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Today, patients have a wide variety of treatment options. More precise evaluation techniques and advances in sling technology make the chance of long-term success better than ever. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in men treated for clinically localized prostate cancer.Design: A cross-sectional analysis of HRQOL after treatment with radical prostatectomy, pelvic irradiation, or observation alone for clinically localized prostatic adenocarcinoma, and in age-matched comparison patients.Setting: A large managed care population in California.Subjects: A total of 528 men, including 214 treated for clinically localized prostate cancer (41 with evidence of metastatic disease were excluded from this analysis) and 273 age-matched, ZIP code-matched comparison patients without prostate cancer. Cancer patients were analyzed in three treatment groups: radical prostatectomy (n = 98), primary pelvic irradiation (n = 56), and observation alone (n = 60).Main Outcome Measures: General HRQOL was measured with the RAND 36-Item Health Survey 1.0. Cancer-specific HRQOL was measured with the CAncer Rehabilitation Evaluation System-Short Form and the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General form. Disease-targeted quality of life was measured with a new instrument assessing function and bother in three organ systems: sexual, urinary, and bowel.Results: No differences among treatment groups were seen in comparisons of general HRQOL: Significant differences among treatment groups were seen in both function and bother in the prostate-targeted measures of sexual, urinary, and bowel domains. When cancer patients were compared with men of similar age without prostate cancer, differences were seen in the sexual, urinary, and bowel function and bother but not in general HRQOL measures. Although cancer-free men were found not to have full potency or continence, prostate cancer patients treated with surgery or radiation reported significantly worse sexual, urinary, and bowel function than men without cancer. Men who had undergone nerve-sparing prostatectomy did not differ from those who had undergone standard prostatectomy, but the power to detect a difference was low.Conclusions: Although no differences were seen in general HRQOL, three disease-targeted domains were found to differ significantly among the treatment groups and comparison patients. Even after controlling for the sexual and urinary dysfunction experienced by older men without cancer, those receiving therapeutic interventions for their prostate cancer were found to have poorer disease-targeted HRQOL: We conclude that in addition to general HRQOL, disease-targeted measures must be used to assess outcomes of care in men treated for localized prostate cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: In this clinical trial we evaluated the efficacy, safety and tolerability of a novel pressure attenuation device for the reduction or elimination of female stress urinary incontinence using a prospective, randomized, single-blind, multicenter design., Materials and Methods: A total of 166 female patients with stress urinary incontinence were randomized 2:1 to treatment with an intravesical pressure attenuation device (112) or sham procedure (54). In the treatment arm the device was replaced every 90 days and in the sham arm device replacement was simulated every 90 days. The primary outcome measure was Stamey score improvement of 1 or more at 6 months. An additional outcome measure evaluated at 6 months was a composite score combining data from a provocative pad test and patient impression of symptom improvement., Results: In the treatment arm 40.9% of women achieved the primary end point, compared to only 22.4% in the sham arm (p=0.046 in per protocol analysis). In an intent to treat analysis, 28.6% of women in the treatment arm reached the primary end point vs 22.2% of women in the sham arm (p=0.455). 50.8% of women in the treatment arm reached the composite end point compared to 16.3% of women in the control arm (p<0.001, intent to treat analysis). Three-day voiding diaries revealed a mean reduction in total daily leakage events after 6 months from 4.4 per day to 2.5 per day (43.2%) in the treatment group vs 5.4 per day to 4.1 per day (24.1% reduction) in the control group (p<0.001)., Conclusions: Minimally invasive treatment for female stress urinary incontinence with a first-generation intravesical pressure attenuation device was safe and effective when evaluated by a composite end point. For those patients that can tolerate the device, the concept of pressure attenuation as a therapy for stress urinary incontinence is valid and feasible. Further modifications are anticipated for this device potentially resulting in improved outcomes., (Copyright © 2013 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

The role of urodynamics in the evaluation of lower urinary tract symptoms in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia is controversial despite the additional information regarding bladder function and outlet obstruction it provides. This controversy is primarily based on outcome studies that suggest men without proved bladder outlet obstruction may benefit from outlet reduction with medication or surgical resection. The aim of this article is to describe the role of urodynamic studies in the evaluation of benign prostatic hyperplasia, including illustration of existing urodynamic techniques, reviewing best practice guidelines and current literature, and providing recommendations for use of urodynamics in clinical practice.

The identification of female urethral diverticula remains a challenging problem for many clinicians. Many of these patients are often undiagnosed or misdiagnosed due to a clinical presentation that frequently mimics other pathologic processes. There can be significant variation in the urethral diverticular anatomy in terms of size, location, and configuration. This update provides a succinct and comprehensive review of the clinical presentation, evaluation, and treatment options for female urethral diverticula.

Objectives: To describe a rectocele repair reinforced with solvent-dehydrated, gamma-irradiated, human fascia lata and report our early results with a technique we are confident will have a greater, more durable success rate, with a lower incidence of dyspareunia, than the classic repair., Methods: A total of 73 patients, aged 31 to 86 years, with symptomatic (stool trapping and/or vaginal/perineal splinting or postural modifications to facilitate stool evacuation) rectoceles underwent a site-specific repair reinforced with cadaveric fascia. Perioperative questionnaires, retrospective chart review, and telephone interview by a blinded third-party reviewer and physical examination was conducted. Issues thought to be relevant to the rectocele repair were assessed., Results: Of the 73 patients, 62 responded to the postoperative questionnaire and 50 underwent physical examination. The mean follow-up was 13.7 months (range 6 to 23). Of the 62 patients, 52 (93.6%) denied postoperative stool trapping requiring vaginal/perineal splinting. Of the 39 sexually active patients, 4 (10.3%) experienced de novo dyspareunia. Minor complications were seen in 15 patients (24%). One developed a symptomatic enterocele., Conclusions: Interposition of cadaveric fascia lata avoids dependence on weakened native rectovaginal support to facilitate the rectocele repair. Our technique uses fascial interposition, rather than obliteration of the defect, preventing vaginal narrowing, and should thereby decrease the incidence of dyspareunia. Patient symptom improvement and satisfaction rates were competitive with those after traditional rectocele repair. Follow-up is ongoing with the hope that the fascial reinforcement will translate into more durable results.

