Objective: Evaluating the effectiveness and feasibility of transurethral needle ablation (TUNA) for young patients with symptomatic benign hyperplasia (BPH) in outpatient care.
Material and methods: From 2004 to 2005, 9 patients (mean age: 59.7 years) were treated with the TUNA device. The urinary function using the IPSS (International Prostate Symptom Score), the quality of life score (QOL-UR), the uroflowmetry, and the post-void residue, and the sexual function using the International Index of Erectile Function score (IIEF-5) were assessed.
Results: Prior to thermotherapy, the mean IIEF-5 was 20.2. The mean preoperative IPSS and QOL-UR scores were respectively 25.2 and 5,6. Regarding uroflowmetry, the mean pre-treatment maximal urinary flow was 6 ml/s and the mean post-void residue was 167.1 mL. Patients' follow-up was at intervals of 3 months. With a mean follow-up of 9.5 months, 8 patients have achieved a better urinary status with a mean IPSS and QOL-UR score of 9.5 and 1.6 respectively (p<0.05). The mean maximal flow rate was improved (14 ml/s, p< 0,05). The post-void residue decreased but had no statistical significance. The IIEF-5 score remained unchanged. Only 4 complications including 3 urinary retentions and 1 prostatitis were revealed for 3 patients. No failure with radiofrequency thermal therapy was observed.
Conclusion: TUNA as a mini-invasive outpatient treatment for symptomatic BPH proved reliable and reproducible for young patients with preserved sexual function.