Suprapubic prostatectomy for benign prostatic hyperplasia in rural Asia: 200 consecutive cases

Open prostatectomy for benign prostatic hyperplasia: A critical analysis of patient presentation and surgical outcomes in a contemporary series

Background

Open prostatectomy (OP) is still a valid treatment option for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), but it needs to be constantly reevaluated in the context of minimally invasive treatments (MITs).

Aim

Our purpose is to present contemporary data on patient presentation and surgical outcomes of OP with which other OP series and MITs can be compared.

Methods

A retrospective study of all OP was carried out in our institution from January 2011 to December 2020. All patients had a thorough preoperative workup and optimization of comorbidities before surgery. Data were collected in a predesigned pro forma and analyzed.

Results

The mean age of the 148 patients studied was 66.2 (±7.9) yrs. The mean duration of symptoms before surgery was 32.2 (±33.7) mos. The mean preoperative prostate volume was 118.0 (±67.1) cm3. There was a 54.4% comorbidity rate with diabetes mellitus (DM) topping the list (16.0%). An incidental prostate cancer rate of 6.1% was found. The overall complication rate was 45.3%. Perioperative hemorrhage requiring blood transfusion (BT) was the most common complication (26.1%). There was no significant difference in age, duration of surgery, and prostrate volume between subjects with and without BT (P > 0.05). Wound infection was significantly associated with diabetes (P = 0.043, OR = 3.507, 95% CI = 1.042-11.805). The reoperation rate was 1.4%, and mortality rate was 0.7%. The International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), quality-of-life (QOL) score, and post-void residual urine (PVR) volume were significantly improved (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

OP was found to be a safe and effective procedure for the relief of bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) secondary to BPH. However, it was associated with high morbidity and low reoperation rate.

The modified suprapubic prostatectomy technique is associated with improved hemostasis and decline in blood transfusion rate after open suprapubic prostatectomy compared to the freyers technique

Background

Open suprapubic prostatectomy is attended by significant perioperative haemorrhage and need for blood transfusion.

Aim

To share our experience on how the adoption of a modified suprapubic prostatectomy technique has led to improved hemostasis and decline in the blood transfusion rate after open suprapubic prostatectomy in our center.

Patients and Methods

This was a retrospective study comparing two open prostatectomy techniques. The patients in group 1 had Freyer's suprapubic prostatectomy while the patients in group 2 had a modified suprapubic prostatectomy technique. The groups were compared for the effectiveness of hemostasis using change in packed cell volume, clot retention, blood transfusion, and requirement of continuous bladder irrigation.

Results

Both groups were similar concerning age, body mass index (BMI), total prostate-specific antigen (PSA), prostate volume, presence of comorbidities, duration of surgery, and duration of follow-up. The clot retention rate was 34% in group 1 versus 16.4% in group 2, P = 0.030. The clot retention requiring bladder syringe evacuation occurred in 32.1% of the patients in group 1 versus 14.8% in group 2, P = 0.048. The mean change in the packed cell volume (PCV) in group 1 was 8.0 ± 5.3 versus 6.9 ± 3.5 in group 2, P = 0.175. The blood transfusion rate in group 1 was 40.0% versus 13.3% in group 2, P = 0.040. The complication rate in group 1 was 67.2% versus 41.9% in group 2, P = 0.004. A general decline in blood transfusion was noted from January 2011 to December 2019.

Conclusion

The modified suprapubic prostatectomy technique was associated with better hemostasis compared to the standard Freyer's prostatectomy technique. It should be a worthwhile addition to the numerous modifications of the original Freyer's suprapubic prostatectomy technique.

Evolution of Bloodless Surgery: A Case for Bloodless Suprapubic Prostatectomy

Allogeneic blood transfusion is commonly prescribed to patients undergoing suprapubic prostatectomy for benign prostatic hyperplasia as a treatment option to replace blood loss. Historically, suprapubic prostatectomy has been perceived as an extremely high hemorrhagic surgery, and this has led to the association of suprapubic prostatectomy with a high rate of allogeneic blood transfusion. However, the outcome of suprapubic prostatectomy has significantly improved over the years and has become less hemorrhagic in many hands - creating the opportunity to consistently avoid allogeneic blood transfusion. On the other hand, the efficacy of blood transfusion has come under more stringent scrutiny as many clinical studies have reported inconsistent effects of blood transfusion on patient outcome. In contemporary practice, a more conservative/bloodless approach in the perioperative management of anemia in surgical patients is strongly being advocated with convincing evidence that many surgical patients can be routinely and safely managed without allogeneic blood transfusion. There is no large-scale discussion on bloodless surgery in urology in the contemporary literature, especially in the area of suprapubic prostatectomy that has been historically associated with a high rate of blood transfusion. This review article will discuss the evolution of bloodless surgery including the ongoing controversies surrounding blood transfusion in general, and then the relatively small but ongoing penetration of bloodless surgical approach in the field of suprapubic prostatectomy. Furthermore, the authors' approach to bloodless suprapubic prostatectomy will be highlighted, and in doing so, it can be emphasized that suprapubic prostatectomy is no more as hemorrhagic as was historically perceived, but rather a routine bloodless suprapubic prostatectomy is now possible in many hands.

