A Survey on Real-World Transurethral Surgery Procedures for Bladder Pain Syndrome and Interstitial Cystitis

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Surgical Practices
• Patient Outcomes

Background:

• Bladder pain syndrome (BPS) and interstitial cystitis (IC) are complex conditions requiring effective management.
• Transurethral surgeries, including hydrodistension (HD) and transurethral elimination of Hunner lesions (TUEH), are utilized for BPS/IC.
• Understanding current real-world surgical techniques is crucial for optimizing patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate current transurethral surgical practices for BPS and IC in Japan.
• To detail procedural characteristics of hydrodistension (HD) and transurethral elimination of Hunner lesions (TUEH).
• To compare surgical techniques between HD and TUEH.

Main Methods:

• An internet-based questionnaire was distributed to members of the Society of Interstitial Cystitis of Japan.
• The survey collected data on institutional characteristics, procedure volume, and surgical techniques for HD and TUEH.
• Responses from 86 urologists were analyzed to describe procedural patterns.

Main Results:

• Hydrodistension (HD) for BPS typically involved bladder distension to ≤80 cm H2O for 3-10 minutes, repeated at least twice.
• Transurethral elimination of Hunner lesions (TUEH) for IC favored coagulation over resection.
• TUEH procedures more frequently used abdominal palpation, shorter distension times, and longer catheter placement compared to HD.

Conclusions:

• This nationwide survey reveals contemporary surgical practices for BPS and IC in Japan.
• Significant variations exist in the application of HD and TUEH.
• Findings provide insights for clinicians to evaluate and refine transurethral interventions for BPS/IC.