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OBJECTIVE To compare transurethral resection in saline (TURIS), Greenlight laser vapo-enucleation of the prostate (GL.PVEP), and holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP), for controlling lower urinary tract symptoms secondary to large benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and to assess non-inferiority of 3-year re-treatment rates. PATIENTS AND METHODS Eligible patients with BPH (prostate size 80-150 mL) were randomly assigned to one of the intervention groups. Non-inferiority of re-treatment rate was evaluated using a one-sided test at 5% level of significance. RESULTS At the time of analysis, 60 GL.PVEP, 60 HoLEP and 62 TURIS procedures were included. Perioperative parameters were comparable between groups; however, the operative time was longer in GL.PVEP vs HoLEP and TURIS, at a mean (SD) of 92 (32) vs 73 (30) and 83 (28) min (P = 0.005); and was less effective with a mean (SD) removal of 1.2 (0.4) vs 1.7 (0.7) and 1.4 (0.6) g/min (P

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE:High quality evidence comparing mini percutaneous nephrolithotomy (MPNL) versus standard percutaneous nephrolithotomy (SPNL) is deficient. We aim to assess the efficacy a...

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE:To evaluate efficacy and durability of greenlight laser (XPS-180watt) based prostatectomy for treatment of benign prostatic obstruction (BPO). The need for medical and or...

Objective To test the non-inferiority of bipolar transurethral vaporization of the prostate (TUVP) compared to GreenLight laser (GL) photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) for reduction of benign prostatic hyperplasia-related lower urinary tract symptoms in a randomized trial. Methods Eligible patients with prostate volumes of 30-80 mL were randomly allocated to GL-PVP (n = 58) or bipolar TUVP (n = 61). Non-inferiority of symptom score (International Prostate Symptom Score [IPSS]) at 24 months was evaluated. All peri-operative variables were recorded and compared. Urinary (IPSS, maximum urinary flow rate and post-void residual urine volume) and sexual (International Index of Erectile Function-15) outcome measures were evaluated at 1, 4, 12 and 24 months. Need for retreatment and complications, change in PSA level and health resources-related costs of both procedures were recorded and compared. Results Baseline and peri-operative variables were similar in the two groups. At 1, 4, 12 and 24 months, 117, 116, 99 and 96 patients, respectively, were evaluable. Regarding urinary outcome measures, there was no significant difference between the groups. The mean ± sd IPSS at 1 and 2 years was 7.1 ± 3 and 7.9 ± 2.9 (P = 0.8), respectively, after GL-PVP and 6.3 ± 3.1 and 7.2 ± 2.8, respectively, after bipolar TUVP (P = 0.31). At 24 months, the mean difference in IPSS was 0.7 (95% confidence interval -0.6 to 2.3; P = 0.6). The median (range) postoperative PSA reduction was 64.7 (25-99)% and 65.9 (50-99)% (P = 0.006) after GL-PVP, and 32.1 (28.6-89.7)% and 39.3 (68.8-90.5)% (P = 0.005) after bipolar TUVP, at 1 and 2 years, respectively. After 2 years, retreatment for recurrent bladder outlet obstruction was reported in eight (13.8%) and 10 (16.4%) patients in the GL-PVP and bipolar TUVP groups, respectively (P = 0.8). The mean estimated cost per bipolar TUVP procedure was significantly lower than per GL-PVP procedure after 24 months (P = 0.01). Conclusions In terms of symptom control, bipolar TUVP was not inferior to GL-PVP at 2 years. Durability of the outcome needs to be tracked. The greater cost of GL-PVP compared with bipolar TUVP is an important concern.

Background: Laparoscopic donor nephrectomy (LDN) has become the gold standard approach for kidney donation. The procedure has evolved with time and technological advancements. Contemporary LDN unde...

En-bloc resection of bladder tumors achieves complete tumor removal, improves the quality of resection, decreases perioperative complication, and potentially improves recurrence rates.To assess the efficacy and safety of holmium laser en-bloc resection (HolERBT) versus conventional transurethral resection of bladder tumor (cTURBT).Between September 2015 and September 2018, 100 patients with non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer were randomly allocated to cTURBT or HolERBT.The primary endpoint was detection of residual tumor in reTURBT specimens at 4 wk after the primary resection. Operative parameters, specimen quality, perioperative complications, and recurrence-free survival (RFS) were compared. Independent sample t tests, χThe patient and tumor baseline characteristics were comparable between the groups. Residual tumors were detected in 7% and 27.7% of cases after HolERBT and cTURBT, respectively (p=0.01). Detrusor muscle was sampled in 98% of HolERBT and 62% of cTURBT cases (p0.001). Lamina propria invasion substaging was feasible in only 68.2% of HolERBT and 18.4% of cTURBT cases (p0.001). Following HolERBT, catheterization time (p0.001) and hospital stay (p=0.001) were shorter when compared to cTURBT. Immediate postoperative instillation of chemotherapy in indicated cases was feasible for 100% of the HolERBT group and 91.5% of the cTURBT group (p=0.04). After follow-up of 20 ± 9.9 mo (13-36), RFS was 31.76 mo (95% confidence interval [CI] 28.67-34.86) in the HolERBT group and 28.25 mo (95% CI 24.87-31.64) in the cTURBT group (hazard ratio 0.43, 95% CI 0.17-1.1; p=0.07). However, this study was not powered to detect a difference in RFS.Compared to cTURBT, HolERBT is a safer procedure for bladder tumor resection. It fulfills the oncological criteria of optimized resection with less residual tumor and better specimen quality.En-bloc resection of bladder cancer tumors using a holmium laser is safer than the conventional technique. It has the advantages of less residual tumor and better specimen quality, with a similar tumor recurrence rate. This study is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov as NCT02555163.

