Abstract
Endoscopic or open surgery is still today the choice therapy for benign prostatic hypertrophy. However, in those cases where the temporary or absolute general condition of the patient advises against an operation, an alternative and less invasive therapy is needed. Endoprostatic stents have by now been on sale for several years and in the meantime have reached a good technological level, allowing excellent results to be obtained. These prostheses can be divided into two groups: the first is distinguished by the temporary nature of the implant, in that it is reversible (Prostakath, Variospire, Prostacoil, luc, Memokath), while the second group consists of permanent prostheses (Urolume, Asi, Memotherm) which can only be removed by particularly complex techniques. This study analyses the features of the various types of stents in relation to the positioning techniques, their characteristics, results, their therapeutic efficacy, complications and last but not least the cost. In conclusion the authors make some comments about their experience with a few of the stents.
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