[Major complications after open prostatectomy: management and prevention]

From Jan. 1976 to Dec. 1989, 829 patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) were treated. Open prostatectomy was performed successfully in 571 patients. Secondary hemorrhage was observed in 21 patients (3.7%), bladder neck or posterior urethral stricture in 10 (1.7%), and temporary incontinence in 21 (3.7%). No operative mortality was noted. The pathogenesis, management and prevention of those complications were detailed with review of the literatures. Effective hemostasis, proper enucleation of the enlarged gland and meticulous reconstruction of the bladder neck are claimed to be the key points in reducing complications and increasing cure rate in the treatment of BPH with open prostatectomy.