Non-catheter technique prostatectomies.

An analysis is presented of 247 retropubic prostatectomies performed under hypotensive anaesthesia using a non-catheter technique wherever possible. The mortality rate was 2% which compares favourably with other series. A catheter was not used postoperatively in 67% of the patients operated on by the consultant in charge. Even when those operated on by the registrars in training are considered well over half did not require a catheter. It is suggested that this procedure should be adopted more widely in view of its safety, lack of complications, and increased patient comfort.