Potassium-titanyl-phosphate laser photoselective vaporization for benign prostatic hyperplasia: 5-year follow-up from a district general hospital

Incidence of Surgical Reintervention for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Following Prostatic Urethral Lift, Transurethral Resection of the Prostate, and Photoselective Vaporization of the Prostate: A TriNetX Analysis

Background

Prostatic urethral lift, or UroLift, has gained popularity as a treatment for lower urinary tract symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Surgical reintervention rates are a reliable indicator for treatment durability.

Objective

The objective of this study was to utilize TriNetX, a third-party database, to investigate the incidence of surgical reintervention following UroLift, transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), and photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) procedures for BPH from 2015 to 2018.

Design setting and participants

Male patients aged 18-100 yr diagnosed with BPH were identified in the TriNetX Diamond Network database between January 2015 and December 2018. Cohorts of individuals undergoing their first UroLift procedure were built using Current Procedural Terminology and International Classification of Diseases 10th Revision codes. TURP and PVP cohorts were built as comparison groups. The cohorts were then queried for subsequent BPH-related procedures.

Outcome measurements and statistical analysis

Reprocedure rates were assessed and descriptive statistics were used.

Results and limitations

The mean age at first-time UroLift was 70.1 ± 9.4 yr (n = 14 343). Cumulative reprocedure rates collected after first-time UroLift included 1 yr after UroLift (5.1%, n = 14 343) and 4 yr after UroLift (16.1%, n = 710), with an average annual increase of +3.6% per year following 1 yr after the procedure. Comparatively, TURP (n = 22 071) and PVP (n = 14 110) had 4-yr reprocedure rates of 7.5% and 7.8%, respectively, during the same timeframe. Limitations include a lack of clinical data and loss of follow-up data outside the Diamond Network.

Conclusions

The reprocedure rate of UroLift at 4 yr is double the rate of TURP and PVP. In appropriately selected patients, UroLift might be a suitable option for those who desire symptomatic relief from BPH with minimal erectile and ejaculatory side effects. However, the risk of secondary surgical intervention should be considered when considering BPH treatments.

Patient summary

We compared the reintervention rates of prostatic urethral lift (PUL), transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), and photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) using the TriNetX database, and have found that the highest reintervention rates were for PUL of 16% at 4 yr of follow-up, compared with about 8% for those who had TURP and PVP. Interestingly, the most common reintervention was the same operation at 1 yr. This has important implications when counseling patients about the durability of these various outlet procedures for BPH.

Enucleation of the prostate as retreatment for recurrent or residual benign prostatic obstruction: a systematic review and a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Anatomical endoscopic enucleation of the prostate (AEEP) is recommended for first line surgical treatment of benign prostatic obstruction (BPO) caused by moderate and large prostatic adenoma. However, its role in the retreatment setting after failed previous surgical treatment for BPO remains uncaptured. In this scope, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis aiming to assess the safety and efficacy of AEEP in the retreatment setting.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Cochrane Library and Embase databases from inception to March 2022 for prospective or retrospective studies involving patients undergoing prostatic enucleation for recurrent or residual BPO after previous standard or minimally invasive surgical treatments for BPO. Based on data availability, we performed a meta-analysis comparing AEEP in patients with recurrent or residual BPO versus AEEP for primary BPO.

PROSPERO

CRD42022308941).

RESULTS

We included 15 studies in the systematic review and 10 in the meta-analysis (6553 patients, 841 with recurrent or residual BPO and 5712 with primary BPO). All included studies involved patients undergoing HoLEP or ThuLEP. In terms of Qmax, post-void residual, International Prostate Symptom Score, removed adenoma, operative time, duration of catheterization and hospital stay, as well as complications, HoLEP for recurrent or residual BPO was equally effective compared to HoLEP for primary BPO up to 1 year postoperatively. Importantly, the beneficial effect of HoLEP on the retreatment setting was observed after previous standard or minimally invasive surgical treatments for BPO. The overall strength of evidence for all outcomes was deemed very low.

CONCLUSIONS

HoLEP may be safely and effectively used in experienced hands for the surgical treatment of recurrent or residual BPO in patients with large or moderate prostates following previous open, endoscopic or minimally invasive surgical treatment for BPO.

Reoperation after surgical treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia: a systematic review

Context

Surgical treatment is important for male lower urinary tract symptom (LUTS) management, but there are few reviews of the risks of reoperation.

