Words of wisdom. Re: Prostatic urethral lift: two-year results after treatment for lower urinary tract symptoms secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia.

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effectiveness of the prostatic urethral lift in relieving lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia. METHODS A total of 64 men, aged≥55 years, with moderate to severe symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia were treated and followed up at 6 Australian institutions. The treatment consisted of transurethral delivery of small implants to secure the prostatic lobes in an open condition, thereby reducing obstruction of the urethral lumen. The effectiveness, including International Prostate Symptom Score, quality of life, benign prostatic hyperplasia Impact Index, and peak urethral flow rate were assessed at 2 weeks and 3, 6, 12, and 24 months. The effect of this treatment on erectile and ejaculatory function was assessed using the Sexual Health Inventory for Men and Male Sexual Health Questionnaire for Ejaculatory Dysfunction. RESULTS The prostatic urethral lift improved LUTS symptoms rapidly and durably. The International Prostate Symptom Score was reduced 42% at 2 weeks, 49% at 6 months, and 42% at 2 years in evaluable patients. The peak flow rate improved by ≥30% (2.4 mL/s) at all intervals compared with baseline. No compromise in sexual function was observed after this treatment. CONCLUSION The present study demonstrated that LUTS and flow improvements without compromising sexual function. Although this was an early study with a small cohort, this therapy shows promise as a new option for patients with LUTS.