Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 10, 2026
07:17
Photoselective Vaporesection of the Prostate via an End-firing Lithium Triborate Crystal Laser
Published on: May 9, 2018
Who needs a prostatectomy? Review of a waiting list
C P Barham1, R D Pocock, E D James
1Department of Urology, Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, Wonford, Exeter.
British Journal of Urology
|September 1, 1993
Summary
Objective reassessment of patients awaiting prostate surgery revealed that nearly half did not require the procedure. This highlights the critical need for objective testing in diagnosing urinary symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Medical Diagnostics
Background:
- Transurethral prostatectomy is a common procedure for enlarged prostates.
- Patient selection for surgery is often based on symptoms and physical findings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the necessity of transurethral prostatectomy in patients selected based on symptoms.
- To assess the role of objective testing in patient management for lower urinary tract symptoms.
Main Methods:
- 118 patients on a waiting list for transurethral prostatectomy were reassessed.
- Objective tests were used to evaluate the severity of symptoms and prostate enlargement.
- 107 patients were included in the final analysis.
Main Results:
- 44% of patients were confirmed for continued follow-up on the waiting list.
- 8% of patients required ongoing review but not immediate surgery.
- 48% of patients were discharged, indicating they did not need the procedure.
Conclusions:
- Objective assessment is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate surgical planning.
- Relying solely on symptoms and physical examination can lead to unnecessary surgical interventions.
- Re-evaluation with objective tests can optimize patient management and resource allocation.