Introduction:Quality of bladder tumor resection is determined by entire tumor resection with no residual, detrusor muscle sampling, good specimen quality for histopathology, and absence of infield ...

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE:To assess the noninferiority of transurethral resection in saline (TURis) and Greenlight laser Vapo-Enucleation of the prostate (GL.PVEP) to Holmium laser enucleation of ...

The aim of this study was to report the incidence, severity, outcome and risk factors of acute kidney injury (AKI) following percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL) in solitary kidneys.The study included consecutive adult patients who underwent PNL for treatment of calculi in a solitary kidney between May 2012 and July 2015. Patients with congenital renal anomalies or with stages 4 and 5 chronic kidney disease (CKD) were excluded. Serum creatinine levels were measured the day before PNL, daily after PNL for 2-5 days and after 3 months. AKI was depicted according to changes in early postoperative serum creatinine levels and its severity was determined based on the Acute Kidney Injury Network (AKIN) classification. The outcome of AKI was evaluated after 3 months by changes in the stage of CKD. Univariate and multivariate statistical analyses were conducted to determine risk factors for developing AKI.The study included 100 patients (62 males) with a mean ± SD age of 50 ± 11.7 years. Complications were reported for 27 patients. AKI developed in 25 patients; at the 3 month follow-up, 23 of them (92%) had completely recovered from AKI and two (8%) had developed stage 4 CKD. Independent risk factors for developing AKI were multiple PNL tracts and postoperative ureteric obstruction (relative risks were 14 and 22, respectively).The incidence of AKI was 25% after PNL for a solitary kidney. The likelihood of renal function recovery was 92%. Multiple PNL tracts and postoperative ureteric obstruction were risk factors for developing AKI.

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of botulinum toxin A (BoNT-A) instillation in the bladder under the effect of low-energy shockwaves (LESWs) for the treatment of refractory idiopathic overactive bladder (OAB). Patients and methods: A preliminary clinical study was conducted, including 15 patients with refractory OAB, between September 2016 and July 2017. Intravesical instillation of 100 IU of BoNT-A was done followed by LESWs (3000 shocks over 10 min) exposure to the supra-pubic area. Patients were followed-up by urine analysis, urine culture, post-void residual urine volume (PVR), and Overactive Bladder Symptom Score (OABSS) at 1, 2 and 3 months. Results: There were statistically significant improvements in all OABSS domains and the total score after 1 and 2 months of treatment (P 0.05) and none of the patients required clean intermittent catheterisation. Two, two and three patients developed urinary tract infections after 1, 2 and 3 months, respectively. Conclusion: Intravesical instillation of BoNT-A and LESWs is safe and effective method for the treatment of refractory OAB with a durable response for 2 months. Abbreviations: BoNT-A: botulinum toxin A; CIC: clean intermittent catheterisation; DO: detrusor overactivity; LESWs: low-energy shockwaves; OAB: overactive bladder; OABSS: Overactive Bladder Symptom Score; Qmax: maximum urinary flow rate; QoL: quality of life; UUI: urgency urinary incontinence

It is a prospective randomized controlled trial comparing the efficacy of percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation versus sham for a shortened 6-week protocol of treatment in management of refractory OAB in non-neurogenic adult patients. A total of 50 adults with refractory non-neurogenic overactive bladder symptoms were randomized 1:1 to 6 weeks of treatment with weekly percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation or sham therapy. Overactive bladder symptom score as well as 3-day voiding diaries were completed at baseline and at 7th week, 3rd and 6th month. The 7th week, 3rd and 6th month symptom score assessment for overall bladder symptoms demonstrated that percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation patients achieved statistically significant improvement in bladder symptoms with 52% reporting moderately improved responses compared to non-response of sham patients from baseline (P = 0.001). Voiding diary parameters after 6 weeks of therapy showed that PTNS patients had statistically significant improvements in frequency, voided volume and urgency urinary incontinence episodes compared to sham. No serious device-related adverse events or malfunctions were reported. A shortened 6-week treatment protocol with PTNS appears to be successful and more effective than sham in the treatment of refractory OAB. PTNS therapy is safe and effective in treating OAB symptoms with 52% success rate following a shortened 6-week protocol. The duration of treatment with PTNS can be halved compared to the conventional 12 weeks, which would make it more acceptable and cost effective for patients.

