Mid-term results of water vapor thermal therapy in patients with lower urinary tract symptoms related to benign prostatic hyperplasia

Abstract

Objective: In this study, we evaluate the short- and mid-term results of water vapor thermal therapy (WVTT) for LUTS (lower urinary tract symptoms) due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Methods: Patients with LUTS due to BPH who underwent WVTT from September 2019 to April 2022 were included in this prospective, single-center study. Data regarding functional and sexual outcomes were evaluated by validated questionnaires as well as uroflowmetry, urinalysis and cultures, digital rectal examination, serum prostate-specific antigen, and transrectal ultrasound. The patients were followed-up with 3, 6, 12, and 18 months after the procedure. Results: Eighty-four men were treated. Mean ± SD prostate volume, operative time, and hospital stay were 76.9 ± 26.3 ml, 14 ± 18.5 min, and 0.9 ± 0.7 days, respectively. The catheter was removed after 7 ± 4.4 days. A significant (p < 0.05) improvement in Qmax, IPSS, QoL, OAB-q SF, ICIQ-SF, and IIEF- 5 from the baseline at the last follow-up (18 months) was recorded. Seventy-six (90%) patients reported a significant improvement in ejaculatory function (de novo dry ejaculation in 4 patients). Early (≤30 days) postoperative complications were reported in 70% of patients, all grade 1 according to Clavien–Dindo. No late (>30 days) Clavien–Dindo >1 procedure-related complications occurred. Three patients required reoperation (6–12 months after surgery). Conclusion: WVTT is an effective and safe treatment for the management of LUTS due to BPH in the short- and mid-term follow-up, and it provides negligible sequelae with respect to ejaculation.