Transurethral microwave thermotherapy for benign prostatic hyperplasia. Subjective response and urodynamic changes

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Minimally Invasive Therapies

Background:

• Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition causing lower urinary tract symptoms.
• Transurethral prostatic resection (TURP) is a standard treatment but carries risks.
• Noninvasive treatment options are sought for BPH management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of transurethral microwave thermotherapy (TUMT) for BPH.
• To assess changes in urodynamic parameters and patient-reported outcomes after TUMT.
• To identify predictors of successful treatment outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study involving 66 patients with BPH treated with TUMT.
• Assessment of subjective outcomes and urodynamic parameters (voiding frequency, flow rate, detrusor pressure, residual volume) at 1-year follow-up.
• Statistical analysis to determine treatment efficacy and identify predictive factors.

Main Results:

• Good treatment outcomes were observed in 68% of patients after 1 year.
• Significant improvements noted in diurnal and nocturnal micturition frequency, maximum flow rate (Qmax), and maximum detrusor pressure (Pdet max).
• A lesser degree of improvement was observed in residual urine volume; no predictive factors for success were identified.

Conclusions:

• Transurethral microwave thermotherapy is a viable option for managing moderate BPH, particularly when TURP poses risks or noninvasive treatment is preferred.
• TUMT demonstrates significant improvements in key urodynamic parameters and symptom frequency.
• Further research is needed to identify factors that predict successful outcomes in TUMT for BPH.