Purpose: We present the prospective, intermediate-term results for cadaveric prolapse repair with sling as combined treatment of stress urinary incontinence and cystocele., Materials and Methods: A total of 251 of 295 (85%) patients undergoing cadaveric prolapse repair with sling (CaPS) had at least 6 months of questionnaire and pelvic examination followup. All patients had objectively demonstrated stress urinary incontinence and grade 2 to 4 cystocele before surgery. Followup outcome measures included a validated subjective continence and patient satisfaction questionnaire, SEAPI (stress incontinence, emptying, anatomy, protection, inhibition) scores, pelvic examination for prolapse recurrence and complications, and quality of life scores., Results: The overall patient reported subjective incontinence cured/dry rate (no incontinence episodes of any type) was 114 of 251 (45%), the cured/improved rate (50% improvement or greater) was 192 of 251 (76%) and the failed rate (less than 50% improvement) was 59 of 251 (24%). When considering stress urinary incontinence the cured/dry rate was 141 of 251 (56%), cured/improved rate was 207 of 251 (82%) and failed rate was 44 of 251 (17.5%), with 17 of the 44 (39%) cases having mixed urinary incontinence. Of the 59 failures 33 (56%) occurred after 12 months of followup. Of 153 patients 13 (8.5%) experienced de novo urge incontinence. The symptomatic cystocele recurrence rate was 18 of 251 (7%). There were statistically significant improvements in SEAPI and prolapse quality of life scores. Of 251 patients 200 (80%) were at least 50% satisfied and of 251 193 (77%) stated they would undergo the CaPS procedure again., Conclusions: With a maximum followup of 5 years in patients undergoing CaPS, we have seen excellent, durable cystocele repair results. While our subjective continence rates have decreased with an increasing number of late failures, we continue to observe significant improvement in SEAPI scores and quality of life with good patient satisfaction and low morbidity.

Objectives: To report, from our prospective database and review of published studies (including primary reported patient series and case reports for osseous complications after transvaginal bone anchor fixation in female pelvic reconstructive surgery), our results and those from previously reported patient series to determine the incidence of osteitis pubis and osteomyelitis., Methods: A total of 440 patients from our database of cadaveric transvaginal sling (n = 127) and cadaveric prolapse repair with sling (n = 313) procedures had at least 3 months of examination follow-up and were included in this report. We found 15 primary reported patient series involving transvaginal bone anchor fixation in published studies, for a total of 788 patients. The combined patient population of 1228 was assessed for the incidence of osteitis pubis and osteomyelitis., Results: Of our 440 patients included in this study, 2 developed osteitis pubis (0.45%), and none had osteomyelitis (0%). In the published studies we reviewed, no case of osteitis pubis and 1 case of osteomyelitis (1 of 788, 0.13%) were reported. One additional case of osteomyelitis with transvaginal bone anchor fixation was reported. The combined incidence of osteitis pubis was 2 (0.16%) of 1228, and the combined incidence of osteomyelitis was 1 (0.08%) of 1228., Conclusions: In procedures using transvaginal bone anchor fixation in female pelvic reconstructive surgery, the combined incidence, from our experience and that reported in published studies, of osteitis pubis and osteomyelitis was 2 (0.16%) and 1 (0.08%) of 1228, respectively. The infectious osseous complication rate associated with transvaginal pubic bone anchor fixation appears to be less than that previously reported for suprapubic bone anchor placement. In our experience, when using careful surgical technique and proper prophylactic precautions, infectious osseous complications have not been encountered.

Penectomy, bilateral orchiectomy, and penoscrotal flap vaginoplasty are procedures that increase the psychosocial well-being and enhance body acceptance of male-to-female transsexuals. The incidence of neovaginal prolapse is not known but is believed to be relatively rare. We report 2 cases of neovaginal prolapse that were successfully treated with abdominal sacral colpopexy at our institution.

Objectives: To evaluate prospectively our transvaginal surgery experience in octogenarian women and compare the results with those in younger patients. As our population has aged, the treatment of incontinence and prolapse in women older than 80 years, known as octogenarians, has become a significant clinical issue., Methods: To date, our prospective database includes 455 women who have undergone transvaginal sling surgery using nonfrozen cadaveric fascia lata with or without concurrent prolapse repair. Of these, 51 (11%) were at least 80 years old at surgery. Complete follow-up was defined as pelvic examination findings, validated questionnaire responses (incontinence and quality of life), and SEAPI (Stress, Emptying, Anatomy, Protection, and Instability) score. The outcomes analysis was focused on the 31 octogenarian women with a minimum of 1 year of complete follow-up and compared their data with the data of 234 younger women with an identical minimal follow-up time., Results: The mean octogenarian age was 83 years (maximal age 93). The mean octogenarian questionnaire and examination follow-up was administered at 21.4 months and 17.5 months, respectively. Of the 31 octogenarians, 17 (55%) reported continence improvement of greater than 70%, and 28 (90%) had no symptomatic recurrent prolapse. Compared with younger patients, no statistically significant difference in outcome parameters was identified. The rates of persistent urgency and urgency in dissatisfied patients were greater in octogenarian women, but did not reach statistical significance. Statistically significant improvement in the octogenarian quality-of-life measures was demonstrated. No perioperative complications occurred., Conclusions: Transvaginal incontinence and/or prolapse surgery may be safely performed in octogenarian women, with resultant improvement in quality-of-life measures. Although outcomes after transvaginal surgery were comparable between octogenarian and younger women, persistent urgency may predict dissatisfaction in the octogenarian population.

