TRANSURETHRAL EVAPORATION OF THE PROSTATE FOR TREATMENT OF BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIA - RESULTS IN 168 PATIENTS WITH UP TO 12 MONTHS OF FOLLOW-UP

Purpose: We assessed the safety and efficacy of transurethral evaporat ion of the prostate for the treatment of symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Materials and Methods: A total of 168 patients with symptomatic BPH underwent transurethral evaporation of the prostate. Peak flow rate, American Urological Association symptom index and post -void residual were assessed at baseline, and at 3, 6 and 12 months of followup. Results: We found a statistically significant decrease in m ean American Urological Association symptom index from 20.6 at baselin e to 7.2 at 12 months (mean difference 13.4, 65% reduction, p <0.0001) . We also found a statistically significant improvement in mean peak f low rate from 8.2 to 18.2 cc per second, respectively (mean difference 10, 122% increase, p <0.0001). The most frequent complications were i rritative voiding symptoms in 22.6% of patients and urinary tract infe ctions in 4.8%. There were no additional major complications. Conclusi ons: From these results transurethral evaporation of the prostate appe ars to be safe and effective for treatment of BPH at 12 months of foll owup.