Objective: Several new minimally invasive therapies have recently been popularized for both malignant and benign prostate disorders, including interstitial implantation of radioactive seeds and high-radiofrequency wires, cryoablation, transurethral thermotherapy, and laser prostatectomy. Complications can be incurred during the various procedures, often as a result of injury to adjacent anatomic structures. Some of the complications are inadvertent, whereas others are inherent in the particular treatment process. We hope to increase awareness and understanding of some of the potential complications.
Methods and materials: Magnetic resonance (MR) and three-dimensional transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS) imaging were utilized to illustrate the relevant pelvic anatomy in, respectively, a healthy volunteer and four patients undergoing evaluation for prostate symptoms. In addition, data from the Visible Human dataset (the Visible Human Project is part of the National Library of Medicine 1986 Long-Range Plan) were used.
Results: The potential complications relating to urinary sphincter and anal sphincter control, sexual function, pelvic musculature, and pelvic nerve physiology could be explained on the basis of the MR and TRUS findings using cryoablation for illustrative purposes.
Conclusion: A clear understanding of the relevant anatomy and physiology is essential for the physician to provide patient counseling preoperatively regarding anticipated sequelae and to avoid preventable intraoperative complications related to minimally invasive therapeutic procedures for the prostate.