1. ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY OF THE SYSTEM

5. Two processes produce this obstruction: hyperplasia and hypertrophy: Enlargement of the prostate (hyperplasia of the prostate gland) Narrowing of the lumen of the segment of the prostate that courses to the prostate (the prostatic urethra ) When it encroaches upon the bladder neck, it reduces its ability to funnel in response to micturition Growth of the so-called median lobe of the prostate extends into the proximal urethra OBSTRUCTION

6. Enlargement of the prostate (hyperplasia of the prostate gland) Accompanied by hypertrophy of the smooth muscle of the gland Mechanically adding to the tissue constricting the urethral lumen that courses to the prostate (the prostatic urethra ) Increased muscle tone in the bladder neck reducing then its ability to funnel in response to micturition Increased muscle tone at the proximal (prostatic) urethra EXACERBATION OF URINARY OBSTRUCTION