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INTRODUCTION: Clinically significant prostate cancer (csCaP) with Gleason ≥3 + 4 is found in 10% negative prebiopsy multiparametric (mp) MRI cases and varies widely for equivocal mpMRI cases. The objective of this study was to investigate long-term outcomes of patients with negative and equivocal mpMRIs and to develop a predictive score for csCaP risk stratification in this group. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Patients who underwent an upfront mpMRI between May 2015 and March 2018 with an MRI score Likert 1 to 3 were included in the study. Patients had either a CaP diagnosis at MRI-targeted biopsy or were not diagnosed and attended follow-up in the community. Outcomes were analysed through the Kaplan-Meier estimator and Cox Model. Regression coefficients of significant variables were used to develop a Risk of significant Cancer of the Prostate score (RosCaP). RESULTS: At first assessment 281/469 patients had mpMRI only and 188/469 mpMRI and biopsy, 26 csCaP were found at biopsy, including 10/26 in Likert 3 patients. 12/371 patients discharged without CaP after first assessment were diagnosed with csCaP during a median of 34.2 months' follow-up, 11/12 diagnosis occurred in patients omitting initial biopsy. csCaP diagnosis-free survival was 95.7% in the MRI group and 99.1% in the biopsy group. From these outcomes, a continuous RosCaP score was developed: RosCaP = 0.083 x Age - 0.202 x (1/PSA Density) + 0.786 (if Likert 3), and 4 risk classes were proposed. Limitations include retrospective design and absence of external validation. CONCLUSION: Age, PSA Density and MRI Likert score were significantly associated to the risk of csCaP and utilised to devise the novel RosCap predictive score focused to support risk assessment in patients with negative or equivocal mpMRI results.

Prostate MRI is an essential tool in the diagnostic pathway of prostate cancer and its accurate reading helps decision to biopsy. The aim of this study was to assess the Urology residents' level of confidence in reading and interpreting prostate MRI, their interest in new learning opportunities and whether prostate MRI training should be part of the urology core curriculum during residency.A 23-item survey has been created and distributed via Web to an international cohort of Urology residents over a 3-month period. Surveys obtained from Countries representing10% total distribution of responses were analysed.A total of 304 complete surveys were obtained from Urology residents, with a geographical prevalence from Europe (59.54%, 181/304) and South America (29.28%, 89/304). Only 17-20% of residents reported having received formal prostate MRI training during residency. Overall,20% residents expressed to feel confident in reading and interpreting prostate MRI. As a result,90% Urology trainees stated they would be willing to receive a formal training and would be interested in new learning opportunities in MRI reading and interpretation during residency, independently of their year of training. Despite UK Urology trainees showed to have a higher availability of MRI resources and MRI-based biopsies compared to the other countries, they still expressed concerns in regard to not feeling confident with MRI reading and interpretation and requested a formal training.This survey highlights the need for major learning opportunities and a formal training in prostate MRI reading and interpretation during urology residency.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a condition with multifactorial pathogenesis, quite common among men, especially those above 60 years old. A vascular etiology is the most common cause. The interaction between chronic inflammation, androgens, and cardiovascular risk factors determines macroscopically invisible alterations such as endothelial dysfunction and subsequent atherosclerosis and flow-limiting stenosis that affects both penile and coronary arteries. Thus, ED and cardiovascular disease (CVD) should be considered two different manifestations of the same systemic disorder, with a shared aetiological factor being endothelial dysfunction. Moreover, the penile arteries have a smaller size compared with coronary arteries; thus, for the same level of arteriopathy, a more significant blood flow reduction will occur in erectile tissue compared with coronary circulation. As a result, ED often precedes CVD by 2–5 years, and its diagnosis offers a time window for cardiovascular risk mitigation. Growing evidence suggests, in fact, that patients presenting with ED should be investigated for CVD even if they have no symptoms. Early detection could facilitate prompt intervention and a reduction in long-term complications. In this review, we provide an overview of the pathogenetic mechanisms behind arteriogenic ED and CVD, focusing on the role of endothelial dysfunction as the common denominator of the two disorders. Developed algorithms that may help identify those patients complaining of ED who should undergo detailed cardiologic assessment and receive intensive treatment for risk factors are also analyzed.

Prostate cancer (PCa) diagnostic and therapeutic work-up has evolved significantly in the last decade, with pre-biopsy multiparametric MRI now widely endorsed within international guidelines. There is potential to move away from the widespread use of systematic biopsy cores and towards an individualised risk-stratified approach. However, the evidence on the optimal biopsy approach remains heterogeneous, and the aim of this review is to highlight the most relevant features following a critical assessment of the literature. The commonest biopsy approaches are via the transperineal (TP) or transrectal (TR) routes. The former is considered more advantageous due to its negligible risk of post-procedural sepsis and reduced need for antimicrobial prophylaxis; the more recent development of local anaesthetic (LA) methods now makes this approach feasible in the clinic. Beyond this, several techniques are available, including cognitive registration, MRI–Ultrasound fusion imaging and direct MRI in-bore guided biopsy. Evidence shows that performing targeted biopsies reduces the number of cores required and can achieve acceptable rates of detection whilst helping to minimise complications and reducing pathologist workloads and costs to health-care facilities. Pre-biopsy MRI has revolutionised the diagnostic pathway for PCa, and optimising the biopsy process is now a focus. Combining MR imaging, TP biopsy and a more widespread use of LA in an outpatient setting seems a reasonable solution to balance health-care costs and benefits, however, local choices are likely to depend on the expertise and experience of clinicians and on the technology available.

Fournier’s gangrene (FG) is an infectious necrotising fasciitis of the perineum and genital regions with a high mortality rate. We report the case of a man in his 70s with FG who presented with bladder trigone and prostate colliquation. Bulbar and penile urethra were also injured with multiple fenestrations. Bilateral percutaneous nephrostomy positioning followed by the placement of occluding ureteral catheters preceded the surgical debridement of the necrotic tissues and protective colostomy. There followed periodic sessions of surgical debridement and VAC therapy. The persistent perineal urinary leak required the crafting of a suprapubic surgical cystostomy with bladder neck obliteration through double-layer raphy. The cystostomy maintained the healing tissues free from the constant and damaging urine action. This report describes the successful multistep approach of an FG with deep involvement and colliquation of the bladder neck and prostate reaching the Denonvilliers fascia that ensured the correct healing of tissues.

BACKGROUND: Circumcision as surgical treatment of adult phimosis is not devoid of complications. Efficacy of alternative non-surgical options is unclear. PhimoStop(TM) is a therapeutic protocol which involves the use of appropriately shaped silicone tuboids of increasing size to obtain a non-forced dilation of the prepuce. The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy and durability of results of PhimoStop(TM) device for the treatment of adult male phimosis. METHODS: A prospective trial was conducted between 2018 and 2020 on 85 consecutive adult male patients affected by phimosis and with an indication for circumcision. Patients were treated with PhimoStop(TM) protocol and they were evaluated at baseline and after treatment through a subjective (patient self-reported information on various domains of his sexual function) and an objective assessment (evaluation of phimosis severity grade according to the Kikiros scale pre- and post-treatment, re-assessment of indication for circumcision post-treatment and validated questionnaires scores). Primary endpoint was to avoid the scheduled circumcision in 33% of the patients enrolled. RESULTS: Seventy-one patients (84%) completed the device usage phase as per study protocol. Median duration of tuboid application was 60 days. Thirty-seven patients (52.1%) had no indication for circumcision after treatment. Even considering patients lost to follow-up as failures, primary endpoint was reached in 43.5% of cases. There was a significant reduction of the grade of phimosis after treatment (P

Basic simulation training in endourology was established with the endoscopic stone treatment step 1 (EST-s1), which is now recognized worldwide for training and examination. Following on from EST-s1, the endoscopic stone treatment step 2 (EST-s2) was started by the European Association of Urology (EAU) sections. Objective: We describe the methodology used in the development of EST-s2 assessment curriculum. Materials and Methods: The "full-life cycle curriculum development"template was followed for curriculum development, focusing on intermediate training of EST protocol with complex endourologic tasks. A cognitive task analysis (CTA) was run in accordance with EAU Urolithiasis guidelines. The protocol and its details underwent a first consensus by Delphi method with EAU Urolithiasis Section experts in March 2017. Once the outcome and metrics were decided, curriculum development was carried out. Purpose-built stones were developed, and simulator system requirement was defined. Preliminary testing was done in European Urology Residents Education Programme 2019 and in phase five the protocol was finalized with full tutor instruction sheet. Results: The EST-s2/A curriculum development took 38 months and involved EAU Uro-technology and urolithiasis sections with coordination from the European School of Urology training group. Starting from the initial CTA, a 1277-word revision with preliminary task description was produced. Nine intermediate skills were identified and included in the final training protocol. The training content and session evaluations were carried out by 26 experts and 16 final year trainees, respectively. Although the experts agreed that EST-s2/A protocol was well structured (96%), covered the complex endourologic maneuvers (92%), and was useful to optimize and improve hands-on-training (HoT) sessions (92%), the overall evaluation was scored 4.25/5 by trainees. Conclusion: We describe the development methodology for intermediate EST curriculum, which also provides a roadmap on developing other HoT protocols in future. Patients Summary: In this report we described the development of the novel intermediate training curriculum for EST, called EST-s2, which took 3 years of collaborative work inside the EAU. This article is aimed to strengthen the standards in curriculum development and clearly describe the background of this new EAU official endourology protocol.

Background Prostate biopsy supported by transperineal image fusion has recently been developed as a new method to the improve accuracy of prostate cancer detection. Objective To describe the Ginsburg protocol for transperineal prostate biopsy supported by multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) and transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) image fusion, provide learning points for its application, and report biopsy results. The article is supplemented by a Surgery in Motion video. Design, setting, and participants This single-centre retrospective outcome study included 534 patients from March 2012 to October 2015. A total of 107 had no previous prostate biopsy, 295 had benign TRUS-guided biopsies, and 159 were on active surveillance for low-risk cancer. Surgical procedure A Likert scale reported mpMRI for suspicion of cancer from 1 (no suspicion) to 5 (cancer highly likely). Transperineal biopsies were obtained under general anaesthesia using BiopSee fusion software (Medcom, Darmstadt, Germany). All patients had systematic biopsies, two cores from each of 12 anatomic sectors. Likert 3–5 lesions were targeted with a further two cores per lesion. Outcome measurements and statistical analysis Any cancer and Gleason score 7–10 cancer on biopsy were noted. Descriptive statistics and positive predictive values (PPVs) and negative predictive values (NPVs) were calculated. Results and limitations The detection rate of Gleason score 7–10 cancer was similar across clinical groups. Likert scale 3–5 MRI lesions were reported in 378 (71%) of the patients. Cancer was detected in 249 (66%) and Gleason score 7–10 cancer was noted in 157 (42%) of these patients. PPV for detecting 7–10 cancer was 0.15 for Likert score 3, 0.43 for score 4, and 0.63 for score 5. NPV of Likert 1–2 findings was 0.87 for Gleason score 7–10 and 0.97 for Gleason score ≥4+3=7 cancer. Limitations include lack of data on complications. Conclusions Transperineal prostate biopsy supported by MRI/TRUS image fusion using the Ginsburg protocol yielded high detection rates of Gleason score 7–10 cancer. Because the NPV for excluding Gleason score 7–10 cancer was very high, prostate biopsies may not be needed for all men with elevated prostate-specific antigen values and nonsuspicious mpMRI. Patient summary We present our technique to sample (biopsy) the prostate by the transperineal route (the area between the scrotum and the anus) to detect prostate cancer using a fusion of magnetic resonance and ultrasound images to guide the sampling.

Ellagic acid (EA) is a naturally occurring polyphenolic compound endowed with strong antioxidant and anticancer properties that is present in high quantity in a variety of berries, pomegranates, and dried fruits. The antitumor activity of EA has been mostly attributed to direct antiproliferative and apoptotic effects. Moreover, EA can inhibit tumour cell migration, extra-cellular matrix invasion and angiogenesis, all processes that are crucial for tumour infiltrative behaviour and the metastatic process. In addition, EA may increase tumour sensitivity to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The aim of this review is to summarize the in vitro and in vivo experimental evidence supporting the anticancer activity of pure EA, its metabolites, and EA-containing fruit juice or extracts in a variety of solid tumour models. The EA oral administration as supportive therapy to standard chemotherapy has been recently evaluated in small clinical studies with colorectal or prostate cancer patients. Novel formulations with improved solubility and bioavailability are expected to fully develop the therapeutic potential of EA derivatives in the near future.

Rationale and Objectives To investigate the performance of diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) in discriminating benign tissue, low- and high-grade prostate adenocarcinoma (PCa). Materials and Methods Forty-eight patients with biopsy-proven PCa of different Gleason grade (GG), who provided written informed consent, were enrolled. All subjects underwent 3T DWI examinations by using b values 0, 500, 1000, 1500, 2000, and 2500 s/mm2 and six gradient directions. Mean diffusivity, fractional anisotropy (FA), apparent kurtosis (K), apparent kurtosis-derived diffusivity (D), and proxy fractional kurtosis anisotropy (KFA) maps were obtained. Regions of interest were selected in PCa, in the contralateral benign zone, and in the peritumoral area. Histogram analysis was performed by measuring mean, 10th, 25th, and 90th (p90) percentile of the whole-lesion volume. Kruskal–Wallis test with Bonferroni correction was used to assess significant differences between different regions of interest. The correlation between diffusion metrics and GG and between DKI and DTI parameters was evaluated with Pearson's test. ROC curve analysis was carried out to analyze the ability of histogram variables to differentiate low- and high-GG PCa. Results All metrics significantly discriminated PCa from benign and from peritumoral tissue (except for K, KFAp90, and FA). Kp90 showed the highest correlation with GG and the best diagnostic ability (area under the curve = 0.84) in discriminating low- from high-risk PCa. Conclusion Compared to DTI, DKI provides complementary and additional information about prostate cancer tissue, resulting more sensitive to PCa-derived modifications and more accurate in discriminating low- and high-risk PCa.

To provide an overview of the anatomical landmarks needed to guide a retropubic (Retzius)-sparing robot-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP), and a step-by-step description of the surgical technique that maximizes preservation of the periprostatic neural network. The anatomy of the pelvic fossae is presented, including the recto-vesical pouch (pouch of Douglas) created by the reflections of the peritoneum. The actual technique of the trans-Douglas, intrafascial nerve-sparing robotic radical prostatectomy is described. The technique allows the prostate gland to be shelled out from under the overlying detrusor apron and dorsal vascular complex (DVC-Santorini plexus), entirely avoiding the pubovesical ligaments. There is no need to control the DVC, since the line of dissection passes beneath the plexus. Three key points to ensure enhanced nerve preservation should be respected: (1) the tips of the seminal vesicles, enclosed in a "cage" of neuronal tissue; a seminal vesicle-sparing technique is therefore advised when oncologically safe; (2) the external prostate-vesicular angle; (3) the lateral surface of the prostate gland and the apex. The principles of tension and energy-free dissection should guide all the maneuvers in order to minimize neuropathy. Using robotic technology, a complete intrafascial dissection of the prostate gland can be achieved through the Douglas space, reducing surgical trauma and providing excellent functional and oncological outcomes.

Background Nephrolithiasis is a common condition with several studies documenting an increased prevalence over the past four decades. EAU and AUA guidelines recommend 24-hour urine metabolic evaluation in high-risk stone formers. Aim of this study is to retrospectively evaluate the first three years of experience with LithoTest® (Biohealth Italia Srl, Turin, Italy) through the analysis of demographic, clinical and biochemical data collected from a large cohort of patients with kidney stones. Methods We retrospectively analyzed data from the LithoCenter database, including data from outpatient consultations, between January 2007 and December 2009 from all over Italy. LithoTest® was performed through a 24-hour urine collection and included measurements of urine volume and pH, 24-hour excretion of creatinine as well as main cations and anions, including calcium, magnesium sodium potassium, ammonium, uric acid, oxalate, citrate, phosphate, inorganic sulphate and chloride. Urine state of saturation for calcium oxalate (βCaOx), calcium hydrogen phosphate or brushite (βbsh) and uric acid (βUA) were also calculated by means of the computer program LithoRisk. Brand's test for cystinuria was also carried out. Statistical analysis was performed using the S-PSS software v. 22.0. Results The number of patients with data available for analysis was 435, of whom 236 were male (54%) and 199 female (46%). Complete 24-hour urine measurements were available for all 435 patients. Compared to men, women had significantly lower values for creatinine, urate, oxalate, phosphate, sodium, potassium, magnesium and chloride excretion, whereas 24-hour pH and citrate excretion were higher. No significant differences were found for the other examined variables. βCaOx and βUA were significantly higher in men than women, whereas no significant difference was found for βbsh. There was a direct relationship between calcium and sodium urine excretion. Excessive sodium excretion was recorded in 191 patients (44%) and low urine volumes in 201 (46.2%). Hyperoxaluria was observed in 118 patients (27.3%), hypercalciuria in 115 (26.6%), hyperuricosuria in 153 (35.4%), hypomagnesuria in 96 (22.2%), and hypocitraturia in 134 patients (31%). Hyperexcretion of sodium, hypocitraturia and hyperoxaluria were most frequent in males. βCaOx was significantly higher in the setting of hypercalciuria, hypocitraturia, hyperoxaluria and urine pH below 5.5. Conclusions Our findings in a large cohort of high-risk stone-forming patients show significant differences in urinary metabolic profiles between men and women. Carrying on the collection and analysis of data by LithoTest® from 2009 to 2015 and matching urinary and dietary data could eventually improve our understanding on the metabolic profile of stone-formers in Italy.

To evaluate the efficacy of prostate cancer (PCa) detection by the electronic nose (EN) on human urine samples. Urine samples were obtained from candidates of prostate biopsy (PB). Exclusion criteria were a history of urothelial carcinoma or other malignant disease, urine infection, fasting for

Objectives: To evaluate the histopathology of small renal tumor biopsies following cryoablation. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated small renal tumor biopsy specimens after cryoablation treatment for renal cell carcinoma and determined the ability to differentiate tumor types, effect on nuclear grading, immunohistochemical staining, and if the number of freeze cycles affected interpretation. Results: Of the biopsy specimens, 66% were diagnostic of tumor and 34% showed normal renal parenchyma. Tumor subtype was determined in 91% of diagnostic cases. Nuclear grading was affected due to freeze effect, complicating the assessment of chromatin pattern and nucleolar details at low magnification. In particular, the distinction between Fuhrman nuclear grades I and II was compromised; these were designated as low nuclear grade. Immunohistochemical staining was retained similar to untreated tumors. Tumor subtyping was not affected after one or two freeze cycles. Conclusions: Biopsies performed immediately after cryoablation can be used to render an optimal histologic diagnosis.

This study aimed to compare the pentafecta rates between laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP) and robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RALP) and to identify prognostic factors predicting the pentafecta for each technique.This prospective comparative study enrolled 248 consecutive male patients 70 years of age or younger with clinically localized prostate cancer [PCa: age ≤ 70 years, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) ≤ 10 ng/ml, biopsy Gleason score ≤ 7] who were fully continent, potent, and candidates for bilateral nerve-sparing (BNS) LRP or RALP. The pentafecta rates between LRP and RALP were compared. A logistic regression model was created to evaluate independent factors for achieving pentafecta.In the final analysis, 91 LRP and 136 RALP patients were evaluated. The median follow-up period was 21 months for the 91 LRP patients and 18 months for the 136 RALP patients (p = 0.07). Of the 227 patients, 87 reached pentafecta [25 LRP patients (27.5 %) vs 62 RALP patients (45.6 %), p = 0.006]. Of the 140 patients who failed pentafecta, 90 (64.3 %) missed a single parameter. In these cases, erectile deficit was the leading cause of pentafecta failure, with a significant [corrected] difference between groups (80 % LRP cases that missed potency recovery [corrected] vs 53.3 % RALP, p = 0.007). Lower age, lower pathologic stage, and RALP are significantly associated with pentafecta as independent factors. For the pT3 disease, the two techniques did not differ significantly.Patients submitted to BNS RP have low possibilities of achieving pentafecta. Use of the robotic platform by a single surgeon significantly enhances the possibility of achieving pentafecta independently of age and pathologic stage. Potency was the most difficult outcome to reach after surgery, and it was the main factor leading to pentafecta failure. LRP and RALP provide equivalent pentafecta rates for the pT3 disease and similar "tetrafecta" outcomes when potency recovery is not included among the postoperative expectations of the patient.

Aim of this pilot study was to assess the feasibility of a home-based transcutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (TTNS) protocol in patients responding to percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS ).16 overactive bladder syndrome (OAB) patients, responding to PTNS, were included. Patients performed a flexible home protocol of TTNS. Satisfied patients were considered "subjective responders"; patients not showing a ≥10% increase of urgency/urgency incontinence episodes/day were considered "objective responders".14/16 patients were followed up for a mean of 19.7 months. All patients were considered subjective responders; 13 were considered objective responders. The mean number of stimulations/week was 1.6 (1-3).After this pilot study, it is possible to conclude that home-based TTNS is feasible. Nevertheless, further randomized trials are needed before drawing any conclusions.

Introduction Premature ejaculation (PE) is a highly prevalent and complex syndrome that remains poorly defined and inadequately characterized. Pharmacotherapy represents the current basis of lifelong PE treatment. Aim The goal of this study was to assess the role of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5‐Is) in the treatment of patients with PE without associated erectile dysfunction (ED). Main Outcome Measure The posttreatment intravaginal ejaculatory latency time was used as the primary end point of efficacy. Methods A systematic review of the literature was performed by electronically searching the MedLine database for peer‐reviewed articles regarding the mechanism of action and the clinical trials of PDE5 in the management of PE. A meta‐analysis of these clinical studies was performed to pool the efficacy. Results Twenty‐nine articles that examined the supposed mechanisms of action and 14 articles that reported data from clinical studies were reviewed. The PDE5 may exert their influence by increasing the levels of nitric oxide both centrally (reducing sympathetic drive) and peripherally (leading to smooth‐muscle dilatation of the seminal tract). These drugs may also induce peripheral analgesia to prolong the duration of the erection, increase confidence, improve the perception of ejaculatory control and overall sexual satisfaction, and decrease the postorgasmic refractory time for achieving a second erection after ejaculation. Concerning the efficacy, the meta‐analysis shows an overall positive effect for the use of PDE5 as monotherapy or as components of a combination regimen in the treatment of PE. The major limitations of the published literature included poor study design, the absence of solid methodology, which was characterized by the lack of a unique PE definition, and the lack of appropriate endpoints for outcome evaluation of a placebo control arm and of Institutional Review Board approval. Conclusion There is inadequate, partial basic, and clinical evidence to support the use of PDE5 for the treatment of PE. Asimakopoulos AD, Miano R, Agro EF, Vespasiani G, and Spera E. Does current scientific and clinical evidence support the use of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors for the treatment of premature ejaculation? A systematic review and meta‐analysis. J Sex Med 2012;9:2404–2416.

Objective:To test high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) as salvage first-line treatment for palpable, TRUS-evidenced, biopsyproven locally recurrent prostate cancer (CaP) after radical prostatectomy (RP). Materials and methods:Nineteen patients with palpable, TRUS-evidenced, biopsy-proven local recurrence of CaP after RP, unwilling to undergo salvage radiotherapy (SRT), underwent HIFU as a single-session procedure. Pre-, intra-, and postoperative data including early and late complications, and oncologic outcomes (PSA nadir, biochemical recurrence (BCR)-free survival, and need of secondary adjuvant treatment) were prospectively evaluated. Success was defined as PSA nadir!0.1 ng/ml obtained within 3 months from HIFU. In case of PSA nadir!0.1 ng/ml or PSA increase"1 ng/ml above the PSA nadir, a biopsy of the treated lesion was performed, and if negative, maximum androgen blockade (MAB) was adopted. In case of positive biopsy, RT was performed. Failure was defined as use of secondary adjuvant treatment (MAB or RT). Results:Median follow-up was 48 months. All cases were performed as overnight procedure. No case of urethrorectal fistula or anastomotic stricture was observed. Two cases of acute urinary retention were resolved with prolonged urethral catheterization. Four cases of stress urinary incontinence were observed; 2 (mild incontinence) were resolved after pelvic floor exercises within 6 months, while 2 cases of severe incontinence required surgical minimally invasive treatment;17/19 patients (89,5%) were classified as success. Two patients failed to show a PSA nadir"0.1 ng/ml. During follow-up, 8/17 patients (47%) were classified as failure, with consequent total rate of failures 10/19 (52.6%). A statistically significant difference was observed in pre-HIFU median PSA (2 vs. 5.45 ng/ml, respectively,P#0.013) and Gleason score of the RP specimen (P#0.01) between the success and failure group. Conclusions:Salvage first-line HIFU for palpable, TRUS-evidenced, biopsy-proven local recurrence of CaP is a feasible, minimally invasive day-case procedure, with an acceptable morbidity profile. It seems to have a good cancer control in the short- and mid-term. Patients with lower pre-HIFU PSA level and favorable pathologic Gleason score presented better oncologic outcomes. A prospective randomized trial with an adequate recruitment and follow-up is necessary to confirm our preliminary oncologic results. © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

BACKGROUND: To evaluate the association between metabolic syndrome (MS) and prostate cancer diagnosis and grade in patients undergoing prostate biopsy. METHODS: From 2009 onwards, a consecutive series of patients undergoing 12-core prostate biopsy for PSA value ≥4 ng/ml and/or positive digital rectal examination (DRE) were prospectively enrolled. Body mass index (BMI), waist circumferences, and blood pressure were measured before the biopsy. Blood samples were tested for: PSA, fasting glucose, triglycerides, and cholesterol HDL. MS presence was defined according to Adult Treatment Panel III criteria. RESULTS: One hundred ninety five patients were enrolled with a median age and PSA of 69 years and 5.6 ng/ml respectively. Median BMI was 27.6 kg/m(2) with 64 patients (33%) being classified as obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m(2) ). Eighty-six patients (44%) had MS. Eighty-three patients (43%) had cancer on biopsy; 37 (45%) with MS and 46 (55%) without (P = 0.48). PSA was independently associated with higher risk of cancer (OR 1.12/1 U PSA, P = 0.01). Out of 83 patients with prostate cancer, 42 (51%) had Gleason score 6 (12 (28.5%) presented a MS) and 41 (49%) a Gleason score ≥7 (25 (61%) presented a MS). The presence of MS was not associated with an increased risk prostate cancer (OR: 0.97, P = 0.94) but with an increased risk of Gleason ≥7 (OR: 3.82; P = 0.013). CONCLUSIONS: In our single center study, MS is associated with an increased risk of high grade Gleason score when prostate cancer is diagnosed on biopsy. However, these results should be confirmed in a larger multicenter study. Prostate © 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

