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Abstract Background Multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) is widely used for the diagnosis, surveillance, and staging of prostate cancer. However, it has several limitations, including higher costs, longer examination times, and the use of gadolinium-based contrast agents. This study aimed to investigate the accuracy of preoperatively assessed index tumors (ITs) using biparametric MRI (bpMRI)/transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) fusion biopsy compared with radical prostatectomy (RP) specimens. Methods We included 113 patients diagnosed with prostate cancer through bpMRI/TRUS fusion-guided biopsies of lesions with a Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS) category ≥ 3. These patients underwent robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RARP) at our institution between July 2017 and March 2023. We examined the localization of preoperative and postoperative ITs, the highest Gleason score (GS), and tumor diameter in these patients. Results The preoperative cT stage matched the postoperative pT stage in 53 cases (47%), while 31 cases (27%) were upstaged, and 29 cases (26%) were downstaged (Weighted Kappa = 0.21). The preoperative and postoperative IT localizations were consistent in 97 cases (86%). The concordance rate between Gleason groups in targeted biopsies and RP specimens was 51%, with an upgrade in 25 cases (23%) and a downgrade in 27 cases (25%) (Weighted Kappa = 0.42). The maximum diameter of the IT and the maximum cancer core length on biopsy were correlated with the RP tumor's maximum diameter (p

Introduction Brain and spinal cord metastases from testicular cancer occur rarely, and metastases with seminoma are extremely rare. Case presentation A 42‐year‐old man who was diagnosed with seminoma and multiple metastases underwent first‐line and salvage chemotherapy. Brain metastases were noted; consequently, surgery, third‐line chemotherapy, and whole‐brain irradiation were performed. Subsequently, paralysis developed, and spinal cord metastases were detected. He received fourth‐line chemotherapy but died. Pathological autopsy revealed metastases only in the spinal cord. The cause of death was considered respiratory failure due to cervical spinal cord involvement from spinal metastases. Conclusion Brain and spinal cord metastases from seminoma are rare. Thus, similar future cases should be treated appropriately.

Objective: We evaluated the impact of the duration between the biopsy and surgery on the biochemical recurrence (BCR) after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP). Methods: We retrospectively evaluated 302 patients who underwent RARP in our institution from April 2010 to December 2017. Patients were categorized into 2 groups, an interval between biopsy and surgery of 180 days or less (Group A) and longer than 180 days (Group B). Factors retrospectively analyzed for the BCR for the interval between the biopsy and RARP included patient's characteristics, intraoperative and postoperative results. The Kaplan–Meier method and Cox proportional hazards regression model were used to evaluate the predictors of BCR. Results: The median follow-up was 42 months, with 24 patients developing BCR at a mean of 13.5 months after RARP. There was no difference in the rate of BCR in Group A and Group B. Multivariate analysis showed that BMI (

Treatment-related neuroendocrine prostate cancer (tNEPC) occurs after androgen deprivation therapy and has a poor prognosis; however, there are few effective treatments for tNEPC. Therefore, tNEPC management is often challenging. This is a case of a 65-year-old Asian male patient with prostate adenocarcinoma who had metastases at initial presentation. After prostate biopsy revealed neuroendocrine prostate cancer (NEPC), he was treated with platinum-based systemic chemotherapy followed by pembrolizumab treatment. The primary tumor regions temporarily regressed, but progression of the primary tumor resulted in urinary retention and rectal obstruction; therefore, a transverse colostomy was performed, and a urethral catheter was inserted. Following somatostatin receptor scintigraphy (SRS), it was determined that the primary tumor expressed somatostatin receptors. Based on these results, treatment with 177Lu-DODATATE peptide receptor radionuclide therapy was prescribed. Subsequently, the primary tumor regressed remarkably, and the urethral catheter was removed. 177Lu-DOTATATE peptide receptor radionuclide therapy may be an effective option for tNEPC, which has few effective treatment options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) is uncommon. In advanced cases, radical nephroureterectomy (RNU) alone is not curative, and recurrence and metastasis are likely to occur. Adjuvant chemotherapy (AC) is an evidence-based treatment. However, the optimal number of AC cycles is not clear. This multicenter study investigated the number of cycles required for the beneficial effects of AC in Japanese patients with UTUC. Methods Patients who were diagnosed with UTUC and underwent RNU at our hospital and affiliated hospitals from January 2010 to September 2020 were included in the study. Patients with pathological T3 or higher or lymph node metastasis were observed or given AC, and their responses were compared. The AC regimens included gemcitabine and cisplatin or carboplatin. Patients were also classified into two groups: the observation and two cycles of AC group and the three to four cycles of AC group. The survival curves for