Objective To compare the efficacy, safety and cost of extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy (ESWL) and percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL) for treating a 20–30 mm single renal pelvic stone. Patients and methods The computerised records of patients who underwent PNL or ESWL for a 20–30 mm single renal pelvic stone between January 2006 and December 2012 were reviewed retrospectively. Patients aged

Purpose To prospectively present the technique, functional and oncological outcome of internal genitalia sparing cystectomy for bladder cancer in 15 selected women. Patients and methods Between January 1995 and December 2010, 305 women underwent orthotopic neobladder after radical cystectomy. Of these, 15 cases with a mean age of 42 years underwent genitalia sparing. Inclusion criteria included stage (T2b N0 Mo or less, as assessed preoperatively, unifocal tumors away from the trigone, sexually active young women and internal genitalia free of tumor. Cystectomy with preservation of the uterus, vagina and ovaries and Hautmann neobladder were performed. Oncological, functional, urodynamic and sexual outcome using Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) were evaluated. Results Definitive histopathology showed advanced stage not recognized preoperatively in 2 patients, who developed local recurrence and bony metastasis after 3–4 months. A third patient developed bony metastasis after 15 months. No recurrence developed in the retained genital organs. The remaining 12 patients remained free of disease with a mean follow-up of 70 months. Among women eligible for functional evaluation, daytime and nighttime continence were achieved in 13/13 (100%) and 12/13 (92)%, respectively. Chronic urinary retention was not noted. The urodynamic parameters were comparable to those in other patients without genital preservation. Sexual function (FSFI) was better in these patients than in others without genital preservation. Conclusions Genital sparing cystectomy for bladder cancer is feasible in selected women. It provides a good functional outcome, better sexual function and the potential for fertility preservation. So far, the oncological outcome is favorable.

To present the results of percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) for treating staghorn stones.A database was compiled from the computerised files of patients who underwent PCNL for staghorn stones between 1999 and 2009. The study included 238 patients (128 males and 110 females) with a mean (SD) age of 48.9 (14) years, who underwent 242 PCNLs, and included staghorn stones that were present in the renal pelvis and branched into two or more major calyces. PCNL was performed or supervised by an experienced endourologist. All perioperative complications were recorded. The stone-free status was evaluated after PCNL and again after 3 months.Multiple tracts were needed in 35.5% of the procedures, and several sessions of PCNL were needed in 30% of patients. There were perioperative complications in 54 procedures (22%); blood transfusion was needed in 34 patients (14%). The stone-free rate for PCNL monotherapy was 56.6% (137 patients). Secondary procedures were required for 51 patients (21%), and included shock-wave lithotripsy for 49 and ureteroscopy for two. The 3-month stone-free rate was 72.7% (176 patients). Multiple tracts resulted in an insignificantly higher overall complication rate than with a single tract (P = 0.219), but the reduction in the haemoglobin level was statistically significant with multiple tracts (P = 0.001).PCNL for staghorn stones must be done by an experienced endourologist in a specialised centre with all the facilities for stone management and treatment of possible complications. The patients must be informed about the range of stone-free and complication rates, and the possibility of multiple sessions or secondary procedures.

Objective To compare high-power holmium laser lithotripsy (HP-HLL) and ultrasonic lithotripsy (US-L) for disintegration of staghorn stones during percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). Patients and Methods A non-inferiority randomised controlled trial was conducted between August 2011 and September 2014. Inclusion criteria were patients' aged >18 years who had complete staghorn stones (branching to the three major calyces), without contraindications to PCNL. Eligible patients were randomised between two groups: HP-HLL and US- . A standard PCNL in the prone position was performed for all patients. The only difference between the treatment groups was the method of stone disintegration. In the first group (HP-HLL), a laser power of 40–60 W (2 J, 20–30 Hz) was used to pulverise the staghorn stone into very small fragments, which could pass through the Amplatz sheath with the irrigation fluid. US-L,with suction of the fragments, was used in the second group. The primary outcome (stone-free rate) was evaluated with non-contrast computed tomography after 3 months. Secondary outcomes of complications, blood transfusion, operative time, and haemoglobin deficit were compared. The outcome assessor was ‘blinded’ to the treatment arm. Results The study included 70 patients (35 in each group). The baseline characteristics (age, sex, body mass index, side, stone volume, and density) and operative technique (number, size of tracts, and need for second PCNL session) were comparable for both groups. Operative time was significantly shorter in US-L group, at a mean (SD) of 130 (34) vs 148.7 (35) min (P = 0.028). The haemoglobin deficit was significantly more with in the US-L group, at a mean (SD) of 1.7 (0.9) vs 1.3 (0.6) g/dL (P = 0.037). The differences in blood transfusion (17% for US-L vs 11% for HP-HLL) and the complication rates (34% for US-L vs 23% for HP-HLL) were not significant (P = 0.495 and P = 0.290, respectively). The stone-free rates at 3 months were comparable (60% for US-L and 66% for HPL-L; P = 0.621). Conclusions Compared with US-L for intracorporeal lithotripsy of staghorn stones during PCNL, HP-HLL showed comparable safety and efficacy with a lower haemoglobin deficit but longer operative time.