To evaluate the effect of tamsulosin on reducing the serum levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in patients with lower urinary tract symptoms and an elevated PSA level.From June 2004 to July 2006, patients with lower urinary tract symptoms, a PSA level ofor=4 ng/mL, and a maximal flow rate of15 mL/s received tamsulosin 0.4 mg daily for 2 months. They were then scheduled for 12-core prostate biopsy. PSA determination and a uroflow study were performed before biopsy.A total of 80 patients completed the present study. The mean patient age was 66.3 years, and the mean PSA level was 7.8 +/- 8.4 ng/mL at baseline and 7.1 +/- 9.1 ng/mL after treatment (P.001). A total of 29 patients (36.25%) were diagnosed with prostate cancer from the biopsy findings. A significant increment in the PSA level was observed in patients with prostate cancer (6.7 versus 7.9 ng/mL; P = .002). A significant decrease in the PSA level was observed in patients with negative biopsy findings (6.9 versus 5.1 ng/mL, P = .000). Of the 38 patients with a decrease in the PSA level, 1 (2.6%) was diagnosed with prostate cancer and 37 (97.4%) with an benign prostatic hyperplasia/prostatitis. Of the 42 patients with no change in the PSA level, 28 (66.7%) had prostate cancer and 14 (33.3%) had negative findings. A change in PSA level after treatment gave a sensitivity of 96.6%, specificity of 72.5%, and diagnostic accuracy of 81% for prostate cancer.Treatment with tamsulosin seemed to reduce the PSA levels and identified patients at high risk of prostate cancer.

The development and introduction in clinical practice of finasteride, the first potent inhibitor of steroid 5-alpha-reductase that inhibits the conversion of testosterone to its active form dihydroxytestosterone, has created the possibility to prevent and treat prostatic disorder by manipulating and lowering the androgens levels in the prostate. Randomised and placebo-controlled trials have demonstrated the benefit of finasteride in men with enlarged prostatic gland owing to benign prostatic hyperplasia in terms of symptoms and urinary flow rate improvements. The Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial has clearly stated the chemopreventive properties of finasteride for prostate cancer but the necessity to provide such preventive therapy to a specific group of men with a higher risk to develop a clinically significant disease is under discussion. Finasteride is administered orally as a single daily dose. We recommend a 5 mg dose.

Objective: To compare acute and chronic effects of l-dopa on bladder function in levodopa-naive Parkinson disease (PD) patients who had urinary urgency. Methods: We evaluated 26 l-dopa–naive PD patients at a university-based PD center with a first urodynamic session with a double examination: in the off treatment condition and 1 hour after acute challenge with carbidopa/l-dopa 50/200 mg; then, a chronic l-dopa monotherapy was administered (mean dose 300 ± 150 mg). Two months later, patients underwent a second urodynamic session with a single evaluation 1 hour after the acute carbidopa/l-dopa challenge. Results: The first acute l-dopa challenge significantly worsened bladder overactivity (neurogenic overactive detrusor contractions threshold [NDOC-t; 32% of worsening] and bladder capacity [BC; 22% of worsening]); on the contrary, l-dopa challenge during chronic administration ameliorated the first sensation of bladder filling (FS; 120% of improvement), NDOCT-t (93% improvement), and BC (33% of improvement) vs the values obtained with acute administration. An 86% significant improvement of FS in comparison with the basal value was observed. Conclusions: The acute and chronic l-dopa effects may be due to the different synaptic concentrations or to the activation of postsynaptic mechanisms obtained by chronic administration.

The term infection stones refers to calculi that occur following urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by urease-producing gram-negative organisms. They consist of magnesium ammonium phosphate, carbonate apatite and monoammonium urate. Alkaline urine is most favorable to their formation. Urinary tract obstruction, neurogenic bladder, voiding dysfunction, temporary or indwelling urinary catheters, distal renal tubular acidosis and medullary sponge kidney are considered the main risk factors for developing infection stones. Urinalysis and urine culture are essential for diagnosis. A typical finding on imaging is a moderately radiopaque, staghorn or branched stone. Curative treatment is possible only by eliminating all of the stone fragments and by eradicating UTI. A variety of operative and pharmaceutical approaches is available. Metaphylactic treatment is mandatory to prevent recurrences. The relationship between urinary stones and UTIs is well known and shows two different clinical pictures: (1) stones that develop following UTIs (infection stones) which play a key role in stone pathogenesis, and (2) stones complicated by UTIs (stones with infection) which are metabolic stones that passively trap bacteria from coexistent UTIs and may consist of calcium or non-calcium. This article presents an overview of infection stones, analyzing the epidemiology, composition, pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of this type of calculi.

The aim of the current study was to evaluate the use of fresh-frozen concurrently with embalmed cadavers as initial training models for flexible ureteroscopy (fURS) in a group of urologists who were inexperienced in retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS). Twelve urologists involved in a cadaveric fURS training course were enrolled into this prospective study. All the participants were inexperienced in fURS. Theoretical lectures and step-by-step tips and tricks video presentations on fURS were used to incorporate the technical background of the procedure to the hands-on-training course and to standardize the operating steps of the procedure. An 8-item survey was administered to the participants upon initiation and at the end of the course. Pre- and post-training scores were similar for each question. All the participants successfully completed the hands-on-training tasks. Mean pre-training duration [3.56 ± 2.0 min (range 1.21–7.46)] was significantly higher than mean post-training duration [1.76 ± 1.54 min (range 1.00–6.34)] (p = 0.008). At the end of the day, the trainers checked the integrity of the collecting system both by endoscopy and by fluoroscopy and could not detect any injury of the upper ureteral wall or pelvicalyceal structures. The functionality of the scopes was also checked, and no scope injury (including a reduction in the deflection capacity) was noted. The fURS simulation training model using soft human cadavers has the unique advantage of perfectly mimicking the living human tissues. This similarity makes this model one of the best if not the perfect simulator for an effective endourologic training.

Background Recently, many studies have focused on the potential diagnostic value of the promoter hypermethylation of the GSTP1 gene in prostate cancer. Method A total of 144 patients, undergoing eight-core prostatic biopsies for a clinically suspected prostate cancer, was analyzed. Two different tissue samples were collected from the same area of the prostate and then divided for both genomic DNA extraction and pathological examination. In order to perform molecular analysis, prostatic tissue samples were digested with the methylation-sensitive restriction enzyme Hpa II and then amplified by conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Results Prostate cancer was diagnosed in 42/144 patients, and promoter hypermethylation of GSTP1 gene was detected in 31/42 of prostate cancer (sensitivity=74%) and in 2/102 of negative specimens (specificity=98%). A significant association between GSTP1 promoter hypermethylation both with a Gleason score ≥7 (Fisher's exact P =0.01) and the presence of Gleason grade 4 and/or grade 5 (Fisher's exact P =0.03) was found. Conclusion Promoter hypermethylation of the GSTP1 gene is a highly specific—but not a very sensitive—marker of prostate cancer. Our data showed a significant association between the methylation status of the GSTP1 gene and Gleason score and grade, suggesting a potential prognostic value of this epigenetic DNA alteration.

Background Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) is considered the most effective treatment to reduce recurrence and progression of non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) but can induce local side effects leading to treatment discontinuation or interruption. Aim of this exploratory study is to investigate if the sequential administration of Hyaluronic acid (HA) may reduce local side effects of BCG. Methods 30 consecutive subjects undergoing BCG intravesical administration for high risk NMIBC were randomized to receive BCG only (Group A) or BCG and HA (Group B). A 1 to 10 Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for bladder pain, International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and number of micturitions per day were evaluated in the two groups before and after six weekly BCG instillations. Patients were also evaluated at 3 and 6 months by means of cystostopy and urine cytology. Results One out of 30 (3,3%) patients in group A dropped out from the protocol, for local side effects. Mean VAS for pain was significantly lower in group B after BCG treatment (4.2 vs. 5.8, p = 0.04). Post vs. pre treatment differences in VAS for pain, IPSS and number of daily micturitions were all significantly lower in group B. Three patients in group A and 4 in group B presented with recurrent pathology at 6 month follow up. Conclusions These preliminary data suggest a possible role of HA in reducing BCG local side effects and could be used to design larger randomized controlled trials, assessing safety and efficacy of sequential BCG and HA administration. Trial registration NCT02207608 (ClinicalTrials.gov) 01/08/2014 Policlinico Tor Vergata Ethics Committee, resolution n 69–2011.

We tested the effects of 5-Hz rTMS over the motor cortex in multiple sclerosis (MS) subjects complaining of lower urinary tract symptoms either in the filling or voiding phase. Our data show that motor cortex stimulation for five consecutive days over two weeks ameliorates the voiding phase of the micturition cycle, suggesting that enhancing corticospinal tract excitability might be useful to ameliorate detrusor contraction and/or urethral sphincter relaxation in MS patients with bladder dysfunction. Multiple Sclerosis 2007; 13: 269–271. http://msj.sagepub.com

Laparoscopic nephrectomy (LN) in end-stage autosomic-dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) requires a large abdominal incision for the specimen extraction. The objective of this study was to describe our technique of LN for end-stage ADPKD followed by morcellation (LNM) of the specimen and extraction through a minimal abdominal incision. The medical records of 19 consecutive patients who underwent pretransplant LNM between 2008 and 2011 by a single experienced laparoscopic surgeon were analyzed. Morcellation was performed with the Gynecare Morcellex™ Tissue morcellator, Ethicon. All cases but one were completed laparoscopically. Mean specimen weight was 1,026.8 g. Mean duration of the procedure, estimated blood loss, and hospital stay were 131.3 min, 52.1 ml, and 7.9 days, respectively. Specimens were extracted through a 12-mm trocar in 10/18 patients and through a 3-cm incision in 9/18 cases. Postoperatively, three complications were observed (Clavien grades II, I, and II). The only case of incisional hernia was observed in the converted procedure. Major limitation of the study is its retrospective design. In our preliminary series and in the hands of a very experienced laparoscopist, LNM for ADPKD appears as a modern, mini-invasive, and safe technique. Specimen’s extraction through a small abdominal incision reduces postoperative pain and incisional hernias and guarantees the final cosmetic result of laparoscopy. The reduced overall morbidity could reduce the period between nephrectomy and transplantation.

To evaluate the histopathology of small renal tumor biopsies following cryoablation.We retrospectively evaluated small renal tumor biopsy specimens after cryoablation treatment for renal cell carcinoma and determined the ability to differentiate tumor types, effect on nuclear grading, immunohistochemical staining, and if the number of freeze cycles affected interpretation.Of the biopsy specimens, 66% were diagnostic of tumor and 34% showed normal renal parenchyma. Tumor subtype was determined in 91% of diagnostic cases. Nuclear grading was affected due to freeze effect, complicating the assessment of chromatin pattern and nucleolar details at low magnification. In particular, the distinction between Fuhrman nuclear grades I and II was compromised; these were designated as low nuclear grade. Immunohistochemical staining was retained similar to untreated tumors. Tumor subtyping was not affected after one or two freeze cycles.Biopsies performed immediately after cryoablation can be used to render an optimal histologic diagnosis.

Despite the growth of the digital era, rapid spread of information, and real-time communication, there are several urologists throughout the world who do not have access to urological scientific programs, academic training programs, or memberships to well-established urological organizations, associations, and societies. The International Young Urological Association (IYUA) is a non-profit organization that was created to specifically address and facilitate access for urologists that for geopolitical, economical, or other reasons would not otherwise have these opportunities available to them. The IYUA's non-competitive nature allows for urologists to use the IYUA as an initial platform to network with globally established organizations to deliver scientific training programs, courses, and meetings in less common locations. It is our objective to demonstrate the IYUA's mission and facets that may contribute to the increased academic and scientific education of professionals in Urology where the access to these resources can be challenging.