This article evaluates treatment outcomes of urethrolysis with the Martius labial fat pad graft for patients with outlet obstruction after incontinence surgery. A total of 23 women were diagnosed with iatrogenic bladder outlet obstruction by urinary retention, urodynamic criteria, physical examination findings, and/or temporal relation of voiding dysfunction to anti-incontinence surgery. The urodynamic definition of female outlet obstruction was a maximum flow rate <12 mL/sec and a detrusor pressure at maximum flow >20 cm of water. Surgical treatment consisted of urethrolysis with complete circumferential urethral mobilization. A Martius labial fat pad graft was used to circumferentially wrap the urethra. No concurrent resuspension procedures were performed. Procedure efficacy was determined by retrospective review and phone interview. Mean patient age was 55 years (range, 37 to 85 years). Mean postoperative follow-up time was 15 months (maximum, 44 months). All patients related voiding dysfunction symptoms to their anti-incontinence surgery. In all, 17 of 23 (74%) patients had preoperative urinary retention requiring catheterization, and 63% of patients met urodynamic criteria for obstruction. After urethrolysis with a Martius labial fat pad graft, 20 of 23 (87%) patients had complete resolution of their obstruction; 3 patients required persistent catheterization. Postoperative stress incontinence was reported by 6 of 23 (13%) patients. Urodynamically documented detrusor instability occurred in 6 of 23 (26%) patients with de novo detrusor instability occurring in 3 of 15 (20%) patients.

Purpose: Since our initial description of the technique of combining a transvaginal sling with a cystocele repair using solvent dehydrated cadaveric fascia lata and bone anchors we have continued to follow our outcomes closely to determine long-term results. We present the updated, multicenter results of the cadaveric prolapse repair with sling., Materials and Methods: A total of 172 patients 35 to 90 years old (mean age 62.1) have undergone cadaveric prolapse repair with sling with a mean followup of 12.4 months (range 6 to 28). Of these patients 132 (76.7%) completed followup. Repair was performed for grade 2 cystoceles in 73 cases, grade 3 cystoceles in 43 and grade 4 cystoceles in 16. Followup included physical examination (degree of pelvic prolapse), SEAPI scores, complications, patient reported continence, perceived improvement and satisfaction. The latter 2 parameters were obtained using a validated questionnaire., Results: Of the 132 patients 15 (11.4%) had grade 1 and 2 (1.5%) had grade 2 cystocele recurrence, which required no further treatment, and 13 (9.8%) had recurrent or de novo apical vaginal prolapse. Preoperative and postoperative SEAPI scores were 5.58 and 0.9, respectively (p <0.001). A total of 90 patients (68.2%) do not use any pads for protection. Of the 132 patients 24 (18.2%) have stress incontinence of any degree, including 14 (10.6%) with pure stress urinary incontinence, 8 (6.0%) report de novo urge incontinence, 26 (19.7%) have persistent urge incontinence, 21 (15.9%) have any degree of urgency without urge incontinence, 28 (21.2%) report resolution of preoperative urgency or urge incontinence symptoms, 7 (5.3%) have mixed incontinence and 1 had prolonged urinary retention requiring urethrolysis. There has been 1 case of osteitis pubis and no osteomyelitis. Of the patients 94 (71.2%) reported greater than or equal to 70% subjective improvement overall, including 12 who were dry preoperatively, 99 (75.0%) were greater than or equal to 70% satisfied, 105 (79.9%) would repeat the surgery and 102 (77.4%) would recommend the surgery to a friend. With regard to continence 31 (23.8%) patients were less than or equal to 50% improved. A total of 108 (81.8%) patients have no stress urinary incontinence, and patient improvement, satisfaction and complication rates have been acceptable. We have been particularly impressed by the results of the cystocele repair. Surgeons must consider that patient perceived improvement and satisfaction level are essential components of the measure of success or failure of a given therapy., Conclusions: With a maximum of 28 months of followup of the cadaveric prolapse repair with sling procedure, we continue to be satisfied with the success of the cystocele repair and the competitive stress urinary incontinence cure rate.

In the past, needle suspensions were considered a viable option to treat female stress urinary incontinence. There have been many modifications since the first needle suspension over 40 years ago. Despite these modifications, the long-term outcome data does not support the efficacy of needle suspension procedures, with only a 67% cure/dry rate at > 48 months. The long-term results are much more efficacious with the sling procedure (83%), as well as with retropubic suspensions (84%). Needle suspensions have historical significance, but because of the poor long-term results, they currently have a limited role in the management of stress urinary incontinence.

Repair of cystoceles requires a complete understanding of the pelvic anatomy. While smaller defects are relatively straightforward, greater degrees of prolapse can be among the most challenging surgeries in pelvic floor reconstruction. This article reviews current transvaginal techniques used for repair of large cystoceles.

A new technique using cadaveric fascia lata for the simultaneous repair of a cystocele and placement of a pubovaginal sling by means of a transvaginal approach is described, and our early results are reported. We refer to this as the cadaveric prolapse repair with sling (CaPS). Fifty patients, ages 37 to 90 years, underwent a new technique for simultaneous cystocele repair and transvaginal pubovaginal sling using a single piece of cadaveric fascia. Maximum follow-up was 6 months (range 1 to 6). A 6 x 8 cm segment of cadaveric fascia lata is placed transvaginally to repair the defect through which the bladder herniates into the vagina and to provide sling support at the bladder neck/proximal urethra. The sling is anchored to the pubic bone with transvaginal bone anchors. The remainder of the fascia is then secured to the medial edge of the levator muscles/pubocervical fascia bilaterally and at the vaginal cuff or cervix with absorbable sutures to reduce the cystocele. Patients are being evaluated with preoperative and postoperative stress, emptying, anatomy, protection, instability (SEAPI) scores as well as with grading of the prolapse based on a 3-grade anatomic classification system. Presenting symptoms have included stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in 13 (26%), urge incontinence in 4 (8%), mixed incontinence in 6 (12%), and pelvic prolapse in 20 (40%). These symptoms are not mutually exclusive; some patients presented with a combination of symptoms. The mean SEAPI scores were 5.51 preoperatively and 0.63 postoperatively, representing a significant improvement (P <0.001). Of the 40 patients whose prolapse was quantified, 1 patient (2.5%) had a minimal cystocele, 16 (40.0%) had moderate cystoceles, and 23 (57.5%) had large cystoceles. After the CaPS, 36 (72%) were completely dry, 3 (6%) had persistent SUI, 1 (2%) had de novo urinary incontinence (UI), 3 (6%) had persistent UI, and 1 (2%) had mixed incontinence. No patient had permanent urinary retention. Transvaginal placement of cadaveric fascia for concomitant sling and cystocele repair provides material of excellent strength for the repair without relying on the inherently weak tissues in the patient with pelvic prolapse. Thus far, the early results with CaPS are extremely encouraging. Long-term follow-up is underway to evaluate the efficacy of this procedure.

