A forward looking evaluation from a leading medical center explored a next generation therapy for men dealing with enlarged prostates, medically known as benign prostatic hyperplasia. The study aimed to ease urinary symptoms while preserving sexual function. Conducted as part of ongoing urology research across North America, the trial results come from a controlled, peer reviewed study designed to provide clear evidence for clinicians and patients alike.
The trial enrolled 148 men with BPH who had previously experienced urinary retention. The average participant age was in the mid sixties. In the study, 100 men received the active treatment using a catheter system designed for this purpose, while the remaining participants underwent a sham procedure that mimicked the real treatment but did not deliver the therapeutic effect. The study used a blinded twelve month follow up to ensure objectivity in assessing outcomes, with participants and evaluators unaware of treatment assignment during this period. After the follow up, those who received the sham procedure were offered the active treatment, ensuring all participants could access the therapy if beneficial.
Effectiveness was measured with the International Prostate Symptom Score IPSS, where lower scores indicate fewer or less severe symptoms. The active treatment group demonstrated a mean IPSS reduction of 11.5 points, compared with an 8.0 point improvement in the sham group. Beyond symptom relief, the therapy significantly increased urine flow rate, exceeding improvements seen with comparable procedures. Quality of life also improved meaningfully for participants who received the active intervention. Side effects tended to be mild or moderate, and there was no detectable negative impact on male sexual activity, including erectile and ejaculatory function.
Improvements persisted at the twelve month mark for the true treatment group, while the sham group did not show continued gains, underscoring the durability of the active intervention’s benefits.
During the procedure a sequence of catheter based steps widens the urethral passage inside the prostate. The first catheter creates space by opening the channel between the lateral lobes. A second medicated balloon coated with the drug paclitaxel is introduced to further expand the passage and help prevent regrowth of prostate tissue. The treatment strategy combines mechanical widening with targeted drug delivery to achieve sustained relief of urinary symptoms while minimizing disruption to other functions.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia remains common as men age. Traditional options include medications and surgical approaches, both of which can carry side effects including risks to sexual function. As new therapies emerge, clinicians and patients weigh the benefits of symptom relief against potential adverse effects, aiming for improvements that do not compromise overall quality of life.
In the broader context of urology care, the pursuit of minimally invasive options that steadily improve urinary function without diminishing sexual health continues to shape treatment choices for BPH. This study contributes to that evolving landscape by offering evidence that targeted catheter based therapy can deliver meaningful symptom relief and quality of life gains with a manageable safety profile for many men.
As with any medical decision, individual results may vary. Patients considering this approach should consult with a urologist to discuss suitability, risks, and expectations based on their specific medical history and treatment goals.
Further investigations will help clarify long term outcomes, identify which patient groups benefit most, and refine the procedure to maximize safety and effectiveness in real world settings. The findings add to a growing body of knowledge about urological interventions that prioritize patient function and daily living while addressing the core symptoms of BPH.
This summary reflects a contemporary peer reviewed evaluation of a catheter based therapy and is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice. For more information, researchers reference ongoing clinical literature and healthcare professionals who specialize in male bladder and prostate health.