A Randomized Controlled Trial Evaluating the Use of Sterile Water as an Irrigation Fluid During Transurethral Electrovaporization of the Prostate

Abstract

Objective To compare the safety of sterile water and glycine when used as bladder irrigation during transurethral electrovaporization of the prostate (TUVP) in a randomized controlled trial. Patients and methods The study comprised 50 consecutive patients admitted for transurethral prostatic surgery who were randomly allocated to receive bladder irrigation with either sterile water or 1.5% glycine during TUVP. After surgery, serum electrolytes and the presence of free plasma haemoglobin (suggesting haemolysis) were determined and the patients observed for clinical evidence of the transurethral resection (TUR) syndrome. Results There was no significant difference in the level of free plasma haemoglobin between the groups and no difference in serum sodium levels. None of the patients developed any signs of the TUR syndrome. Conclusions Water is a safe irrigant for use during TUVP and has several advantages over 1.5% glycine.