Transurethral resection of the prostate with and without continuous irrigation.

Four hundred patients undergoing transurethral resection of the prostate have been studied. An intermittent irrigation resectoscope was used in 200, and a continuous irrigation resectoscope in the remainder. The merits and demerits of continuous irrigation resection are discussed in the light of the results of these operations. The conclusion reached is that the continuous irrigation resectoscope has considerable advantages over the intermittent flow instrument. These advantages are most evident in the difficult operation, or in operations on the larger prostate, as well as in the tuition and demonstration of endoscopic surgery.