In a nutshell
This study reviewed the effects of prostatic urethral lift (PUL) – a new procedure to relieve urinary symptoms due to benign prostatic hyperplasia.
Some background
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) may lead to troublesome urinary symptoms, often requiring surgical intervention. Since many interventions are associated with significant side-effects, particularly concerning sexual function, less invasive techniques have been developed over the years. Prostatic urethral lift (PUL) is a new minimally invasive procedure to treat BPH symptoms. Recent reports suggest improvement of symptoms and improved sexual function in men undergoing PUL. However, large, long-term studies investigating this new procedure have not yet been conducted.
Methods & findings
This review analyzed data from 9 studies, including a total of 680 men with urinary symptoms due to BPH.
According to patient reports, the new PUL procedure was associated with large improvements in symptom scores and quality of life. Patient reported improvements were greater than those reported for other commonly used BPH procedures in other studies. Sexual function was overall preserved in men undergoing PUL. Furthermore, studies with longer follow-up periods (12 to 24 months after procedure) noted a small improvement in sexual function at 12 months after the procedure.
The bottom line
Researchers concluded that the new prostatic urethral lift (PUL) procedure is a safe and effective minimally invasive therapy for BPH. PUL can provide urinary symptom relief while preserving sexual health.
The fine print
Larger randomized trials, including longer follow-up periods, are required to further confirm these preliminary results.
Published By :
European Urology
Date :
Apr 01, 2015
