Prophylaxis versus Treatment against Transurethral Resection of Prostate Syndrome: The Role of Hypertonic Saline.

BACKGROUND

This study aimed at investigating the usage and effects of prophylactic hypertonic saline (HS) to prevent the occurrence of transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) syndrome.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

Sixty American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status classes I-III candidates for TURP using the monopolar resectoscope were randomized into three groups 20 patients each. Group A received 4 mL.kg-1.h-1 HS 3%; Group B received 2 mL.kg-1.h-1 HS 3%; and Group C received 6 mL.kg-1.h-1 normal saline. Hemodynamics, vasopressors need, electrolytes (sodium, potassium, and chloride), osmolality, and arterial-blood gas (ABG) were recorded. The incidence of transurethral resection syndrome, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, postoperative ventilation, hospital stay as well as any adverse events were noted.

RESULTS

Hypernatremia was detected in six patients (P = 0.002) of Group A only, while hyponatremia occurred in five patients (P = 0.009) of Group C alone. Serum sodium in Group C showed a significant decrease starting from T2 (1 h postresection) till Tp3 (48 h postoperative). In Group C, five patients experienced hypotension and bradycardia; hypertensive episodes also occurred in five patients and a hypervolemic state was noted in seven patients. TURP syndrome was confirmed in only five patients, all in Group C (P = 0.009). Postoperative ICU admission was needed for seven patients of C Group, five of which required assisted ventilation. The overall hospital stay was longer for Group C patients.

CONCLUSION

Prophylactic administration of HS during TURP is superior to conventional treatment of an occurred TURP syndrome. Low dose (2 mL.kg-1.h-1 HS 3%) is effective without adverse effects or risk of contrary hypernatremia.