Purpose: Pelvic prolapse is a common problem affecting women of all ages. We reviewed the pathophysiology, presentation, evaluation and treatment of pelvic prolapse., Materials and Methods: We comprehensively reviewed the literature using MEDLINE, resources cited in those peer reviewed articles and abstracts from recent international meetings., Results: Pelvic prolapse involves the herniation of various portions of the vaginal wall. Symptoms vary according to the area of the vagina affected. Proper evaluation is imperative for providing proper treatment. Various surgical approaches to repair have been developed and techniques continue to evolve., Conclusions: With the increasing involvement of urologists in the treatment of pelvic prolapse it is essential for us to become familiar with the anatomy, and the evaluation and management options available. We provide an overview of the care of patients with pelvic prolapse.

Female urinary retention is extremely rare. Two cases of female urethral carcinoma that presented as urinary retention are reviewed and discussed.

Purpose: Various materials have been used for pubovaginal slings to correct female stress urinary incontinence. Use of synthetic materials provides a theoretical advantage in that no graft harvesting is necessary. Major risks of synthetic material use are erosion and infection of the sling. We report on erosion of woven polyester slings treated with pressure injected bovine collagen (ProteGen) which required removal., Materials and Methods: Office records of patients who had ProteGen slings removed at 5 centers during the last 24 months were retrospectively reviewed. Presenting symptoms, interval between sling placement and removal, subsequent procedures and continence status following sling removal were evaluated., Results: A total of 34 women required removal of the polyester sling secondary to erosion, infection or pain. The most common presenting complaints were delayed vaginal discharge in 21 patients (62%), vaginal pain or pressure in 21 (62%), suprapubic pain in 11 (32%) and recurrent urinary tract infection in 5 (15%) at a mean of 7.95 months (range 1 to 22) after sling placement. Of the patients 17 (50%) had vaginal erosion only, 7 (20%) isolated urethral erosion and 6 (17%) urethrovaginal fistulas. In 4 patients no erosion was obvious but slings were removed secondary to vaginal pain. Before sling removal 16 patients (47%) were totally dry, 13 (38%) had some degree of urinary incontinence and 3 (8%) had retention. Following sling removal 7 patients (20%) remained dry, 25 (74%) had mild to severe stress urinary incontinence with or without urgency and urge incontinence, and 2 (6%) are pending followup., Conclusions: Woven polyester slings treated with pressure injected bovine collagen are prone to erosion. Although the ProteGen sling was recalled in January 1999, patients who have had the sling placed must be followed closely.

New techniques for the treatment of female stress urinary incontinence are constantly being developed. In assessing treatment modalities, one must consider many variables including patient satisfaction and quality of life, cure or improvement rate, patient selection, and long-term durability of results. In 1998, many papers comparing and examining the outcomes of various new and old techniques were published.

Purpose: To define the changes in penile tumescence and rigidity in normally potent older men before a nerve-sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy (NS-RRP) and to establish a base-line for investigating erectile dysfunction in that age group., Material and Methods: 75 patients used the Rigiscan for 2-3 nights before undergoing a NS-RRP procedure. Rigiscan data were analyzed visually using Kaneko & Bradley criteria, and by computerized analysis. The computerized data were compared to the patient self-evaluation of potency (questionnaire), patient's age (above and below 60 years old), peak cavernosal artery velocity measured by Duplex Doppler scanning, and to the visual analysis of the Rigiscan data., Results: 55 of 75 men (73%) completed three sessions. 42 men had at least 2 normal sessions, and when compared to the 33 with abnormal visual tracings, only age was significantly characteristic (p < 0.05). Tip event rigidity (%) in < 60 year-old men was greater than in older men (p < 0.01). Nearly all men had erections lasting more than 2 minutes, while only 29 of 74 had 10 minutes erections with rigidity > 70%. The best correlation between visual and computerized analyses was noted in the group of 54 men who experienced > 70% rigidity for more than 2 minutes., Conclusion: This large prospective series of potent older men studied by Rigiscan and other subjective and objective parameters helps establishing normative data in the diagnosis of erectile dysfunction. An important observation is clearly the lack of correlation between the patient's questionnaire or the Doppler findings and the Rigiscan data.

