714 An Evaluation of The Discontinuation of Tamsulosin and Finasteride Post Transurethral Resection of The Prostate (TURP) At UHL
Abstract Aim A significant proportion of men suffer from lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) secondary to prostatic enlargement. If medical management of BPH fails surgical transurethral resection of the prostate maybe required. The continuation of pharmacological therapy post operatively is redundant, however it was noted that several patients remained on these medications post TURP. The aim of this project was to identify if patients following surgical intervention were discontinued from preexisting medications that became redundant post operatively. Method A retrospective analysis was performed of patients who underwent TURPs between July- December 2019 within the University Hospitals of Leicester NHS trust to assess if patients preexisting medications used for the treatment of LUTS were discontinued post operatively. Results In the above time frame, 104 TURPs were performed in the trust. Out of these, 89 men were already on 5-alpha reductase inhibitors and/or alpha blocker, predominantly tamsulosin and finasteride. Of the 89 men, only 46 were given a clear instruction to stop these drugs on discharge. Conclusions Continuation of the above medication is unnecessary post TURPs with potentially avoidable side effects for patients and an unnecessary expense. A series of changes were implemented to improve practice. These will be reevaluated on the recommencement of TURPs following the covid-19 pandemic.