Validation of supra-pubic ultrasonography for preoperative prostate volume measurement in sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

Advances in urological techniques in sub-Saharan Africa need to be supported with practical ancillary diagnostics. This study aimed at determining the accuracy of suprapubic ultrasonography (SPUS) relative to transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS), the current gold standard, in estimating preoperative prostate volume in a sub-Saharan African hospital. Methods Cross-sectional study of prospectively enrolled patients with severe lower urinary tract symptoms and histologically confirmed benign prostatic hyperplasia. The volume of the prostate was estimated using two modalities, SPUS and TRUS. Open prostatectomy was performed on all patients, and the mass of the enucleated prostate adenoma was measured directly. Results Fifty patients were enrolled, with a mean age of 69 years. The mean prostate volume as determined by TRUS, SPUS, and direct measurement of enucleated prostatic tissue was 96.0, 95.9 and 83.5 mL, respectively.