[Transurethral punch resection of the prostate (cold punch). Results and complications]

In 1965 the cold punch technique of transurethral prostatic resection was introduced in Germany. The principal differences between the electroresectoscope and the punch resectoscope are explained. This report on the results and complications of cold punch resection of the prostate is based on 3030 patients who were operated upon by this technique. The average age was 71,6 years. 8,2% of the patients were 80 years or older. In 33,6% the operative risk was increased. Intraoperative, early and late complications of the procedure are reported. The mortality of 1,4% over the entire 20 year period was decreased to 0,65% for the last 10 years.