Objectives: to determine IL-1alpha and IL-1beta levels in patients with bacterial cystitis, microscopic hematuria, and gravid females relative to a control group of normal subjects., Methods: enzyme immunoassays were used to measure concomitantly urinary IL-1alpha and IL-1beta in clean catch urine samples from normal subjects (n = 31) and study patients (n = 46). All normal subjects and patients underwent urinalysis, urine culture, and urine creatinine level determination. Since the IL-1alpha assay was developed for serum, the utility of the assay for urine specimens was unknown. The key parameters of urine collection, processing and sample storage for IL-1alpha were evaluated in detail., Results: mean values +/- SEM (pg/mg) for IL-1alpha/ Cr and IL-1beta/Cr were control group (0.25 +/- 0.10 and 0.17 +/- 0.06), bacterial cystitis (9.97 +/- 1.15 and 42.45 +/- 1.86), and microscopic hematuria (2.81 +/- 0.65 and 2.82 +/- 0.70). Differences in cytokine levels between the control group and patients with either bacterial cystitis or microscopic hematuria were statistically significant for both IL-1alpha/Cr (P < 0.026; P < 0.007, respectively) and IL-1beta /Cr (P < 0.0004; P < 0.014, respectively). IL-1beta/Cr correlates better with pyuria than IL-1alpha/ Cr (P = 0.02 vs P = 0.44). In gravid females, only IL-1alpha was significantly elevated relative to non-pregnant females (IL-1beta elevation approached statistical significance). Gravid females with positive urine cultures could not be distinguished from those with negative cultures based on either interleukin (P > 0.05)., Conclusions: Significant elevations of IL-1alpha and IL-1beta occur in patients with bacterial cystitis and microscopic hematuria. Correlation between pyuria and cytokine elevation was stronger for IL-1beta than for IL-1alpha. Changes in IL-1alpha may reflect changes in the bladder epithelium rather than in the inflammatory leukocytes. The ability of IL-1alpha and IL-1beta to serve as markers for bacterial cystitis in gravid females is diminished due to high basal levels during pregnancy.

Purpose: We evaluated by questionnaire analysis the success rate and overall patient satisfaction after pubovaginal sling surgery., Materials and Methods: A total of 40 women (mean age 65.7 years, range 45 to 79) underwent pubovaginal sling surgery for stress urinary incontinence due to intrinsic sphincteric deficiency. Patients completed a detailed questionnaire to assess voiding symptoms, urinary control and satisfaction. Of 40 patients 37 (92.5%) returned the questionnaire, with a mean postoperative followup of 48.2 months (range 24 to 60)., Results: Patients with preoperative stress urinary incontinence alone were more likely to be dry than were patients with preoperative mixed incontinence (67% versus 36%, p < 0.001). Ten patients (27%) reported stress urinary incontinence recurrence. Of the patients 23 (62.2%) reported urgency symptoms at followup, with de novo urgency occurring in 4 patients. Permanent retention was noted in 3 patients, including 2 with sacral arc denervation. Overall patients reported 86% postoperative improvement in urinary continence, and 81% would recommend the operation., Conclusions: At mean 4-year followup after pubovaginal sling surgery, this outcome study using a self administered questionnaire confirms high patient satisfaction despite significant postoperative urgency symptoms.

Objectives: To demonstrate the feasibility of outpatient percutaneous bladder neck suspension (BNS) under local anesthesia to treat stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in females., Methods: Since October 1994, 40 women with SUI (mean age 59.6+/-12.0 years) underwent outpatient percutaneous BNS with "Z" suture anchoring of the anterior vaginal wall and pubocervical fascia. The suspension sutures were secured to percutaneously placed bone anchors. The procedure was performed under local anesthesia. Pain during surgery was evaluated with an analogue scale graded from 0 (no pain) to 5 (severe pain)., Results: In 98% of the BNS, the procedure was successfully performed with the patient under local anesthesia. Conversion to general anesthesia was necessary for only 1 patient due to knee pain in the lithotomy position. No major complications were observed. Patients rated their perioperative pain as 1.0+/-0.6 (that is, minimal pain). Patients required pain medications for a mean of 2.4+/-1.3 days postoperatively. Mean duration of recovery (defined by a return to normal activities) was 2.2+/-1.0 weeks; 92% of the patients were continent postoperatively, and no recurrence of urethral hypermobility was observed., Conclusions: Our results demonstrate the feasibility of outpatient percutaneous BNS performed in patients under local anesthesia without significant morbidity. Continued follow-up will be necessary to determine the long-term efficacy of this procedure.

Purpose: The American Urological Association convened the Female Stress Urinary Incontinence Clinical Guidelines Panel to analyze the literature regarding surgical procedures for treating stress urinary incontinence in the otherwise healthy female subject and to make practice recommendations based on the treatment outcomes data., Materials and Methods: The panel searched the MEDLINE data base for all articles through 1993 on surgical treatment of female stress urinary incontinence. Outcomes data were extracted from articles accepted after panel review. The data were then meta-analyzed to produce outcome estimates for alternative surgical procedures., Results: The data indicate that after 48 months retropubic suspensions and slings appear to be more efficacious than transvaginal suspensions, and also more efficacious than anterior repairs. The literature suggests higher complication rates when synthetic materials are used for slings., Conclusions: The panel found sufficient acceptable long-term outcomes data (longer than 48 months) to conclude that surgical treatment of female stress urinary incontinence is effective, offering a long-term cure in a significant percentage of women. The evidence supports surgery as initial therapy and as a secondary form of therapy after failure of other treatments for stress urinary incontinence. Retropubic suspensions and slings are the most efficacious procedures for long-term success (based on cure/dry rates). However, in the panel's opinion retropubic suspensions and sling procedures are associated with slightly higher complication rates, including longer convalescence and postoperative voiding dysfunction.

Purpose: We determined the long-term efficacy and quality of life impact of the artificial urinary sphincter., Materials and Methods: We reviewed the medical records of 68 men who underwent artificial urinary sphincter placement for post-prostatectomy incontinence (64) or neurogenic disease (4) between March 1980 and March 1992 (mean followup 7.2 years). Quality of life was assessed in 52 patients who completed the incontinence impact questionnaire and the urogenital distress inventory., Results: At followup 54 men were socially continent (0 or 1 pad per day). Overall, pad score decreased significantly from 2.75 before to 0.97 after artificial urinary sphincter implantation (p < 0.001). The artificial urinary sphincter was permanently removed in 4 patients. Revisions for mechanical failure or urethral atrophy were required in 25% of the patients (mean 1.35 procedures per patient). The mechanical failure rate decreased significantly after 1987 due to device improvements (12.4 versus 44.4%, p < 0.01). Subjective improvement and overall satisfaction were rated as 4.1 and 3.9, respectively (scale 0 to 5). At followup the mean values of the incontinence impact questionnaire and urogenital distress inventory demonstrated the positive impact of the artificial urinary sphincter on quality of life., Conclusions: This long-term study documents the positive impact of the artificial urinary sphincter on patient quality of life with few mechanical failures since 1987.

