The Impact of Combined Traditional Chinese Medicine and Finasteride on the Morphology of the Posterior Urethra in Patients with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to evaluate the effects of a six-month treatment combining traditional Chinese medicine derived from oilseed rape pollen with finasteride on the mean curvature of the prostatic urethra (UMCP), urethral length of the prostate (ULP), thickness of the prostate and bladder neck (TPBN), testosterone/estradiol ratio (T/E), and International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The goal is to determine whether the oilseed rape pollen preparation enhances the alleviation of urinary obstruction symptoms. Methods: Sixty-two patients with urinary obstruction due to prostatic hyperplasia, who met the study’s inclusion criteria and were treated at Tongxiang Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, were selected. They were randomly divided into two groups: one receiving the oilseed rape pollen preparation in combination with finasteride and the other receiving finasteride alone. Relevant indicators were measured and recorded at baseline and six months after treatment. Data were analyzed using appropriate statistical methods. Results: The combined therapy with oilseed rape pollen did not significantly reduce the mean curvature of the prostatic urethra but effectively delayed its further increase. Patients in the experimental group showed a greater increase in urethral length compared to the control group. Additionally, the thickening of the prostate and bladder neck was significantly inhibited in the experimental group. Both groups exhibited a significant increase in T/E, with no notable difference between them. IPSS scores improved significantly in both groups, with a more pronounced reduction in the experimental group. Conclusion: The combination of oilseed rape pollen-based traditional Chinese medicine and finasteride for BPH treatment can help improve posterior prostatic urethral morphology, regulate hormone levels, and enhance symptom relief. This combined approach provides notable benefits for patients with BPH.