Changes in Pressure-Flow Parameters in Patients Treated With Transurethral Microwave Thermotherapy

PURPOSE: We document changes in pressure-flow study parameters in patients treated by transurethral microwave thermotherapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Pressure-flow study tracings before and after therapy from 75 patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia were analyzed. Patients were stratified according to the predominant type of obstruction at screening (constrictive or obstructive). RESULTS: An improvement in Madsen score and flow rates was noted at 6 months in both groups. In contrast to compressive obstruction patients, however, those with constrictive obstruction also showed significant changes in pressure-flow study parameters, including detrusor pressure at maximum flow, maximum flow rate and urethral resistance factor. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with predominantly constrictive obstruction are the best candidates for microwave thermotherapy.