Permanently implanted urethral stent for prostatic obstruction in the unfit patient. Preliminary report.

We describe the use of a new urethral stent implanted into 12 patients with prostatic outflow obstruction. All were in a high risk group for surgery and 11 were treated successfully, with a follow-up of 1 to 11 months (median 9). The majority of patients were satisfied with the procedure, which provided a quick, safe and effective alternative to conventional surgical treatment. The stent, woven from fine stainless steel in the form of a tubular mesh, was inserted via a delivery device using combined ultrasound and endoscopic control under local anaesthesia. The procedure was well tolerated, the stent becoming covered with epithelium by 6 to 8 months following insertion, yet allowing easy removal within the first 4 to 6 weeks should the need arise. This technique provides a useful alternative to conventional surgical treatment in the high risk patient.