Objectives: To assess the clinical efficacy of neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet (YAG) laser coagulation prostatectomy using a broad-angle, divergent-beam, side-firing fiber., Methods: Eighty adult men with voiding symptoms caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia were enrolled in a prospective multicenter study of free-beam neodymium:YAG laser prostatectomy performed with the ProLase II side-firing delivery fiber. Voiding outcomes were assessed at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively., Results: At 1-year follow-up, peak urinary flow rates were increased by 105%, postvoid residual urine volumes had decreased by 38%, and the AUA symptom index had decreased by 60%. Serious treatment-related complications occurred in 3 of 80 patients (3.8%). The reoperation rate through 1-year follow-up was 2.7%., Conclusions: Neodymium:YAG laser prostatectomy performed with the ProLase II delivery fiber has proven safe and efficacious with durable results through 1 year in the relief of symptomatic bladder outlet obstruction due to benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Objective: To determine the influence of the bladder filling volume on the Valsalva Leak Point Pressure (VLPP) in patients investigated for urinary stress incontinence., Patients and Methods: 50 patients investigated for urinary stress incontinence were included in this prospective study. Evaluation consisted of clinical examination, urodynamic examination with simultaneous fluoroscopic assessment and cystoscopy. VLPP was measured while standing every 100 cc during filling until the cystomanometric bladder capacity., Results: We observed a significant reduction of VLPP as a function of bladder filling volume. The VLPP measured at 200 cc constituted the reference value in view of its sensitivity and specificity for the diagnosis of type III urinary stress incontinence (Blaivas' classification)., Conclusion: Measurement of VLPP must be standardized and interpreted as a function of bladder filling volume.

Purpose: We have examined urinary cytokine levels to define the inflammatory response in patients with bacterial cystitis or microhematuria relative to normal subjects. Cytokines examined include interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta), IL-1alpha, tumor necrosis factor (TNF alpha), IL-6 and IL-4. Unique features of this study include a) a simultaneous study of several relevant cytokines b) a study of the inflammatory response at both low and high counts of bacterial infection and c) an assessment of whether microhematuria without bacterial cystitis or pyuria is associated with cytokine elevation compared to normals., Materials and Methods: Enzyme immunoassays were utilized for each cytokine. Patients studied include those with bacterial cystitis (n = 49), patients with microhematuria (n = 11), and normal subjects (n = 36). Cytokine levels were also determined for patients with low count bacterial cystitis (1,000-50,000 organisms; n = 15) and compared to high count bacterial cystitis (>100,000 organisms; n = 34) and normal subjects. Statistical analysis was carried out using the Kruskal-Wallis test followed by pairwise testing with Newman-Keuls test., Results: a) The means for normal, microhematuria and bacterial cystitis groups were significantly different (p <0.05) for IL-1beta, IL-1alpha, TNF alpha and IL-6, but not for IL-4. b) Except for IL-4, all cytokines were found to be significantly elevated in low count bacterial cystitis compared to normals. No statistically significant difference was observed between low and high count bacterial cystitis groups for any of the cytokines tested., Conclusions: a) Significant and similar inflammatory responses are present in both low and high count bacterial cystitis groups as compared with the normal group. b) IL-6 and TNF alpha are significantly elevated in patients with microhematuria compared to normals. c) The potential clinical utility of the assays lies in identifying the specific cytokines elevated, understanding the pathways that give rise to their production, and in defining potential virulence factors that may produce significant inflammation at low count bacterial infections.

Purpose: We prospectively compared the efficacy of 2 bulking agents to treat incontinence related to intrinsic sphincter deficiency., Materials and Methods: A total of 67 women underwent periurethral injection for intrinsic sphincter deficiency at the same institution performed by 1 surgeon. Patients were divided into 45 who received fat (group 1) and 22 who received collagen (group 2) injections. Both groups were comparable for age, parity, number of previously failed procedures and number of pads used daily. Preoperative urodynamic evaluation revealed a low Valsalva leak point pressure in both groups (mean plus or minus standard deviation 23.82 +/- 12.41 versus 29.35 +/- 11.32, not significant). Patients rated the subjective degree of postoperative improvement as 0 to 100%., Results: At a mean followup of 7 months after the last injection only 13% of the fat group and 24% of the collagen group were cured. The mean percentage of subjective improvement was significantly greater in the collagen than in the fat group (70.9 +/- 28 versus 31.2 +/- 41.7%, respectively, p < 0.001). The failure rate was significantly greater in the fat group compared to the collagen group (p < 0.001)., Conclusions: Based on results of a prospective comparison of fat and collagen injection, collagen is more effective than fat for treatment of intrinsic sphincter deficiency.

Objectives: Women undergoing four-corner bladder neck suspension were evaluated for subjective and objective results of the procedure. Patients were evaluated for continence, prolapse, and symptomatic status postoperatively., Methods: Forty-seven women underwent four-corner bladder neck suspension for moderate cystocele with (44) or without (3) stress urinary incontinence. Mean and median follow-up were 37 months (range 15 to 80). To assess results of the four-corner bladder neck suspension, two sets of outcome measures were used (subjective questionnaire, including patient satisfaction, and objective physical examination, with standing voiding cystourethrogram) to compare pre- and postoperative data., Results: At the time of follow-up, 25 patients (53%) reported no incontinence, 14 (30%) reported one incontinent episode per week, and 8 (17%) reported daily loss of urine. Twenty-seven (57%) had grade I or grade II cystoceles on follow-up examination and voiding cystourethrogram; however, only 12 (26%) experienced recurrent prolapse symptomatology. Overall patient acceptance of the procedure was high (70%)., Conclusions: The four-corner bladder neck suspension is an effective option in the management of moderate cystocele.

