[Comparative evaluation of prostate size by transabdominal echography, urethral profile and radiology (author's transl)].

Disappointed by the approximate assessment of prostate size given by traditional methods (rectal examination, endovesical filling defect produced by the hypertrophic organ in the secretory cystogram, length of the prostatic urethra by micturating urethrography), the authors carried out a prospective study in 100 patients undergoing surgery for benign prostatic hypertrophy which compared traditional data with those provided by transabdominal prostatic echography and the measurement of urethral manometric profile. Determination of the maximum dimensions of the adenoma was used to calculate its volume and weight. Ultrasound studies gave the most accurate information : 95% correct results. This was followed by the measurement of urethral profile with 81% of accurate results (but this is an instrumental procedure which has certain disadvantages). Radiology takes 3rd place, with 59% accurate results and rectal examination immediately after with 58%.