Is transurethral resection of the prostate safe and effective in the over 80-year-old?
OBJECTIVE
To assess the safety and effectiveness of transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) in patients over 80 years old.


METHODS
The records of all patients over 80 years old undergoing TURP at one institution over a 3.5-year period were studied retrospectively.


RESULTS
31% of patients underwent TURP for symptoms and 68% for urinary retention. The early complication rate was 41%. The late complication rate was 22%. There were no deaths within 30 days of surgery. Of all patients, 80% were satisfied with the outcome of their operation. Of all patients with retention, 80% were able to void with small residual volumes by 6 weeks after operation.


CONCLUSIONS
Although TURP in the over 80-year-old male is associated with significant morbidity, it is an effective treatment for urinary symptoms or retention. The majority of patients are able to void afterwards and are satisfied with the outcome of their surgery.
Brierly
R D
RD
Department of Urology, Royal Sussex County Hospital, Eastern Road, Brighton, BN2 5BE, UK. rbrierly@totalise.co.uk
Mostafid
A H
AH
Kontothanassis
D
D
Thomas
P J
PJ
Fletcher
M S
MS
Harrison
N W
NW
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D011468:Prostatectomy / Q000009:adverse effects*; D011470:Prostatic Hyperplasia / Q000601:surgery*; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D016055:Urinary Retention / Q000601:surgery; D014554:Urination