Preservation of periprostatic autonomic nerves during total perineal prostatectomy by intrafascial dissection

A modification of Young's total perineal prostatectomy technique is described to prevent damage to the apical branches of the cavernous nerves. Based on anatomic relationships between investing prostatic fascial layers and the neurovascular bundle, emphasis is placed on division of the apical prostatic urethra between the anterolateral endopelvic fascia and Denonvilliers fascia (intrafascial dissection) in avoidance of the apical nerves. Vertical incision in the fused distal portion of Denonvilliers fascia is necessary to make this dissection atraumatic regarding the adjacent paraprostatic neurovascular bundle. Clinical application of this completely intrafascial prostatic dissection is exemplified. It is concluded that careful modification of Young's technique of total perineal prostatectomy may result in increased postoperative potency rates.