Objective To determine factors affecting the stone-free rate and complications of percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL) for treatment of staghorn stones. Methods The computerized database of patients who underwent PNL for treatment of staghorn stones between January 2003 and January 2011 was reviewed. All perioperative complications were recorded and classified according to modified Clavien classification system. The stone-free rate was evaluated with low-dose noncontrast computed tomography (CT). Univariate and multivariate statistical analyses were performed to determine factors affecting stone-free and complication rates. Results The study included 241 patients (125 male and 116 female) with a mean age of 48.7 ±14.3 years. All patients underwent 251 PNL (10 patients had bilateral stones). The stone-free rate of PNL monotherapy was 56% (142 procedures). At 3 months, the stone-free rate increased to 73% (183 kidneys) after shock wave lithotripsy. Independent risk factors for residual stones were complete staghorn stone and presence of secondary calyceal stones (relative risks were 2.2 and 3.1, respectively). The complication rate was 27% (68 PNL). Independent risk factors for development of complications were performance of the procedure by urologists other than experienced endourologist and positive preoperative urine culture (relative risks were 2.2 and 2.1, respectively). Conclusion Factors affecting the incidence of residual stones after PNL are complete staghorn stones and the presence of secondary calyceal stones. Complications are significantly high if PNL is not performed by an experienced endourologist or if preoperative urine culture is positive.

Objective To present the results of percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) for treating staghorn stones. Patients and methods A database was compiled from the computerised files of patients who underwent PCNL for staghorn stones between 1999 and 2009. The study included 238 patients (128 males and 110 females) with a mean (SD) age of 48.9 (14) years, who underwent 242 PCNLs, and included staghorn stones that were present in the renal pelvis and branched into two or more major calyces. PCNL was performed or supervised by an experienced endourologist. All perioperative complications were recorded. The stone-free status was evaluated after PCNL and again after 3 months. Results Multiple tracts were needed in 35.5% of the procedures, and several sessions of PCNL were needed in 30% of patients. There were perioperative complications in 54 procedures (22%); blood transfusion was needed in 34 patients (14%). The stone-free rate for PCNL monotherapy was 56.6% (137 patients). Secondary procedures were required for 51 patients (21%), and included shock-wave lithotripsy for 49 and ureteroscopy for two. The 3-month stone-free rate was 72.7% (176 patients). Multiple tracts resulted in an insignificantly higher overall complication rate than with a single tract ( P = 0.219), but the reduction in the haemoglobin level was statistically significant with multiple tracts ( P = 0.001). Conclusions PCNL for staghorn stones must be done by an experienced endourologist in a specialised centre with all the facilities for stone management and treatment of possible complications. The patients must be informed about the range of stone-free and complication rates, and the possibility of multiple sessions or secondary procedures.

To determine factors affecting the success of bilateral same-session ureteroscopy (BSU) in the treatment of ureteral calculi.From January 2003 to December 2008, BSU was carried out in 89 patients (178 renal units). A successful outcome was considered when both ureters were free of stones without intraoperative complications. Stone-free rate was evaluated with a kidney-ureter-bladder plain X-ray or non-contrast computed tomography. Factors interfering with successful completion of BSU were tested using univariate (chi-squared test and t test) and multivariate (logistic regression) analyses. Data on unilateral ureteroscopy for the treatment of multiple ureteral calculi carried out in 105 patients during the same period were compared with BSU.Intraoperative complications were recorded in 11 procedures (6.2%) in the form of ureteral perforation in three and mucosal injury in eight. After BSU, 153 renal units were stone free (86%) as 17 had residual fragments, stones migrated to the kidney in six and failure was encountered in two. A successful outcome was observed in 62 patients (70%). Stone impaction, stones located in the proximal ureter and stone surface area were the significant risk factors for unsuccessful BSU (relative risks 3.6, 3.3 and 1.47, respectively). Compared with unilateral ureteroscopy, no difference were found with regard to complication rate (6.7%, p = 0.5) or stone-free rate (80%, p = 0.2).Bilateral same-session ureteroscopy is a safe and effective procedure in the management of bilateral ureteral stones. Proximal ureteral calculi, large and impacted stones carry the highest risk of unsuccessful results.

