Is transurethral microwave therapy an effective treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia?

This study looked at the use of transurethral microwave thermotherapy (TUMT) for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) compared to transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). It found that both treatments are similarly effective in managing BPH symptoms. TUMT has fewer side effects than TURP, but it also results in an increased need for retreatment.

BPH is a condition in which the prostate grows in size and compresses the urethra (the tube draining the bladder). Patients experience difficulty passing urine, often described as "dribbling", and need to go to the bathroom more frequently. BPH can be treated in several ways. One common treatment is a procedure called TURP. This involves cutting away part of the prostate through the urethra.

An alternative treatment is TUMT, which uses microwave energy to remove part of the prostate. TUMT is a much less invasive procedure than TURP, but it is not clear if it is as effective.

This study reviewed the results of 16 previous studies, involving a total of 1,919 patients. Patients were treated with either TURP or TUMT. They were followed up at 6 to 12 months to note any change in symptoms or any complications from the procedure.

Overall there was no significant difference in symptoms or quality of life between the TUMT and TURP groups. Patients treated with TUMT were 80% less likely to have complications of treatment than patients treated with TURP. Complications included bleeding and infection. Patients were 7 times more likely to need further treatment after TUMT than after TURP.

This study showed that TUMT and TURP are equally effective at treating the symptoms of BPH. TUMT results in fewer complications than TURP while having a higher risk of needing further treatments.

The studies that this study is based on were not all of high quality. The results may therefore not be reliable and further studies are needed.