Transurethral resection of the prostate in recurrent acute bacterial prostatitis

To explore the outcome of transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) in the treatment of refractory recurrent acute bacterial prostatitis.

From 2004 to 2013, 23 TURP for this indication were performed in 21 patients; two patients underwent it twice. The files of these patients were retrospectively analysed for outcome and side effects. TURP intended to remove as much infected tissue as possible under appropriate antibiotherapy.

Twelve patients became free of symptoms during a follow-up of 3-108 months (median 44), two others became disease-free after one and two postoperative attacks, respectively; eight were not cured and had rapid recurrences; three patients had follow-up of a few weeks only. Two failures developed orchiepididymitis shortly after the procedure and one a year later. No incontinence or bladder neck contracture was noted.

TURP is an acceptable procedure in the treatment of refractory recurrent bacterial prostatitis. It could cure about two thirds of patients.