We determined the factors predicting unfavorable results of semirigid ureteroscopy for ureteral calculi.We reviewed the computerized files of 841 patients who underwent a total of 908 ureteroscopic procedures for ureteral stones from January 2003 through December 2006. A semirigid 6/7.5Fr ureteroscope was used in pediatric patients and an 8/10Fr or 8.5/11.5Fr ureteroscope was used in adults. Patients with favorable results were those who became stone-free after a single ureteroscopic procedure without any complications. They were compared with patients who had unfavorable results using univariate (chi-square and t tests) and multivariate (logistic regression) statistical tests to identify risk factors for unfavorable results.The study included 567 males and 274 females with a mean age of 48.5 years (range 2 to 81). The complication rate was 6.7% (61 procedures). The stone-free rate after a single ureteroscopic intervention was 87% (791 procedures). Favorable results were documented in 751 procedures (82.7%). Significant factors for unfavorable results were proximal ureteral stones, ureteroscopy done by surgeons other than experienced endourologists, stone impaction and stone width (relative risk 4, 2.5, 1.8 and 1.2, respectively).Semirigid ureteroscopy is a safe and highly effective treatment modality for ureteral stones.

Purpose: To present the combination of laparoscopy and nephroscopy for the treatment of stones in pelvic ectopic kidneys. Patients and Methods: The series included seven male and four female patients (mean age 43 ± 9 years). Laparoscopy-assisted percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) was performed for caliceal stones in five patients after failure of shockwave lithotripsy, while laparoscopic pyelolithotomy was performed for large or branched renal pelvic stones in six patients. Results: The mean operative time was 164 ± 30 minutes. There were neither complications nor conversions to open surgery. The stone-free rate was 91% (10 patients). One patient had a residual caliceal fragment that was treated with shockwave lithotripsy. The mean hospital stay was 3.5 ± 0.7 days. Conclusion: The combination of laparoscopy and nephroscopy is feasible, safe, and effective for the treatment of stones in pelvic kidneys.

Despite evidence that urologists can safely acquire percutaneous renal access for percutaneous nephrolithotomy, many centers still rely on interventional radiologists to obtain renal access. In this study we evaluated percutaneous access for percutaneous nephrolithotomy obtained by interventional radiologists or urologists, and compared access outcomes and complications.The surgical records of 1,121 patients with 1,155 stone bearing kidneys treated with percutaneous nephrolithotomy between 1999 and 2003 were reviewed. Patients were stratified according to percutaneous renal access into 509 patients with 661 access procedures performed by urologists and 612 patients with 612 access procedures performed by interventional radiologists.Both groups were comparable except there was a higher incidence of multiple stones in the urologist access group. Urologists had a significantly greater rate of using multiple and supracostal tracts compared to radiologists. The stone-free rates were 83.4% and 86.1% for urologist and radiologist access groups, respectively (p = 0.1). Major complications were seen in 74 patients (6.6%). Both groups had similar complication rates except for significant bleeding in the urology group (4.3%) compared with 2.1% in the radiology cohort (p = 0.02). Further multivariate analysis showed that bleeding was not related to the type of access whether performed by urologist or radiologist.The urologist is able to safely and effectively obtain percutaneous renal access for percutaneous nephrolithotomy as a single stage procedure. Despite more complex stones and higher access difficulty in the urology access group, access related complications and stone-free rates were comparable. We recommend percutaneous access training in urology training programs.

OBJECTIVE To prospectively investigate the value of routine frozen-section analysis (FSA) of the ureteric margin for detecting distal ureteric malignancy in patients undergoing cystectomy for bladder transitional cell carcinoma (TCC). PATIENTS AND METHODS In all, 100 consecutive patients had a radical cystectomy for TCC of the bladder; routine FS biopsies were obtained from the lower ureters of all. Definitive pathology with step-sectioning of the lower ureters was reviewed, and the results of paraffin-wax embedded sections and FSA were compared. The true incidence of distal ureteric malignancy was identified and correlated with different clinical and pathological variables. RESULTS There were 193 ureteric specimens examined; 16 ureters (8.3%) in 14 patients showed evidence of malignancy by FSA. True distal ureteric malignancy was diagnosed in 29 ureteric specimens (15%) in 24 patients. The sensitivity and specificity of the FSA were 45% and 98%, respectively, while the positive and negative predictive values were 81% and 91%, respectively. There was no significant correlation between distal ureteric malignancy and: patient age, tumour site or morphology, clinical or pathological staging, ipsilateral hydronephrosis, suspicious intraoperative ureter, biopsy or tumour grade, associated carcinoma in situ or nodal involvement. Male gender and positive intraoperative FSA were the only predictors significantly associated with distal ureteric malignancy by univariate analysis (P = 0.01 and

