[Transurethral microwave thermotherapy for benign prostatic hyperplasia]

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Minimally Invasive Therapies

Background:

• Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) frequently causes bladder outlet obstruction.
• Effective treatment options for BPH symptoms are crucial for improving patient quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the clinical efficacy of transurethral microwave thermotherapy (TUMT) using the PROSTCARE apparatus for BPH.
• To assess treatment outcomes based on symptom scores, quality of life, and urinary flow rates.

Main Methods:

• Sixty patients with BPH and bladder outlet obstruction underwent a single 60-minute TUMT session.
• Intraprostatic temperatures averaged 45°C during treatment.
• Patients were assessed at two months post-treatment using the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), Quality of Life (QOL) index, maximum urinary flow rate, and prostate volume.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements were observed in both IPSS and QOL index scores.
• Seventy-three percent of patients showed IPSS improvement, and 78% reported QOL index improvement.
• Forty-seven percent experienced improved maximum urinary flow rate, with no significant change in prostate volume.
• Overall improvement was reported in 78% of patients.
• Ejaculation disturbance was noted as a complication in two patients.

Conclusions:

• Transurethral microwave thermotherapy with the PROSTCARE apparatus is an effective treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia.
• The procedure offers significant symptom relief and quality of life enhancement for BPH patients.
• TUMT demonstrates a favorable safety profile with low incidence of complications.