Objective

To systematically evaluate the current evidence regarding the reoperation rates of surgical treatment for LUTS in accordance with current recommendations and guidelines.

Evidence acquisition

Eligible studies published up to July 2023, were searched for in the PubMed® (National Library of Medicine, Bethesda, MD, USA), Embase® (Elsevier, Amsterdam, the Netherlands), and Web of Science™ (Clarivate™, Philadelphia, PA, USA) databases. STATA® (StataCorp LP, College Station, TX, USA) software was used to conduct the meta-analysis. Random-effects models were used to calculate the pooled incidences (PIs) of reoperation and the 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Evidence synthesis

A total of 119 studies with 130,106 patients were included. The reoperation rate of transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) at 1, 2, 3, and 5 years was 4.0%, 5.0%, 6.0%, and 7.7%, respectively. The reoperation rate of plasma kinetic loop resection of the prostate (PKRP) at 1, 2, 3, and 5 years was 3.5%, 3.6%, 5.7%, and 6.6%, respectively. The reoperation rate of holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) at 1, 2, 3, and 5 years was 2.4%, 3.3%, 5.4%, and 6.6%, respectively. The reoperation rate of photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) at 1, 2, 3, and 5 years was 3.3%, 4.1%, 6.7%, and 7.1%, respectively. The reoperation rate of surgery with AquaBeam® at 1, 2, 3, and 5 years was 2.6%, 3.1%, 3.0%, and 4.1%, respectively. The reoperation rate of prostatic artery embolization (PAE) at 1, 2, 3, and 5 years was 12.2%, 20.0%, 26.4%, and 23.8%, respectively. The reoperation rate of transurethral microwave thermotherapy (TUMT) at 1, 2, 3, and 5 years was 9.9%, 19.9%, 23.3%, and 31.2%, respectively. The reoperation rate of transurethral incision of the prostate (TUIP) at 5 years was 13.4%. The reoperation rate of open prostatectomy (OP) at 1 and 5 years was 1.3% and 4.4%, respectively. The reoperation rate of thulium laser enucleation of the prostate (ThuLEP) at 1, 2, and 5 years was 3.7%, 7.7%, and 8.4%, respectively.

Conclusion

Our results summarized the reoperation rates of 10 surgical procedures over follow-up durations of 1, 2, 3, and 5 years, which could provide reference for urologists and LUTS patients.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO, identifier CRD42023445780.

The UroLift implant: mechanism behind rapid and durable relief from prostatic obstruction

BACKGROUND

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is an affliction of the aging male population that contributes to bothersome and disruptive lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). The UroLift® implant has been developed as a mechanical means of widening the prostatic urethra and providing relief from lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) through a minimally invasive procedure.

METHODS

In the current study, we utilize histological results from canine tissue, resected tissue from human subjects treated with the UroLift System and post-market surveillance data collected by the manufacturer in order to elucidate the long-term biological mechanism of action of the UroLift implant.

RESULTS

The delivery of the implant causes tissue compression, likely resulting in focal ischemia that causes observed local atrophy and minimal-mild chronic inflammation that ultimately remodels tissue to produce a widened prostatic urethra.

CONCLUSIONS

These studies reveal the lack of impact the device has on systemic tissue, providing evidence that the UroLift System is benign and biocompatible, and offering histologic explanation for the clinically observed durability.

Laparoscopic T-Plasty for the Treatment of Refractory Bladder Neck Stenosis

Preliminary results of a case series on refractory bladder neck stenosis treated with laparoscopic T-plasty are presented in this article. This study retrospectively identified nine patients with refractory bladder neck stenosis aged 60 to 80 years between May 2016 and December 2017, who had undergone laparoscopic T-plasty. All patients presented voiding difficulty and failed after two or more prior endoscopic treatments. Laparoscopic T-plasty was performed by incising the anterior wall of the bladder neck in a T-shaped manner and creating two well-vascularized and tension-free flaps, which offer the possibility to reconstruct a wide bladder neck. After a mean follow-up of 14.7 months (ranging 3–22 months), a successful outcome was achieved in eight patients without incontinence secondary to surgery. Recurrent voiding difficulty developed in one patient, which was cured after a following endoscopic treatment. Through these nine patients, a preliminary conclusion can be drawn that a wider bladder neck can be obtained through modified YV-reconstruction of the bladder neck, while avoiding external urethral sphincter injury. And laparoscopic T-plasty has clear advantages compared with an open approach. It is an available and effective option for refractory bladder neck stenosis.

Current status of holmium laser enucleation of the prostate

There are several options for the surgical management of benign prostatic hyperplasia representatively from transurethral resection of the prostate. Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate is one of those options, and many institutions and urologists have initiated this technique, and most of them have accomplished better outcomes compared with transurethral resection of the prostate. In contrast to transurethral resection of the prostate, which requires a similar procedure to transurethral resection of bladder tumors, holmium laser enucleation of the prostate requires a special surgical technique: enucleation and morcellation with around 10 years' history of experience, even in Japan. The present review introduces the current status of holmium laser enucleation of the prostate, so that it surely contributes to the knowledge of International Journal of Urology readers who could be experienced surgeons or beginners as well.

Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate: Patient Selection and Outcomes

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) is a proven technique to alleviate bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) from benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Herein, we review factors relevant to selecting patients who will benefit from this procedure and expected outcomes.

RECENT FINDINGS

New randomized trials have validated the excellent outcomes achieved by HoLEP in the management of BOO from BPH. Its success has been reproduced in a diverse array of patients including those on anticoagulation, with detrusor underactivity/acontractility, prostate cancer, and in the retreatment setting. HoLEP can be applied to the majority of patients with BOO from BPH regardless of prostate size, previous operations, or the condition of the detrusor. HoLEP can also be carefully considered in patients requiring anticoagulation or who are undergoing active surveillance for low-risk prostate cancer. Immediate complication rate is low and incontinence is rare. Retrograde ejaculation occurs in approximately 75% patients. Furthermore, the retreatment rate for HoLEP is lower than reported for other endoscopic BPH procedures demonstrating its durability.

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.

Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate: patient selection and perspectives

Background

Multiple endoscopic surgical options exist to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), including holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP). HoLEP alleviates obstructive prostatic tissue via enucleation, both bluntly with a resectoscope and by cutting tissue with the holmium laser, and removal of adenoma via morcellation. This article reviews patient selection for HoLEP in order to optimize outcomes, costs, and patient satisfaction.

Methods

A literature review of all studies on HoLEP was conducted. Studies that focused on outcomes in regard to patient and procedural factors were closely reviewed and discussed.

Results

Various studies found that men with large or small prostates, on antithrombotic therapy, in urinary retention, with bladder hypocontractility, with prostate cancer, undergoing retreatment for BPH, or in need of concomitant surgery for bladder stones and other pathologies do well with HoLEP, as demonstrated by excellent functional and symptomatic outcomes as well as low complication rates. There is a 74–78% rate of retrograde ejaculation following HoLEP. Techniques to preserve ejaculatory function following enucleative techniques have not been able to demonstrate a significant improvement.

Conclusion

Patient selection for HoLEP can include most men with bothersome BPH who have evidence of bladder outlet obstruction and are healthy enough to undergo surgery. The ability to safely perform concomitant surgery with HoLEP benefits the patient by sparing them an additional anesthetic and also decreases costs. Patients should be made aware of the risk of retrograde ejaculation following HoLEP and counseled on treatment alternatives if maintaining ejaculatory function is desired.

Bladder neck contracture

Bladder neck contracture (BNC) is a well-described complication of the surgical treatment of benign and malignant prostate conditions. Nevertheless, etiologies of BNC development are highly dependent on the primary treatment modality undertaken with BNC also occurring after pelvic radiation. The treatment options for BNC can range from simple, office-based dilation procedures to more invasive, complex abdomino-perineal reconstructive surgery. Although numerous strategies have been described, a patient-specific approach is usually necessary in the management of these complex patients. In this review, we highlight various therapeutic maneuvers described for the management of BNC and further delineate a tailored approach utilized at our institution in these complicated patients.

Adjunctive maneuvers to treat urethral stricture: a review of the world literature

The development of urethral stricture (US) or bladder neck contracture is a relatively uncommon but well described condition observed primarily in men. Despite familiarity with US disease, management remains challenging for urologists. Risk factors for the development of USs or bladder neck contracture include primary treatment modality, tobacco smoking, coronary artery disease and poorly controlled diabetes mellitus. Numerous treatment options exist for this condition that vary in procedural complexity, including intermittent self catheterization (CIC), serial urethral dilation, endoscopic techniques and open reconstructive repairs. Repetitive procedures for this condition may carry increased failure rates and morbidities. For the treatment of refractory or recalcitrant bladder neck contracture, newer intralesional anti-proliferative, anti-scar agents have been used in combination with transurethral bladder neck incisions to augment outcome and long-term effect. The primary focus of this systematic review of the published literature is to streamline and summarize various and newer therapeutic modalities available to manage patients with US or bladder neck contracture.

