ABSTRACT
The physical characteristics of the argon laser wavelength allow a precise incision with excellent hemostasis and negligible heating of adjacent tissues resulting in less scarring. These qualities are used to advantage in the treatment of strictures. The argon laser was used to perform 13 internal urethrotomies and ten vesical neck incisions. The operative method used is similar to optical internal urethrotomy. The argon probe incises hemostatically, reducing the need for extensive fulguration of tissues at the operative site and thereby reducing the tendency for more scar tissue to form and compromise the operation. The same hemostasis reduces the need for postoperative indwelling urethral catheterization. Utility of the argon device in most instances allows treatment to be conducted on an outpatient basis without general anesthesia and without use of postoperative urethral catheters, yielding an effective, cost-saving therapy.
Subject(s)
Laser Therapy , Urethral Stricture/surgery , Urinary Bladder Neck Obstruction/surgery , Follow-Up Studies , HumansABSTRACT
Diethylstilbestrol diphosphate (DES-P) has shown effective symptomatic relief in patients with metastatic carcinoma of the prostate. Although there is little known about its role in soft tissue metastasis, our experience in 3 patients with advanced carcinoma of the prostate infiltrating the trigone and ureterovesical junction revealed significant improvement of hydronephrosis. All patients failed to respond to conventional doses of stilbestrol. Diethylstilbestrol diphosphate is recommended in the treatment of advanced carcinoma of the prostate with soft tissue metastasis. It is safe and effective, and the tumor responses outweigh the side effects of the drug. The mechanism of action of this compound is discussed.
