Durability of Functional Outcomes After MRI-Guided Transurethral Ultrasound Ablation of the Prostate

Long-term data on functional outcomes after MRI-guided transurethral ultrasound ablation (TULSA) are limited. We assess the 5-year post-TULSA durability of outcomes for patient-reported genitourinary function, bowel function, and adverse events in 30 patients with primary, localized prostate cancer treated with TULSA across 3 centers. Patients received a conservative treatment plan in a phase 1 study designed to assess safety and feasibility. Follow-up visits took place at 1, 3, 6, 12 months, and biannually up to 5 years. Median (interquartile range) age at baseline was 69 (67-71) years. Erectile dysfunction (International Index of Erectile Function [IIEF] ≤17) was prevalent at baseline, with a mean (95% confidence interval [CI]) score of 16 (12-19), decreasing to 9 (4-14) at 5 years. At the 5-year visit, 71% of men who attempted intercourse in the recall period reported preservation of IIEF Q2 ≥2 erections sufficient for penetration. The mean (95% CI) International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) decreased from 9.0 (7.0-11) to 7.1 (5.0-9.1) from baseline to 5 years; IPSS-quality of life, maximum urinary flow rate, and post-void residual urine were stable or improved. Maintenance of bowel function and urinary continence was 100%. There was no new attributable serious or severe adverse event from 1 to 5 years. With a durably favorable safety profile, TULSA has the potential to treat cancer conservatively while simultaneously alleviating lower urinary tract symptoms. Data from larger studies are pending.