The combined prostatectomy

A modified method of suprapubic-retropubic prostatectomy is described. This technique appears to offer several advantages over other open methods of prostatectomy. Dissection anterior and lateral to the surgical capsule is minimal. Simultaneous access to the lumen of the expanded prostatic urethra, vesical neck and bladder permits inspection of all areas and establishes nearly complete hemostasis. Corrective procedures at the vesical neck are accomplished easily, additional suprapubic transvesical drainage is unnecessary and closure of the prostatic urethra is simplified. Three-fourths of our patients were discharged from the hospital 8 days postoperatively. The amount of blood loss, mortality and morbidity were extremely low.