We aimed to determine the impact of membranous urethral length as measured by preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) upon continence following radical cystectomy and orthotopic substitution.A total of 40 male patients (mean age 55.7 +/- 7 years) were subjected to radical cystectomy and orthotopic ileal substitution for bladder cancer. Membranous urethral length was measured by preoperative MRI utilizing coronal oblique high resolution T2 weighted images. In all evaluable patients, day and night continence statuses as well as time to stable continence were recorded. Urodynamic assessment included medium fill pouchometry and urethral pressure profilometry.Of all patients 10 were non-evaluable. Mean follow-up period was 8.1 +/- 1.9 months. All the evaluable patients were continent by daytime. On the other hand, 13 were continent by night (43.3%), 13 showed occasional enuresis (43.3%) and 4 were nightly enuretic (13.4%). Mean membranous urethral lengths were 14 +/- 1.9, 13.8 +/- 1.9 and 12.8 +/- 1.7 mm in the three groups, respectively (P = 0.51). Mean time to reach stable postoperative daytime continence was 5.4 +/- 4.6 whilst it was 12.5 +/- 7.4 weeks for nighttime continence. There was no significant correlation between preoperative membranous urethral length and time to stable day or night continence (R = -0.11, -0.08, respectively). Moreover, such correlation was not observed with postoperative urethral pressure profilometry parameters including maximum urethral pressure, maximum urethral closure pressure or functional urethral length (R = -0.33, -0.38, -0.16, respectively).Preoperative MRI-measured membranous urethral length has no value for judgment of postoperative continence status following radical cystectomy and ileal bladder substitution.

ObjectiveMaterial and methodsGynecological and obstetric surgeries are not uncommon causes of iatrogenic injury of the urinary tract. Herein, we retrospectively report our experience with these injuries over the last 18 years.ResultsBetween 1985 and 2003, 120 females (mean age 34.2±13.7 years) were included in this study. The types of injury were as follows: vesicovaginal fistula, n=90; ureterovaginal fistula, n=14, ureteric ligation, n=13, vesicouterine fistula, n=2; and ureterouterine fistula, n=1. Definitive repair of such injuries was performed in all cases, including 10 cases of recurrent vesicovaginal fistulae which were treated by means of augmentation cystoplasty or urinary diversion. All patients were evaluated regarding the time and type of surgical intervention and early and late postoperative complications, including failure of primary repair.ConclusionsOf the 80 cases of vesicovaginal fistulae treated with definitive repair, 12 (13.3%) showed recurrence of the fistula. Early ureteric deligati...

Objectives To report the surgical and oncologic outcomes of patients with bladder cancer who present with obstructive uremia. Methods A total of 61 patients presented to our institute with obstructive oliguria or anuria concomitant with bladder cancer. The mean serum creatinine at presentation was 11.4 ± 5.1 mg%. After stabilization of kidney function following nephrostomy drainage, only 38 patients were eligible for radical cystectomy. Analysis of the intraoperative findings, early postoperative course, definitive histopathologic findings, and long-term functional and oncologic outcome was performed. The mean follow-up period was 16.2 ± 8.1 months (range 8 to 134). Results Radical cystectomy with bilateral iliac lymphadenectomy was feasible in 26 patients, palliative cystectomy in 10, and ileal conduit only without cystectomy in 2. The postoperative morbidity was minimal and treated conservatively. Bladder cancer causing uremia was invasive in 94.5%, and was pathologic Stage T4 in 30.5% of cases. At the mean follow-up, treatment failure was observed in 26 patients (68.4%), with only 12 patients living free of disease and a mean serum creatinine of 1.4 ± 0.7 mg%. Although none of the preoperative variables proved to be predictive of the oncologic outcome, significant correlation was found between the tumor stage and grade, as well as lymph node involvement, and treatment failure. Conclusions Although bladder cancer causing obstructive uremia is almost always muscle invasive, with a large proportion of patients presenting with locally advanced disease, an adequate number of these patients could achieve long-term disease-free survival.

OBJECTIVE To develop a technique of nerve-sparing robot-assisted radical cystoprostatectomy (RRCP) for patients with bladder cancer. PATIENTS AND METHODS Robotic assistance should enhance the ability to preserve the neurovascular bundles during laparoscopic radical cystectomy. Thus we undertook RRCP and urinary diversion using a three-step technique. First, using a six-port approach and the da Vinci Surgical System (Intuitive Surgical, Sunnyvale, CA, USA), one surgeon carried out a complete pelvic lymphadenectomy and cystoprostatectomy using a technique developed specifically for robotic surgery. The neurovascular bundles were easily identified and dissected away, the specimen entrapped in a bag and removed through a 5–6 cm suprapubic incision. Second, a different surgical team exteriorized the bowel through this incision and created a neobladder extracorporeally. Third, the neobladder was internalized, the incision closed and the primary surgeon completed the urethro-neovesical anastomosis with robotic assistance. RESULTS RRCP was carried out in 14 men and three women by the primary surgeon (M.M.). The form of urinary reconstruction was ileal conduit in three, a W-pouch with a serosal-lined tunnel in 10, a double-chimney or a T-pouch with a serosal-lined tunnel in two each. The mean operative duration for robotic radical cystectomy, ileal conduit and orthotopic neobladder were 140, 120 and 168 min, respectively. The mean blood loss was < 150 mL. The number of lymph nodes removed was 4–27, with one patient having N1 disease. The margins of resection were free of tumour in all patients. CONCLUSIONS We developed a technique for nerve-sparing RRCP using the da Vinci system which allows precise and rapid removal of the bladder with minimal blood loss. The bowel segment can be exteriorized and the most complex form of orthotopic bladder can be created through the incision used to deliver the cystectomy specimen. Performing this part of the operation extracorporeally reduced the operative duration.