Combined urethral and suprapubic catheter drainage improves post operative management after open simple prostatectomy without bladder irrigation

AIM

To compare outcomes after open simple prostatectomy without bladder irrigation, in subjects drained by combined 2-way urethral catheter and suprapubic catheter (SPC) vs those drained by 2-way urethral catheter only.

METHODS

A total of 84 participants undergoing Freyer’s simple prostatectomy over an 18-mo period were randomized into 2 groups (n = 42). Subjects in group 1 were managed with 2-way urethral catheter and in situ 2-way SPC while subjects in group 2 had a 2-way urethral catheter drainage only. In group 1 subjects, the SPC was spigotted and only used for drainage if there was clot retention. The primary outcomes were number of clot retention episodes, and number of clot retention episodes requiring bladder syringe evacuation. Other secondary outcomes evaluated were blood loss, requirement of extra analgesics, duration of surgery, hospital stay and presence or absence of post-op complications.

RESULTS

The mean age in the groups was 65.7 (± 7.6) in group 1 vs 64.8 (± 6.8) in group 2. The groups were similar with respect to age, prostate specific antigen, prostate volume, blood loss, duration of surgery, blood transfusion and overall complication rate. However statistically significant differences were observed in clot retention episodes between group 1 and 2: 0.8 (± 1.5) vs 3.5 (± 4.4), P < 0.000, clot retention episodes requiring evacuation with bladder syringe 0.4 (± 0.9) vs 2.6 (± 3.8), P = 0.001, requirement of extra analgesics 0.4 (± 0.5) vs 4.0 (± 1.5), P < 0.000 and duration of admission 8.6 d (± 1.2) vs 7.3 d (± 0.6), P < 0.000.

CONCLUSION

Subjects drained with a combination of urethral and SPCs have fewer clot retention episodes and reduced requirement of extra analgesics but slightly longer hospital stay.

Is continuous bladder irrigation after prostate surgery still needed?

Continuous bladder irrigation (CBI) is commonly prescribed after certain prostate surgeries to help prevent the clot formation and retention that are frequently associated with these sometimes hemorrhagic surgeries. However, it remains unknown how effective CBI is in preventing clot formation/catheter blockage because these complications still frequently occur in the presence of CBI. On the other hand, the outcome of prostate surgeries has significantly improved over the years, and these surgeries have generally become much safer and, in many hands, less hemorrhagic. Newer surgical options such as holmium laser enucleation of the prostate with associated improved hemorrhagic control have also been introduced, further creating the opportunity to eliminate CBI. Furthermore, there is a lack of review articles on CBI. Hence, this article will review the evolution and contemporary role of CBI in prostate surgeries. To eliminate CBI after prostate surgeries, it is important to achieve good hemostasis during the surgeries. Having in place a policy of non-irrigation after prostate surgeries is also important if less CBI is to be the norm. A non-irrigation policy will hopefully help reduce those cases of CBI prescribed out of long-standing surgical tradition while allowing for cases prescribed out of compelling necessity. The author’s policy of a consistent non-CBI during prostate surgeries over the last 9 years will be highlighted.

Open prostatectomy with a rectal balloon: A new technique to control postoperative blood loss

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate a new technique, the rectal balloon (RB), to control blood loss after transvesical prostatectomy (TVP).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Over 2 years 100 patients were prospectively randomised into two equal groups. All patients underwent TVP for their benign prostatic hyperplasia but a RB (a balloon fixed to a three-way Foley catheter tip by a plaster strip, making it airtight) was used in group 2. The RB was placed in the rectum opposing the prostate and inflated (pressure controlled) for 15 min. Haemoglobin levels were assessed before and after TVP. Blood transfusion, the amount of saline used for irrigation, duration of catheterisation, hospital stay, and rectal complaints were recorded. Patients were followed up at 1 and 3 months after TVP.