recurrencefree survival (RFS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) were evaluated using Kaplan-Meier analyses. Results Of the 133 patients enrolled in the study, 24 received 2 cycles of AC, 37 received 3-4 cycles, and 72 were observed only. The 5-year RFS was 67.1% for the 3-4 cycles of AC group and 41.7% for the observation and two cycles of AC group. The 5-year CSS was 72.2% for the 3-4 cycles of AC group and 35.9% for the observation and two cycles of AC group. RFS and CSS were significantly longer in the 3-4 cycles of AC group compared to the observation and 2 cycles group (P = 0.048 and P = 0.005 respectively). Conclusion AC prolonged RFS and CSS in the realworld setting. However, at least three cycles of AC are required to achieve beneficial effects in patients with UTUC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background In this study, we investigated the effect of preoperative prostate morphology, especially intravesical prostatic protrusion (IPP), on continence after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP). Methods Retrospective analysis was applied to patients who underwent RARP between October 2010 and July 2014. The following parameters were assessed in all patients: age, body mass index (BMI), prostate-specific antigen, magnetic resonance imaging and pressure-flow studies findings. The impact of preoperative and intraoperative factors on postoperative urinary incontinence (UI) was assessed using multivariate logistic regression analysis. To evaluate the effects of IPP, the patients were divided into groups according to the IPP length: Group 1,

Introduction Extramammary Paget's disease of the vulva secondary to urothelial carcinoma is rare. It is important to determine whether extramammary Paget's disease is primary or secondary, because the appropriate treatment strategies differ. We report a case of penile extramammary Paget's disease secondary to urothelial carcinoma recurrence. Case presentation A 75‐year‐old man who was diagnosed with bladder carcinoma and received urethra‐sparing radical cystectomy 5 years ago presented with erythema and red spots in the glans penis. Immunostaining (cytokeratin 7 and cytokeratin 20) of skin biopsy specimens suggested a secondary extramammary Paget's disease that originated from the urothelial carcinoma. Under urethroscopy, urethral recurrence was also suspected. A total penectomy was performed, and a final diagnosis of urothelial carcinoma recurrence and secondary extramammary Paget's disease of the glans penis were established. Conclusion Using immunostaining, the differential diagnosis between primary and secondary extramammary Paget's disease is more accurate. Secondary extramammary Paget's disease should be considered when a skin lesion is present on the penis of patients with urothelial carcinoma.

We report a case of a 87-year-old woman with a Burkitt's Lymphoma of the Bladder. She presented with hematuria. Cystoscopy, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging revealed extramural invasion of a 6-cm-sized tumor that extended from the right wall to the neck of the bladder. The histological pattern was Burkitt's lymphoma. The patient was then treated by chemotherapy. The tumor disappeared after 4 cycles of chemotherapy. The urogenital tract has been described in the literature as a primary tumor location in cases of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, however, it is rarely the tumor site in Burkitt's lymphoma cases.

Abstract Background Although the pelvic autonomic plexus branches are considered to be a mixture of sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves, little is known regarding the composite fibers of the pelvic plexus branches. This study aimed to investigate the immunohistochemical features of sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves in the pelvic autonomic plexus branches. Methods Using 10 donated elderly male cadavers, the detailed topohistology of nerve fibers at and around the bladder, seminal vesicle, prostate, and rectum was examined. Neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) were used as parasympathetic nerve markers; tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) was used as a sympathetic nerve marker. The myenteric plexus of the colon was utilized as a positive control. Results Most nerve fibers in the bladder, seminal vesicle, prostate, and rectum were both nNOS- and TH-positive. Thus, pelvic plexus branches were classified into two types: 1) triple-positive mixed nerves (nNOS+, VIP+, TH+, thick myelinated fibers + or -) and 2) double-positive mixed nerves (nNOS+, VIP-, TH+, thick myelinated fibers + or -). Notably, triple-positive nerves were localized within the posterosuperior part of the plexus (near the rectum) and travelled anteroinferiorly toward the posterolateral corner of the prostate. The posteriorly and inferiorly located nerves were predominantly composed of parasympathetic, rather than sympathetic, fibers. In contrast, nerve fibers within and along the bladder and seminal vesicle contained either no or few VIP-positive nerves. These superiorly located nerves were characterized by clear sympathetic nerve dominance. Conclusions The nerves of the pelvic plexus branches were clearly classified into nerves around the bladder and seminal vesicle (VIP-negative) and nerves around the prostate (VIP-positive). Although nNOS- and VIP-positive nerve fibers are candidate cavernous nerves, cavernous nerve identity cannot be definitively concluded for these nerves in the periprostatic region.