Purpose: We reviewed the urodynamic findings and treatment outcomes of a large series of men with primary bladder neck obstruction., Materials and Methods: A retrospective review was done of the presenting symptoms and urodynamic findings of 36 men with primary bladder neck obstruction. Outcomes after treatment with alpha-blockers, transurethral incision of the bladder neck and prostate, or no long-term therapy were determined by chart review and patient survey in the majority of cases., Results: Mean age of the men was 41 years. Patients had significant lower urinary tract symptoms, decreased peak urinary flow rates, elevated post-void residual, markedly elevated peak voiding pressures and poor funneling of the bladder neck during voiding. Although most patients initially chose alpha-blocker therapy, only 30% of those beginning alpha-blockers continued them long term, usually due to inadequate symptomatic improvement. A total of 18 men underwent transurethral incision, which resulted in significant improvements in symptom scores, peak urinary flow rates, post-void residual and peak voiding pressures. Patients reported a mean 87% overall improvement in symptoms after transurethral incision., Conclusions: Video urodynamics facilitate diagnosis of primary bladder neck obstruction. Transurethral incision is the most effective therapy for primary bladder neck obstruction.

The early results after PBNS are extremely encouraging. The procedure is easy to learn, is performed rapidly on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia if desired, and has minimal postoperative morbidity. Continued objective follow up is critical to define the long-term efficacy of this promising technique.

Post-prostatectomy incontinence is a devastating complication that is frustrating for the patient and the surgeon. Bladder dysfunction with or without sphincteric incompetence is the main cause for post-prostatectomy incontinence. Treatment based on the urodynamic evaluation is effective in restoring continence and improving the patient's quality of life.

The ability to perform a variety of urologic procedures (urethrotomy, prostate surgery, penile prosthesis insertion, and bladder neck suspension) under local anesthesia in an outpatient setting is a significant advance in patient care. The surgical techniques are described that will allow the urologist to incorporate these procedures into practice.

Purpose: The recent literature on intrinsic sphincteric deficiency is reviewed., Materials and Methods: We performed an extensive literature search related to the diagnosis, management and treatment of intrinsic sphincteric deficiency., Results: Stress urinary incontinence results from insufficient urethral resistance and/or support during increases in intra-abdominal pressure. Since treatment of stress urinary incontinence is closely related to the mechanism of urinary leakage, recognition of intrinsic sphincteric deficiency is of the utmost importance in its evaluation. Furthermore, to date there is no consensus on the treatment of intrinsic sphincteric deficiency and various procedures may be considered., Conclusions: The pathophysiology of urinary incontinence in female patients is still controversial. Intrinsic sphincteric deficiency is best recognized by history and clinical examination in conjunction with documentation of severe stress urinary incontinence, a fixed urethra and a low Valsalva leak point pressure. The pubo-vaginal sling procedure still represents the most widely accepted treatment to correct intrinsic sphincteric deficiency.

This article reviews the history, evolution, and future of transvaginal needle suspension procedures for stress urinary incontinence. Although numerous technical modifications to the original Pereyra transvaginal needle suspension procedure have been described, the true success rates of these procedures are difficult to ascertain. In general, outcomes reported in the literature are variable, and few long-term studies exist. Only the results of well-designed, prospective, and long-term studies will determine whether recent advances in patient selection and continuing technical modifications will improve the outcome of bladder neck suspension procedures.

Purpose: We examined urodynamic findings and treatment outcomes in a large population of men with post-prostatectomy incontinence., Materials and Methods: A total of 215 men was referred for evaluation and treatment of significant post-prostatectomy incontinence. Urodynamic evaluation consisted of provocation multichannel medium fill cystometry with vigorous attempts to demonstrate incontinence. Treatment was directed by the results of the urodynamic study. A pad scoring system was used to gauge the severity of incontinence before and after treatment., Results: Based on the results of urodynamic studies 40% of the men had genuine stress incontinence alone and approximately 60% had a major component of bladder dysfunction contributing to incontinence. Treatment results of 135 men demonstrated a significant decrease in pad score (p<0.001) for those treated with anticholinergics, those undergoing artificial sphincter insertion and those treated pharmacologically before sphincter placement., Conclusions: In our large series most men with prostatectomy incontinence did not have genuine stress incontinence alone. Thus, urodynamic studies are critical, not only to define cause of incontinence but to direct effective therapy.

Objectives: Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), an agent that provides symptomatic relief in patients with interstitial cystitis (IC) works via an unknown mechanism. We investigated whether DMSO acts as a chemical stimulant of mast cell degranulation., Methods: A radioimmunoassay (RIA) specific for histamine was used to test this hypothesis. Twelve women with strictly diagnosed IC were treated with intravesical instillations of DMSO. Treatments were repeated at varying intervals, and each patient received three to six treatments. Urine histamine levels were measured before and after each intravesical instillation of DMSO. Dilutional effects of DMSO were corrected for by conversion of urine histamine concentration to urine histamine:creatinine ratio., Results: The RIA was unaffected by the addition of DMSO to urine. No consistent change in the urine histamine:creatinine ratio following DMSO instillation was found. Trend analysis revealed no trend in the histamine:creatinine ratio with time., Conclusions: The relief of symptoms reported in 50% to 77% of patients treated with intravesical DMSO is not related to detectable mast cell release of histamine. Other mechanisms of action must be investigated to explain the beneficial effect of this agent.