RESULTS

The enucleated adenoma weight was 102 g in group 1 and 106 g in group 2. There was a significant difference between groups 1 and 2 in haemoglobin loss within the first 24 h after TVP, and in total loss, of 0.9 g and 0.2 g (P = 0.008), and 1.9 g and 1 g (P = 0.001), respectively. There was also a significant difference between the groups in the saline volume used for irrigation (11.4 vs. 2.5 L), catheter duration (5.7 vs. 4.3 days), and hospital stay (6.2 vs. 5.1 days), favouring group 2. Blood transfusions were needed in four patients in group 1 and one in group 2. There were no rectal complaints.

CONCLUSION

The use of an inflated RB after TVP is a simple and safe procedure with no specific operative technique, that reduces postoperative blood loss, the incidence of blood transfusion, the volume of saline for irrigation, and shortens the catheterisation period and hospital stay, with no rectal complications.

The role of the bipolar plasmakinetic TURP over 100 g prostate in the elderly patients

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Bipolar plasma kinetic (BP) transurethral resection of prostate (TURP) has been proved to be a safe and effective treatment for benign prostatic enlargement (BPE). However, the role of bipolar TURP on large prostates over 100 g compared with open suprapubic prostatectomy (SP) in elderly patients (>65 years) has not ever been studied before.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A retrospective analysis of patients' medical records between 2007 and 2012 was performed. A total of 102 patients who underwent SP (n = 44) or BP-TURP [Gyrus Plasma Kinetic™ (Gyrus ACMI, USA)] (n = 58) for obstructive lower urinary tract symptoms due to BPE were included in this retrospective study. Inclusion criteria were age ≥65 years, prostate volume ≥100 g, International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) ≥18, and peak urinary flow rate (PFR) ≤15 ml/s. Exclusion criteria were urethral stricture, known history of neurogenic bladder due to neural disorders, previous prostate and/or urethral surgery, bladder stone, bladder cancer, and known prostate cancer. Operation time, hospitalization, and catheter removal times were noted. Patients were re-evaluated at postoperative 3rd and 12th months. Evaluated parameters were IPSS, quality of life (QoL), simplified International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5), PFR, post-voiding residual urinary volume (PVR). Statistical significance was set at 0.05 and all tests were two-tailed.

RESULTS

Preoperative IPSS, PVR, IIEF-5, QoL, and prostate volume were not statistically significantly different between two groups except for PFR. Mean follow-up for BP-TURP and SP groups were 15.0 ± 5.8 (R: 11-38), 22.1 ± 11.2 (R: 11-59) months, respectively (p < 0.001). When compared with SP, mean catheter removal time (p < 0.001) and median hospitalization time (p < 0.001) were significantly shorter in BP-TURP group. However, mean operative time was significantly (p < 0.001) longer than SP group and also median resected material weight was significantly lower in the BP-TURP group (p < 0.001). IPSS, QoL, PFR, PVR, and IIEF-5 scores at postoperative 3rd and 12th month were not significantly different between the two groups (p > 0.05). Thirty-three patients had perioperative complications according to the modified Clavien-Dindo system. Thirteen patients (22.4 %) in BP-TURP group and 20 patients (45.4 %) in SP group had complications. In 12th month follow-up visit, four patients presented with urethral stricture, three patients (5.1 %) were in BP-TURP group, and one patient (2.3 %) in SP group (p = 0.455). All strictures were treated with internal urethrotomy.

CONCLUSIONS

BP-TURP is a safe and highly effective treatment modality for BPE in the elderly patients with prostate glands over 100 g. Clinical efficacy and postoperative 12th month's results were similar to SP. Larger studies with longer follow-up are needed in order to confirm our findings.

A 30-year experience of Millin's retropubic prostatectomy: Has this classic operation derived by a President of the College in Ireland stood the test of time?

INTRODUCTION

In patients with large gland volume, open prostatectomy/adenoma enucleation remains a valuable surgical option in treating large obstructing prostates. We report our series of open prostatectomies spanning 32 years from a single institution.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed all patients who underwent open prostatectomy between 1980 and 2012. Patient demographical, clinical, pre- and postoperative data and final histology were retrieved from hospital in-patient enquiry system and chart review.

