Bipolar versus monopolar TURP: a prospective controlled study at two urology centers

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Surgical Techniques
• Comparative Studies

Background:

• Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is a standard treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia.
• Monopolar TURP is the traditional method, while bipolar TURP is a newer alternative.
• Concerns exist regarding the safety and efficacy of both TURP techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare bipolar and monopolar TURP in a prospective controlled study.
• To evaluate differences in TUR syndrome frequency, fluid absorption, hemorrhage risk, and postoperative recovery.
• To assess long-term clinical efficacy based on flow rate, symptom scores, and quality of life.

Main Methods:

• Prospective controlled study conducted at two urology centers.
• Comparison of bipolar versus monopolar TURP.
• Evaluation of surgical outcomes including TUR syndrome, fluid absorption, bleeding, catheterization duration, hospitalization, Q-max, IPSS, and QoL scores.

Main Results:

• No major differences were observed between bipolar and monopolar TURP in overall outcomes.
• Bipolar TURP showed a potentially smaller risk of TUR syndrome (serum sodium change: +1.2 vs -0.1 mmol/l).
• Both methods exhibited similar bleeding tendencies (hemoglobin loss: 14.0 g/l after 1 day) and comparable long-term efficacy (Q-max, IPSS, QoL scores after 1 year).

Conclusions:

• Bipolar and monopolar TURP demonstrate comparable clinical efficacy and long-term outcomes.
• Bipolar TURP may offer a reduced risk of TUR syndrome.
• Monopolar TURP remains a viable option for transurethral resection of the prostate.