Abstract Purpose To evaluate in Japanese patients their sexual function after robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) and to investigate the influence of the multinerve‐sparing (NS) grade on their sexual function. Methods In total, 225 patients were reviewed with localized prostate cancer who underwent RARP at the authors' institution. They underwent RARP >3 months ago, without pre‐ and posthormone therapy and salvage radiation. Self‐administered International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaires were used for assessment preoperatively and 1–48 months postoperatively. In all, 129 patients were evaluated with the preoperative IIEF‐Question 1 and who achieved a score of ≥2 by being divided into five NS groups. The recovery rates of erection (postoperative IIEF‐Question 1 score of ≥2) were calculated by using the Kaplan–Meier analysis. Results Seventy‐four percent of all the patients had not attempted sexual intercourse, but 60% had felt sexual desire at 24 months postoperatively. In those patients with a preoperative erection, the recovery rate of erection was 58% at 24 months after the RARP. Across the five NS groups, as the procedure was more nerve‐sparing, the recovery rate of erection became significantly higher. The postoperative effects on erection in the bilateral and unilateral NS groups were significantly superior to those in the other NS groups. Conclusion In Japanese patients, erection after a RARP is improved with multiNS grade procedures.

Diabetes mellitus significantly affects the male reproduction and sexual function. In the present study, we investigated the diabetes-induced dysfunction of seminal vesicles (SVs) in the diabetes-rat model and the role of antioxidants. Streptozotocin-induced diabetes after 4 weeks caused smaller size of the organs, hypercontractility, histological abnormalities, increased concentrations of malondialdehyde in the serum and tissue, overexpression of oxidative stress markers, and cleaved caspase-3 as identified by immunohistochemistry in the SVs. In addition, diabetes resulted in deceased levels of serum testosterone and no newborns after the mating studies. Antioxidants significantly normalized all the above parameters, except for the severely decreased serum testosterone levels and the negative outcome of the mating studies. The present study gives evidence for the important role of diabetes-induced oxidative stress in the function and structure of these androgen-dependent organs. Antioxidants may be a promising supplementary therapy for diabetic male patients to alleviate ejaculatory disorders but alone is not efficient treatment for the mitigation of infertility.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0220381.].

Circadian expression rhythms of clock gene products in the bladder are reportedly hindered by clock gene abnormalities. However, the role of clock gene products in various pathological lower urinary tract conditions is unknown. The present study examined the relationship between clock genes and voiding dysfunction in spontaneous hypertensive rats (SHR). The voluntary voiding behavior study using metabolic cages was performed in 18-weeks old male Wistar rats (control group, n = 36) and SHR (SHR group, n = 36) under 12-h light/12-h dark conditions. Bladders were harvested every 4 h at six time points (n = 6 for each time point for each group), and we analyzed the messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of several clock genes: period 2 (Per2), cryptochrome 2 (Cry2), brain and muscle aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator-like protein 1 (Bmal1), circadian locomotor output cycles kaput (Clock), nuclear receptor subfamily 1, group D, member 1 (Rev-erbα), mechanosensors: transient receptor potential vanilloid channel 1 (TRPV1), TRPV4, Piezo1, and vesicular nucleotide transporter (VNUT) using real-time polymerase chain reaction. Though 24-h urination frequency for both light and dark periods was significantly higher in the SHR group, urine volume per voiding was significantly lower versus control. In controls, urine volume per voiding was significantly lower during the dark period (active phase) than the light period (rest phase); this parameter did not significantly differ between active and rest phases for SHR. SHR bladders showed significantly higher expression of Cry2 and Clock during the active phase compared to controls. In the SHR group, TRPV1, TRPV4, Piezo1, and VNUT mRNA levels were significantly higher during the active phase compared to the control group. We speculate that Cry2 and Clock may be contributing factors in the decrease of bladder capacity during the active phase in SHR through increase of TRPV1, TRPV4, Piezo1, and VNUT expression, but further research will be necessary to elucidate the precise mechanisms.

Abstract Background To investigate the ameliorating effect of sitagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor, on blood glucose control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus who were previously untreated with or who have a poor responsive to existing antidiabetic drugs. Methods Sitagliptin (50 mg/day) was added on to the pre-existing therapy for type 2 diabetes and changes in the glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level after 3 months of treatment were compared with the baseline and performed exploratory analysis. Results HbA1c levels were significantly decreased after 1 month of treatment compared to baseline, with a mean change in HbA1c level from baseline of −0.73% (range, −0.80 to −0.67) in the entire study population at 3 months. Patients who received a medium dose of glimepiride showed the least improvement in HbA1c levels. The percentage of patients who achieved an HbA1c level of

The recurrence of urothelial carcinoma in an orthotopic neobladder is rare. We report the case of a 61-year-old man with a muscle-invasive bladder tumor that was treated using radical cystectomy and the creation of a Studer's orthotopic neobladder. However, nine years after the cystectomy, we detected a mass at the left ureteroileal anastomosis. We successfully performed Studer's neobladder resection, urethrectomy, and left nephroureterectomy to remove the entire mass. Pathological examination revealed urothelial carcinoma with adenocarcinoma in the neobladder and adenocarcinomatous metastasis in the mesenteric lymph node.