RESULTS

A total of 161 patients underwent Millin's prostatectomy by seven surgeons between 1980 and 2012. The mean blood loss was 1,381 mls (range 300-3,675 mls). One-third (34%) of patients (n = 55) received a blood transfusion. The mean weight of prostate tissue removed was 119 g (median 112 g, range 17-372 g). 6.6 % of pathological specimens revealed incidental prostate cancer, of which 78% were well differentiated (Gleason score ≤ 6). The mean weight of prostate tissue removed in patients who received a transfusion was 124 g. Trial of micturition (TOM) was performed at a mean of 9 days (median 9 days, range 5-25 days) with 94% of patients having a successful trial of voiding. 6% of cases early in the series failed to void initially, but did so at later removal of catheter while still in hospital. 45 patients (28%) of patients developed peri- or postoperative complications. There were three deaths (1.9%).

CONCLUSION

Open Millin's prostatectomy popularized over half a century ago continues to be a valuable option for the surgical treatment of high-volume prostate glands with excellent outcomes for patients.

Transvesical open prostatectomy for benign prostatic hyperplasia in the era of minimally invasive surgery: Perioperative outcomes of a contemporary series

OBJECTIVE

To assess the perioperative morbidity of transvesical open prostatectomy (OP) and its predictors as a treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and to update knowledge about the morbidity of OP using a standardised morbidity scale (Clavien), thus providing a platform for comparison with the newly developed techniques.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively review men with BPH who were treated with transvesical OP between April 2002 and December 2012. Preoperative patients' data were reviewed for relevant variables. Operative details, the postoperative course, and 30-day relevant data were assessed. The study cohort was stratified based on the resected prostate weight, with group 1 having a resected weight of ⩽120 g and group 2 >120 g.

RESULTS

The review identified 163 patients. The mean (SD, range) duration of catheterisation after OP was 7.9 (2.2, 5-20) days and the duration of hospitalisation after OP was 8.1 (1.8, 5-15) days; both were significantly longer in group 2. All patients were able to void spontaneously by the first follow-up visit. Of 163 OP procedures, there were 106 perioperative complications in 69 (42.3%). Low-grade complications (grade ⩽2) included 38 (45.2%) and 53 (67%) in groups 1 and 2, respectively (P = 0.8). High-grade complications (⩾3) included 3 (3.5%) and 12 (15.1%) in groups 1 and 2, respectively (P = 0.02). The blood transfusion rate was 24.5%, the perioperative mortality rate was 1.2% and the re-admission rate within the first 30 days after OP was 1.2%. High-grade complications were significantly associated with a greater resected prostate weight (odds ratio 1.08, 95% CI 1.001-1.17, P = 0.046).

CONCLUSION

The OP procedure is associated with a significant perioperative morbidity that correlated significantly with the resected prostate weight, especially for high-grade complications.

Thulium:YAG VapoEnucleation of the prostate in large glands: a prospective comparison using 70- and 120-W 2-µm lasers

This study compared the efficacy of 70- and 120-w 2-µm thulium:YAG VapoEnucleation of the prostate (ThuVEP) for patients with benign prostatic obstruction (BPO). A prospective analysis of 84 patients with symptomatic BPO and prostatic enlargement (≥60 ml) who underwent either 70-w (n=44) or 120-w ThuVEP (n=40) non-randomly was carried out. Patient demographics and perioperative and 12-month follow-up data were analysed. The mean prostate volume was 79.90±27.49 ml in patients who had received 70-w ThuVEP, which was less than in those who had received 120-w ThuVEP (88.53±25.10; P=0.033). The mean enucleation (resected weight/laser time, 2.16±1.21 g min(-1) vs. 1.23±0.60 g min(-1); P=0.013), operation efficiency (resected weight/total operation time, 0.76±0.35 g min(-1) vs. 0.42±0.27 g min(-1); P=0.000) and percentage of resected tissue (66.93%±22.79% vs. 45.41%±23.33%; P=0.000) were higher with 120-w treatment compared to 70-w ThuVEP. One patient (1.2% of total patients) (in the 120-w group) required a blood transfusion postoperatively. Sixty-one patients (73%) were available for review at the 12-month follow-up time point. The quality of life (QoL), International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), maximum urinary flow rate (Q(max)), postvoiding residual urine (PVR) and prostate volume improved significantly after treatment (P≤0.035) and were not significantly different between those treated with the different devices (70- and 120-w). The median prostate volume reduction was 81.70% and 82.19% with 70- and 120-w ThuVEP, respectively. The incidence of complications was low and did not differ between groups treated with the different devices. Two patients (2.4%) (one per group) had a bladder neck contracture at the follow-up. ThuVEP is a safe and efficacious procedure for the treatment of symptomatic BPO. The incidence of complications was low with both devices. The 120-w thulium:YAG device enhances the effectiveness of ThuVEP with regard to the percentage of resected tissue and the enucleation/operation efficiency.

