[Application of new intraurethral stent for higher risk patients with benign prostatic hypertrophy]

We reviewed our experience of the application of a new urethral stent (PROSTAKATH) for 8 patients with prostatic outflow obstruction from December 1989 to March 1990. 6 patients had required the Foley catheter for several months because of chronic urinary retention. 2 were dys-uric patients having a higher bladder residual urine volume. All were in a high risk group for surgery. 7 out of the 8 patients were treated successfully. The stent was not placed in one. All 7 patients in whom the urethral stent was placed voided freely after placement of the stent. Bladder residual urine was not detected by the ultrasound sonography except in one patient. The urethral stent used in this study was a spring-like spiral with an outside diameter of 21 Fr, it is made of gold-plated stainless steel. Under local anesthesia, it can be easily inserted using a 6-7 Fr. ureteral catheter as a guide wire under ultrasonic scanning guidance. During the follow-up period of 5-8 months, 1 patient had an episode of migration of the stent to the bladder 2 months later, which was removed endoscopically, and a new stent was placed. Side effects were observed in 2 patients; one complained of strong discomfort and the other suffered from urge incontinence. Both symptoms were ameliorated during the follow-up period. We conclude that the urethral stent is an effective device as a non-invasive treatment of prostatic outflow obstruction.