The Efficacy and Safety of Perioperative Low Molecular Weight Heparin Substitution in Patients on Chronic Oral Anticoagulant Therapy Undergoing Transurethral Prostatectomy for Bladder Outlet Obstruction

Benign prostatic hyperplasia wound after surgical removal in subjects on anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapy: A meta-analysis

We performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the safety of benign prostatic hyperplasia wound after surgical removal in subjects on anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapy. A systematic literature search up to December 2021 was done and 19 studies included 5715 benign prostatic hyperplasia subjects at the start of the study; 1501 of them were on anticoagulant/antiplatelet therapy, and 4214 were control. We calculated the odds ratio (OR) and mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to evaluate the safety of benign prostatic hyperplasia wound after surgical removal in subjects on anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapy by the dichotomous or continuous methods with a random or fixed-influence model. Anticoagulant/antiplatelet therapy had significantly higher bleeding complication (OR, 1.88; 95% CI, 1.36-2.60, P < .001), higher blood transfusion (OR, 2.15; 95% CI, 1.63-2.83, P < .001), lower operation time (MD, -3.53; 95% CI, -6.80-0.27, P = .03), higher catheterization time (MD, 0.30 95% CI, 0.06-0.53, P = .01), longer length of hospital stay (MD, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.37-1.26, P < .001) and higher thromboembolic events (OR, 2.88; 95% CI, 1.26-6.62, P = .01) compared to control in benign prostatic hyperplasia subjects. Anticoagulant/antiplatelet therapy had a significantly higher bleeding complication, higher blood transfusion, lower operation time, higher catheterization time, longer length of hospital stay and higher thromboembolic events compared to control in benign prostatic hyperplasia subjects. Further studies are required.

Safety and Effectiveness of Bipolar Transurethral Resection of the Prostate in Patients Under Ongoing Oral Anticoagulation with Coumarins or Antiplatelet Drug Therapy Compared to Patients Without Anticoagulation/Antiplatelet Therapy

Objective: To determine whether transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is safe and effective in patients under ongoing therapeutic oral anticoagulation (OAC) or antiplatelet drug (APD) therapy. Patients and Methods: We analyzed data on 276 consecutive TURP patients under ongoing APD therapy with acetylsalicylic acid (n = 130) or clopidogrel (n = 16) or ongoing OAC with phenprocoumon (n = 57), without stopping or bridging the medication, compared to 73 TURP patients without APD/OAC. Results: Outcomes of patients under acetylsalicylic acid were comparable to the controls. Under ongoing OAC therapy TURP patients tended to need slightly longer bladder irrigation (median 24 hours vs 22 hours, p = 0.06), needed longer transurethral catheterization (median 42 hours vs 24 hours, p = 0.031), were threefold more likely to have postoperative urinary retention (18% vs 6%, p = 0.04), had slightly longer hospital stays (median 4 days vs 3 days, p = 0.008), and tended to need more blood transfusions (9% vs 1%, p = 0.09), compared to controls. TURP patients under ongoing APD therapy with clopidogrel needed slightly longer bladder irrigation (median 24 hours vs 22 hours, p = 0.006), received more blood transfusions (19% vs 1%, p = 0.017), and had more rehospitalizations (19% vs 3%, p = 0.039). The significant functional improvement 1, 3, and 12 months after TURP was similar in all groups. Conclusions: Ongoing APD therapy with acetylsalicylic acid does not significantly impact TURP outcomes in terms of bleeding complications. Patients under ongoing therapeutic OAC with phenprocoumon or APD with clopidogrel can safely undergo TURP with an increased risk of bleeding complications, blood transfusions, and longer hospitalization.

Efficacy and Safety of Photoselective Vaporization of the Prostate with 120 W 532 nm Laser in Patients with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia on Anticoagulation or Antiplatelet Therapy: Observations on Long-Term Outcomes

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) in the treatment of patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) on anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapy.

BACKGROUND

The "gold standard" of surgical treatment of BPH is transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). Since the risk of complications associated with TURP is still significant, there is a continuous search for safer and equally effective procedures. One of them is PVP with a 532 nm potassium-titanyl-phosphate/lithium triborate (KTP/LBO) laser.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 109 patients underwent PVP with the use of the GreenLight HPS 120 W laser. Sixty-five (59.6%) of the patients were on anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs, whereas 44 (40.4%) patients were not. Various objective and subjective parameters were evaluated intra- and postoperatively along with a 5-year follow-up to compare the results and safety of PVP in these two groups of patients.

RESULTS

No difference between the groups was found in intraoperative parameters, including operation and lasing time, as well as laser energy used. Also, no intraoperative complications were observed. There was no significant bleeding in any of the groups, and none of the patients required a blood transfusion. Catheterization and hospitalization time did not differ between both groups, and during the 5-year follow-up period, good objective and subjective results were observed, and the complication rates were comparable between the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results demonstrate that PVP for patients with BPH is an effective and safe procedure with satisfactory long-term outcomes. Anticoagulant and antiplatelet drugs did not significantly influence the results, or the complication rates.