Barriers to accessing surgical care in Pakistan: healthcare barrier model and quantitative systematic review

Inadequate access to surgical services results in increased morbidity and mortality from a spectrum of conditions in Pakistan. We employed a modification of Andersen's model of health services utilization and developed a 'Healthcare Barrier Model,' to characterize the barriers to accessing health care in developing countries, using surgical care in Pakistan as a case study. We performed a literature search from MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, SCOPUS, Global Health Database, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and selected 64 of 3113 references for analysis. Patient-related variables included age (elderly), gender (female), preferential use of alternative health providers (Hakeem, traditional healers, others), personal perceptions regarding disease and potential for treatment, poverty, personal expenses for healthcare, lack of social support, geographic constraints to accessing a health facility, and compromised general health status as it relates to the development of surgical disease. Environmental barriers include deficiencies in governance, the burden of displaced or refugee populations, and aspects of the medicolegal system, which impact treatment and referral. Barriers relating to the health system include deficiencies in capacity (infrastructure, physical resources, human resources) and organization, and inadequate monitoring. Provider-related barriers include deficiencies in knowledge and skills (and ongoing educational opportunities), delays in referral, deficient communication, and deficient numbers of female health providers for female patients. The Healthcare Barrier model addresses this broad spectrum of barriers and is designed to help formulate a framework of healthcare barriers. To overcome these barriers will require a multidisciplinary, multisectoral effort aimed at strengthening the health system.

Modified technique in Freyer's prostatectomy to achieve hemostasis

This study is an attempt to develop a technique by which complete hemostasis can be achieved on table by giving traction to the Foley's catheter thereby compressing the venous plexus and the avulsed prostatic arteries at the bladder neck by the inflated balloon. A total of 170 cases of BPH were operated by Freyer's Suprapubic Trans-vesicle prostatectomy. In the technique, bladder mucosa is reposited below the balloon and the balloon is inflated to 60 ml of normal saline. The balloon is kept at the bladder neck and traction is applied to the catheter. Traction is maintained by strapping the catheter to the thigh of the patient with sticking plaster for 24–48 h. The average blood loss was 18.9 ml which proves that the Foley's balloon pressure traction method at the bladder neck is effective in achieving hemostasis in patients undergoing open prostatectomy.

Open prostatectomy for benign prostate hyperplasia: short-term outcome in 3000 consecutive patients

The purpose of this study was to report the short-term results of open prostatectomy for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Patient charts were retrospectively reviewed from September 1988 to April 2004. A total of 3000 consecutive patients with bothersome lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and complications of BPH underwent open prostatectomy in our center. We routinely used a retropubic, transcapsular approach with spinal anesthesia. Mean age was 69 years. Three hundred and sixty one patients were 80 years or older. Mean prostate volume was 71 ml. One thousand eight hundred and twenty five patients (60.8%) presented with and were operated on for acute urinary retention (AUR), and 350 patients (11.7%) presented with and were operated on for urge/overflow urinary incontinence. The main reasons for delayed presentation were poverty and absence of real medical insurance, because in Iran 'insured' patients pay at least 60% of their medical expenses personally. Reoperation in the same admission was needed in 29 patients (1%). Transfusions were needed in 99 patients (3.3%). Wound infection occurred in 37 patients (1.2%). Acute myocardial infarction (MI) occurred in 15 patients (0.5%), resulting in three deaths. Occurrence of AUR had significant negative correlation with duration of symptoms (P<0.05; odds ratio 0.5), and significant positive correlation with positive urine culture (P<0.05; odds ratio 2.7). Duration of hospital stay had significant positive correlation with positive urine culture (P<0.05; odds ratio 1.6) and advanced age (P<0.05; odds ratio 1.8), and significant negative correlation with prostate volume (P<0.05; odds ratio 0.6). Our results are representative of the current status of open prostatectomy. Whenever minimally invasive therapies are not affordable retropubic prostatectomy is a practical alternative.

Complications and early postoperative outcome after open prostatectomy in patients with benign prostatic enlargement: results of a prospective multicenter study

PURPOSE

We prospectively analyzed the complications and immediate postoperative outcome of open prostatectomy for benign prostatic hyperplasia to provide reference data for emerging techniques, such as holmium laser enucleation of the prostate and laparoscopic prostatectomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 902 patients with a mean +/- 1 SD age of 71.3 +/- 6.8 years were evaluated while undergoing open prostatectomy in Bavaria, Germany from January 1, 2002 to December 31, 2003. We prospectively analyzed 54 parameters concerning preoperative status, surgical details, complications and immediate outcome.

