Minidose heparin in transurethral prostatectomy.

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Pulmonary Medicine

Background:

• Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is a common surgical procedure.
• Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a potential complication following major surgery.
• Prophylactic anticoagulation may reduce PE risk but can increase bleeding.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of subcutaneous heparin in reducing pulmonary embolism risk during TURP.
• To assess the impact of subcutaneous heparin on blood loss in TURP patients.

Main Methods:

• A double-blind, prospective study involving 34 patients undergoing TURP.
• Patients were randomized to receive either subcutaneous heparin (5,000 units) or normal saline preoperatively and postoperatively.
• Blood loss was measured, and pre- and postoperative lung scans were performed to assess for pulmonary emboli.

Main Results:

• No statistically significant difference in blood loss was observed between the heparin and control groups.
• Two patients in the heparin group had preoperative pulmonary emboli with no change post-treatment.
• One patient in the control group developed an asymptomatic pulmonary embolism postoperatively.

Conclusions:

• Subcutaneous heparin administration in the context of TURP is safe.
• The study suggests that subcutaneous heparin is recommended for TURP patients with an elevated risk of pulmonary embolism.