Absorption of irrigating fluid during TURP--fact and fiction

The basic requirements for intravenous (IVA) and extravascular absorption (EVA) of irrigating solutions during TURP are discussed. The operating surgeon should not rely on thumb rules but know the mechanisms behind absorption and be acquainted with the inherent risks of his irrigating systems. Peroperative monitoring of absorption has obvious advantages for the patient's safety, for the anaesthetist and for the training surgeon. The use of ethanol as a tracer for the detection of irrigant absorption and the route of absorption is herein discussed. Some hints for limiting fluid absorption during TURP is also proposed.