RESULTS

Mean operative time was 80.8 +/- 34.2 minutes. Mean prostate size was 96.3 +/- 37.4 ml. Average enucleated tissue was 84.8 +/- 44.0 gm. Incidental carcinoma of the prostate was found in 28 of 902 patients (3.1%) and the mortality rate was 0.2%. The overall complication rate was 17.3%. The most relevant complications were bleeding requiring transfusion in 68 cases (7.5%), urinary tract infection in 46 (5.1%) and surgical revision due to severe bleeding in 33 (3.7%). Patients had an average International Prostate Symptom Score of 20.7 +/- 7.6 preoperatively. Mean urinary peak flow rate increased significantly to 23.1 +/- 10.5 ml per second from a baseline of 10.6 +/- 6.4 ml per second (p <0.0001). Post-void residual volume decreased to 17.5 +/- 34.8 ml from a baseline of 145.1 +/- 152.8 ml (p <0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Open prostatectomy showed a satisfactory early postoperative outcome with a complication rate that was within the expected range compared to that in the recent literature. It represents an important option in the treatment of patients with significant benign enlargement of the prostate for surgeons with no access to modern techniques, such as holmium laser enucleation of the prostate or laparoscopy.

Holmium laser enucleation versus open prostatectomy for benign prostatic hyperplasia: An inpatient cost analysis

OBJECTIVES

To compare the cost of open transvesical prostatectomy (OP) with that of holmium laser enucleation (HoLEP) in the treatment of bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) attributed to benign prostatic hyperplasia.

METHODS

From February to May 2004, 63 consecutive patients with symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia in a large prostate (70 to 220 g) and documented BOO were randomized to surgical treatment with OP (29 in group 1) or HoLEP (34 in group 2). All costs associated with the procedures during the hospital stay were recorded prospectively, and a cost-effectiveness analysis of the critical perioperative (ie, intraoperative and postoperative to hospital discharge) data was performed.

RESULTS

The cost analysis showed a mean perioperative cost of 2868.9 euros (3556.3 dollars) for group 1 and 2356.5 euros (2919.4 dollars) for group 2. A direct comparison analysis showed that the most significant cost factors were the operative time (average 16.1% and 25.1% to the cost of OP and HoLEP, respectively), operating room surgical setup/disposables, including laser fiber and resectoscope loop in group 2 (average 13.3% and 29.3% to the cost of OP and HoLEP, respectively), and length of postoperative hospital stay (average 53.3% and 32.0% to the cost of OP and HoLEP, respectively). Overall, the hospitalization cost of HoLEP was 9.6% less than that for OP.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data have demonstrated that HoLEP is associated with a significant hospital net cost savings compared with OP in patients undergoing surgery for symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia in large glands.

An improved technique for controlling bleeding during simple retropubic prostatectomy: a randomized controlled study

OBJECTIVE

To compare two techniques of open prostatic adenectomy (OPA) for controlling bleeding, as OPA is the most effective surgical method for alleviating obstructive symptoms related to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) but there is always a risk of peri-operative bleeding.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The study comprised a prospective and randomized analysis of 62 men with BPH who consecutively had OPA between January 2002 and September 2004. Two techniques were used: in group 1, patients had the Millin modified retropubic prostatectomy, and in group 2 they had a classical transvesical prostatectomy. Blood loss during and after surgery was analysed.

RESULTS

The median (range) blood loss during surgery was 362 (50-700) and 640 (200-1500) mL for groups 1 and 2, respectively (P = 0.007). The mean (sd) decrease in haemoglobin level from before to 1 day after surgery was 1.76 (0.31) and 3.15 (0.33) g/dL for groups 1 and 2, respectively (P < 0.001). When comparing the first and third days after surgery, there were no further significant decreases in levels for group 1, at 0.15 (0.31) g/dL (P = 0.175), but there was a significant decrease for group 2, at 0.74 (0.33) g/dL (P = 0.031). There was a similar decrease in haematocrit levels. While three patients from group 2 required a blood transfusion, only one from group 1 had to be transfused.

CONCLUSION

The Millin technique, as modified by one of the present authors, can significantly control bleeding during and after surgery, and reduce transfusion rates, when compared to the classic transvesical prostatectomy.

