Epsilon aminocaproic acid and the control of post-prostatectomy bleeding: a prospective double-blind study

We randomized 61 patients undergoing transurethral resection of the prostate in a double-blind parallel fashion to receive epsilon aminocaproic acid or an equivalent volume of placebo solution immediately after the operation. All blood loss during the first 72 hours postoperatively was monitored. Four patients were nonevaluable . The use of epsilon aminocaproic acid caused no significant complication or side effect. There was no significant difference in regard to blood loss, hospital stay or days on catheter drainage between the 2 groups. We conclude that the routine use of epsilon aminocaproic acid after transurethral resection of the prostate is not warranted.