The various types of spinal fusion operations are associated with specific complications. A through knowledge of the procedures and possible complications, as well as meticulous surgical technique, can help minimize these. Once complications do occur, prompt recognition and treatment should minimize the long-term sequelae.

The new Iglesias resectoscope that allows simultaneous suction, continuous irrigation and low intravesical pressure is described. Advantages of this instrument include no interruption, better endoscopic vision by a continuous clear inflow of more than 600 ml. per minute, a low intravesical pressure less than 10 mm. Hg during the transurethral resection, shorter operating time, less bleeding, easier teaching and no more wet floor and wet surgeon. Since the entire amount of irrigating fluid is collected blood loss can be calculated and the amount of absorption can be determined.

A new Iglesias resectoscope with simultaneous suction and continuous irrigation has been described. Advantages of this instrument include: No interruption, better endoscopic vision, decreased intravesical pressure during the TUR, shorter operating time, less bleeding, easier teaching and no more wet floor or wet surgeon. Since the entire amount of irrigating fluid is collected, blood loss can be calculated and amount of absorption determined.