[Assessment of effectiveness and security of bladder neck cerclage after transvesical prostatectomy]

INTRODUCTION

The Bladder neck cerclage diminishes the risk of bleeding after transvesical prostatectomy, but it increases the risk of suffering postoperative bladder neck sclerosis. Our objective is to value the effectiveness and therapeutic security of the temporary bladder neck cerclage after transvesical prostatectomy.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

It was carried out a prospective and longitudinal study in a cohort of 25 age patients mean age 68,5 years (standard deviation, 2,6 years), subjected to transvesical prostatectomy (Freyer) with bladder neck cerclage using polipropilene number 1 suture, that was retired at the 24 hours of the surgery. To value the hemostatic utility of bladder neck cerclage, it was measured the hematocrit and hemoglobin concentration at the 24 hours of the intervention. To evaluate the appearance of obstructive sequels, the maximum urinary flow was measured three months after the surgery.

RESULTS

It was observed a mean hematocrit at the 24 hours of surgery of 7,3%, and a mean decrease of the hemoglobin at the 24 hours of the surgery of 2,7 gr/dl. In any cases the postoperative hemoglobin concentration was inferior to 8 mg/dl, therefore, it was not necessary transfusion. The uroflowmetry carried out at 3 months of surgery showed that 24 of the 25 intervened patients presented a maximum flow superior to 15 ml/sg.

CONCLUSIONS

The temporary bladder neck cerclage is a good hemostatic technique. The precocious cercalge retreat avoids the late sequels (bladder neck sclerosos), that originates the permanent cerclage.

Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP): the endourologic alternative to open prostatectomy

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate HoLEP for patients with enlarged prostate (traditionally treated by open prostatectomy) with long-term follow-up.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of 225 consecutive patients presenting with lower urinary symptoms secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia with large prostate (>80 cc) who underwent HoLEP. Enucleation time, morcellation time, enucleated tissue weight, catheterization time, hospital stay, voiding outcome parameters, and complications were recorded.

RESULTS

Mean preoperative prostate volume was 126+/-45.1 cc (range 80-351, median 111.2 cc), and resected tissue weight was 86.5 g. Mean follow-up was 31+/-12 months (median 24 months). Mean catheter time and hospital stay were 1.3 and 1.2 days, respectively. Patient symptom scores and peak flow rates were significantly improved immediately after surgery and continued to improve during subsequent follow up. Two patients required intraoperative blood transfusion, and a third patient needed blood transfusion in the early postoperative period for persistent hematuria. Bladder neck contracture and urethral stricture developed in 0.4% and 1.3%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

HoLEP represents a safe and effective treatment for patients with symptomatic large prostates. It offers patients who traditionally required open prostatectomy the alternative of being treated endoscopically with minimal blood loss, short catheterization time and hospital stay.

Prostate fossa packing: a simple, quick and effective method of achieving hemostasis in suprapubic prostatectomy

INTRODUCTION

Suprapubic prostatectomy remains a very common surgical treatment for bladder outlet obstruction from an enlarged prostate in the developing world. It is a technically simple procedure which can be learned by nonurologists who perform the bulk of these procedures in the developing world. Intraoperative and postoperative bleeding, however, can be a problem. We describe our experience with prostatic fossa packing at the time of the procedure, as a very simple, quick and effective technique for maximal hemostasis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We have used this technique for several years at our institution and the results have been excellent. However, the major advantages of this technique became highlighted when the primary author visited Eritrea on a medical mission trip and used it in 42 consecutive cases. We looked at the hemorrhagic complications, both intraoperatively and postoperatively, infections and other complications related to the technique.

RESULTS

The 42 patients were typical of the patients that are seen in the developing world for suprapubic prostatectomy. The age range was 49-102 years. 75% had indwelling urethral catheters secondary to urinary retention. The duration of the catheters was from 2 weeks to 10 months. All the patients who had the indwelling catheters had bacteriuria. 56% had associated bladder calculi and 25% had associated inguinal hernias. The average surgical time was 45 min. The average intraoperative blood loss was estimated at 160 ml. There were no blood transfusions. There were no infections and there were no complications related to the packing.

CONCLUSION

Packing of the prostatic fossa at the time of enucleation of the adenoma is a very simple, quick and effective way to achieve hemostasis in suprapubic prostatectomy. It is also very easy to learn. With this technique we have achieved zero rate of transfusion and no infections. The surgical time is also reduced. We have had no morbidities associated with this technique and highly recommend it.

