The effect of sequential compression devices on intraoperative blood loss during radical prostatectomy

We reviewed 109 consecutive patients undergoing radical retropubic prostatectomy to determine the effect of intermittent pneumatic compression devices on intraoperative blood loss. Sequential compression devices were used intraoperatively and perioperatively in 86 patients, while 23 underwent surgery without these devices. There were no identifiable selection factors between the 2 groups. Median intraoperative blood loss was 885 cc without sequential compression devices and 800 cc when they were used. These results are at odds with previous reports in the urological literature and suggest that anatomical control of the dorsal vein complex negates any potential influence of sequential compression devices on blood loss during radical prostatectomy.