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Prostatic urethral strictures after transurethral microwave thermal therapy for benign prostatic hyperplasia
1Department of Surgery-Division of Urology, University of Wisconsin, Madison 53792, USA.
Urology
|January 14, 1998
Summary
High energy microwave therapy for benign prostatic hyperplasia can cause rare prostatic urethral strictures. These strictures, potentially due to heat or ischemia, require further investigation in patient care.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Medical Devices
- Therapeutic Technologies
Background:
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition in aging men.
- High energy transurethral microwave therapy (H-TUMT) is a treatment option for BPH.
- Prostatic urethral strictures are an uncommon but potential complication.
Observation:
- Three cases of midprostatic strictures were identified in a cohort of 27 patients treated with H-TUMT for BPH.
- Cystoscopy revealed ectopic areas proximal to the strictures in all affected patients.
- Two of the three strictures were urodynamically significant, impacting bladder function.
Findings:
- H-TUMT for BPH is associated with a low incidence of prostatic urethral strictures.
- The observed strictures were located mid-prostate and associated with proximal ectopic areas.
- Ischemia or direct heat damage to the prostatic urethra is the hypothesized etiology.
Implications:
- Clinicians should be aware of the potential for urethral stricture formation following H-TUMT.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the exact mechanisms and risk factors for H-TUMT-induced strictures.
- Monitoring for and managing urethral strictures may be necessary in patients treated with H-TUMT.