Long-term results of open transvesical prostatectomy from a contemporary series of patients

OBJECTIVES

To provide information about the long-term efficacy of transvesical prostatectomy from a contemporary series of patients. When comparing minimally invasive procedures with open prostatectomy, the data for the latter are usually provided from old studies or from recent ones performed in developing countries. However, this procedure is still used frequently for large-size prostates.

METHODS

During a 5-year period, 232 patients with large (greater than 75 g) prostates underwent open transvesical prostatectomy for symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia. Patient charts were retrospectively reviewed for preoperative and postoperative International Prostate Symptom Scores, postvoid residual urine volumes, maximal flow rates, early and late postoperative complications, and the need for reoperation. The preoperative International Prostate Symptom Score, postvoid residual urine volume, and maximal flow rate were compared with the corresponding postoperative data at 8 to 12 months and at the last follow-up visit.

RESULTS

Complete data evaluation was possible for 151 patients, with a mean follow-up of 41.8 +/- 15.6 months. Improvement in International Prostate Symptom Score, postvoid residual urine volume, and maximal flow rate was statistically significant (P <0.001) at 8 to 12 months and remained statistically significant at the last follow-up visit. Long-term complications included bladder neck contraction in 5 (3.3%) occurring at a mean of 10 months (range 5 to 17), urethral strictures in 1 (0.6%), and meatal stenosis in 2 (1.3%) of 151 patients. Re-operation was required in 6 patients (3.9%).

CONCLUSIONS

Transvesical prostatectomy in a contemporary series of patients proved to be successful, with a low rate of complications. Its success has a durable effect and only rarely was a corrective procedure necessary. This approach should be included in the list of possible treatments to discuss with the patient with a large prostate.

Modified Denis technique: a simple solution for maximal hemostasis in suprapubic prostatectomy

OBJECTIVES

To describe our experience with a modified Denis technique for hemostasis in suprapubic prostatectomy.

METHODS

We reviewed the charts of 78 patients who underwent suprapubic prostatectomy using a modified Denis technique between September 1996 and June 2001. After adenomectomy, we performed a bladder neck removable partition purse-string suture, and the prostatic fossa was drained. Patients were followed up for hemorrhagic complications and bladder neck strictures for 12 months.

RESULTS

The mean intraoperative hemorrhage amount was 264 mL (range 160 to 510). The postoperative irrigating fluid volume was 2000 mL (range 500 to 4500), and the bladder irrigation duration was 24 hours in 70 patients (89.8%) and 48 hours in 8 patients (10.2%). Postoperative hemorrhage, measured by the prostatic fossa drain, was 0 mL in 48 patients and had a mean value of 55 mL (range 10 to 90) in 30 patients. No hemorrhagic complication was noted. None of our patients had transfusion, bladder clot formation, or late hemorrhage. One case (1.3%) of bladder neck stricture developed.

CONCLUSIONS

This modified Denis technique is very effective and easy to perform and to learn. It has solved all our hemorrhagic problems in suprapubic prostatectomy.

Open prostatectomy for benign prostatic enlargement in southern Europe in the late 1990s: a contemporary series of 1800 interventions

OBJECTIVES

Contemporary series of open prostatectomies from Western countries are rare. Frequently, the analysis of the outcome of open prostatectomy refers to old experiences or to series from developing countries. Any comparison with transurethral resection of the prostate can be invalidated by complications of open surgery because of the lack of an adequate healthcare system and technology.

METHODS

The Sicilian-Calabrian Society of Urology performed a retrospective study to assess the surgical management of benign prostatic hyperplasia in Sicily and Calabria in 1997 and 1998. A three-page questionnaire was sent to the 36 urologic units of these two Italian regions with more than 7.5 million inhabitants.

RESULTS

Twenty-six units (72.3%) replied. Of 31,558 patients treated for symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia, 5636 underwent surgery. Open prostatectomy (n = 1804) accounted for 32% of all surgical treatment. The median prostate volume was 75 cm(3) and the median serum prostate-specific antigen level was 3.7 ng/mL. The postoperative median hospitalization time was 7 days. Concomitant low urinary tract disease was present in 25% of the patients. Severe bleeding occurred in 11.6% of open prostatectomies. Blood transfusions were given in 8.2% of cases. Sepsis was reported in 8.6% of the patients. Reinterventions, within 2 years, mainly due to bladder neck stenosis, were reported in 3.6% of cases.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the present survey provide a current picture of open prostatectomy. This procedure, even if performed nowadays and in Western countries, shows the same significant rate of early and late complications reported in the past or in less-developed countries.