Purpose: We attempt to determine the long-term success rate of the modified Pereyra bladder neck suspension, identify preoperative factors predictive of long-term outcome, and investigate the influence of method and length of followup on reported continence status after modified Pereyra bladder neck suspension., Materials and Methods: The charts of 177 patients who underwent modified Pereyra bladder neck suspension at our institution more than 5 years ago were reviewed. An attempt was made to contact all patients either by mail or telephone to complete a patient survey questionnaire., Results: Of 177 patients 125 (71%) completed the patient survey with a mean followup of 9.8 years. At survey followup 20% of the patients reported no incontinence of any type and 51% reported stress urinary incontinence with or without urge incontinence. Of the patients 71% reported significant improvement in the incontinence and 73% were satisfied with the results of the procedure. No accurate preoperative predictors of long-term outcome were identified. The method and length of followup had significant impact on reported continence status after modified Pereyra bladder neck suspension., Conclusions: This long-term study using outcomes analysis reveals a high rate of recurrent stress incontinence after modified Pereyra bladder neck suspension. However, most patients maintain significant subjective improvement and remain satisfied with the results of the operation.

Purpose: We objectively evaluated potency before nerve sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy., Materials and Methods: A total of 45 consecutive potent, neurologically normal and sexually active candidates 47 to 70 years old (mean age 62) completed a detailed questionnaire (separate from their partner), and underwent penile biothesiometry, RigiScan* testing for 3 nights, and duplex Doppler scanning of the cavernous arteries before and after prostaglandin E1 injection., Results: Of the patients 8 noted moderate and the remainder normal erections on the questionnaire. RigiScan testing and penile biothesiometry correlated poorly with potency status. Duplex scanning demonstrated excellent peak velocities in 93% of the patients., Conclusions: This well studied prospective series underscores the importance of careful objective assessment of potent surgical candidates, and underlines a strong correlation between preoperative potency status and duplex Doppler scanning.

Injection of autologous fat has been used for many years to correct cosmetic surgical defects. More recently, autologous fat injection has been applied to the treatment of urinary incontinence. The background and technique of periurethral fat injection are described in this article. The technique is safe, and preliminary results are encouraging in women with intrinsic sphincter deficiency. Long term follow-up and comparative trials will determine the ultimate utility of periurethral fat injection for the treatment of women with intrinsic sphincter deficiency.

Purpose: Fluorescein angiography has been used in the study of bleeding vessels, neovascularity, tumors and ischemic tissues in a variety of disorders. This pilot study was designed to evaluate the feasibility, safety and relevance of this interesting technology for the evaluation of bladder wall vessels in patients with interstitial cystitis and bladder cancer., Materials and Methods: Five patients with National Institutes of Health defined interstitial cystitis symptoms and 10 with bladder cancer were studied during cytoscopy while they were under general anesthesia. A yellow-green barrier filter (520 nm.) was placed over the cystoscope eyepiece and a blue exciter filter (465 nm.) was attached to the light source. Patients received a 5 ml. bolus of 10% fluorescein intravenously., Results: After hydrodistension, glomerulations in interstitial cystitis patients were more prominent with fluorescein angiography and occurred in the venule phase. Areas of papillary transitional cell tumor and carcinoma in situ developed a brilliant yellow-green fluorescence. Adjacent normal urothelium was nonfluorescent and provided a contrasting dark background facilitating the detection of all lesions. No allergic reaction or other adverse effect related to the fluorescein injection was observed., Conclusions: These unique observations in a limited number of patients suggest that fluorescein angiography of the bladder is a safe and simple procedure. This preliminary report underscores the relevance of fluorescein angiography in the detection of bladder tumor and offers a new approach to the evaluation of bladder wall vessels in interstitial cystitis patients.

The diagnosis and successful treatment of female urethral diverticulum can be facilitated by a heightened clinical awareness coupled with appropriate evaluation and perioperative management. In particular, it is important to address all the preoperative factors to avoid complications de treatment such as recurrence of the diverticulum or urethro-vaginal fistula. The authors also report their clinical experience of evaluating 59 women with urethral diverticula over the last 11 years and describe the technique and complications of diverticulectomy in 49 women.

The technique of visual laser-assisted prostatectomy (VLAP) with a noncontact right-angle delivery system (Urolase) under local anesthesia is described. The advantages of local anesthesia include the facilitation of early patient discharge (2-3 hours after the procedure), avoidance of the risks of spinal and general anesthesia in high-risk patients, and, potentially, the enabling of VLAP as an outpatient office procedure. This technique was employed in 52 men with symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) as an outpatient procedure without significant morbidity. The mean AUA Symptom Scores and uroflow measures all improved significantly with 1-year follow-up. Outpatient VLAP under local anesthesia is a promising treatment alternative for men with BPH.

Operative treatment of Peyronie's disease has the risk of penile shortening and/or loss of erection. To avoid these complications, we used plaque incision together with polytetrafluoroethylene (Gore-Tex) graft insertion in men with preserved penile rigidity and only implanted a penile prosthesis in men with erectile failure. Between August 1986 and July 1992, 24 men 36 to 72 years old (mean age 53 years) underwent surgery. Of the men 16 with adequate penile rigidity by history and/or RigiScan study, and severe curvature underwent plaque incision and polytetrafluoroethylene graft insertion. Eight men had erectile failure, including 4 with distal flaccidity as demonstrated by RigiScan study. These 8 men received a penile prosthesis (semirigid in 6 and inflatable in 2). In addition, 2 of these men also required plaque incision because of persistent curvature. With a mean followup of 47 months (range 20 to 92), all 16 men with incision and a polytetrafluoroethylene graft had excellent erections with satisfactory intercourse. Minimal curvature away from the plaque incision site, not causing any difficulty with sexual performance, occurred in 7 patients. The men with a penile prosthesis engage in normal intercourse without residual or recurrent curvature. Incision of Peyronie's plaque and polytetrafluoroethylene graft insertion is associated with an excellent functional result in men with normal preoperative penile rigidity. A penile prosthesis should be reserved for men with erectile failure.