Fluid delivery systems: high flow, low pressure, the key to safe resection.

Abstract

The transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) syndrome has been attributed to the effects of the excess absorption of irrigating fluid. Absorption may be reduced by preventing bladder distension using continuous irrigating resectoscopes or suprapubic trocar drainage. Pressure rises should be limited by the head of pressure in the fluid delivery systems. The flow pressure characteristics of two competing systems, Flowfusor (Kendall-McGaw) and Uromatic (Baxter), were evaluated. We have demonstrated that the Kendall-McGaw Flowfusor V4537 system provides adequate flow at a reduced head of pressure by virtue of the rigid container system and intrinsic negative pressure. The safety of TURPs is increased by reducing the risk of absorption.