Long term results of transurethral and transvesical prostatectomy. A randomized study

The long term result of transurethral (TURP) versus transvesical (TVP) prostatectomy was evaluated in a randomized study of 75 patients with clinically benign, medium sized, obstructive prostatic hyperplasia. Follow-up investigation including evaluation of symptoms and urinary flow rate was undertaken every 6 months the first 2 years as well as 5 years postoperatively. Thirteen patients died during follow-up. However, the remaining 64 patients were representative for the total series of patients. More than 90% in both groups had a satisfactory subjective result throughout follow-up. A significant and persistent relief in obstructive and irritative symptoms were seen in both groups. Nocturia was the predominant follow-up symptom being present in more than 50% of the patients 5 years postoperatively. During observation a slight decrease in sexual activity and retrograde ejaculation was reported by TVP and TURP patients. About 25% of the patients in both groups with benign histology had secondary operations during follow-up. Maximum as well as average flow rate values remained stable throughout the period of observation with small differences between the two groups. The incidence of urinary tract infections was reduced significantly by the surgical procedures. Only minor and clinically insignificant differences were observed between the results of the two operative procedures.