Thulium laser vaporesection of the prostate: Can we operate without interrupting oral antiplatelet/anticoagulant therapy?

Purpose

Thulium vaporesection of the prostate (ThuVARP) is a new and safe approach for patients receiving anticoagulant therapy in whom transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) may possess a high bleeding risk. We aimed to demonstrate the efficacy and safety of ThuVARP in patients receiving oral antiplatelet/anticoagulant (OAP/OAC) therapy.

Materials and Methods

A total of 103 patients who underwent ThuVARP between 2011 and 2013 were enrolled in the study. Patients were divided into 2 groups. Group A consisted of 47 patients who underwent low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) bridging and group B consisted of 56 patients who were operated on while receiving OAP/OAC therapy.

Results

The drop in hemoglobin levels in the pre- and postoperative periods was significantly higher in group A than in group B. When subgroups were analyzed, the mean drop in hemoglobin was significantly lower in the warfarin and ticlopidine subgroups of group B than in group A. International Prostate Symptom Scores were significantly lower 3, 12, 18, and 24 months after surgery in group A than in group B. Quality of life scores, maximal flow rate values, and postmicturition residual urine volumes (mL) were similar between the 2 groups. A total of 38 and 41 patients in groups A and B, respectively, had no complications.

Conclusions

Our study showed the safety profile of continuing different OAP/OAC therapies in terms of bleeding problems in patients undergoing ThuVARP. We strongly recommend abandoning LMWH bridging and maintaining the OAP/OAC regimen patients are already receiving.

The efficacy and safety of 2-μm continuous laser in the treatment of high-risk patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia

Two-micrometer laser resection of prostate-tangerine technique dissects whole prostatic lobes off the surgical capsular, similar to peeling a tangerine. The present study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of 2-μm continuous laser vaporization in the treatment of high-risk patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) during the 24-month follow-up. The study included 248 patients with moderate to severe lower urinary tract symptoms who underwent 2-μm continuous laser vaporization of the prostate. All patients were accompanied with different degree comorbidities and 94 patients were taking oral anticoagulants. BPH was successfully treated with 2-μm continuous laser vaporization in all patients. Mean pre-operative prostate volume was 76 ± 25.3 ml and mean operative time was 49.8 ± 16.5 min. There were no major complications intra-operatively or postoperatively, and no blood transfusions were needed. About 20 patients (8.1%) needed bladder irrigation postoperatively. Average catheterization time was 2.0 ± 1.8 days (range 1-5 days). Four patients required reoperation due to enlarged prostates from residual adenoma. At 3-, 6-, 12-, and 24-month follow-ups, maximum urinary flow rates (Qmax) increased from 6.9 ± 1.7 to 19.1 ± 4.2, 19.5 ± 4.6, 19.4 ± 4.6, and 19.5 ± 4.1 ml/s, respectively. Mean International Prostate Symptom Scores (IPSS) decreased from 27.6 ± 5.1 (pre-operation) to 9.2 ± 2.6, 7.12 ± 1.42, 6.18 ± 1.32, and 6.25 ± 1.30 at 3-, 6-, 12-, and 24-month post-operation, respectively. Two-micrometer continuous laser vaporization is a safe and effective surgical endoscopic technique associated with low complication rate in BPH patients at high risk and those on anticoagulation therapy who have severe LUTS caused by BPH.

[Current Practice in the Transurethral Treatment of Benign Prostatic Obstruction under Oral Anticoagulants : A Nation-wide Survey]

BACKROUND

Only few studies have assessed the safety and efficacy of transurethral surgery (TS) for the treatment of benign prostatic obstruction (BPO) in patients on oral anticoagulants. The aim of our study was to evaluate current treatment strategies and complication rates of TS for the treatment of BPO in patients on OA using an online survey.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 300 German departments of urology received an e‑mail with a link for the online survey. The items of the questionnaire assessed the present practice of TS for BPO in patients on OA and the occurrence of complications.

RESULTS

Seventy-five (23.4 %) departments responded to the online questionnaire. Of the respondents, 94.7 % performed TS in patients with BPO on OA and 42.7 % answered that they perform more than 30 prostate surgeries per year under OA. The respondents indicated that surgeries were carried out under aspirin (96 %), clopidogrel (46.7 %) or phenprocoumon (26.7 %). Indications for surgeries under OA were made by cardiologist recommendation (82.7 %), the surgeon (37.3 %), a need for emergency surgery (52 %), or the patient's will (10.7 %). Sixty-two (82.7 %) of the respondents perform bipolar or monopolar transurethral resection of the prostate (TUR-P) in patients on OA. In addition, 69.3 % of the respondents indicated that they use laser prostatectomy in patients on OA (thulium 24 %, Greenlight 24 %, holmium 16 %, and diode laser 5.3 %). Cardiovascular complications occurred in 12 % of the respondents.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the poor evidence for performing TS of BPO under OA, our survey showed surprising results: TS of BPO under OA is frequently performed, especially bipolar and monopolar TUR-P. Although our data were obtained using an online survey, the complication rates appear to be lower than previously thought.

