Prevention and management of TURP-related hemorrhage

Nat Rev Urol. 2011 Aug 16;8(9):504-14. doi: 10.1038/nrurol.2011.106.

Abstract

Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is the most common surgical treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) worldwide, but despite its minimally invasive nature, perioperative bleeding remains a common morbidity. Anticoagulant and antiplatelet medications are increasingly common in this patient population and further contribute to the risk of bleeding and extended hospital stay. Preoperative cessation of anticoagulant and antiplatelet drugs is recommended but requires risk assessment of thrombotic complications. Pharmacologic maneuvers to reduce hemorrhage include perioperative administration of 5α-reductase inhibitors. Technical considerations include the use of hemostatic energy sources such as laser and bipolar technologies. Ultimately, no surgical technique is devoid of bleeding risks, and urologists should be aware of how best to prevent and treat TURP-related hemorrhage.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Disease Management
  • Humans
  • Laser Therapy / methods
  • Male
  • Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors / therapeutic use
  • Postoperative Hemorrhage / etiology
  • Postoperative Hemorrhage / prevention & control*
  • Postoperative Hemorrhage / therapy
  • Prostatic Hyperplasia / epidemiology
  • Prostatic Hyperplasia / surgery
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / epidemiology
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / surgery
  • Transurethral Resection of Prostate / adverse effects*

Substances

  • Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors