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Purpose The purpose of this study was to evaluate end-of-life resource utilization and costs for prostate cancer patients during the last year of life in Korea. Materials and methods The study used the National Health Information Database (NHIS-2017-4-031) of the Korean National Health Insurance Service. Healthcare claim data for the years 2002 through 2015 were collected from the Korean National Health Insurance System. Among 83,173 prostate cancer patients, we enrolled 18,419 after excluding 1,082 who never claimed for the last year of life. Results From 2006 to 2015, there was a 3.2-fold increase the total number of prostate cancer decedents. The average cost of care during the last year of life increased over the 10-year period, from 14,420,000 Korean won to 20,300,000 Korean won, regardless of survival time. The cost of major treatments and medications, other than analgesics, was relatively high. Radiologic tests, opioids, pain control, and rehabilitation costs were relatively low. Multiple regression analysis identified age and living in rural area as negatively associated with prostate cancer care costs, whereas income level and a higher number of comorbidities were positively associated. Conclusions Expenditure of prostate cancer care during the last year of life varied according to patient characteristics. Average costs increased every year. However, the results suggest underutilization of support services, likely due to lack of alternative accommodation for terminal prostate cancer patients. Further examination of patterns of utilization of healthcare resources will allow policymakers to take a better approach to reducing the burden of prostate cancer care.

Purpose To compare surgical outcomes between the lateral and the posterior approach for retroperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomy (RLA). Materials and methods We retrospectively reviewed the records of 130 patients who underwent RLA for adrenal tumors by a single surgeon between January 2015 and December 2018. Patient characteristics and perioperative outcomes were analyzed and compared between two surgical groups: lateral approach (n=56) and posterior approach (n=74). Results There were no significant differences in perioperative outcomes between the two groups except for operative time (lateral approach, 105.4±41.21 minutes vs. posterior approach, 71.5±31.51 minutes; p=0.001). In the lateral approach group, two patients (3.6%) underwent open conversion, but there were no major complications in either group (Clavien-Dindo classification ≥3). Male sex was associated with an operative time of ≥90 minutes in the univariate analysis (p=0.019), but this effect did not remain significant in the multivariate analysis. In the multivariate analysis, large tumor size (>5 cm; p=0.020) and preoperative diagnosis of malignancy (p=0.043) were significantly associated with an operative time of ≥90 minutes. Conclusions Both the lateral and posterior approaches for RLA were performed safely with similar operative outcomes and are therefore comparable options for the treatment of adrenal tumors. In addition, large tumor size and preoperative diagnosis of malignancy are associated with longer operative times.

Aim To elucidate the precise cellular and molecular mechanisms that underlie urethral fibrogenesis. Methods Endoluminal electrocautery injury (using Karl Storz 10 Fr. Pediatric urethroscope) was employed in male rabbits (n = 6) to create mucosal injury. Retrograde urethrogram (RUG) and endoluminal ultrasound techniques were used to assess severity and changes in luminal cross-sectional area. Six control rabbits were subjected to sham injury, in which the electrocautery was inserted but not powered. Urethral tissues were harvested 30 days postinjury and subjected to RNA sequencing and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) to determine changes in gene expression. Histological, immunostaining, and Western blot studies were used to determine changes in protein expression of known markers of fibrosis (eg, collagen, Integrinαv, GIV/Girdin, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), and pSMAD1,2,3). Results Trichrome staining confirmed increased connective tissue in urethral scar tissues. Immunostaining revealed a potential role for epithelial to mesenchymal cell transition (EMT) and positive labeling for all fibrotic markers (eg, collagen-1, Integrin αv, GIV/Girdin, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), and SMAD1,2,3). Western blot analysis confirmed increased protein levels of these fibrotic markers. Conclusion Our RNA sequencing and qPCR studies, in conjunction with our protein data, suggest that urethral mucosal fibrogenesis may be mediated by novel fibrogenic signaling pathways involving Wnt-β catenin, TGF-β, GIV/Girdin, and EMT which lead to increased collagen deposition. Therapeutic strategies targeting these pathways may be beneficial in attenuating fibrogenesis and stricture progression.

Purpose To investigate the efficacy and safety of 0.4 mg of tamsulosin in patients with nocturia not responding to 0.2 mg. Methods Patients with intractable nocturia after treatment with 0.2 mg of tamsulosin for>1 month were included in a multicenter, prospective, observational, single-arm study. Patients were prescribed 0.4 mg of tamsulosin and followed up for 2 months to assess nocturnal voiding and nocturia-related bother. Changes in the mean number of nocturnal voids, the proportion of 50% responders, 3-day frequency-volume chart parameters, and questionnaire scores were assessed. Results Sixty-two patients were prescribed 0.2 mg of tamsulosin, of whom 56 were prescribed 0.4 mg of tamsulosin. Ten patients dropped out. A single case of orthostatic hypotension was reported. The mean age was 68 years. After 1 and 2 months of taking 0.4 mg of tamsulosin, 23.9% and 22.7% of patients demonstrated a>50% reduction of nocturia, and 16.1% and 19.4% of patients rated the treatment as "very effective," respectively. Dose escalation to 0.4 mg of tamsulosin, compared to 0.2 mg, did not show an additional effect on reducing nocturnal urine volume. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that lower serum sodium levels (odds ratio [OR], 0.41, P=0.037) and the presence of urge incontinence (OR, 7.08, P=0.036) were predictors of a significant improvement of nocturia in response to 0.4 mg of tamsulosin. Conclusion Dose escalation may yield a significant improvement of nocturia in>20% of patients, and may be especially helpful in patients with lower sodium levels and urge incontinence.

PURPOSE This study aims to investigate the trend in medical travel by non-Seoul residents to Seoul for treatment of prostate cancer and also to investigate the possible factors affecting the trend. Materials and Methods This study represents a retrospective cohort study using data from theKoreanNationalHealth Insurance System from 2002 to 2015. Annual trends were produced for proportions of patients who traveled according to the age group, economic status and types of treatment. Multiple logistic analysiswas used to determine factors affecting surgeries at medical facilities in Seoul among the non-Seoul residents. RESULTS A total of 68,543 patients were defined as newly diagnosed prostate cancer cohorts from 2005 to 2014. The proportion of patients who traveled to Seoul for treatment, estimated from cases with prostate cancer-related claims, decreased slightly over 9 years (28.0 at 2005 and 27.0 at 2014, p=0.02). The average proportion of medical travelers seeking radical prostatectomy increased slightly but the increase was not statistically significant (43.1 at 2005 and 45.4 at 2014, p=0.26). Income level and performance ofrobot-assisted radical prostatectomy were significant positive factors for medical travel to medical facilities in Seoul. Combined comorbidity diseases and year undergoing surgery were significant negative factors for medical travel to medical facilities in Seoul. CONCLUSION The general trend of patients travelling from outside Seoul for prostate cancer treatment decreased from 2005 to 2014. However, a large proportion of traveling remained irrespective of direct distance from Seoul.