Oral anticoagulation therapy and laser surgery for benign prostatic hyperplasia: stop, replace, or continue?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To update on the available literature that assessed laser surgery for benign prostatic obstruction (BPO) in patients under antithrombotic.

RECENT FINDINGS

All types of laser might be suitable to decrease the bleeding risk in patients under antithrombotic. However, there is no consensus on the appropriate perioperative management of antithrombotic. Most of the studies mixed patients with coumarin derivatives or platelet aggregation inhibitors and did not discriminate the results according to the type of antithrombotic. The continuation of low-dose aspirin is feasible and might not increase bleeding risk during the perioperative period. Conversely, the literature is still too sparse and the protocols reported are too heterogeneous to provide any firm recommendation regarding the continuation, withdrawn, or bridging of clopidogrel and coumarin derivatives during laser procedures for BPO. The approach with new oral anticoagulants is even more uncertain as no data are available in this setting.

SUMMARY

The decision to stop, continue, or replace antithrombotic should rely on both thrombotic and hemorrhagic risks. Therefore, urologist, cardiologist, and anesthesiologist should discuss altogether each case. Further studies are needed to provide a high level of evidence regarding the perioperative management of antithrombotic in the era of laser BPO procedures.

Perioperative Management of Antiplatelets and Anticoagulants Among Patients Undergoing Elective Transurethral Resection of the Prostate--A Single Institution Experience

PURPOSE

To evaluate current practice in the perioperative management of antiplatelets (AP) and anticoagulants (AC) among men undergoing elective transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), as well as the associated perioperative bleeding and thromboembolic complications.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Retrospective review of consecutive elective TURP patients in a single tertiary institution from January 2011 to December 2013 (n = 293). Data on the regular use of AP/AC and the perioperative management approach were collected from patients' electronic medical records. Bleeding and thromboembolic complications were assessed up to 30 days postoperative. Association between AP/AC use and perioperative complications was assessed using the Kruskall-Wallis test (continuous variables) and the Fisher exact test (categoric variables).

RESULTS

There were 107/293 (37%) patients receiving long-term AP while there were 25/293 (9%) patients receiving long-term AC. A total of 72/107 (67%) patients ceased AP on an average of 7.6 days preoperatively, while 35/107 (33%) continued receiving AP. Patients with coronary stents (62%) and coronary bypass graft (67%) were significantly more likely to continued receiving AP (P < 0.001). AC was ceased in all patients preoperatively, with 16/25 (64%) receiving enoxaparin bridging. Overall, there were 31 (10%) incidents of bleeding complications and 5 (2%) thromboembolic events. AC users who had enoxaparin bridging had significantly higher risk of bleeding complications (44%), compared with non-AP/AC users (8%), AP users who ceased AP (4%), AP users who continued receiving AP (17%), and AC users who did not receive enoxaparin bridging (0%) (P < 0.001). AC users who received enoxaparin bridging also reported significantly higher thromboembolic complications (17%; P < 0.001) and prolonged hospital stay (mean 5.4 days) (P = 0.002), compared with other patients.

CONCLUSION

Perioperative management of AP/AC should be based on the indications and the American College of Chest Physicians thromboembolic risk stratification. Regular AC users who had enoxaparin bridging are at increased risk of both perioperative bleeding and thromboembolic complications.

Practice guidelines for perioperative blood management: an updated report by the American Society of Anesthesiologists Task Force on Perioperative Blood Management*

The American Society of Anesthesiologists Committee on Standards and Practice Parameters and the Task Force on Perioperative Blood Management presents an updated report of the Practice Guidelines for Perioperative Blood Management.

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text.

Efficacy and safety of prostate vaporesection using a 120-W 2-μm continuous-wave Tm:YAG laser (RevoLix 2) in patients on continuous oral anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapy

The aim of our current study was to demonstrate the efficacy and safety of vaporesection using a 120-W Tm:YAG laser (Revolix Duo) in patients with BPH receiving systemic anticoagulation or antiplatelet therapy. Between April 2010 and November 2011, a total of 76 patients using oral antiplatelet or anticoagulant (OA) agents affected by LUTS for BPH were underwent thulium vaporesection of the prostate (ThuVARP) using a 120-W 2-μm CW Tm:YAG laser and evaluated at 3- and 6-month follow-up. Of these, in 41 patients (group A) was performed vaporesection while receiving OA therapy. In 35 patients (group B), OA agents were discontinued 10 days before surgery. There were no significant differences in average vaporesection times, catheterization time, or hospital stay. There was no significant change in serum sodium level before and immediately after vaporesection in either group. Significant improvements compared to baseline were observed at each postoperative assessment in both groups for Qmax, PVR, IPSS, and QoL. More specifically, the IPSS score improved from 21.7 at baseline to 5.2 at 6 months in group A and from 20.7 to 4.5 in group B. At 6 months, Qmax increased 226 and 190 % for the 2 groups, respectively. The PVR decreased from 119 at baseline to 11 mL at 6 months in group A and from 125 to 11 mL in group B. ThuVARP is a safe and efficient procedure for patients with BPH, refractory to pharmacotherapy, who require active antiplatelet or anticoagulant therapy.

