Anterior bladder neck tube reconstruction at radical prostatectomy preserves functional urethral length--a comparative urodynamic study.

OBJECTIVE

To characterize the continence mechanism of anterior bladder neck tube reconstruction at the time of radical prostatectomy using urodynamic evaluation.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Prospective pre- and post-operative urodynamic profiles were performed in patients receiving conventional posterior 'racket handle' closures (control group--eight patients) and those receiving anterior bladder neck tube reconstruction at radical prostatectomy (study group--nine patients). Bladder neck tube reconstruction was performed by constructing 2 cm anterior bladder neck tubes over 22 F catheters.

RESULTS

A significantly longer post-operative functional urethral length was demonstrated using urodynamic assessment in patients receiving an anterior bladder neck tube closure (4.6 vs 3.4 cm; P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

The anterior bladder neck tube reconstruction may promote urinary continence in patients undergoing radical prostatectomy by preservation of functional urethral length.