A retrospective review of office-based 532-nm GreenLight laser prostatectomy in men with symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the feasibility, safety, and outcomes of men with symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia undergoing 532-nm GreenLight laser prostatectomy in the office-based setting.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From September 2007 to October 2011, 47 patients underwent office-based 532-nm GreenLight laser prostatectomy by a single surgeon. Patients were enrolled prospectively and preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative parameters were then reviewed retrospectively. Statistical analysis was performed with Wilcoxon rank sum test with a P value ≤.05 being considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

The mean patient age was 66 (range, 49-89); 91% of men were on an alpha-blocker preoperatively; mean (standard deviation; SD) prostate volume by transrectal ultrasound was 35.8 mL (14.5); mean (SD) American Society of Anesthesiologists score was 2.33 (0.77); mean (SD) operative time was 36.73 minutes (18); mean (SD) lasing time was 19.1 minutes (8.31); mean (SD) total laser kiloJoules used was 85,387 kJ (38,885); and mean (SD) follow-up time was 8.48 months (8.24). The 1-year decrease in mean (SD) American Urologic Association Symptom Score and quality of life were 17.7 (8.3)-7 (7.3) and 4.1 (1.4)-2.27 (2) respectively. The maximal urinary flow increased from 8.1 (3.8) to 10.7 (6). Patients' postvoid residual improved from 130 mL (147) to 27 mL (55) over a 1-year period. (P <.01 for all). There were no reoperations for refractory lower urinary tract symptoms or hospital admissions.

CONCLUSION

For men with small but symptomatic benign prostatic enlargement, office-based GreenLight laser prostatectomy is safe and feasible.

Deep lateral transurethral incisions for recurrent bladder neck contracture: promising 5-year experience using a standardized approach

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate our 5-year experience with deep lateral transurethral incisions of bladder neck contracture (TUIBNC), identify risk factors associated with failure of procedure, and assess outcomes of men subsequently treated for concomitant or de novo stress urinary incontinence (SUI).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We reviewed 50 consecutive patients who underwent TUIBNC between June 2007 and January 2012. TUIBNC was standardized to include initial dilation followed by deep transurethral incisions. All patients were evaluated cystoscopically after a 2-month interval; those with recurrent bladder neck contracture (RBNC) underwent a second TUIBNC. For patients with concomitant SUI, we assessed the timing between TUIBNC and subsequent artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) placement and its outcome. Perioperative characteristics were reviewed to identify factors associated with failure.

RESULTS

Of the 50 patients analyzed, most were refractory, 78% having failed previous TUIBNC. After TUIBNC, 72% required no further surgery for obstruction at a mean follow-up of 12.9 months. Of the 14 who failed initial TUIBNC, 7 underwent repeat TUIBNC with success, representing an overall success rate of 86% after 2 procedures. Significant factors associated with treatment failure were >10 pack/year smoking history (P = .039) and ≥ 2 previous endoscopic BNC procedures (P = .03). Of 39 men (78%) with concomitant SUI, two-thirds underwent AUS placement after an average of 2.9 months after TUIBNC. Only 2 of 26 (8%) patients required repeat transurethral procedures after AUS placement for RBNC.

CONCLUSION

Deep lateral TUIBNC alone is a highly effective treatment modality for RBNC. Smokers and those having 2 or more previous transurethral procedures appear to have greater risk for failure. Subsequent AUS placement can be safely performed with >90% long-term urethral patency.

A randomized trial comparing thulium laser resection to standard transurethral resection of the prostate for symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia: four-year follow-up results

OBJECTIVE

To report the results of a randomized prospective trial with a 4-year follow-up, comparing the thulium laser resection of the prostate-tangerine technique (TmLRP-TT) with transurethral resection of prostate (TURP) for treatment of symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

METHODS

BPH patients (96) were randomized for surgical treatment with TmLRP-TT (47) or TURP (49). All patients were assessed pre-operatively and followed at 12, 24, 36, and 48 months post-operatively. Several parameters related to BPH were collected at each follow-up, including International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), quality of life (QoL), maximum urinary flow rates (Qmax), and post-void residual volume (PVR). All late complications were also recorded.

