Purpose: The aims of the study were to evaluate short-term effects on lower urinary tract symptoms and uroflowmetry and assess side effects of transurethral needle ablation of the prostate (TUNA).
Patients and methods: Twenty-six men with a median age 68 years (range 53-77 years) were evaluated with symptom scores and voiding parameters before and at 3 and 12 months after TUNA. All treatments were performed in the outpatient department using topical anesthesia supplemented with sedoanalgesia.
Results: The International Prostate Symptom Score had decreased from 21.2 to 10.5 at 12 months postoperatively. Peak urinary flow was 10.9 mL/sec at baseline and was elevated to 13.7 mL/sec after 12 months. Residual urine volumes were unchanged. Postoperative urinary retention developed in 71% of the patients and had a mean duration of 6.3 (range 1-34) days. Postoperative perineal pain was noted by about half of the patients for the first 1 to 2 weeks. Painkillers were frequently used to reduce postoperative pain.
Conclusions: Transurethral needle ablation is a safe procedure suitable for the outpatient clinic. After short-term follow-up, statistically and clinically significant effects were observed on symptoms and uroflow. Long-term follow-up is mandatory to define the future role of this therapy.