How to cite: Chughtai B. BPH in 2025: updates in functional urology. Grand Rounds in Urology. Published October 2025. Accessed February 2026. https://grandroundsinurology.com/bph-in-2025-updates-in-functional-urology/
Summary
Bilal Chughtai, MD, FPMRS, Chief of Urology at The Smith Institute for Urology, Northwell Health, Syosset, New York, describes contemporary evaluation of male lower urinary tract symptoms and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in functional urology. He notes that male lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are increasingly common and that symptoms include both voiding and storage complaints. He explains that men often focus on practical questions such as sleep disruption, recovery time, and the effect of treatment on sexual function and ejaculatory function.
Dr. Chughtai highlights the importance of structured symptom assessment. He states that the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) remains a key tool in his practice. He also refers to the American Urological Association guidelines, stressing that guideline-based care helps clinicians communicate realistic expectations and align treatments with what patients value.
Dr. Chughtai then turns to office-based diagnostics. He describes using a cuff-based pressure flow test in his practice, noting that this noninvasive test provides information on the emptying phase and helps distinguish obstruction from other causes of symptoms. He also mentions sound-based smartphone applications that help monitor voiding patterns and enable patients to track symptoms outside the clinic. He notes that combining IPSS, ultrasound, and noninvasive testing strengthens decision-making.
Dr. Chughtai argues that as more therapies become available, durability and long-term prevention of bladder decompensation become increasingly important. He encourages clinicians to think about long-term outcomes and patient-specific goals when selecting among medical and procedural options.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Bilal Chughtai, MD, FPMRS, is Chief of Urology at Plainview Hospital in Syosset, New York. Dr. Chughtai specializes in female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery and male voiding dysfunction. He maintains a deep, longitudinal interest in these highly prevalent and debilitating conditions and has focused both his clinical, research, and teaching activities on these areas.
