Easy visualization of the membranous urethral stump in radical prostatectomy.

PURPOSE: Access to the urethral stump is sometimes difficult during radical retropublic prostatectomy.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

A 20F Foley catheter with the 5 ml. balloon inflated with 10 ml. in the bulbous urethra was used to elevate the urethral stump into the operative field.

RESULTS

Easy access to the urethral stump was achieved in all patients, which assisted with accurate anastomosis. There was decreased leakage of urine and no anastomotic stricture. No urethral trauma or incontinence was attributable to the technique.

CONCLUSIONS

This simple and safe technique allowed easy access to the urethral stump.