Objectives To estimate the prevalence of fluoroquinolone-resistant rectal flora in patients undergoing transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate needle biopsy and to identify the high-risk groups. Methods From January 2015 to March 2016, rectal swabs of 557 men who underwent transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate needle biopsy were obtained from five institutions. Clinical variables, including demographics, rectal swab culture results and infectious complications, were evaluated. Univariable and multivariable analyses were used to identify the risk factors for fluoroquinolone resistance of rectal flora and infectious complications. Results The incidence of fluoroquinolone-resistant and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase production was 48.1 and 11.8%, respectively. The most common fluoroquinolone-resistant bacteria was Escherichia coli (81% of total fluoroquinolone-resistant bacteria, 39% of total rectal flora), and 16 (2.9%) patients had infectious complications. Univariable and multivariable analysis of clinical parameters affecting fluoroquinolone resistance showed no factor associated with fluoroquinolone resistance of rectal flora. The clinical parameter related to infectious complications after prostate biopsy was a history of operation within 6 months (relative risk 6.60; 95% confidence interval 1.99-21.8, P = 0.002). Conclusions These findings suggest that a risk-based approach by history taking cannot predict antibiotic resistance of rectal flora, and physicians should consider targeted antibiotic prophylaxis or extended antibiotic prophylaxis for Korean patients undergoing transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy because of high antibiotic resistance of rectal flora.

Purpose To investigate the feasibility of a polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffold fabricated by three-dimensional (3D) printing for tissue engineering applications for tunica albuginea. Materials and methods PCL scaffolds were fabricated by use of a 3D printing system. Two scaffolds were fabricated that differed in the architecture of the lay-down pattern: a 90°PCL scaffold and a 45°PCL scaffold. Mechanical properties were measured to compare tensile strength between the two scaffold types. The scaffolds were characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM) images. The scaffolds were seeded with fibroblast cells, and the ability of these scaffolds to support the cells was evaluated by immunofluorescence staining. Results The PCL scaffolds had well-structured shapes, regular arrays, and good interconnection in SEM images. The horizontal and vertical Young's modulus coefficients were 13 and 12 MPa for the 90°PCL scaffold and 19 and 21 MPa for the 45°PCL scaffold, respectively. Microscopy images revealed that human fibroblast cells covered the entire scaffold surface. Immunofluorescence staining of ER-TR7 confirmed that the fibroblast cells remained viable and proliferated throughout the time course of the culture. Conclusions This preliminary study provides experimental evidence for the feasibility of 3D printing of PCL scaffolds for tissue engineering applications of tunica albuginea.

Background A complete enumeration study was conducted to evaluate trends in national practice patterns and direct medical costs for prostate cancer (PCa) in Korea over a 10-year retrospective period using data from the Korean National Health Insurance Service. Methods Reimbursement records for 874,924 patients diagnosed between 2002 and 2014 with primary PCa according to the International Classification of Disease (ICD) 10th revision code C61 were accessed. To assess direct medical costs for patients newly diagnosed after 2005, data from 68,596 patients managed between January 2005 and 31 December 2014 were evaluated. Results From 2005 to 2014, the total number of PCa patients showed a 2.6-fold increase. Surgery and androgen deprivation therapy were the most common first-line treatment, alone or within the context of combined therapy. Surgery as a monotherapy was performed in 23.5% of patients in 2005, and in 39.4% of patients in 2014. From 2008, the rate of robot-assisted RP rose sharply, showing a similar rate to open RP in 2014. Average total treatment costs in the 12 months post-diagnosis were around 10 million Korean won. Average annual treatment costs thereafter were around 5 million Korean won. Out-of-pocket expenditure was highest in the first year post-diagnosis, and ranged from 12 to 17% thereafter. Conclusions Between 2005 and 2014, a substantial change was observed in the national practice pattern for PCa in Korea. The present data provide a reliable overview of treatment patterns and medical costs for PCa in Korea.

Purpose In vitro evaluation of polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffolds fabricated by a three-dimensional (3D) printing technique for tissue engineering applications in the corpus cavernosum. Materials and methods PCL scaffolds were fabricated by use of a 3 D bioprinting system. The 3D-printed scaffolds had interconnected structures for cell ingrowth. Human aortic smooth muscle cells (haSMCs) were seeded on the scaffold and cultured for 5 days, and then human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were also added on the scaffolds and co-cultured with haSMCs for up to 7 days. The ability of these scaffolds to support the growth of HUVECs and haSMCs was investigated in vitro. 3 D strand-deposited scaffolds were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images and porosity measurement. Results SEM images showed the surface of the PCL scaffolds to be well covered by HUVECs and haSMCs. Immunofluorescent staining of α-flk1 and α-smooth muscle actin on the HUVECs and haSMCs seeded scaffolds confirmed that the cells remained viable and proliferated throughout the time course of the culture. Conclusion 3 D bioprinting of a PCL scaffold is feasible for co-culturing of HUVECs and haSMCs. This was a preliminary study to investigate the possibility of fabrication of tissue-engineered corpus cavernosum.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES:Urological oncologists have difficulties to provide optimal personalize care due to rapid alteration of scientific research results, medical development, and treatment g...