Development of late uro-intestinal malignancy after bowel incorporation into the urinary tract is a constant long-term hazard, even in the absence of fecal material. We report 6 such cases.A total of 350 patients treated with an ileal conduit, 260 with ileal replacement of the ureter and 55 with ileocystoplasty were evaluated and followed for a minimum of 4 years. The methods of evaluation included urine analysis for microscopic hematuria, urine culture, serum creatinine and abdominal ultrasonography. These evaluations were performed every 2 months after cystectomy for bladder cancer and every 6 months in other cases. Annual urinary cytology and excretory urography were done. Computerized tomography and/or magnetic resonance imaging was performed annually after radical cystectomy or if there was evidence of hematuria, ureteral obstruction or a filling defect in the bladder, pouch or conduit on excretory urography. Endoscopic evaluation was done in some cases. If malignancy was diagnosed chest x-ray and bone scintigraphy were performed.A total of 645 patients were evaluable. Of these patients late cancer developed at the uro-intestinal anastomotic site in 6 (0.9%), including 1 of 348 (0.3%) who underwent ileal conduit, 3 of 54 (5.5%) ileocystoplasty and 2 of 258 (0.8%) ileal replacement of ureter. The latent period "from the time of original surgery till the development of cancer" ranged from 4 to 32 years (mean plus or minus standard deviation 20.2 +/- 10.9). The pathological type of cancer was adenocarcinoma in 3 patients, transitional cell carcinoma 2 and squamous cell carcinoma 1.Late uro-intestinal malignancy in patients who underwent ileal incorporation in the urinary tract is a low but still distinct risk. Ileocystoplasty is more vulnerable to late uro-enteric cancer than ileal conduit and ileal replacement of ureter. Late malignancy can develop earlier than 10 years postoperatively. Therefore, annual surveillance by routine urine cytology postoperatively is advocated, particularly with enterocystoplasty.

The aims of this study were to report the diagnosis, treatment and functional consequences of postcaesarean section vesicouterine fistula (VUF), and to investigate the need for hysterectomy.The study included 22 cases with VUF after caesarean section (mean age 30.5 years) between 1999 and September 2012. Total urinary incontinence was found in seven women, occasional incontinence in 15 and cyclic haematuria in 17. VUF was diagnosed by ascending cystography in 14 patients and by computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging in six. Cystoscopy revealed VUF in all women. VUF repair was conducted by a transabdominal approach. The bladder was opened, the fistula was defined, a circumferential bladder incision was made around the fistula and the fistulous tract was excised. The uterine rent and bladder were closed with omentum interposition.Mean follow-up was 2.8 years (range 0.5-7 years). The repair was successful in all women. Hysterectomy was needed in only one case with dysfunctional uterine bleeding and an enlarged uterus. The incontinence disappeared in all cases. The menstrual cycle became regular after a mean of 5 months in all women who retained their uterus. Five women became pregnant and had a successful delivery after 2-3 years. All women were able to have sexual intercourse after 2 weeks.Cystoscopy was the mainstay of diagnosis of VUF in the current study. Imaging was not able to show very small fistulae. Unless otherwise indicated, there is no need to remove the uterus even if the fistula is large. Although the repair is challenging, it was successful in all cases and pregnancy is possible after repair.

To evaluate the long-term functional outcome of percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL) for calculi in solitary kidneys and to determine factors leading to renal function deterioration.The computerized files of patients with solitary kidneys who underwent PNL between January 2002 and December 2009 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients with follow-up2 years were excluded. Complications, secondary procedures, and stone-free rates were recorded. Changes in the renal function were judged by comparing preoperative and postoperative estimated glomerular filtration rates. Preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative factors that may affect renal function were tested using univariate and multivariate analyses to define risk factors for deterioration of renal function on long-term follow-up.The study included 200 patients (133 men [66.5%] and 67 women [33.5%] with mean age 52.3 ± 11.7 years). Complications were reported in 34 patients (17%). Severe bleeding was noticed in 10 patients (5%). The overall stone-free rate was 89.5%. After a mean follow-up of 3 ± 1.4 years (range, 2-8), there was significant improvement of the estimated glomerular filtration rate from 57 to 64 mL/min (P.001). Thirty-one patients (15.5%) showed deterioration of the renal function. Multiple punctures and postoperative bleeding were independent risk factors for renal function deterioration (odds ratio was 3.7 and 4.5, respectively).PNL for calculi in solitary kidneys provided significant improvement in renal function at long-term follow-up. Multiple punctures and severe bleeding are independent risk factors for deterioration of the kidney function.