The application of 120-W high-performance system GreenLight laser vaporization of the prostate in high-risk patients

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of 120-W potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP) laser vaporization in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) who also had cardiopulmonary diseases who were taking long-term anticoagulants and were at high risk of bleeding complications. The prospective study included 188 patients with severe lower urinary tract symptoms who underwent 120-W KTP laser vaporization of the prostate. All patients were at high cardiopulmonary risk, having presented with an American Society of Anesthesiology score of 3 or greater. Of those, 45 patients were taking oral anticoagulants, and 1 had a severe bleeding disorder. BPH was successfully treated with 120-W KTP laser vaporization in all patients. Mean preoperative prostate volume ± SD was 66 ± 23.1 ml, and mean operative time was 50.8 ± 15.5 min. There were no major complications intraoperatively or postoperatively, and no blood transfusions were required. Postoperatively, only 14 patients (7.4 %) required bladder irrigation. Average catheterization time was 1.9 ± 1.5 days (range, 1-5 days). Three patients required reoperation due to enlarged prostates from residual adenoma. At 3-, 6,- 12-, and 24-month follow-ups, mean urinary peak flow increased from 8.0 ± 3.6 ml/s to 19.1 ± 5.6, 19.2 ± 4.7, 19.1 ± 4.65, and 19.2 ± 4.34 ml/s, respectively. Mean International Prostate Symptom Scores decreased over time, from 25.6 ± 5.1 (3 months) to 9.4 ± 2.8, 7.05 ± 1.46, 6.24 ± 1.36, and 6.20 ± 1.32 (24 months), respectively. 120-W HPS KTP laser vaporization is a safe and effective treatment option in BPH patients at high risk and those on anticoagulation therapy who have severe LUTS secondary to BPH.

Periprocedural heparin bridging in patients receiving vitamin K antagonists: systematic review and meta-analysis of bleeding and thromboembolic rates

BACKGROUND

Periprocedural bridging with unfractionated heparin or low-molecular-weight heparin aims to reduce the risk of thromboembolic events in patients receiving long-term vitamin K antagonists. Optimal periprocedural anticoagulation has not been established.

METHODS AND RESULTS

MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases (2001-2010) were searched for English-language studies including patients receiving heparin bridging during interruption of vitamin K antagonists for elective procedures. Data were independently collected by 2 investigators (κ=0.90). The final review included 34 studies with 1 randomized trial. Thromboembolic events occurred in 73 of 7118 bridged patients (pooled incidence, 0.9%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.0.0-3.4) and 32 of 5160 nonbridged patients (pooled incidence, 0.6%; 95% CI, 0.0-1.2). There was no difference in the risk of thromboembolic events in 8 studies comparing bridged and nonbridged groups (odds ratio, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.42-1.54). Bridging was associated with an increased risk of overall bleeding in 13 studies (odds ratio, 5.40; 95% CI, 3.00-9.74) and major bleeding in 5 studies (odds ratio, 3.60; 95% CI, 1.52-8.50) comparing bridged and nonbridged patients. There was no difference in thromboembolic events (odds ratio, 0.30; 95% CI, 0.04-2.09) but an increased risk of overall bleeding (odds ratio, 2.28; 95% CI, 1.27-4.08) with full versus prophylactic/intermediate-dose low-molecular-weight heparin bridging. Low-thromboembolic-risk and/or non-vitamin K antagonist patient groups were used for comparison. Study quality was poor with heterogeneity for some analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

Vitamin K antagonist-treated patients receiving periprocedural heparin bridging appear to be at increased risk of overall and major bleeding and at similar risk of thromboembolic events compared to nonbridged patients. Randomized trials are needed to define the role of periprocedural heparin bridging.

Effectiveness and Safety of Photoselective Vaporization of the Prostate with the 120 W HPS Greenlight Laser in Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Patients Taking Oral Anticoagulants

Purpose

To examine the effectiveness and safety of photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) with the 120 W high-performance system (HPS) Greenlight laser procedure in benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) patients taking oral anticoagulant medications.

Materials and Methods

This study was conducted on BPH patients taking oral anticoagulant medications form March 2009 to December 2010. Group I consisted of patients who stopped oral anticoagulant medications before surgery (n=30), and group II consisted of patients who continued oral anticoagulant medications before surgery (n=30). PVP applying the 120 W HPS Greenlight laser was done, and followed up for 12 weeks. Follow-up variables were International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax), postvoid residual urine volume (PVR), and hemoglobin level change.