RESULTS

Dramatic improvement in micturition parameters was observed after TmLRP-TT compared with pre-operative values. Median IPSS decreased 75.6 % in the subsequent 12 months and 61.2 % in 48 months, while median QoL decreased by 80.4 and 59.1 %, respectively. Compared with baseline, numerical values of Qmax increased 1.07-fold and those of PVR decreased 73.1 % in the fourth year. Moreover, all micturition parameters in the TmLRP-TT group were similar to those of TURP patients at every annual assessment. Some late complications after the operations were also observed: one patient suffered from urethral strictures and one from bladder-neck contractures after TmLRP-TT. Re-operation rates were equal in the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Micturition remained stable after TmLRP-TT during the 4-year follow-up. Outcomes compared favourably with TURP, with lower peri-operative morbidity and equally low occurrence of late adverse effects. Thus, TmLRP-TT can be an available option for BPH patients, especially older, high-risk patients.

Standardized approach for the treatment of refractory bladder neck contractures

Bladder neck contracture is a relatively uncommon but well-described complication after the surgical treatment of prostate cancer. Although numerous treatments have been described as an initial management strategy for patients with this condition, the management of refractory cases remains highly variable. This article evaluates various therapeutic maneuvers used for the treatment of refractory bladder neck contracture and further describes the preliminary results of an endoscopic balloon dilation with concomitant deep traunsurethral incision procedure. Short- and long-term management algorithms for patients with recurrent bladder neck contractures are reviewed.

Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate for persistent lower urinary tract symptoms after prior benign prostatic hyperplasia surgery

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate comparative safety and outcomes in patients undergoing holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) with and without previous transurethral prostate surgery.

METHODS

We identified 37 patients who underwent HoLEP for persistent lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) after previous transurethral prostate surgery for benign prostatic hyperplasia (group I). Patients were then matched according to preoperative transrectal ultrasound prostate size to 74 patients without prior surgery who underwent HoLEP (group II). A retrospective chart review was performed.

RESULTS

In group I, no patients had previously undergone HoLEP, and 9 (24%) had undergone >1 surgery for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). There were no significant differences in age, preoperative mean urinary flow, or preoperative prostate-specific antigen (PSA) value between groups I and II. There were no significant differences in perioperative parameters, including resected tissue weight (61.7 vs 63.9 grams, P = .83) or enucleation rate (1.32 vs 1.36 g/min, P = .76). There was no significant difference in mean catheterization time or length of hospital stay. Postoperative peak flow (23.4 vs 26.9 mL/sec, P = .14) and post-void residual (PVR, 50.9 vs 50.3 mL, P = .61) were improved and similar between groups. American Urological Association Symptom Indices (AUASIs) were improved in both groups, although the primary group was significantly lower (7.52 vs 5.21, P = .0060). There was no significant difference in adverse events. All patients were urinating at last follow-up (mean 18.4 and 15.1 months, P = .16).

CONCLUSION

HoLEP is safe and effective at relieving persistent LUTS after failed previous BPH surgery. Outcomes similar to those of a primary HoLEP procedure can be expected.

Thulium laser vaporesection versus transurethral electrovaporization of the prostate in high-risk patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to compare the safety and efficacy of the thulium laser vaporesection and transurethral electrovaporization of the prostate for the treatment of high-risk patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia.

BACKGROUND DATA

From September 2009 to March 2011, 98 consecutive patients with symptomatic bladder outlet obstruction caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia received either thulium laser vaporesection of the prostate (n=42) or transurethral electrovaporization of the prostate (n=56) at our institution.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Functional follow-up included measurement of International Prostate Symptom Score, quality of life score, maximal urinary flow rate, and post-voiding residual urine volume. All complications were recorded.

RESULTS

Thulium laser vaporesection of the prostate was slightly superior to transurethral electrovaporization of the prostate in catheterization time (2.1±0.9 vs. 4.5±1.3 days, p<0.0001) and postoperative hospital stay (4.4±1.8 vs. 6.6±2.0 days, p<0.0001). Within the observation period, both groups had a significant improvement from baseline in subjective or objective success rates; however, no significant difference was found between the two groups. Peri- and postoperative complications were fewer in the thulium laser group.

CONCLUSIONS

Thulium laser vaporesection of the prostate is as effective as transurethral electrovaporization of the prostate in managing high-risk patients, with sufficient tissue ablation and acceptable hemostasis, and has the advantage of less morbidity and shorter catheter time and postoperative hospital stay.