Comparison of patients undergoing transurethral resection of the prostate in 1935-36 and 1991-92

This retrospective study compares two patient groups undergoing transurethral prostatectomy in the same department nearly 60 years apart. The first 100 patients (group A) were operated in 1935-36, the last 100 (group B) in 1991-92. In group A the main indication was residual urine of more than 5o ml, and in 33% total retention. In group B the main indications were elevated symptom score and low flow, supplemented with pressure flow measurements in some patients. To our surprise, total acute retention was the indication in 23% of group B, only a minor reduction from 26% of group A. Median age was increased from 66 years (49-83) in group A to 75 years (57-92) in group B. Of the first 100 patients 7% (3-14%) died within one month after the operation, in group B 0% (0-4%). Preoperative infection rate fell from 29% to 11%, and the number of patients with impaired kidney function fell from 30% to 8%. Postoperative results were satisfactory in 54% and 85%, respectively.