A decreased prostatic blood flow could be one of the risk factors for benign prostatic hyperplasia/benign prostatic enlargement. The spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR) shows a chronic prostatic ischemia and hyperplastic morphological abnormalities in the ventral prostate. The effect of silodosin, a selective alpha1A-adrenoceptor antagonist, was investigated in the SHR prostate as a prostatic hyperplasia model focusing on prostatic blood flow.Twelve-week-old male SHRs were administered perorally with silodosin (100 μg/kg/day) or vehicle once daily for 6 weeks. Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats were used as normotensive controls and were treated with the vehicle. The effect of silodosin on blood pressure and prostatic blood flow were estimated and then the prostates were removed and weighed. The tissue levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), interleukin-6 (IL-6), chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 1/cytokine-induced neutrophil chemoattractant 1 (CXCL1/CINC1), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) were measured. The histological evaluation was also performed by hematoxylin and eosin staining.There was a significant increase in blood pressure, prostate weight, prostate body weight ratio (PBR), tissue levels of MDA, IL-6, CXCL1/CINC1, TNF-α, TGF-β1, bFGF and α-SMA in the SHR compared to the WKY rat. The ventral prostate in the SHR showed the morphological abnormalities compared to the WKY rat. Prostatic blood flow was decreased in the SHR. However, treatment with silodosin significantly restored the decreased prostatic blood flow in the SHR. Moreover, silodosin normalized tissue levels of MDA, IL-6, CXCL1/CINC1, TNF-α, TGF-β1, bFGF and α-SMA, and it ameliorated ventral prostatic hyperplasia in the SHR excluding blood pressure. Silodosin decreased PBR but not prostate weight in the SHR.Silodosin can inhibit the progression of prostatic hyperplasia through a recovery of prostatic blood flow.

Background/Aim: Postoperative urinary incontinence (UI) after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) has a significant impact on patients' quality of life (QOL). Several surgical techniques have been reported to improve postoperative UI. The aim of the study was to investigate the impact of advanced reconstruction of vesicourethral support (ARVUS) on urinary symptoms and QOL after non-nerve-sparing robotassisted radical prostatectomy (RARP). Patients and Methods: Patients who underwent non-nerve-sparing RARP from October 2010 to October 2020 at the Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Tottori University Faculty of Medicine were reviewed. Patients were divided into the ARVUS and non-ARVUS groups, and propensity score matching was performed. Patients were evaluated by the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), Incontinence Modular Questionnaire Short Form (ICIQ-SF), QOL index, and number of pads used before and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after RARP. Results: The number of patients in the ARVUS and non-ARVUS group were 41 and 41, respectively. On cystography, the distance of the symphysis pubis to the bladder neck was significantly shorter (p<0.001) and the posterior urethrovesical angle was significantly smaller in the AUVUS group (p<0.001). In the ICIQ-SF, the ARVUS group was significantly better at 6 and 12 months postoperatively. In the IPSS, the ARVUS group was significantly better than the non-ARVUS group at 3 months postoperatively. In a multivariable analysis, membranous urethral length [odds ratio (OR)=3.44, p=0.015] and ARVUS (OR=2.72, p=0.046) were significant factors in achieving 0 pads and total ICIQ-SF Question 1 and 2 scores of ≤2 at 12 months postoperatively. Conclusion: ARVUS improved urinary symptoms and QOL. ARVUS seems to be a useful surgical procedure for non-nerve-sparing RARP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Robotic-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) is a well-known standard procedure for muscle-invasive bladder cancer. However, it remains controversial whether extracorporeal urinary diversion (ECUD) or intracorporeal urinary diversion (ICUD) is superior in this technique. We have developed a HYBRID method that combines ECUD and ICUD to retain the advantages of each. The purpose of this study was to compare perioperative outcomes between HYBRID and ECUD in RARC and to evaluate the usefulness of the HYBRID method. Methods We retrospectively analyzed the perioperative outcomes of 36 consecutive bladder cancer patients who underwent RARC with ileal conduit at our institution between March 2013 and December 2021. Propensity-score matching was used to align patient backgrounds between the HYBRID and ECUD groups. Results After matching, 12 cases were selected for each group. There was no significant difference in patient demographics between the groups except for the rate of neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Mean console time was significantly longer in the HYBRID group due to intracorporeal manipulation; however, a relatively favorable trend of mean blood loss was observed in this group. There was no significant difference between the groups in terms of positive surgical margin, mean number of lymph node removed, or positive lymph node. The incidences of complications associated and nonassociated with the urinary tract and grade =III complications at postoperative day (POD) 0-30 and 31-90 were similar between the groups. In the HYBRID group, no complications non-associated with the urinary tract or grade =III complications were observed at POD 31-90. Conclusion The HYBRID method takes advantage of the benefits of both ICUD and ECUD and is a highly applicable technique that can be used in a variety of patient backgrounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Urosepsis is an acute life-threating disease, and some cases show refractory outcome to therapy. In an aging society of developed countries, characteristics of urosepsis are becoming complicated. We performed a comprehensive investigation regarding the clinical and social aspects that are related to