[Long-term results of transurethral prostate incision (TUIP) and transurethral prostate resection (TURP). A prospective randomized study].

TUIP (transurethral incision of the prostate) or TURP (transurethral resection of the prostate) was performed in 120 patients to treat small-volume (< 20 g) benign prostatic hyperplasia in a prospective randomized study. The mean follow up was 43 months. Preoperatively and at regular follow-up visits obstructive and irritative symptom scores were obtained, sexual function was evaluated, and a uroflow study was performed. Both treatments achieved a marked improvement of symptoms. The obstructive, irritative and the total symptom scores did not differ significantly between TURP and TUIP. After 2-3 years the scores slowly increased in both groups. Subjective satisfaction rates averaged about 60% after more than 3 years and remained at this level. Initial significant differences in the peak flow rate in favour of TURP were no longer seen after more than 2 years. In smaller prostates TURP and TUIP are equally effective and since TUIP has fewer side effects and entails lower costs it appears to be an acceptable alternative to TURP.