Introduction: We hypothesized that modified totally tubeless percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL) without indwelling ureteral stent would minimize postoperative discomfort without complications. Aim : To evaluate the safety, efficacy, and morbidity of standard, tubeless, and modified totally tubeless PNL as well as the usefulness of modified totally tubeless PNL. Material and methods: From November 2011 to February 2015, 211 patients who underwent PNL consecutively were enrolled in this study and divided into 3 groups (group 1: standard, group 2: tubeless, group 3: modified totally tubeless PNL). Patient and stone characteristics, operation time, hemoglobin change, length of hospitalization, stone-free rate, analgesic requirement, and perioperative complications were analyzed and compared among the 3 groups. Results: There were no significant differences in preoperative patient characteristics among the three groups. In the postoperative analysis, the three groups had similar operation time, stone-free rate, perioperative fever and transfusion rate, but group 2 showed superior results in terms of length of hospitalization (p = 0.001). Group 2 and group 3 had a lower analgesic requirement (p = 0.010). Immediate postoperative hemoglobin change (p = 0.001) and tube site complications (p = 0.001) were more common in group 1. Conclusions : Modified totally tubeless PNL was not inferior in terms of postoperative outcomes and safety compared with the standard and tubeless PNL, and avoided the postoperative stent-related symptoms and cystoscopy for double-J stent removal. Modified totally tubeless PNL could be an alternative treatment of choice for management of renal or upper ureteral stones in selected patients.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of povidone-iodine rectal disinfection and targeted antimicrobial prophylaxis in men undergoing transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy based on rectal swab culture results. From January 2011 to December 2015, we studied differences in infectious complications in men who received povidone-iodine rectal disinfection with targeted antimicrobial prophylaxis and those who received empirical prophylaxis before transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy. Clinical variables including demographics, prior antibiotic, rectal swab culture results, povidone-iodine rectal cleansing, antibiotic prophylaxis, and infectious complications were evaluated. Patients were divided into three groups as follows: Group A received no povidone-iodine rectal cleansing but received empirical antimicrobial prophylaxis; group B received povidone-iodine rectal cleansing and empirical antimicrobial prophylaxis; and group C received povidone-iodine rectal cleansing and targeted antimicrobial prophylaxis. Patients were divided into group A (n = 192; 13.2 %), group B (n = 579; 39.9 %), or group C (n = 679; 46.8 %). In groups A and B, all patients received fluoroquinolone antimicrobial prophylaxis. Group C patients received targeted antimicrobial prophylaxis according to antibiotic resistance of rectal flora, and 71.1 % of these received fluoroquinolone antimicrobial prophylaxis. Infectious complication rates were 3.6, 2.9, and 1.3 % in group A, group B, and group C, respectively. Incidences of acute prostatitis and bacteremia were significantly lower in group C (p = 0.041 and p = 0.049, respectively) than in the other groups. In the era of quinolone resistance, the combination of povidone-iodine rectal cleansing and targeted antibiotic prophylaxis may reduce the rate of infectious complications.

Purpose: This study aimed to determine the predictors of ipsilateral hydronephrosis after ureteroscopic lithotripsy for ureteral calculi. Materials and Methods: From January 2010 to December 2014, a total of 204 patients with ureteral calculi who underwent ureteroscopic lithotripsy were reviewed. Patients with lack of clinical data, presence of ureteral rupture, and who underwent simultaneous percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL) were excluded. Postoperative hydronephrosis was determined via computed tomographic scan or renal ultrasonography, at 6 months after ureteroscopic lithotripsy. Multivariable analysis was performed to determine clinical factors associated with ipsilateral hydronephrosis. Results: A total of 137 patients were enrolled in this study. The mean age of the patients was 58.8±14.2 years and the mean stone size was 10.0±4.6 mm. The stone-free rate was 85.4%. Overall, 44 of the 137 patients (32.1%) had postoperative hydronephrosis. Significant differences between the hydronephrosis and nonhydronephrosis groups were noted in terms of stone location, preoperative hydronephrosis, impacted stone, operation time, and ureteral stent duration (all, p

Objective To investigate the effects of testosterone on cavernosal endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) in a castrated rat model. Materials and methods In all, 45 male Sprague–Dawley rats (12-weeks old) were divided into control, surgical castration, and castration with testosterone replacement groups. The rats were castrated under ketamine anaesthesia, and testosterone was administered by daily subcutaneous injection of 3 mg/kg testosterone propionate. The corpus cavernosum was obtained after perfusion with 10 mL saline via the abdominal aorta 4 weeks later. The expression of EPC-specific markers [cluster of differentiation 34 (CD34), fetal liver kinase 1 (Flk1), and vascular endothelial (VE)-cadherin] was evaluated by flow cytometry analysis and immunofluorescence staining. Results CD34+/Flk1+ and CD34+/VE-cadherin+ cells were detected in the cavernosal sinusoidal endothelial space. Flow cytometry analysis showed that CD34 and Flk1 double positive cells (EPCs) comprised ≈3.79% of the corpus cavernosum in normal rats. The percentage of EPC marker-positive cells decreased significantly in the castration group (2.8%; P < 0.05) and was restored to 3.56% after testosterone supplementation. Confocal microscopy revealed that the numbers of CD34+/Flk1+ and CD34+/VE-cadherin+ cells decreased in castrated rats compared with controls, but were similar to control levels in rats receiving testosterone replacement. Conclusions The EPC markers were expressed in the cavernosal sinusoidal endothelial space, and the numbers of resident EPCs were regulated by testosterone. These results suggest that testosterone replacement therapy may improve erectile function by modulating EPCs in patients with hypogonadism.

Background: We investigated the efficacy of desmopressin in elderly patients with nocturnal polyuria (NP) to evaluate its effects on sleep quality. Methods: Patients with NP (defined as the nighttime urine production >33% of total 24-hour urine volume determined from a frequency-volume chart) were recruited. Desmopressin (0.2 mg) was treated orally at bedtime for 12 weeks. The participants completed the Medical Outcomes Study (MOS) Sleep Scale. Results: The mean patient age was 62.7 ± 13.0 (range 42-78 years). The mean symptom duration was 42.2 ± 39.7 months. The number of nocturia episodes (from 3.49 ± 1.83 to 2.03 ± 1.35, p = 0.01), nocturnal urine volume (p = 0.01), NP index (p = 0.01), and nocturia index (p = 0.01) decreased significantly after treatment with desmopressin. Among the MOS Sleep Scale categories, hours slept/night (p = 0.042), shortness of breath (p = 0.019), and adequacy of sleep (p = 0.001) changed significantly with a decrease in the number of nocturia episodes. Adverse events were mild. Conclusions: Desmopressin is an effective treatment for NP and improved sleep quality in elderly men.