Results

At 12 weeks after surgery, we confirmed the improvement in the IPSS score of Group I compared with preoperative scores. The quality of life (QoL) score, Qmax and PVR were also improved. respectively, both of which were significantly improved. In Group II, similarly, the total IPSS score, the voiding symptom score, and the storage symptom score were improved in comparison with the preoperative scores. The QoL score, Qmax and the PVR were improved in comparison with the preoperative scores. During the 12-week follow-up period, no major postsurgical complications requiring transfusion, rehospitalization, etc. were observed.

Conclusions

The 120 W HPS Greenlight laser PVP procedure can be performed effectively and safely in BPH patients, even those who cannot stop oral anticoagulant medications despite requiring surgery.

[Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) in patients with continuous oral anticoagulation: first reported cases in Japan]

Oral anticoagulation (OA) has been considered as a strict contraindication to transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). In recent years, some studies have shown that holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) has less blood loss compared to TURP. Thus we have performed HoLEP in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) under continuous OA from September 2009, and herein we report our first nine cases. Patients received HoLEP by a single surgeon at our institution. HoLEP was performed successfully in all patients. The mean times to complete enucleation and morcellation were 48.2 and 5.1 minutes, respectively. The mean tissue weight of enucleation was 37 grams. The mean hemoglobin and sodium loss after HoLEP were 1.7 g/dl and 1.3 mEq/L, respectively, and the catheterization time was 1.6 days. Blood transfusion, clot retention or transurethral resection syndrome were not observed in any cases. HoLEP has excellent hemostatic properties, and is a safe and effective procedure for patients with symptomatic BPH under the condition of continuous OA.

Laser treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia in patients on oral anticoagulant therapy: a review

We assessed the therapeutic efficacy and safety of laser prostatectomy (LP) for treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in patients on oral anticoagulation. We systematically reviewed previous reports, using the Pubmed database and bibliographies of retrieved articles and reviews. The oral anticoagulation included coumarin derivatives and platelet-aggregation inhibitors (PAI). Previous studies do not allow the establishment of definitive conclusions for managing patients on oral anticoagulation and who require BPH surgery. No randomized studies are available. Nevertheless, compared to transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), LP seems to decrease the risk of haemorrhage in patients taking PAI or coumarin derivatives. Therefore, LP is a useful alternative to TURP for managing patients on oral anticoagulation, and could be proposed as the first intention for those patients. Continuing PAI during the procedure is feasible. A replacement of coumarin derivatives by low molecular weight heparin is preferable. No conclusion can be reached on the preferred type of laser technique to treat these patients, but data on laser enucleation is much less abundant and conclusive than that on laser vaporization.

[Photoselective vaporization of the prostate with Laser Greenlight HPS: current role, technical aspects and review of the literature]

Photoselective vaporization of the prostate with 120W HPS Greenlight laser is one of the most attractive modalities of surgical treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia at present. The specific physical characteristics of this laser provides an excellent safety and effectiveness profile, making it the ideal technique for high-risk patients or patients ongoing oral anticoagulation. Moreover, the undeniable reduction of urethral catheterization time and hospital stay compared to transurethral resection of prostate (TURP) involves a much more comfortable postoperative period for patients. We have conducted a Medline/Pubmed search, presenting in this review the outcomes and current surgical techniques described in recent studies. We have also reviewed the controversial aspects and limitations attributed to this technique.

[Management of patients under anticoagulants for transurethral resection of the prostate: a multicentric study by the CTMH-AFU]

OBJECTIVE

To determine how are managed patients with anticoagulation treatments who are operated by transuretral resection of the prostate (TURP), and to evaluate the morbidity associated to these treatments.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a retrospective study on 226 patients operated consecutively in six french hospitals between January 2007 and August 2008 by TURP for symptomatic benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH).

RESULTS

Eighty-three patients (37%) operated by TURP were under anticoagulation treatment before hospitalization. (23 cases under coumarin derivatives, 57 cases under platelet aggregation inhibitors, and three cases under low molecular weight heparin). Management of anticoagulation for the operative period was very heterogenic. Overall, patients under anticoagulation treatment had significantly longer hospitalization period (5.8 versus 4.9 days, p = 0.003) and were more frequently re-hospitalized for hematuria (14.5% versus 1.4%, p < 0.001). Considering early and late morbidity, no significant difference was observed between patients under coumarin derivatives and those under platelet aggregation inhibitors.

CONCLUSIONS

This study assessed the risk of anticoagulants in BPH surgery, and showed the necessity of establishing protocols and recommendations for the management of patients under anticoagulation treatment requiring BPH surgery.

High-performance system GreenLight laser: indications and outcomes

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

In this review, we present recent clinical and urodynamic data on transurethral photoselective vaporization of the prostate, and report on the recent introduction of the 120 W GreenLight laser (GLL) high-performance system.

RECENT FINDINGS

Published studies provide substantial evidence that photoselective prostate vaporization is an efficacious treatment for lower urinary tract symptoms caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia. Recent studies confirm improved urodynamic findings following GLL treatment. Moreover, it can be used safely in high-risk patients (e.g. those on anticoagulant medication and patients with cardiopulmonary diseases), and has been proposed as an alternative to prostate enucleation for larger glands. Depending on the reimbursement system in different countries, it can be a cost-effective procedure. The introduction of the 120 W high-performance system GLL does, however, place distinct demands on training and operative schemes.

SUMMARY

The clinical results of GreenLight prostate vaporization are equivalent to those following transurethral resection of the prostate, with reduced operative risks, even for the high-risk patient. These clinical benefits have been confirmed by improved urodynamic parameters. The potential advantages of the new 120 W high-performance system GLL are yet to be unequivocally proven in larger randomized trials.

The evolution of KTP laser vaporization of the prostate

The search for a minimally invasive approach to the treatment of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS) suggestive of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is probably as old as Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP). In an effort to overcome the limitations and morbidities of TURP, and in light of evidence suggesting that medical treatment for BPH has a limited life-span, laser-based treatments have emerged during the last decade. Photoselective Vaporization of the Prostate (PVP) by the "GreenLight" KTP laser is considered one of the most promising options, one that is constantly evolving new technologies in prostate surgery. In this overview of KTP laser usage in BPH treatment, we will briefly discuss the evolution of this modality since it was first introduced and focus on the available evidence regarding safety, efficacy and cost parameters of its application.

Update on photoselective vaporization of the prostate

Photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) with a potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP) laser may be the most promising new technology applied to the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The specific laser light characteristics and the ideal interactions between KTP lasers and prostatic tissue result in an even and efficient vaporization of the prostate and the formation of a clearly deobstructed prostate cavity. PVP can be a day-care procedure, with few hours of catheterization and minimal postoperative discomfort, offering outcomes at least equivalent to the reference standard transurethral resection of the prostate. Although larger studies are necessary to further define where PVP stands in the management of BPH, this review focuses on contemporary treatment techniques and their limitations, and comments on the outcomes of its current use.

Early Initiation of Aspirin After Prostate and Transurethral Bladder Surgeries is Not Associated With Increased Incidence of Postoperative Bleeding: A Prospective, Randomized Trial

PURPOSE

Lower urinary tract operations are being increasingly performed in elderly patients, in whom aspirin intake is common for preventing cardiovascular disease. We determined the safety of early aspirin re-initiation after lower urinary tract surgeries.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A randomized, open label clinical trial was done. The study cohort included patients referred for transurethral prostatectomy, open prostatectomy and transurethral resection of bladder tumor while receiving aspirin prophylaxis. After controlling for surgical modality patients were randomized into 2 arms, including aspirin treatment initiation 24 hours after discontinuing of bladder irrigation (early treatment group) and aspirin treatment initiation 3 weeks after surgery (late treatment group). Primary end points were pre-discharge hematuria necessitating the restoration of bladder irrigation or the cessation of aspirin treatment and late hematuria treated in an urgent care setting, requiring hospital admission or compelling the cessation of aspirin treatment.

RESULTS

A total of 120 patients were enrolled, including 60 per treatment group. There were no significant differences between the groups in surgery related factors that could have affected postoperative bleeding. Primary end points were attained by 16 of the 120 patients (13.6%), including 10 of the 60 (16.7%) in the early treatment group and 6 (10%) in the late treatment group (p = 0.28). Time to catheter removal and persistent hematuria duration were similar in the 2 groups. Cardiovascular morbidity was noted in 3 of 120 patients, of whom all were assigned to the early treatment group.

CONCLUSIONS

Early aspirin initiation after lower urinary tract surgeries does not appear to carry an increased risk of postoperative bleeding. Thus, it may be considered in patients at high risk for cardiovascular morbidity.

Safety and Effectiveness of Photoselective Vaporization of the Prostate (PVP) in Patients on Ongoing Oral Anticoagulation

OBJECTIVES

Ongoing oral anticoagulation (OA) contraindicates transurethral electroresection of the prostate. We evaluated the safety and effectiveness of photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) in patients on ongoing OA with coumarin derivatives, aspirin, or clopidogrel, complaining of symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

METHODS

We evaluated perioperative parameters, functional outcome, and adverse events up to 24 mo postoperatively of patients on OA, and compared results with 92 men at normal risk without anticoagulant therapy undergoing PVP for the same indication (control).

