[Long-term efficacy of transurethral electrovaporization of the prostate for symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia].

OBJECTIVE: To observe long-term efficacy of transurethral electrovaporization of the prostate for symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia. METHODS: Two types of electrode of transurethral electrovaporization of the prostate (TVP) were performed on 150 patients of symptomatic BPH (mean age 74.8 years). The patients were assessed at baseline for both efficacy and followup at 36 months. Efficacy parameters evaluated included operation time (minutes), I-PSS and quality of life score, digital rectal examination, transrectal ultrasound, urodynamics and postvoid residual urine. RESULTS: 36 months after operation, I-PSS was decreased from 24.8 to 5.4 and the quality of life score also was decreased from 4.9 to 2.1. The mean peak uroflow was increased from 9.8 to 18.5 ml/s and postvoid residual urine was decreased from 108 ml to 22 ml (P < 0.05). The mean operation time was 44.7 min. Urodynamic results of 139 cases (92.7%) showed no bladder outlet obstruction, the remaining 11 cases showed severe bladder outlet obstruction to mild obstruction after 36 months. Hematuria was the only complication of our procedure. CONCLUSIONS: Significant clinical improvement is maintained with minimal morbidity. The long-term efficacy and safety of TVP is satisfactory. TVP is a potential useful procedure for transurethral resection of the prostate.