Retrograde urethrogram (RUG) and voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) are currently the gold standard imaging technique for diagnosis of urethral stricture and determination of stricture location. However, RUG and VCUG have multiple limitations. These techniques require exposure to ionizing radiation, the quality is operator and patient dependent, there is a moderate degree of invasiveness with urethral catheterization, can have artifacts because of patient positioning that underestimates stricture length. The development of novel imaging modalities without ionizing radiation to accurately evaluate the presence, location, length, and lumen cross-sectional area (CSA) of the urethral stricture would be of great value. The objective of this study was to develop a novel endoluminal ultrasound (ELUS) imaging technique that permits the accurate quantitation of urethral stricture.Urethral strictures were created in rabbits (n = 5) by electrocautery and an ELUS technique was developed for subsequent luminal imaging. A 3.2F 40 MHz ultrasound (US) probe was introduced transurethrally and infused with US contrast agent. Images were recorded as the catheter was pulled back at a constant speed to acquire tomographic images. Lumen CSA over the entire urethral length was calculated using a custom methodology and validated in our laboratory.Urethral luminal CSA over the entire length of urethra before and after experimental stricture development was quantified including the length of stenosis. Intra- and interobserver variability (r = 0.99 for both) was excellent.Feasibility of ELUS as a quantitative technique to determine healthy urethral lumen and stricture CSA was demonstrated. The translational potential for a nonionizing imaging modality to better describe CSA, length, location, and uninvolved urethral CSA of the stricture is a significant improvement over current methodology.

This is a protocol for a Cochrane Review (Intervention). The objectives are as follows: To assess the effects of testosterone compared to placebo or other medical treatments in men with sexual dysfunction.

To investigate whether histological inflammation detected in an initial prostate biopsy can predict the risk of prostate cancer on a repeat biopsy. This was a retrospective study of 171 patients who underwent repeat prostate biopsy for persistently elevated prostate-specific antigen after an initial negative biopsy result. The enrolled patients were divided into two groups according to the results of the repeat biopsy: the noncancer group (n = 126) and the cancer group (n = 45). Multivariate regression analysis was used to determine the effect of inflammation grade, aggressiveness, and prostate-related parameters on the detection of prostate cancer at the repeat biopsy. Prostate inflammation grade (p = 0.005) and aggressiveness (p = 0.001) in the initial biopsy were significantly different between the cancer and noncancer groups. Factors associated with the risk of prostate cancer at the repeat biopsy were age [odds ratio (OR) 1.08; 95 % confidence interval (CI) 1.03–1.14], prostate-specific antigen density (OR 24.30; 95 % CI 9.3–62.9), prostate-specific antigen velocity (OR 1.05; 95 % CI 1.01–1.09), and inflammation aggressiveness (OR 0.05; 95 % CI 0.01–0.27). A histological inflammatory finding at the initial prostate biopsy was negatively associated with prostate cancer detection in repeat biopsy. This result could be useful to determine the need for repeat prostate biopsy in patients with persistently elevated prostate-specific antigen.

Objectives To evaluate the surgical feasibility of laparoscopic adrenalectomy using the lateral retroperitoneal approach for the treatment of large pheochromocytomas, and to identify the preoperative risk factors for intraoperative hypertension. Methods We retrospectively reviewed 51 patients who underwent laparoscopic adrenalectomy using the lateral retroperitoneal approach for the treatment of pheochromocytomas. Patient characteristics and perioperative outcomes were analyzed and compared between the two study groups based on tumor size: group A (n = 27, ≤6 cm) and group B (n = 24, ˃6 cm). Results There was no significant difference in preoperative characteristics between the two groups except for tumor size (P = 0.001) and urinary metanephrine (P = 0.011). Group B patients required longer operating time (P = 0.008), had a greater estimated blood loss (P = 0.001) and hemoglobin change (P = 0.002). However, no significant differences were observed in perioperative complications and mortality. Multivariate analysis showed that symptomatic pheochromocytomas (P = 0.004) and tumor size (P = 0.007) were significant risk factors for intraoperative hypertension. Conclusions Laparoscopic adrenalectomy using the lateral retroperitoneal approach for pheochromocytomas can be regarded as a treatment option, even for tumors measuring >6 cm. Symptomatic pheochromocytomas and large tumor size seem to represent risk factors for intraoperative hypertension.

// Ho Song Yu 1,* , Jun Eul Hwang 3,* , Ho Seok Chung 1 , Yang Hyun Cho 1 , Myung Soo Kim 1 , Eu Chang Hwang 1 , Kyung Jin Oh 1 , Sun-Ouck Kim 1 , Seung Il Jung 1 , Taek Won Kang 1 , Dong Deuk Kwon 1 , Kwangsung Park 1 , Soo Bang Ryu 1,2 , Sung-Hoon Jung 3 , Young Hoe Hur 4 , Joon Hwa Noh 5 , Myung Ki Kim 6 , Ill Young Seo 7 , Chul-Sung Kim 8 , Sung Gu Kang 9 , Seok Ho Kang 9 and Jun Cheon 9 1 Department of Urology, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea 2 Chonnam National University Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Gwangju, Korea 3 Department of Hemato-Oncology, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea 4 Department of General Surgery, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea 5 Department of Urology, Kwangju Christian Hospital, Gwangju, Korea 6 Department of Urology, Chonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju, Korea 7 Department of Urology, Institute of Wonkwang Medical Science, Wonkwang University School of Medicine, Iksan, Korea 8 Department of Urology, Chosun University School of Medicine, Gwangju, Korea 9 Department of Urology, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea * These authors have contributed equally to this work as first co-authors Correspondence to: Eu Chang Hwang, email: // Keywords : renal insufficiency, chronic, carcinoma, transitional cell, prognosis Received : January 02, 2017 Accepted : March 06, 2017 Published : March 15, 2017 Abstract Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine the effect of preoperative chronic kidney disease (CKD) on the prognosis of patients with upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) who had undergone radical nephroureterectomy (RNU). Results: The median follow-up period was 31.1 months (interquartile range: 16.2-55.7 months). Among the study patients, 224 patients in the non-CKD group were selected via propensity score matching. The median recurrence-free, cancer-specific, and overall survival were significantly shorter for patients with preoperative CKD than for non-CKD patients ( p = 0.001, p = 0.001, and p = 0.001, respectively). According to multivariable Cox regression analysis, preoperative CKD was related to worse recurrence-free (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.81, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.15-2.86, p = 0.011), cancer-specific (HR: 2.44, 95% CI: 1.44-4.14, p = 0.001), and overall survival (HR: 1.66, 95% CI: 1.15-2.40, p = 0.007). Methods: A total of 566 patients who underwent RNU at 6 institutions from 2004 to 2014 were retrospectively reviewed. Of these patients, 342 had an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥ 60 ml/min/1.73 m 2 (non-CKD group) and 224 patients had an eGFR

