Fluid absorption during urological endoscopy.

Transurethral prostatectomy (TURP) and, more recently, percutaneous nephrolithotomy and endoureteric procedures for stones in the kidney and ureter have justifiably become popular because of the many advantages offered by these less invasive procedures. Any surgical operation has its attendant complications and absorption of irrigant fluid is a major and potentially fatal complication of all of these endoscopic techniques. This review examines the incidence, the causes and the pathological sequelae of excessive fluid absorption and suggests some ways to prevent it.