We have examined the expression of 2 tumor-associated metalloproteinases, MMP-2 and MMP-9, in 48 primary cultures of prostatic carcinoma (PRCA) and 33 cultures of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). PRCA cultures secrete significantly more MMP-9 than their benign counterparts. Secreted MMP-2 did not differ significantly in cultures but was lower in PRCA cultures. Two cultures of benign origin exhibited high MMP-9 secretion and growth patterns consistent with a malignancy. Both cases were followed and successively re-evaluated histologically and rediagnosed as organ-confined PRCA. MMP expression in culture may be of predictive value in the identification of incidental PRCA. MMP-9 secretion and its ratio with MMP-2 were highest in epithelial cultures from invasive, metastatic tumors when compared both to disease confined to prostate gland and to locally extensive disease. MMP-9 secretion was greatest also in cultures derived from tissues of high Gleason histological grade. Active MMP-9 species were detected in 15 cultures (31%) of PRCA. Active MMP-2 species were observed in cultures of both BPH and PRCA origin in almost the same amounts. Although average levels were not significantly different, as a ratio to proform species, a significant elevation was observed in cultures of PRCA origin. We propose, therefore, that an elevated expression of MMP-9 and a high ratio of MMP-9 to MMP-2 in short-term prostate epithelial cultures is of potential diagnostic and prognostic significance.

Due to a technical error, Dr. Manuel Ferraro was omitted from the author list of this article. The correct author details appear above.

To present a critical overview of the current literature on the role of laparoscopy for the surgical treatment of patients with large prostatic adenomas.A MedLine search for peer-reviewed studies on laparoscopic simple prostatectomy (LSP) was performed. The clinical studies that reported most of the following information were included: number of patients, prostate volume, operative time, blood loss, hospital stay, and the duration of catheterization, as well as functional outcomes and complications. Articles reporting a mean total prostate volume of80 mL or a mean prostatic adenoma of60 mL were excluded. The review was performed according to the PRISMA statement.Fourteen articles on LSP were included in this systematic review with a total of 626 patients treated. Both transperitoneal and extraperitoneal approaches, as well as transvesical and transcapsular routes, have been described. Eleven articles were case-series and three were comparative retrospective nonrandomized studies. When compared with open simple prostatectomy (OP), LSP is associated with a less blood loss and a reduced irrigation requirement, a shorter postoperative catheterization period, and a shorter hospital stay, at the expense of an extended operative time. The limited number of patients treated, the selection biases due to the retrospective nature of several published articles on LSP, and the short follow-up periods are evident limits of the literature. I-square test demonstrated a high heterogeneity (93%) and consequently a high variability in the intervention effects in terms of maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax).Even if LSP seems feasible and safe, there is still limited evidence regarding its long-term outcomes compared with OP.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the accuracy of contrast-enhanced (18)F-choline PET/CT in restaging patients with prostate cancer after radical prostatectomy in relation to PSA, PSA velocity (PSAve) and PSA doubling time (PSAdt). METHODS: PET/CT was performed in 49 patients (age range 58-87 years) with rising PSA (mean 4.13 ng/ml) who were divided in four groups according to PSA level: 4 ng/ml. PSAve and PSAdt were measured. PET and CT scans were interpreted separately and then together. RESULTS: PET/CT diagnosed relapse in 33 of the 49 patients (67%). The detection rates were 20%, 55%, 80% and 87% in the PSA groups 4 ng/ml, respectively. PET/CT was positive in 7 of 18 patients (38.9%) with a PSA 2 ng/ml. PET/CT was positive in 7 of 25 patients (84%) with PSAdt 6 months, and was positive in 26 of 30 patients (86%) with a PSAve >2 ng/ml per year, and in 7 of 19 patients (36.8%) with PSAve 2 ng/ml, PSAdt 2 ng/ml per year. CT is useful for detecting bone metastases that are not (18)F-choline-avid. The use of intravenous contrast agent seems unnecessary.

To evaluate the association between metabolic syndrome (MS) and prostate cancer diagnosis and grade in patients undergoing prostate biopsy.From 2009 onwards, a consecutive series of patients undergoing 12-core prostate biopsy for PSA value ≥4 ng/ml and/or positive digital rectal examination (DRE) were prospectively enrolled. Body mass index (BMI), waist circumferences, and blood pressure were measured before the biopsy. Blood samples were tested for: PSA, fasting glucose, triglycerides, and cholesterol HDL. MS presence was defined according to Adult Treatment Panel III criteria.One hundred ninety five patients were enrolled with a median age and PSA of 69 years and 5.6 ng/ml respectively. Median BMI was 27.6 kg/m(2) with 64 patients (33%) being classified as obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m(2) ). Eighty-six patients (44%) had MS. Eighty-three patients (43%) had cancer on biopsy; 37 (45%) with MS and 46 (55%) without (P = 0.48). PSA was independently associated with higher risk of cancer (OR 1.12/1 U PSA, P = 0.01). Out of 83 patients with prostate cancer, 42 (51%) had Gleason score 6 (12 (28.5%) presented a MS) and 41 (49%) a Gleason score ≥7 (25 (61%) presented a MS). The presence of MS was not associated with an increased risk prostate cancer (OR: 0.97, P = 0.94) but with an increased risk of Gleason ≥7 (OR: 3.82; P = 0.013).In our single center study, MS is associated with an increased risk of high grade Gleason score when prostate cancer is diagnosed on biopsy. However, these results should be confirmed in a larger multicenter study. .