Bipolar versus monopolar transurethral resection for benign prostatic hypertrophy: a prospective comparative study

Abstract

Background: The transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is a well-known surgical procedure for treating benign prostatic hypertrophy in males. Monopolar TURP (MTURP) has been used in the past, however the morbidity associated with MTURP has led to the development of new surgical procedures. Energy is restricted between electrodes at the resectoscope site in bipolar TURP (BTURP), permitting the use of physiological irrigation medium. In terms of patient outcomes, there is still some doubt about the distinctions between various surgical procedures. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of monopolar (M-TURP) and bipolar (B-TURP) TURP.Methods: In this prospective comparison trial, 100 patients were enrolled and table randomized to either M-TURP or B-TURP surgery for prostatic hyperplasia. Prostate size, post-void volume and hemoglobin were recorded pre and postoperatively. Resection time was noted.Results: Patients were divided into two groups, namely M-TURP and B-TURP. The mean age of patients was comparable between both groups. There is a significantly lower mean resection time in M-TURP compared to B-TURP. Drop-in hemoglobin levels (g/dl) in M-TURP patients were higher than in B-TURP. The M-TURP group showed a higher reduction in post-void residual volume than the B-TURP group. B-TURP group had a larger reduction in gland size than the M-TURP group.Conclusions: M-TURP and B-TURP are safe and effective procedures for treating BPH.