Scientists at Mount Sinai Medical Center’s (MSSM) Icahn School of Medicine have successfully tested a next-generation intervention for men with prostate enlargement. The therapy made urination easier without sacrificing sexual activity. Research published Journal of Urology.
In the study, urologists tested the newly approved Optilume catheter system on 148 men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). All participants experienced urinary retention and their average age was 65 years. 100 patients received active treatment with the catheter system, and the remainder underwent a procedure that mimicked reality.
Neither the patients nor the researchers evaluating the results knew which treatment the person was receiving during the 12-month follow-up. This increased the objectivity and reliability of the results. Men who underwent the mock procedure were then able to receive the real treatment.
The IPSS score (range 0 to 35 points) in men undergoing the active procedure decreased by an average of 11.5 points compared to 8.0 points for the sham treatment. The therapy also significantly increased urine flow rate more than any other similar procedure and significantly improved the men’s quality of life. Side effects were generally mild or moderate. Male sexual activity, including erectile and ejaculation functions, was not affected.
Improvement continued at 12-month follow-up in the true procedure group, but not in the sham group.
During the procedure, a balloon catheter is first inserted into the urethra to open the passage between the lateral lobes of the prostate. A second balloon coated with paclitaxel is then inserted to further enlarge the hole. It is believed that the addition of this substance prevents further growth of the prostate gland and inhibits regrowth of its lateral lobes.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia affects 80% of men under the age of 80. Current treatments include medications and surgery. Both have side effects, including an increased risk of sexual dysfunction after surgery.
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