TAE of the prostate can induce shrinkage of the prostate without compromising the sexual desire and erectile function of animals. This finding suggests that TAE has potential as an alternative treatment for symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia in humans.

No abstract

In conclusion, the cortical bone thickness and Schneider membrane characteristics in Merina sheep and Murciano-Granadina goat allow a perfect training for the modified Caldwell-Luc procedure. However, the approach from the oral cavity needs, in these species, a previous enlargement of the buccal vestibule. The excessive thickness of the cortical bone restricts the use of pigs for this technique.

Suturing technique is of paramount importance in microsurgery. Basic training in this technique can be done using the practice card, a purpose-made polyurethane card. A practice card has been designed in the Minimally Invasive Surgery Centre to closely resemble microsurgical requirements in order to practice and learn correct microsuturing maneuvers. This practice card is a key part of microsurgical training. After many years of experience, and based on a survey we conducted, we can conclude that this practice card is essential for step-by-step microsurgical training. Using this card, the number of animals required to attain necessary microsurgical skills is reduced significantly. Furthermore, costs are also reduced, and the trainee can avoid mistakes during training with live animals, thus optimizing results.

Transarterial prostatic embolization is a safe procedure that can induce prostatic infarction and ablate the prostate. The findings suggest the procedure has potential clinical applications in the care of patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia.