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Transrectal microwave hyperthermia for benign prostatic hyperplasia: long-term clinical, pathological and
F Montorsi1, L Galli, G Guazzoni
1Institute of Human Anatomy, University of Milan School of Medicine, Italy.
The Journal of Urology
|August 1, 1992
Summary
Transrectal microwave hyperthermia improved residual urine volume in benign prostatic hyperplasia patients but did not significantly enhance urinary flow rates or symptoms, indicating it is not a surgical alternative.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Oncology
- Medical Physics
Background:
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) causes bladder outlet obstruction.
- Surgery is the standard treatment, but risks exist for some patients.
- Transrectal microwave hyperthermia offers a potential non-surgical option.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of transrectal microwave hyperthermia for BPH.
- To assess its impact on urinary symptoms and flow rates.
- To determine if it's a viable alternative to surgery.
Main Methods:
- 191 BPH patients with obstruction underwent 5 or 10 sessions of hyperthermia.
- Intraprostatic temperature was maintained at 42.5 ± 0.5°C.
- Histological analysis and clinical assessments were performed at 1, 12, and 24 months.
Main Results:
- No irreversible glandular epithelial damage observed.
- Significant increase in intraprostatic capillary-like vessels noted.
- Reduced residual urine volume in most patients.
- Minor improvements in urinary flow rates and subjective symptoms.
- Patients remained obstructed post-treatment based on flow nomograms.
Conclusions:
- Transrectal microwave hyperthermia shows limited efficacy for BPH.
- It is not a substitute for surgical intervention for bladder outlet obstruction.
- Further research may explore optimized hyperthermia protocols.