Purpose: Systemic inflammatory responses, which are defined in terms of the Glasgow prognostic score (GPS), have been reported to be independent predictors of unfavorable outcomes in various human cancers. We assessed the utility of the GPS as a predictor of intravesical recurrence after radical nephroureterectomy (RNU) in upper urinary tract carcinoma (UTUC). Materials and Methods: We collected data for 147 UTUC patients with no previous history of bladder cancer who underwent RNU from 2004 to 2012. Associations between perioperative clinicopathological variables and intravesical recurrence were analyzed by using univariate and multivariate Cox regression models. Results: Overall, 71 of 147 patients (48%) developed intravesical recurrence, including 21 patients (30%) diagnosed with synchronous bladder tumor. In the univariate analysis, performance status, diabetes mellitus (DM), serum albumin, C-reactive protein, GPS, and synchronous bladder tumor were associated with intravesical recurrence. In the multivariate analysis, performance status (hazard ratio [HR], 2.33; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.41–3.85; p=0.001), DM (HR, 2.04; 95% CI, 1.21–3.41; p=0.007), cortical thinning (HR, 2.01; 95% CI, 1.08–3.71; p=0.026), and GPS (score of 1: HR, 6.86; 95% CI, 3.69–12.7; p=0.001; score of 2: HR, 5.96; 95% CI, 3.10–11.4; p=0.001) were independent predictors of intravesical recurrence. Conclusions: Our results suggest that the GPS as well as performance status, DM, and cortical thinning are associated with intravesical recurrence after RNU. Thus, more careful follow-up, coupled with postoperative intravesical therapy to avoid bladder recurrence, should be considered in these patients.

Objective Patients with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) have a higher prevalence of cardiovascular disease. We evaluated the correlation between LUTS and cardiovascular risk factors in men presenting with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Methods We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 295 men with transurethral resection of the prostate for the treatment of BPH and LUTS. Risk factors for cardiovascular disease included: hypertension, diabetes mellitus (DM), smoking, and dyslipidemia. The severity of LUTS measured by the International Prostatic Symptom Score (IPSS), prostate volume, prostate specific antigen (PSA), maximal urinary flow rate (Qmax), and postvoid residual urine (PVR) in subjects with or without cardiovascular risk factors were compared. Results IPSS-total (22.9 ± 7.8 vs. 21.2 ± 7.3, P = 0.01) and obstructive symptom score (13.3 ± 5.2 vs. 11.9 ± 4.7, P = 0.01) was significantly different between men with hypertension and without cardiovascular risk factors. There was no significant difference of variables between subjects with DM, smoking or dyslipidemia and without cardiovascular risk factors. In the Pearson correlation, the systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BP) were related with prostate volume (r = 0.138, P = 0.040; r = 0.163, P = 0.020), IPSS-total (r = 0.139, P = 0.043; r = 0.138, P = 0.043), and an obstructive symptom score (r = 0.168, P = 0.014; r = 0.143, P = 0.037), respectively. Conclusions Men with hypertension are more likely to have a higher IPSS and large prostate volume than men without hypertension. This finding implicates a pathophysiological association between hypertension and LUTS, and the need to manage comorbid symptoms simultaneously.

To evaluate the effect of bent distortion of the image of the prostate on the accuracy of 3-dimensional measurements during transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS).TRUS images were obtained prospectively from 60 patients with prostate cancer. The degree of rectal compression on the probe was varied in each case to obtain a typical bent distortion image (BDI) and a minimally bent image (MBI). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) served as the reference. Axial and midsagittal BDI, MDI, and MRI were selected. Three-dimensional prostate diameters (height, width, and length) and volume were obtained from all images by 2 independent observers. The data were analyzed by using a paired t test, intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), and Bland-Altman plots.The MBI and BDI diameters differed significantly (P .001). All ICCs for the MBI diameters and volume and the ICCs for BDI length and volume exceeded 0.9, which indicates high measurement reliability. However, the ICCs for BDI height and width were below 0.9. When the difference in MBI or BDI relative to MRI was calculated for each variable, the MBI differences were all significantly smaller than the BDI differences (P .001).Bent distortion during TRUS affects the accuracy of measurements. MBI is also morphologically more realistic than BDI. Therefore, to minimize prostatic image distortion, the rectal probe should be placed so that the posterior wall of the prostate is as flat as possible.

BMI = body mass indexCT = computed tomographyDVT = deep vein thrombosisEBL = estimated blood lossEERPE = endoscopicextraperitoneal radicalprostatectomyECE = extracapsularextensionEP = extraperitoneal approachGS = Gleason sumHGPIN = high-grade prostaticintraepithelial neoplasiaLN = lymph nodeLRP = laparoscopic radicalprostatectomyMRI = magnetic resonanceimagingNA = not availableOR = odds ratioPCa = prostate cancerPE = pulmonary embolismPLND = pelvic lymph nodedissectionPSA = prostate-specificantigenRARP = robot-assisted radicalprostatectomyRRP = radical retropubicprostatectomySMR = surgical marginpositive rateSVI = seminal vesicleinvasionTP = transperitoneal approach

inoculation of uropathogenic E. coli strain UTI89. The extent of neutrophil infiltration in the urothelium was assessed using confocal immunofluorescence microscopy (CIM) and urine neutrophil elastase activity assay. The presence of intracellular bacterial community (IBC) formed by UTI89 was assessed at 12 hours, 24 hours, 3 days and 7 days post-UTI89 inoculation with CIM using an anti-E. coli antibody and bacterial culture. Functional defects in neutrophil migration were verified using in vitro migration assays of peripheral blood neutrophils. RESULTS: Hyperglycemia (440-470 mg/dl) was induced reproducibly and permanently in all the mice administered with STZ with little inter-animal variation. Normal controls and STZ-induced DM mice transurethrally inoculated with UTI89 showed marked differences in neutrophil infiltration at all time points examined. While in normal mice neutrophils that infiltrated into the urothelium were most frequently seen surrounding IBCs, in STZ mice the neutrophils were very sparse and scattered. There was a 2-fold reduction of neutrophil elastase at 12 hours post-inoculation in STZ mice than in the normal controls. In contrast, IBCs were considerably more prevalent in STZ mice at 12 and 24 hours post-inoculation. On day 3 and 7 when few IBCs remained in normal mouse urothelium, numerous IBCs were seen in the STZ mice, often lining the entire segment of superficial urothelium. Bacterial culture confirmed the IBC staining data. Finally, in vitro assay showed that neutrophils from the STZ mice were three-fold less migratory than those from the normal mice. CONCLUSIONS: Our data provide the first experimental evidence indicating that diabetic conditions impair neutrophil migration and infiltration into the urothelium, resulting in markedly delayed host responses in IBC clearance and consequently prolonged bladder infection.

