Bleeding following retropubic prostatectomy: Simple rectal pressure could be lifesaving

Purpose: A technique to control venous bleeding after retropubic prostatectomy is described. Materials and Methods: A man underwent retropubic prostatectomy for an enlarged benign prostate following which hemorrhage occurred. Results: After failure of other more traditional methods of hemostasis, the bleeding was stopped by direct anterior digital rectal pressure. Conclusions: Simple digital rectal pressure is a safe, effective and logical method of controlling venous bleeding from the dorsal venous or other plexus between the rectum and symphysis pubis.