RESULTS

Within 40 mo, 116 men on OA were included, with 31% (n=36) receiving coumarin derivatives; 61% (n=71), aspirin; and 8% (n=9), clopidogrel. Mean prostate volume (62+/-34ml vs. 57+/-25ml; p=0.289) and mean operation time (67+/-28min vs 63+/-29min; p=0.313) were comparable with control. We observed no bleeding complications necessitating blood transfusions. Average postoperative decrease of haemoglobin was 8.6% for patients on OA versus 8.8% for control. At 3, 6, 12, and 24 mo postoperatively, improvement of the International Prostate Symptom Score ranged from 60-70%; postvoid residual volume, 80-88%; and average maximum urinary flow rate, 116-140%, respectively. Postoperative complications were low and comparable with control.

CONCLUSIONS

PVP is characterized by excellent haemostatic properties and very low intraoperative complication rate even in patients on OA. On the basis of our perioperative results, we recommend PVP as first-line procedure for patients with symptomatic BPH at high risk of bleeding.

Discontinuation of perioperative antiplatelet and anticoagulant therapy in stroke patients

Growing evidence suggests that perioperative withdrawal of ASA for secondary stroke prevention increases thromboembolic risk without the associated benefit of decreased bleeding complications. ASA maintenance is acceptable in many procedures, including invasive ones. Many procedures, in particular ophthalmologic, dermatologic, and dental surgeries, also are safe while continuing oral AC. Warfarin has been continued successfully even in some surgeries that have high bleeding risk. When the risk is too high, temporary bridging therapy with LWMH is safe in many populations. Although the exact thromboembolic risks associated with temporary cessation of AP and AC are unknown and likely low, morbidity and mortality associated with thromboembolism are high. Further studies investigating the risks and benefits of maintaining AP and AC during procedures, particularly invasive ones, are needed. Meanwhile, it is critical that physicians understand the risks and benefits of perioperative AP and AC and the variety of procedures in which these agents can be safely continued.

Periprocedural bridging therapy in patients receiving chronic oral anticoagulation therapy

BACKGROUND

In patients receiving chronic oral anticoagulation with vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) it may be necessary to temporarily discontinue VKA therapy to allow surgery or other invasive procedures to be performed, as maintaining treatment may increase the risk of bleeding during the procedure. This, however, creates a clinical dilemma, since discontinuing VKAs may place the patient at risk of thromboembolism.

SCOPE

We undertook a systematic narrative review of patients on chronic oral anticoagulation, requiring a periprocedural bridging therapy with heparin during invasive procedures.

FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

For patients requiring temporary discontinuation of VKA, current guidelines recommend the use of 'bridging' therapy with unfractionated heparin (UFH) or low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) in patients considered to be at intermediate-to-high risk of thromboembolism, such as those with prosthetic heart valves or atrial fibrillation. Recent studies show that LMWHs are associated with low rates of thromboembolism and, when compared with UFH, are as effective and safe as UFH when used as periprocedural bridging therapy in such patients. LMWHs also offer advantages such as ease of administration and predictable anticoagulant effects. Moreover, outpatient-based periprocedural bridging therapy with LMWH has been shown to result in significant cost savings compared with in-hospital UFH.

CONCLUSIONS

The decision to provide bridging therapy requires careful consideration of the relative risks of thromboembolism and bleeding in each patient. Based upon the studies reviewed we recommend a therapeutic dose of UFH or LMWH for patients at intermediate-to-high thromboembolic risk requiring interruption of VKA, especially for low bleeding risk procedures. We would like to propose upgrading the American College of Chest Physicians (ACCP) guideline recommendations from 2C to 1C. However, there is still a need for a randomized controlled trial on the efficacy and safety of the available bridging strategies, including heparin and placebo comparators, in preventing thromboembolism for specific patients and procedures.

Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate in Patients on Anticoagulant Therapy or With Bleeding Disorders

PURPOSE

We evaluated the safety and efficacy of HoLEP in patients on anticoagulation with significant obstructive symptoms secondary to BPH refractory to medical therapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From May 1999 to October 2004, 83 patients with a mean age of 76.6 years who had symptomatic BPH and were on chronic oral anticoagulant therapy or had bleeding disorders underwent HoLEP. Mean preoperative prostate size estimated by transrectal ultrasound was 82.4 cc (range 25 to 222). A total of 14 patients underwent HoLEP without oral anticoagulant withdrawal, 34 underwent surgery with low molecular weight heparin substitution and 33 stopped anticoagulants before surgery, including 8 on antiplatelet therapy. All patients were assessed preoperatively, and 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after surgery.

RESULTS

HoLEP was performed successfully in all patients with a mean enucleation time of 86.5 minutes (range 35 to 210). Mean morcellation time was 20.1 minutes (range 3 to 100). Peak urinary flow, post-void residual urine, International Prostate Symptom Score and quality of life score were significantly improved by 1 month after surgery and they continued to improve during subsequent followup. One patient required intraoperative platelet transfusion and 7 required blood transfusion early in the postoperative period due to hematuria coinciding with restarting oral anticoagulant therapy. Mean preoperative and postoperative hemoglobin was 13.5 (range 8.3 to 16.4) and 12.2 gm/dl (range 5.3 to15.4), respectively (p <0.0001). There were no major operative or postoperative complications, or thromboembolic events.

