Aquablation continues to demonstrate significant and durable improvements in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) over a five-year follow-up period, according to data from the WATER and WATER II trials. The combined results show substantial reductions in International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), significant improvements in maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax), minimal complication rates, excellent preservation of sexual function, and low retreatment rates.
The WATER trial was a randomized controlled trial comparing Aquablation to transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) in prostates sized 30 to 80 cc, while WATER II evaluated Aquablation in prostates ranging from 80 to 150 cc. The latest data, presented with a 5-year follow-up, combines the results of both studies to provide a comprehensive assessment of Aquablation's long-term performance across a broader range of prostate sizes.
Sustained Symptom Relief and Improved Urinary Flow
The data revealed a consistent decrease in IPSS scores of approximately 15 points across both studies, indicating a substantial and sustained improvement in patient-reported urinary symptoms. Furthermore, Qmax, a key objective measure of urinary function, nearly doubled from a baseline of approximately 8.5-8.6 mL/s to around 17 mL/s. These findings underscore the ability of Aquablation to provide both subjective symptom relief and objective improvements in urinary flow.
Favorable Safety Profile
Beyond efficacy, the study highlighted the favorable safety profile of Aquablation. Complication rates remained minimal, and sexual function was well-preserved, addressing critical concerns for patients undergoing BPH treatment. These results suggest that Aquablation can effectively alleviate BPH symptoms without compromising patients' quality of life.
Low Retreatment Rate
Perhaps most importantly, the retreatment rate was less than 4% overall after 5 years, regardless of prostate size. This low rate suggests that Aquablation provides a durable and long-lasting solution for BPH, reducing the need for subsequent interventions. Durability is a key consideration for both patients and clinicians when selecting a BPH treatment, and these data support Aquablation as a viable long-term option.
