Intravesical Hemostatic Gelatin Matrix Instillation in the Management of Intractable Hematuria

Abstract

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the safety and feasibility of a novel and minimally invasive approach, namely, intravesical instillation of a gelatin matrix hemostatic sealant (GMHS) in the management of intractable hematuria. Six consecutive patients with intractable hematuria not responding to standard treatment underwent intravesical instillation of a hemostatic bovine-derived gelatin matrix mixed with a human-derived thrombin component. The technical aspects of this approach are described in detail. The mean age of the patients was 70 ± 4 years (median 71, range 50-79). All patients had pelvic malignancy: 5 had prostate cancer, and 1, cervical cancer. Mean duration of hematuria before intervention was 6 ± 1 days (median 6, range 2-9). Mean preoperative hemoglobin level was 9.2 ± 0.5 g/dL (median 9.0, range 8.0-10.2). Complete control of bleeding was achieved in 5 patients (83%) and all 6 patients (100%) on day 1 and 7, respectively. At a mean follow-up of 10 ± 6 months (median 13, range 1-15), permanent control of bleeding was achieved in 5 of 6 patients (83%). A second GMHS instillation was performed in 1 patient (17%) and it was successful. During the follow-up, there were no complications related to GMHS instillation. Two patients died because of their underlying malignant disease. Intravesical GMHS instillation appears to be a safe and feasible option in the management of intractable hematuria in the short-term.