RESULTS: 126 patients were enrolled from March 2014 to July 2015. Logistic regression models to predict recovery within 14 days was dependent upon age (below 70, OR 4.11?2.18, p1⁄40.008), retention volume (over 450, OR 0.22?0.14, p1⁄40.017; over 600, OR 0.26?0.15, p1⁄40.024), recent operation (vs. spontaneous, OR 4.38?2.26, p1⁄40.004), and sex (females were less likely with OR 0.11?0.06, p

Introduction: We compared Valsalva leak point pressure (VLPP) in urodynamically proven stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in women at different bladder volumes; examined the relationship between VLPP and cough-induced leak point pressure (CLPP) compared by incontinence severity; and evaluated the influence of bladder volume on each leak point pressure (LPP).Methods: Women with urodynamically proven SUI who underwent serial VLPP and CLPP measurement at bladder volumes of 150, 200, 250, and 300 mL were included in this study (n=228). LPP determination was repeated two times in each subject after finishing one series of LPP measurement. LPP at different bladder volumes was compared by subjective symptom severity of Stamey grade.Results: Patients mean age was 51.3±7.6 years (range: 40‒65 years). Stamey grade I, II, and III was assigned to 68 (29.8%), 102 (44.7%), and 58 (25.4%) patients, respectively. Mean CLPP was higher than VLPP (p=0.002) at every bladder volume. VLPP and CLPP were significantly decreased by the increase of bladder volume (p=0.001). The mean first positive LPPs were significantly lower at higher Stamey grade (p=0.004).Conclusions: LPP is more frequently induced by cough than by the Valsalva maneuver. VLPP and CLPP decreased significantly with bladder filling and those with severe symptoms of SUI are more likely to have low LPP.

We investigated the value of the neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR) as markers of mortality in patients with Fournier's gangrene.Records from 62 patients treated for Fournier's gangrene between 2003 and 2014 were reviewed retrospectively. Data were collected regarding medical history, symptoms, physical examination findings, admission laboratory tests, and the extent of body surface area involved (%). Fournier's Gangrene Severity Index score, NLR, and PLR were calculated. The data were assessed separately for surviving and deceased patients.Of the 62 patients, 36 survived (58%, group 1) and 26 died (42%, group 2). Parameters that were statistically different between the two groups (p 0.05) were the NLR, PLR, Fournier's Gangrene Severity Index score, and admission laboratory parameters, including body temperature, heart rate, bicarbonate, albumin, and serum calcium. The average body surface area affected in group 2 was statistically different from that of group 1 (6.0% versus 2.3%, p = 0.001). A high Fournier's Gangrene Severity Index score (9), high NLR (8), and high PLR (140) were associated more frequently with group 2 patients. Multivariable regression analysis showed that high NLR (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 4.66; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.25-17.3; p = 0.022) and high PLR (adjusted OR, 11.6; 95% CI, 2.7-49.5; p = 0.001) were independent prognostic factors for poor prognosis from Fournier's gangrene. However, the Fournier's Gangrene Severity Index score did not shown any statistically significant effect on mortality (p = 0.086).The Fournier's Gangrene Severity Index scoring system was not associated with determining poor prognosis, however, high NLR and high PLR were associated with predictors of mortality in patients with Fournier's gangrene.

PURPOSE The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of diabetes mellitus (DM) and preoperative glycemic control on prognosis in Korean patients with upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) who underwent radical nephroureterectomy (RNU). MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 566 patients who underwent RNU at six institutions between 2004 and 2014 were reviewed retrospectively. Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression analyses were performed to assess the association between DM, preoperative glycemic control, and recurrence-free, cancer-specific, and overall survival. RESULTS The median follow-up period was 33.8 months (interquartile range, 41.4 months). A total of 135 patients (23.8%) had DM and 67 patients (11.8%) had poor preoperative glycemic control. Patients with poor preoperative glycemic control had significantly shorter median recurrence-free, cancer-specific, and overall survival than patients with good preoperative glycemic control and non-diabetics (all, p=0.001). In multivariable Cox regression analysis, DM with poor preoperative glycemic control showed association with worse recurrence-free survival (hazard ratio [HR], 2.26; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.31 to 3.90; p=0.003), cancer-specific survival (HR, 2.96; 95% CI, 1.80 to 4.87; p=0.001), and overall survival (HR, 2.13; 95% CI, 1.40 to 3.22; p=0.001). CONCLUSION Diabetic UTUC patients with poor preoperative glycemic control had significantly worse oncologic outcomes than diabetic UTUC patients with good preoperative glycemic control and non-diabetics. Further investigation is needed to elucidate the exact mechanism underlying the impact of glycemic control on UTUC treatment outcome.

To evaluate the effect of the prostatic urethral angle (PUA) on the peak flow rate (Qmax) and urinary symptoms in the clinical setting.The records were obtained from a prospectively maintained database for first-visit men with lower urinary tract symptoms. Uroflowmetric measurements, postvoid residual urine volume, and International Prostate Symptom Score were assessed. The prostate-related parameters, including prostate volume, PUA, and intravesical prostatic protrusion, were measured using transrectal ultrasonography. Patients with comorbidities that can affect voiding function or in whom the PUA could not be measured were excluded.A total of 316 patients were included. On multivariate linear regression analysis, the PUA (P = .002) was independently associated with the International Prostate Symptom Score. However, the International Prostate Symptom Score was not influenced by patient age, prostate volume, or intravesical prostatic protrusion. The mean PUA was significantly different according to symptom severity. The mean PUA was 42.2° ± 7.0°, 45.5° ± 9.1°, and 47.3° ± 8.6° in patients with mild, moderate, and severe symptoms, respectively (P = .004, analysis of variance). Although the PUA (P.001) and patient age (P.001) were independent predictors of Qmax, the prostate volume and intravesical prostatic protrusion did not affect the Qmax. The mean PUA was 52.2° ± 7.3° in patients with a Qmax10 mL/s, 45.0° ± 7.9° in those with a Qmax ≥10 mL/s but20 mL/s, and 39.8° ± 7.9° in those with a Qmax of ≥20 mL/s (P.001, analysis of variance).The results of our study has shown that the PUA is significantly associated with the Qmax and symptom scores in men with lower urinary tract symptoms. Our findings suggest that the PUA should be considered in the treatment of male patients with lower urinary tract symptoms.

