A 68-year-old male presents to the urology clinic with symptoms of urinary frequency, nocturia, and difficulty starting urination. Digital rectal examination reveals an enlarged prostate, and further investigations confirm the diagnosis of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The patient is counseled about the various treatment options available for BPH.
What is the gold standard treatment for benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH)?
A. TVP (Transvesical Prostatectomy)
B. TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate)
C. TUR (Transurethral Resection)
D. RPP (Radical Prostatectomy)
E. IVP (Intravenous Pyelogram)
The Correct Answer is: B. TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate)
Explanation:
– TURP (B): Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) is considered the gold standard for the surgical treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). TURP involves the removal of prostate tissue through the urethra using a resectoscope, which helps relieve symptoms by reducing the obstruction caused by the enlarged prostate. TURP is widely used due to its effectiveness, relatively low complication rate, and quick recovery time.
Explanation of Incorrect Options:
– TVP (A): Transvesical Prostatectomy is an open surgical procedure for BPH, used in cases where TURP is not feasible, such as with extremely large prostates. However, it is not the first-line or gold standard treatment.
– TUR (C): Transurethral Resection (TUR) is a general term that can apply to various procedures involving the resection of tissues via the urethra, but it is not specific to the prostate.
– RPP (D): Radical Prostatectomy is a surgical procedure primarily used for the treatment of prostate cancer, not for benign prostatic hyperplasia.
– IVP (E): Intravenous Pyelogram is a radiological procedure used to visualize the urinary tract and is not a treatment for BPH.
In summary, TURP is the gold standard treatment for benign prostatic hypertrophy due to its high efficacy and lower risk of complications compared to other surgical methods.