminates the need for anesthesia. 

Men suffering from symptoms of an enlarged prostate, which affect nearly 7 million men over age 50 nationwide, now have access to the in-office laser procedure which in some cases eliminates the side effects of drugs or some of the risks associated with traditional surgery.  Patients experience a short, comfortable procedure in less than two hours, compared with hospital-based procedures requiring overnight or week-long stays.

  The Thirlby Award is presented annually to a member urologist in private practice in the geographic area of the North Central Section of the American Urological Association, the national professional association for the advancement of urologic patient care. 

Dr. Turk received his M.D. degree at the Medical College of Ohio, and served his urology residency at Case Western Reserve University.