[Case of bladder perforation due to the obturator nerve reflex during transurethral resection (TUR) of bladder tumor using the TUR in saline (Turis) system under spinal anesthesia]

Abstract

Bladder perforation due to the obturator nerve reflex (ONR) is a serious complication during TUR of bladder tumor using the conventional TUR system; requiring monopolar electrocautery and non-conductive solution as perfusate. Recently, the TURis system, which employs bipolar electrocautery and physiological saline as perfusate, has been developed. Electrical resistance of physiological saline and human tissues are approximately 40 and 500 omega, respectively. Thus, theoretically, electrical current flows between the resection loop and the recovery electrode integrated in the outer sleeve of the endoscope, without forming electrical circuit in the patient's body; suggesting possible elimination of the ONR. Here we describe a case of bladder perforation during surgery using the TURis system; the ONR was exaggerated during the procedure to stop bleeding at the lateral wall using bipolar electrocautery. In addition to this case, there have been a few reports of the ONR during surgery using the TURis system, and it is reported that weak electrical current may pass through the patient's body in the TURis system. We consider that evaluation of the necessary precautions, such as the obturator nerve block, for the prevention of the ONR is important even in the surgery using the TURis system.