USE OF AN INTRAURETHRAL CATHETER INSTEAD OF A FOLEY CATHETER AFTER LASER TREATMENT OF BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIA

Objective: Our study describes the results obtained in 15 patients in whom an intraurethral catheter (IUC) instead of an indwelling catheter was used after visual laser ablation of the prostate (VLAP). Methods: The 15 patients were treated by VLAP for benign prostatic hyperplasia . The IUC was inserted through the cytoscope sheath immediately after completion of surgery, and left in the prostatic urethra for 3 weeks. Results: Twelve of the 15 patients (80%) voided through the urethra wi thout need of an indwelling catheter. In the remaining 3 patients the IUC had to be removed and a Foley catheter inserted. Conclusion: Our r esults reveal that the IUC stent may be used as an alternative for an indwelling catheter in patients treated by VLAP.