refractory outcomes in urosepsis patients. Methods The patient cohort consisted of 66 patients with urosepsis. Multiple factors from clinical and social aspects were reviewed retrospectively. Two categories of refractory outcomes were defined. One was afebrile resistance (AR); fever continued more than 7 days from the initiation of therapy. Another was discharge resistance (DR); hospitalization continued for more than 30 days. Logistic regression analyses were performed to identify significant factors that are related to the AR or DR. Results Univariate analysis demonstrated that high score of Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status (ECOG PS) (≥ 2) and Age-adjusted Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) (≥ 4), high serum C-reactive protein (CRP) level (≥ 14.9 mg/dL), and low serum albumin level (≤ 2.26 g/dL) were significantly related to AR. Univariate analysis results also revealed that high score of ECOG PS (≥ 2), high serum creatinine level (≥ 1.54 mg/dL) and vasopressor administration were significantly related to DR. Multivariate analyses demonstrated that low serum albumin level (≤ 2.26g/dL) was the only significant factor that was related to AR. In contrast, high score of ECOG PS (≥ 2) and high serum creatinine level (≥ 1.54 mg/dL) were significant factors that were related to DR. Conclusion It is suggested that evaluating serum albumin levels is essential for the therapeutic first step because hypoalbuminemia was the significant factor that was related to obstruction to antipyresis. It is also suggested that the deterioration of patients' activities of daily living and renal dysfunction might be the refractory factors for discharge from the hospital, which was the ultimate therapeutic goal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of tadalafil, a phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor, plus mirabegron, a β3-adrenoreceptor agonist, in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia who presented with persistent storage symptoms after tadalafil monotreatment. Methods The registration of this study started in August 2016 and ended in July 2019. The inclusion criteria included patients aged ≥ 50 years who were diagnosed with benign prostatic hyperplasia and who presented with overactive bladder symptoms. Patients were treated with oral tadalafil 5 mg once daily for 4 weeks. Then, its efficacy was evaluated. Patients who responded to the treatment received oral tadalafil 5 mg once daily for 4 more weeks (monotreatment group). Meanwhile, those who did not respond received oral tadalafil 5 mg and mirabegron 50 mg, which is an addon treatment, once daily for 4 more weeks (combination therapy group). Results After 8 weeks, the monotreatment group (n = 1 9) and the combination group (n = 5 6) had significantly better total Overactive Bladder Symptom Score and International Prostate Symptom Score and International Prostate Symptom Score voiding and storage subscale scores. Moreover, the two groups experienced significant improvements in the total Overactive Bladder Questionnaire and Nocturia Quality of Life Questionnaire scores, and Nocturia Quality of Life Questionnaire Bother/Concern subscale score after 8 weeks. However, there were no cases of urinary retention or serious adverse events. Conclusion Combination treatment with tadalafil and mirabegron is effective and safe for patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia who presented with persistent storage symptoms after tadalafil monotreatment. Hence, tadalafil plus mirabegron is a promising therapeutic option, and it can improve overactive bladder relatedquality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As cadaver donor nephrectomy in kidney transplantation is performed in only a limited number of cases, few physicians are skilled in the surgical technique. We performed two cadaver donor nephrectomy sessions during cadaver surgical training. The first session was performed by a lecturer who was skilled in the technique, with physicians and nurses participating in order to learn the methodology. The second session was conducted only for physicians. The procedures undertaken were as follows: cannulation of the femoral artery and vein, skin incision and bowel ligation, cross-clamping of the aorta, diaphragmatic incision and inferior vena cava incision, dissection of the aorta and inferior vena cava, and nephrectomy. Although there were some differences from that normally observed in actual patient surgery, such as no bleeding and formalin fixation, some of the procedures were very useful in helping to better understand cadaver donor nephrectomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Minimally invasive adrenalectomy is the preferred technique for managing adrenal tumors. Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is widely performed and covered by insurance in Japan, but robot-assisted adrenalectomy is not. To investigate the best forceps combinations for performing robot-assisted adrenalectomy safely, we performed robot-assisted adrenalectomy for two left and two right adrenal adenomas using different robotic forceps combinations (bipolar forceps, monopolar curved scissors, Vessel Sealer Extend, and SynchroSeal) for each case. Although we evaluated a small number of RAs, lower blood loss was observed in patients where the vessel sealing devices were used. The extent of dissection is small for adrenalectomy, and robotic bipolar vessel sealing tools may not be necessary, especially for the small adrenal tumors. However, considering the risk benefits, the combination of forceps with Vessel Sealer Extend (by the left arm) and monopolar curved scissors (by the right arm) will become one of the best forceps combinations for performing robot-assisted adrenalectomy safely. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) is a relatively rare disease that accounts for 5% to 10% of all urothelial carcinomas (UCs). Radical nephroureterectomy (RNU) with a bladder cuff is the current gold standard for the management of UTUC; however, endoscopic ablation is also an option for low-risk UTUC to preserve kidney function. Herein, we present two cases of solitary kidney with a right lower ureteral tumor. Both patients underwent left RNU in the past. An 82-year-old man with a right ureteral tumor whose histopathological examination revealed low-grade UC. Laser ablation was performed with ureteroscopy, and there was no recurrence for 7 years after treatment. A 67-year-old woman with a right lower ureteral tumor whose histopathological examination also revealed low-grade UC. Laser ablation was performed, and there was no recurrence for 5 years after the treatment. We closely followed-up our two patients after RNU. This allowed for early detection of tumor recurrence, after which we could perform laser ablation therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The aim of this study is to compare the results of laparoscopic pyeloplasty and robot-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty in patients with ureteropelvic junction obstruction. Methods Between March 2008 and May 2019, the patients who underwent retroperitoneal laparoscopic or robotic-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty in our institution were retrospectively reviewed. Results Thirteen patients underwent laparoscopically, and 12 patients underwent robotic surgery. The significant difference was found in median operative time between laparoscopic group (296 minutes) and robotic group (199 minutes) (P = 0.001). The median time for drain removal in laparoscopic group was longer than robotic group (3 vs. 2 days, respectively, P = 0.029). Conclusion Laparoscopic and robot-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty is safe and excellent success rates in patients with ureteropelvic junction obstruction. However, our experience study suggested that robotic surgery improves a total operative time, decreases drain removal time and less intraoperative blood loss than laparoscopic approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background We wanted to clarify whether preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the clinical setting can evaluate the pathologic pseudocapsule (PC) morphology with high accuracy in renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Methods We retrospectively analyzed 34 consecutive patients who underwent MRI (1.5 or 3.0T, 5 mm slices) prior to partial nephrectomy (PN) for RCC at our institution between January 2010 and December 2019. First, the correlation between PC morphology (complete or incomplete) and tumor infiltration to the renal parenchyma was examined as pathologic validation. Second, the concordance rate of PC morphology between pathologic tissue and preoperative MRI was evaluated as radiologic validation. Third, risk factor for renal parenchymal invasion in RCC was analyzed. Results In the pathologic validation, parenchymal invasion rates were 11% and 28% in the "complete PC" and "incomplete PC" groups, respectively. In the radiologic validation, pathological PC morphology could be diagnosed on preoperative MRI in 17 patients (50.0%). "None PC" on MRI had the lowest positive predictive value (PPV) (0%), "partial PC" on MRI had a good PPV (76.5%), "complete PC" on MRI had a relatively low PPV (33.3%). Unfortunately, these data were insufficient for diagnostic accuracy. As risk factor for renal parenchymal invasion in RCC, only pathologic subtype (non-clear cell) was found to have significant differences in the multivariate analysis. Conclusion The results of this study suggest that renal tumors with pathologically incomplete PC have a high possibility of renal parenchymal invasion. However, it is currently difficult to accurately evaluate pathologic PC morphology by preoperative MRI in the clinical setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In recent years, the effectiveness of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-ultrasound fusion targeted biopsy (MRF-TB) has been widely reported. In this study, we assessed the effect of reduction of the number of systematic biopsy (SB) cores on the cancer detection rate (CDR). Methods: Patients with a high prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level underwent prostate MRI. The Prostate Imaging-Reporting and Data System version 2 (PI-RADS) was then used to rate the lesions. The inclusion criteria were as follows: (1) PSA level between 4.0 and 30.0 ng/mL and (2) patients with one or more lesions on MRI and a PI-RADS score of 3 or more. All enrolled patients were SB naïve or had a history of one or more prior negative SBs. A total of 104 Japanese met this selection criterion. We have traditionally performed 14-core SB following the MRF-TB. In this study, the CDRs of 10- core SB methods, excluding biopsy results at the center of the base and mid-level on both sides, were compared with those of the conventional biopsy method. Results: We compared CDRs of the 14-core and 10- core SBs used in combination. The overall CDR was 55.8% for the former and 55.8% for the latter, thereby indicating that there was no significant difference (P = 1.00) between the two. In addition, the CDRs of csPCa were 51.9% for the former and 51.1% for the latter, which indicated that there was no significant difference (P = 0.317). Conclusion: There was no significant difference in the CDR when the number of SB cores to be used in combination was 14 and 10. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background We evaluated the influence of prior abdominal surgery on perioperative outcomes in patients who underwent robot-assisted partial nephrectomy in initial Japanese series. Methods We reviewed patients with small renal tumors who underwent robot-assisted partial nephrectomy from October 2011 to September 2020 at our institution. Patients with prior abdominal surgery were compared with those without prior surgery based on perioperative outcomes. The chi-square test and Mann--Whitney U test were used for statistical analyses of variables. Results Of 156 patients who underwent robot-assisted partial nephrectomy, 90 (58%) had no prior abdominal surgery, whereas 66 patients (42%) underwent prior abdominal surgery. No significant differences in perioperative outcomes were observed between with and without prior abdominal surgery groups. In transperitoneal approach robot-assisted partial nephrectomy, 31 patients (80.4%) had prior abdominal surgery. Trocar insertion time in the with prior abdominal surgery group took longer than the without prior abdominal surgery group (32 vs. 28.5 min, P = 0.031). No significant difference was observed in the conversion rate between the two groups (P = 0.556). Conclusion Robot-assisted partial nephrectomy appears to be a safe approach for patients with prior abdominal surgery. In transperitoneal approach robotassisted partial nephrectomy with prior abdominal surgery, trocar insertion time was longer, but no significant differences were found in other outcomes. Transperitoneal approach robot-assisted partial nephrectomy is thus considered a safe procedure for patients with prior abdominal surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of intravenous ghrelin administration on the micturition reflex in rats. Material and methods Continuous cystometrograms were performed with female Sparague-Dawley rats under urethane anesthesia. Stable micturition cycles were established, and ghrelin was then administered intravenously to evaluate changes in bladder activity. In this experiment investigating the role of opioid systems, ghrelin was administered intravenously at the time of first observed bladder contraction after intravenous administration of naloxone methiodide, an opioid receptor antagonist. Results Intravenous administration of ghrelin increased intercontraction interval that was dose-dependent. These inhibitory effects returned to pre-controls level within 80 minutes of administration. Similarly, intravenous administration of ghrelin increased threshold pressure in a dose-dependent fashion. These inhibitory effects of ghrelin were antagonized by intravenous naloxone methiodide administration. Conclusions These results show that ghrelin inhibits the micturition reflex through an opioid-dependent mechanism in rats under urethane anesthesia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Impaired wound healing is one of the most common complications of diabetes, and is known to be caused by multiple complicated factors. For instance, impaired angiogenesis, neuropathy, and hyperglycemia all function to delay subsequent wound closure. Alternatively, moist wound healing, which provides an appropriate environment for wounds, was reported to permit rapid healing by managing wound exudate. Accordingly, wound dressing materials that facilitate moist healing have been developed. The present study sought to clarify the effects of wound dressing material for moist healing of diabetic wounds, in terms of the dynamics of angiogenic factors and macrophages, using a mouse model of naturally occurring diabetes. Wounds with full-thickness skin defects were inflicted on the backs of mice and covered with dressing materials of hydrogel or gauze (control), which were retained for 3, 5, 7, 10, or 14 days following wound generation. During this time, the localization of neutrophils, fibroblasts and macrophages as well as the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the wounds and surrounding areas was observed each day. Healing clearly occurred in the hydrogel group with an increase in neutrophils and the angiogenic factor, VEGF. Moreover, the use of hydrogel resulted in a rapid rise in M1 macrophages, which appeared in the early stage of the injury, as well as rapid subsequent appearance of M2 macrophages. Thus, herein, we demonstrate that the formation of a moist environment via wound dressing material effectively improves diabetic wound healing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Radical prostatectomy and radiotherapy are standard treatments for localized prostate cancer. When making decisions about treatment, it is important to not only consider medical information such as the patient's age, performance status, and complications, but also the impact on quality of life (QOL) after treatment. Our purpose was to compare health related quality of life (HRQOL) after robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RARP) versus radiation therapy in Japanese patients with localized prostate cancer retrospectively. Methods Patients with localized prostate cancer receiving RARP or radiotherapy at Tottori University Hospital between October 2010 and December 2014 were enrolled in a retrospective observational study with follow-up for 24 months to December 2016. The Medical Outcome Study 8-Item Short-Form Health Survey was performed before treatment and 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 months post-treatment. Results Complete responses to the questionnaire were obtained from 154/227 patients receiving RARP, 41/67 patients receiving intensity-modulated radiation therapy, 35/82 patients receiving low dose rate brachytherapy, and 18/28 patients given low dose rate brachytherapy plus external beam radiation therapy. The median physical component summary score of the Medical Outcome Study 8-Item Short-Form Health Survey was significantly lower at 1 month after prostatectomy than radiotherapy, but was similar for both treatments at 3 months, and was significantly higher at 6, 12 and 24 months after prostatectomy. The median mental component summary score was also significantly lower in the prostatectomy group at 1 month, but not from 3 months onwards. Conclusion Our study suggested that HRQOL was inferior at 1 month after RARP, however, recovered at 3 months after RARP and was better than after radio-therapy at 6, 12, and 24 months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background To evaluate the efficacy of Bacilli Calmette-Guerin (BCG) induction instillation therapy after second transurethral resection (TUR) in stage Ta T1 high-grade bladder cancer. Methods We performed a retrospective analysis of 49 consecutive new onset Ta T1 high-grade bladder cancer patients treated with second TUR at our affiliated institutions. Residual cancer rate, intravesical recurrencefree survival (RFS), and risk factors related to RFS were evaluated by univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard model analyses. Results Thirty-one