Abstract
A titanium endourethral stent was used as an alternative to prostatectomy or chronic catheterization in 14 men with symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia who were considered to be high surgical risk patients. The placement of the stent was carried out under endoscopic control with local anesthesia. Twelve patients were able to void spontaneously immediately after stenting. With a follow-up period extending up to 19 months, five patients have died of intercurrent illness. Four of the Five were voiding well at the time of death. Of the remaining seven, four have had continuous unobstructed voiding without complication. Three men have experienced hyperplastic tissue ingrowth of the implant, which resulted in stent removal in two. No encrustations or stone formation have been encountered to date. Although more experience is required, the titanium stent offers excellent biocompatibility in the urinary tract and could represent an alternative to chronic catheterization or prostatectomy in patients unfit for surgery.
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