The purpose of this study was to compare the results of the Q-tip test before and after the tension-free vaginal tape-obturator (TVT-O) in women with stress urinary incontinence (SUI) to determine the value of the Q-tip test in predicting the outcome of transobturator tape (TOT).Between June 2008 and June 2009, 59 women with SUI who underwent the TVT-O procedure and were followed up for at least 6 months were analyzed. Urethral hypermobility was defined as a maximal straining angle greater than 30° as measured by the Q-tip test. Parameters of evaluation included a comprehensive medical history, physical examination, Q-tip test, stress test, and urodynamic study, which included determination of the Valsalva leak point pressure. Cure was defined as no leakage of urine postoperatively either subjectively or objectively, whereas failure was defined as the objective loss of urine during the stress test.The patients were divided into two groups according to their preoperative Q-tip angle:30° (group 1, n=21) and ≥30° (group 2, n=38). The Q-tip angle decreased significantly in both groups: from 25.9 ± 5.98° preoperatively to 18.4 ± 7.23° postoperatively in group 1 (p=0.04) and from 36.6 ± 6.75° preoperatively to 24.1 ± 5.48° postoperatively in group 2 (p=0.03). The difference was obviously pronounced in group 2. The incontinence cure rate was significantly higher in group 2 (97.4 %) than in group 1 (85.7 %; p=0.04).Our results suggest that mobility of the proximal urethra is associated with a high rate of success of the TVT-O procedure.

Objective: Our intent was to investigate the impact of specific parameters—clinical status, performance status (Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG)), C-reactive protein, serum albumin, and inflammation (Glasgow Prognostic Score)—on progression-free survival and overall survival in patients given systemic chemotherapy as the first-line treatment of advanced bladder cancer. Methods: A total of 67 patients treated for advanced bladder cancer in a 7-year period (2004‐ 10) were reviewed. Prior to administration of first-line chemotherapy (gemcitabine plus cisplatin), baseline ECOG performance status, C-reactive protein, albumin, Glasgow Prognostic Score and clinical status were assessed. Patients with both elevated C-reactive protein (.1.0 mg/dl) and low albumin (,3.5 mg/dl) were assigned a Glasgow Prognostic Score of 2, while lesser scores were set when one (Glasgow Prognostic Score 1) or both levels (Glasgow Prognostic Score 0) were within the normal range. To evaluate relationships to progressionfree survival and overall survival, univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted. Results: By multivariate analysis, ECOG performance status (hazard ratio ¼ 3.48, 95% confidence interval 1.87‐6.45, P ¼ 0.001) and hypoalbuminemia (hazard ratio ¼ 2.04, 95% confidence interval 1.10‐3.78, P ¼ 0.023) were found to be factors independently associated with reduced progression-free survival. Factors independently associated with shortened overall survival were ECOG performance status (hazard ratio ¼ 5.32, 95% confidence interval 2.22‐ 12.71, P ¼ 0.001) and Glasgow Prognostic Score 2 (hazard ratio ¼ 7.00, 95% confidence interval 2.53‐19.36, P ¼ 0.001). Conclusions: These outcomes indicate that a systemic inflammatory response coupled with hypoalbuminemia (Glasgow Prognostic Score 2) correlates significantly with shortened overall survival and may thus be useful as a prognostic index in this setting.

Objective To introduce a novel method to successfully remove organized hematoma. Endoscopic evacuation can be troublesome in some patients with a large amount of blood clots or organized hematoma. Methods We retrospectively reviewed medical records of 15 patients who were treated with a so-called “suction and fishing method” for severe clot retention. A large-bore catheter connected with a wall suction unit was inserted into the bladder through the resectoscope sheath, and subsequently a large volume of urine retention and quite a substantial amount of soft clots were removed (suction step). After awhile, negative pressure could not work when the catheter met large and organized fragments of blood clots. In this situation, large blood clots hanging on the catheter tip were removed by gently removing the catheter (fishing step). Results In all patients, clot retention was successfully managed with this method. Clot evacuation was performed without anesthesia in 9 patients when electrocauterization was not planned, and opioid analgesics were sufficient for pain control. In the other 6 patients, clot evacuation and fulguration were performed under anesthesia. Median time for clot evacuation was 20 minutes (range 5–55) and median estimated volume of clot evacuated was 200 mL (range 50–600). There was no procedure-related complication such as bladder rupture. Conclusion The suction and fishing method is a simple, safe, and successful way to evacuate severe organized clot retention. It can resolve intractable clot retention and rapidly relieve related symptoms without anesthesia.

Rationale Persistent Mullerian duct syndrome (PMDS) is rare form of male pseudohermaphroditism characterized by the presence of uterus and fallopian tubes with normal external genitalia and secondary sexual characteristics. Transverse testicular ectopia (TTE) is also a rare form of testicular ectopia that may be associated with PMDS. Patient concerns We present a 2-year-old boy who presented with bilateral non-palpable testes with left inguinal mass. Diagnosis TTE with PMDS. Interventions On exploration, both testes were present in the left inguinal region. Uterus and fallopian tubes were located between the testes. A hysterectomy was perfomed with resection of the underdeveloped fallopian tubes. Bilateral orchiopexy was performed by placing both gonads into subdartos pouches in each scrotum with transseptal approach. Outcomes Both testes were palpable in both the scrotum at 1-year postoperative follow-up and we are planning a regular follow-up. Lessons In case of TTE with PMDS, optimal surgical approach with orchiopexy and excision of Mullerian duct should be needed. A long-term postoperative follow-up is necessary for assessment of malignant transformation and infertility.

Purpose: Few studies have explored the treatment of isolated communicating hydroceles via scrotal incision. We prospectively evaluated the surgical outcomes of such treatment in boys with hydroceles compared with that using traditional, inguinal incision hydrocelectomy. Materials and Methods: Of 347 boys aged 0–12 years who were diagnosed as hydrocele on ultrasonography, 173 boys were assigned to the scrotal incision hydrocelectomy group (group I, n=173) and 172 boys were assigned to the traditional inguinal incision hydrocelectomy group (group II, n=172), and finally 156 boys in group I and 156 boys in group II were included in this study. Surgical outcomes, including postoperative complications and hydrocele relapse rates, were compared between groups. Results: The overall success rates were similar in both groups (group I, 96.8%; group II, 89.1%; p=0.740). The operation time and hospital stay were significantly shorter in group I (30.94±3.95 minutes and 3.94±0.30 days) than in group II (38.02±7.12 minutes and 4.24±0.99 days; p

