Exposure of puboprostatic ligaments and dorsal vein complex during radical retropubic prostatectomy.

Exposure of the puboprostatic ligaments and underlying vascular structures is facilitated by removal of the Foley catheter and positioning of a Van Buren sound or Roth urethral suture guide in the prostatic urethra. Downward pressure on the sound puts traction on the ligaments and endopelvic fascia, more clearly demonstrating the ligaments and vessels.