patients received BCG therapy after the second TUR (BCG group), and 18 patients were treated with second TUR alone (no BCG group). There were statistically significant differences in the RFS rates between the two groups, (P = 0.037). BCG therapy was the only factor predictive of intravesical recurrence after second TUR in both univariate and multivariate analyses. After the second TUR, BCG therapy signifi- cantly decreased intravesical recurrence in the patients with residual tumors (P = 0.014). However, there was no significant difference in intravesical recurrence in the patients with no residual tumors between the two groups (P = 0.359). Conclusion BCG t herapy after second T UR signifi- cantly decreased intravesical recurrence of residual tumors found at the second TUR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Dysfunction of the lower urinary tract is the most common complication of radical hysterectomy (RH). However, there are no established treatment protocols for postoperative underactive bladder (PUB). We developed our own new program for the treatment of underactive bladder (UB) after RH and evaluated it retrospectively. Methods In this program, there are five steps for patients to follow according to their urinary condition. The first step is the administration of urapidil 30 mg, voiding six times at a predetermined time each day, and clean intermittent catheterization (CIC) after each voiding. As the patient's condition improves, the number of CICs is reduced, and the medication is stopped. The last step includes voiding six times at a predetermined time each day. When the volume of residual urine (RU) is less than 100 mL, patients move on to the next step. When the volume of RU exceeds 100 mL, patients return to the previous step. Results Of the 75 patients who visited our department, 41 were eligible for this program. Twenty-two patients visited our department because of urinary retention (UR), and 19 patients were admitted because of increased RU. The mean RU volume was 276.3 mL (range, 150-550 mL). After completing the program, 39 (95.1%) patients no longer required CIC. The mean time to withdrawal of CIC was 25.1 weeks (range, 1-72 weeks). Thirty-six patients no longer required medical treatment, including urapidil, for PUB. Of the 5 patients who had persistent PUB after treatment, 2 patients continued CIC and urapidil, and three patients continued urapidil alone. Conclusion The present results demonstrate that the program of CIC in combination with urapidil is effective for the management of PUB after RH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Site-dependent and interindividual histological differences in Denonvilliers' fascia (DF) are not well understood. This study aimed to examine site-dependent and interindividual differences in DF and to determine whether changes in the current approach to radical prostatectomy are warranted in light of these histological findings. Methods: Twenty-five donated male cadavers (age range, 72-95 years) were examined. These cadavers had been donated to Sapporo Medical University for research and education on human anatomy. Their use for research was approved by the university ethics committee. Horizontal sections (15 cadavers) or sagittal sections (10 cadavers) were prepared at intervals of 2-5 mm for hematoxylin and eosin staining. Elastic-Masson staining and immunohistochemical staining were also performed, using mouse monoclonal anti-human alpha-smooth muscle actin to stain connective tissues and mouse monoclonal anti-human S100 protein to stain nerves. Results: We observed that DF consisted of disorderly, loose connective tissue and structures resembling "leaves", which were interlacing and adjacent to each other, actually representing elastic or smooth muscle fibers. Variations in DF were observed in the following: 1) configuration of multiple leaves, including clear, unclear, or fragmented behind the body and tips of the seminal vesicles, depending on the site; 2) connection with the lateral pelvic fascia at the posterolateral angle of the prostate posterior to the neurovascular bundles, being clear, unclear, or absent; 3) all or most leaves of DF fused with the prostatic capsule near the base of the seminal vesicles, and periprostatic nerves were embedded in the leaves at the fusion site; and 4) some DF leaves fused with the prostatic capsule anteriorly and/or the fascia propria of the rectum posteriorly. Conclusions: Site-dependent and interindividual variations in DF were observed in donated elderly male cadavers. All or most DF leaves are fused with the prostatic capsule near the base of the seminal vesicles and some DF leaves are fused with the fascia propria of the rectum posterior. Based on our results, surgeons should be aware of variations and search for them to create a suitable dissection plane to avoid iatrogenic positive margins and rectal injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the light of increasing evidence that benign prostatic hyperplasia is associated with cardiovascular disease, we have investigated the relationship between prostatic blood flow and prostatic hyperplasia in the spontaneously-hypertensive-rat (SHR). Twelve-week-old male SHRs were treated with nicorandil for six weeks. Wistar-Kyoto rats were used as controls. Six weeks after nicorandil treatment, blood pressure and the prostatic blood flow were estimated, and tissue levels of malondialdehyde, HIF-1α, TGF-β1, bFGF, dihydrotestosterone, and α-SMA were measured. SHRs showed significant increases in blood pressure, tissue levels of malondialdehyde, HIF-1α, TGF-β1, bFGF, α-SMA and a significant decrease in the prostatic blood flow. Although treatment with nicorandil failed to alter the blood-pressure and α-SMA, it significantly ameliorated the increased levels of malondialdehyde, HIF-1α, TGF-β1, and bFGF. There were no significant differences in tissue levels of dihydrotestosterone among any groups. These data indicate that development of prostatic hyperplasia may be associated with prostatic hypoxia, which nicorandil prevents via its effect to increase the blood flow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]