Comparative Outcomes of Open Prostatectomy and Transurethral Resection of the Prostate for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

The urinary function and comfort are substantially impacted by Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), common in aging men. Moderate to severe cases frequently necessitate surgical interventions. Both Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) and Open Prostatectomy (OP) are well-established surgical procedures. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy, safety and patient outcomes of OP and TURP in the treatment of BPH. Methods: This quasi experimental study included 288 male patients diagnosed with BPH, allocated in the groups to undergo either OP (n=144) or TURP (n=144). The primary outcomes assessed were postoperative International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), maximal urinary flow rate (Qmax) and postvoid residual volume (PVR). Operative time, blood loss, hospital stay, complication rates and reoperation rates were secondary outcomes. Results: IPSS (at 1 month and 6 months), Qmax (at 1 month and 6 months) and PVR (at 6 months) were significantly improved in TURP patients (P < 0.05). OP patients encountered longer operative times (P < 0.05) and higher intraoperative blood loss (P < 0.05). Although trends favored the TURP group, there were non-significant differences between the groups regarding complications viz urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction. Postoperatively, TURP also led to reduced analgesic needs and shortened hospital stays. Conclusion: TURP is the preferred treatment for most patients with BPH due to its faster recuperation, reduced complications and enhanced urinary function in comparison to OP. However, OP continues to be the valuable procedure for individuals with larger prostate volumes or specific clinical scenarios in which TURP may be insufficient.