Transurethral resection of the prostate reduces lower urinary tract symptoms in benign prostatic hyperplasia

Abstract

The objective of this dissertation is to establish, which is the best treatment to reduce Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS) in patients who are suffering from Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). This research set to answer the following question, which itself had to be refined according to availability of research: In male patients suffering from Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, is laser prostatectomy as effective as Transurethral Resection of the Prostate in reducing Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms? Several databases were searched for evidence-based studies, in addition to urological journals. Six evidence-based articles were utilised in order to establish the answer to the research question. The articles were 5 randomised controlled trials (RCT's) and 1 systematic review. Critical appraisal was carried out by means of Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) tools. The outcome variables which helped determine the success or failure of a procedure were the peak flow rate, urinary retention, urinary tract infection (UTI), sexual dysfunction, International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and the re-operation rate. Although not all research studies concluded so, it seems that in the long run, Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) is more effective in reducing LUTS than laser prostatectomy (LP) in patients suffering from BPH. Some of the studies concluded that both procedures are acceptable to reduce LUTS for a short time. None of the studies concluded that LP is better than TURP. Recommendations and implications for education, research and policies have been discussed at the end of the dissertation.