CONCLUSIONS

HoLEP is a safe and effective therapeutic modality in patients on anticoagulation with symptomatic BPH refractory to medical therapy.

Therapy Insight: management of urology patients taking long-term warfarin anticoagulation therapy

Chronic warfarin anticoagulation is commonly used to prevent thromboembolism in patients with atrial fibrillation or venous thromboembolism, and in the management of patients with mechanical heart valves. Interruption of long-term anticoagulation therapy for elective, planned urologic procedures in these patients creates a complex situation in which competing risks of thrombosis and hemorrhage must be managed; when anticoagulation is withheld patients are at risk of thrombosis, and when it is restarted they are at risk of hemorrhage. Patients at a high risk of thrombosis are typically given bridging therapy with heparin to reduce the amount of time without anticoagulation. Outcomes from bridging therapy are influenced by patient characteristics, including the risk of thromboembolism from underlying medical conditions and the risk of perioperative bleeding, and by characteristics of the procedures themselves. The safety and efficacy of different approaches are not well documented. Data regarding periprocedural anticoagulation management of urology patients is limited and principally describes outcomes related to transurethral prostate surgery. Results from these studies indicate that various strategies of anticoagulation interruption and bridging therapy result in low frequencies of thromboembolism, but variable rates of hemorrhage. Patients on anticoagulation therapy who are due to undergo invasive urologic procedures that have a low risk of developing thromboembolism can discontinue warfarin 4-5 days before the procedure, and resume it postprocedure. Bridging therapy to prevent thrombosis is necessary for patients at a higher risk of developing thromboembolism. Future research should develop strategies to maintain low rates of thrombosis but reduce the frequency of postoperative hemorrhage.

[Anaesthesia and prostate surgery]

OBJECTIVES

To review the current data about anaesthetic management in prostate surgery with special regards on analysis and prevention of specific risks, appropriate anaesthetic procedure keeping with surgery and patient, recognition and treatment of adverse events.

DATA SOURCES AND EXTRACTION

The Pubmed database was searched for articles (1990-2004) combined with references analysis of major articles on the field.

DATA SYNTHESIS

It is strongly recommended to settle germfree urine in the preoperative period. The thromboembolic risk of radical retropubic prostatectomy for cancer parallels lower abdomen oncologic surgery and is prolonged. Preoperative evaluation of cardiovascular, respiratory, neurological and metabolic comorbidity is a source of prognostic information and an essential tool in the management of elderly patients with prostate disease. Extreme patient positioning applied in prostate surgery induces haemodynamic and respiratory changes and are associated with severe muscular and nervous injuries. The laparoscopic access for radical prostatectomy is a growing alternative to the open surgical procedure. Acute normovolaemic haemodilution is a consistent and cost-effective blood conservation strategy in reducing allogenic blood transfusion for radical retropubic prostatectomy. Whether open transvesical or transurethral prostatectomy for treatment of benign hypertrophy depends on the size of the gland: transurethral resection is safe up to 80 g. Intrathecal anaesthesia with a T9 cephalad spread of sensory block, produces adequate conditions for transurethral prostatectomy and allows a rapid diagnosis of irrigating fluid absorption syndrome. In spite of recommended preoperative antibiotic prophylaxis, bacteriemias are frequent during transurethral prostate resection.

Periprocedural thromboprophylaxis in patients receiving chronic anticoagulation therapy

Patients receiving chronic anticoagulation therapy pose a clinical challenge when therapy needs to be interrupted for surgical or invasive procedures. Maintaining anticoagulation places them at risk for serious bleeding complications, whereas discontinuing anticoagulation puts them at risk of thromboembolic complications. Most patients can undergo dental procedures, cataract surgery, and diagnostic endoscopy without discontinuing anticoagulation. The main patient groups that may require a periprocedural alternative to oral anticoagulation (periprocedural thromboprophylaxis or bridging) include patients with prosthetic heart valves, atrial fibrillation, and hypercoagulable states and patients with chronic venous thrombosis who are undergoing surgery. Currently, there is little consensus on the appropriate perioperative treatment of patients on long-term warfarin therapy. There are an increasing number of studies that evaluate the benefits of periprocedural bridging with low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) in place of unfractionated heparin (UFH). An advantage of LMWH over UFH is that perioperative conversion from warfarin therapy with LMWH can be carried out in the outpatient setting, which is more convenient for patients and is cost effective. As with the use of UFH, there are reports of maternal thromboembolic complications with LMWHs in pregnant women with mechanical heart valves. This review brings together the available data on periprocedural bridging to assess the available options for patients on long-term warfarin therapy who are undergoing surgical procedures. It provides a rationale for using LMWHs while individualizing the risks versus benefits in a given patient population.