We compared the efficacy and safety of multiple session 99% ethanol sclerotherapy to single session OK-432 sclerotherapy for the treatment of simple renal cysts.Between September 2004 and November 2006, 41 patients (50 cysts, group 1) underwent sclerotherapy with 99% ethanol at least twice and 48 (61 cysts, group 2) underwent a single session of OK-432 sclerotherapy. Followup was performed with ultrasound or computerized tomography every 3 months for 1 year. Complete regression of the renal cyst or more than 70% reduction with no symptoms was considered successful treatment.There was no significant difference in the mean size of renal cysts between the 2 treatment groups. The overall success rate was 84.0% in group 1 and 98.4% in group 2. For cysts smaller than 500 ml there was a similar complete regression rate between the 2 groups whereas in cysts 500 ml or larger the complete regression ratio of group 2 was higher than group 1. The symptom relief rate of group 2 was higher than group 1. In group 1 there were 2 patients with a recurrent cyst but in group 2 there was no enlargement of the aspirated cysts. For cysts smaller than 200 ml neither treatment group had complications whereas in cysts 200 ml or larger the frequency of complications was higher in group 1.Single session OK-432 sclerotherapy is simpler, safer and more effective than multiple session 99% ethanol sclerotherapy for the treatment of simple renal cysts, especially large cysts.

Objectives An analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between bladder transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) and the surrounding urothelium to help identify what lies behind the mechanism of multifocal tumor development has not yet been performed. We sought to find a new DEG related to the development of bladder TCC. Methods Thirty-nine bladder TCC tissues paired with normal-appearing urothelium tissues obtained from the same patient were used as subjects. Initially, we compared the messenger RNA (mRNA) profiles between normal-appearing urothelium and TCC tissue of 1 patient by using annealing control primer (ACP)-based GeneFishing polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and selective amplification of family members (SAFM) PCR to identify potential DEGs. To validate the results of the ACP data, reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was performed on those of all 39 patients. Results Among the several DEGs discovered in the ACP data, 1 DEG was chosen as the candidate for the RT-PCR, that is present or markedly upregulated in normal-appearing urothelial tissue compared with TCC tissue. Gene sequence searching revealed that this DEG is chicken ovalbumin upstream promoter-transcription factor I (COUP-TFI). Downregulation of COUP-TFI mRNA expression in TCC tissue compared to normal-appearing urothelium tissue of the same patient, irrespective of tumor stage and grade, was confirmed by RT-PCR in 39 patients. Conclusions Our results suggest that the loss of COUP-TFI may play a role in the transition from normal epithelium to TCC. Further characterization of the COUP-TFI gene is expected to give us informations about bladder TCC tumorigenesis.

Purpose The bladder outlet obstruction index (BOOI), also known as the Abrams-Griffiths (AG) number, is the most widely used index for predicting BOO. However, the obstructed prostatic urethra determined by the BOOI is often inconsistent with endoscopically-proven obstruction. We assessed abdominal straining pattern as a novel parameter for improving the prediction of BOO. Materials and Methods We retrospectively reviewed the pressure-flow studies (PFS) and cystourethroscopy in 176 BPH/LUTS patients who were unresponsive to medical therapy. During PFS, some groups of patients tried to urinate with abdominal straining, which can increases intravesical pressure and underestimate BOOI theoretically. Accordingly, the modified BOOI was defined as (PdetQmax+ΔPabd)-2Qmax. Results Ultimately, 130 patients were eligible for the analysis. In PFS, ΔPabd (PabdQmax-initial Pabd) was 11.81±13.04 cmH2O, and it was 0–9 cmH2O in 75 (57.7%), 10–19 cmH2O in 23 (17.7%) and ≥20 cmH2O in 32 (24.6%) patients. An endoscopically obstructed prostatic urethra in 92 patients was correctly determined in 47 patients (51.1%) by the original BOOI versus 72 patients (78.3%) based on the modified BOOI. Meanwhile, an “unobstructed” urethra according to the original BOOI was present in 11 patients (12.0%), whereas according to the modified BOOI, only 2 (2.1%) would be labeled as “unobstructed”. In receiver operating characteristic curves, the area under the curve was 0.906 using the modified BOOI number versus 0.849 in the original BOOI (p

Background and Purpose A tubeless PCNL can reduce postoperative pain, the need for analgesics, hospital stay, and postoperative urinary leakage. However, perioperative or delayed bleeding remains the primary postoperative concern. We demonstrate a simple and cost-effective method to develop a clear nephrostomy tract after completion of a tubeless PCNL. Materials and Methods Four consecutive patients with renal calculi >3cm underwent a tubeless PCNL. We used a 24 Fr nephroscope and a 24 Fr transurethral resectoscope. Intraoperative urologist-directed percutaneous renal access was performed under fluoroscopy. After calculi removal, active bleeders were identified via a clear Amplatz renal sheath. The sheath provided excellent visualization of the nephrostomy tract for the detection of bleeders and surrounding structures. Bleeders were electrocauterized using a roller barrel electrode. During extraction of the renal sheath, the surgeon can confirm hemostasis in the tract and apply intermittent suction. Results Bleeding primarily originated from the torn calyeceal mucosa and the parenchyma. Tract electrocauterization was successful. All patients had mild hematuria, which resolved within two days. The average hemoglobin decrease was 1.65g/dL (0.8-2.1) and no patients required a transfusion. No perioperative complications occurred. On postoperative day 2, the patients could ambulate without a Foley catheter. During three months of follow-up, delayed bleeding or percutaneous urine leakage did not occur. Conclusions Electrocauterization with a roller barrel electrode and a clear Amplatz renal sheath is an effective method to obtain hemostasis after completion of a PCNL. Our technique is cost-effective and readily adapted without the need for additional instruments.

Background Epididymal anomalies and patent processus vaginalis are frequently found in boys with cryptorchidism or hydrocele. We conducted this study to evaluate the association between epididymal anomalies and testicular location or patent processus vaginalis in boys with undescended testis or hydrocele. Methods Children undergoing surgery with undescended testis (group A, 136 boys and 162 testes) or communicating hydrocele (group B, 93 boys and 96 testes) were included. Testicular locations and epididymal anomalies were investigated prospectively. An anomalous epididymis was defined as anomalies of epididymal fusion that consisted of loss of continuity between the testis, the epididymis, and the long looping epididymis. The epididymis was considered normal when a normal, firm attachment between the testis, the caput, and the cauda epididymis was present. Results The mean ages of groups A and B were 24.6 ± 19.7 (range, 8–52 months) and 31.4 ± 20.6 months (range, 10–59 months). The incidence of epididymal anomalies was significantly higher in group A than that in group B (65.4 % vs. 13.5 %, P