Efficacy of Using Voiding Time as A Uroflow Parameter for Detecting Urinary Obstruction in Men with Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Due to Benign Prostatic Hyperplasiaia

Abstract

Introduction: Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition in aging men characterized by prostate enlargement that causes bladder outlet obstruction, leading to Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS) such as frequency, urgency, weak urine stream, and incomplete bladder emptying. Accurate assessment of urinary obstruction is essential for appropriate management; however, conventional diagnostic tools like pressure-flow studies are invasive and expensive. Therefore, identifying a simple, non-invasive, and cost-effective parameter such as voiding time may provide an alternative diagnostic approach.

Aim & Objective: To evaluate the role of voiding time as a uroflowmetric parameter for detecting urinary obstruction in men with LUTS secondary to BPH and to determine its correlation with the severity of obstruction assessed by urodynamic and clinical parameters.

Materials & Methods: A cohort of men diagnosed with BPH presenting with LUTS underwent uroflowmetry to record voiding time along with other parameters such as peak urinary flow rate (Qmax). These findings were compared with urodynamic study results and clinical assessments to analyze the correlation between voiding time and the degree of urinary obstruction.

Results: The study demonstrated a significant association between prolonged voiding time and increased severity of urinary obstruction. Patients with longer voiding times exhibited reduced Qmax values and higher obstruction grades on urodynamic evaluation.

Conclusion: Voiding time shows potential as a simple and practical indicator for detecting urinary obstruction in men with BPH-related LUTS. Its use could facilitate early diagnosis and timely management, improving patient outcomes and quality of life. Larger-scale studies are warranted to further validate its diagnostic utility.