Transurethral incision of the bladder neck: an objective and subjective evaluation of its efficacy

This study is designed to evaluate the efficacy of treatment of bladder neck obstruction using objective (urodynamic) and subjective (assessment of satisfaction) parameters and to investigate sexual function. The results of transurethral 4 and 8 o'clock incisions of the bladder neck in 62 men (mean age 48.5 years) were reviewed with a mean follow-up of 6-12 months. Preoperative urodynamic evaluation was compared to recent postoperative urodynamic evaluation. There is marked symptomatic improvement after transurethral incision of the bladder outlet. The mean peak urine flow rate increased from 7.2 ml/s to 16.8 ml/s. Fifty-three men (85.4%) reported long-term improvement after transurethral incision of the bladder neck with an overall satisfaction rate of 71% (range 0 to 100). Five men (8%) reported new retrograde ejaculation after transurethral incision of the bladder neck. These results demonstrate that in well selected, properly diagnosed cases 4 and 8 o'clock transurethral incision of the bladder neck is an effective procedure for long-term relief of bladder outlet obstruction.