[Benign prostatic hyperplasia with bladder emptying disorder in geriatric patients: active (pharmacological or surgical) treatment vs. catheterization].

Abstract

Epidemiological data demonstrate a clear association between age, prostatic enlargement, and the associated symptoms. Benign prostatic syndromes usually take a chronic progressive course, and a significant share of BPS patients faced with the decision "conservative vs. surgical treatment" are of advanced age and suffer from numerous comorbidities, which means that the principle of "nihil nocere" must be given special consideration. A benefit-risk assessment must be carried out very carefully both for pharmacological and surgical treatment. Having reviewed the literature, including the relevant guidelines, the author concludes that, if a relevant indication exists, there are hardly any reasons to deny geriatric patients one of the numerous interventional options, perhaps with the exception of a patient population that is already in need of long-term care.