In the original submission authors included a Conflict of Interest statement in their cover letter. Due to a procedural error the statement was not included in the final publication. The disclosure statement in full follows here: Given his role as an Editor-in-Chief and co-author of this paper, A. Shokeir, certifies that the journal is partially supported by Karl Storz GmbH. That support had no influence on the peer-review of this paper, which was entirely independent of Karl Storz.

To prospectively investigate diagnostic value of routine frozen section analysis (FSA) of urethral margin for male patients undergoing cystectomy for bladder cancer. One hundred consecutive male patients were subjected to radical cystectomy for bladder cancer with routine FSA obtained from distal prostatic urethral margin. Definitive pathological condition of the specimens was reviewed to diagnose urethral ± prostatic malignant involvement. The diagnostic value of FSA was identified and compared with different clinical and pathological predictors. Patients with false-negative results were followed for 5 years. Six patients showed evidence of malignancy by FSA of the prostatic urethral margin (one patient was false positive), and all were managed by urethrectomy. Prostatic ± urethral involvement was diagnosed in 15 patients by definitive histopathology (15 %). Sensitivity and specificity of urethral margin frozen section were 33.3 and 98.8 %, respectively, with overall accuracy of 89 % while positive and negative predictive values were 83.3 and 89.4 %, respectively. There was no significant correlation identified between tumor site or morphology, clinical staging, clinically suspicious prostate, cystoscopic involvement of bladder neck, tumor grade, and associated carcinoma in situ or nodal involvement with prostatic malignant involvement. Positive intraoperative FSA was the only predictor significantly associated with malignant urothelial involvement of the prostate. None of the 10 patients with false-negative results developed late urethral recurrence at 5 years. Intraoperative urethral frozen section shows high predictive diagnostic value of malignant prostatic involvement. Nevertheless, its impact in preventing late urethral recurrence is doubtful.

Objective To evaluate the feasibility of replacing a relatively long segment of the canine urethra by a tube of cell-seeded acellular collagen bladder matrix. Materials and methods The study included 14 female mongrel dogs in which a 3-cm segment of the whole urethral circumference was excised and replaced by a tube of acellular matrix seeded with autologous urothelial cells. The acellular matrix was obtained from the excised bladder of female donor dogs that were not included in the study. Autologous cells were obtained from the study dogs by open bladder biopsy, with subsequent in vitro expansion and cultivation. Urethroplasty was performed over a 16 F urethral catheter that was kept for 4 weeks. The dogs were killed humanely (one every week for 4 weeks and then one monthly for 10 months). After stent removal, retrograde urethrography was used each month in the living dogs. If retention occurred a urethrogram was taken and then the dog was killed humanely. All grafts from dogs were harvested and sent for histopathological examination. Results Exploration at 1, 2, 3 and 4 weeks showed progressive shrinkage in length, together with relative narrowing of the lumen. Three dogs developed retention within a week after stent removal and the other seven developed retention within 4 months. Retrograde urethrograms showed evidence of stricture and/or fistula at the graft site in all dogs. On exploration, grafts showed marked shrinkage (0.6–1.2 cm in length) with complete obliteration of their lumens. Histopathological examination showed extensive fibrosis of the matrix with no evident urothelial architecture. Conclusion Cell-seeded acellular matrix tube is insufficient to replace a 3-cm circumferential urethral defect in dogs.

• To study long-term results of percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL) for treatment of staghorn stones.• The records of patients who underwent PNL for staghorn stones between January 1998 and January 2008 were retrospectively reviewed. • Patients who completed follow-up for one year or more were included. Follow-up with KUB and renal ultrasonography were performed every 3-6 months. • Renal radioisotopic scan was performed for patients who had already undergone this study before doing PNL.• The study included 122 patients (69 male and 53 female) with mean age 47.6 ± 14.5 years (5-74). They underwent 126 PNL. • Perioperative complications were encountered in 28 procedures (22%). The mean period of follow-up was 3.5 ± 2.3 years (1-11.3). Among 71 stone-free kidneys, 18 (25%) developed stone recurrence. Of 55 kidneys with residuals at the start of follow-up, 36 (65%) showed growth of these residuals. • Preoperative and postoperative renograms were performed for 71 patients. • At the last follow-up, differential GFR was stable in 53 (74.5%), improved in 12 (17%) and deteriorated in 6 (8.5%). Among patients with deteriorated renal function, 3 had undergone embolization to control severe bleeding, one developed secondary UPJO, and one had recurrent stone obstructing the kidney.• Long-term functional results of PNL for staghorn stones are satisfactory as 91.5% of kidneys showed stable or improved GFR. Long-term follow-up is mandatory especially for patients with residual stones.

Since introduction of Contemporary Epstein criteria, it has been studied and validated in many countries and nations. However, they were not validated in Middle East patients up till now.To validate the Contemporary Epstein criteria in Middle East patients.On past 8 years, 70 cases underwent radical prostatectomy for T1c prostate cancer. Contemporary Epstein criteria were applied retrospectively on prostatic biopsies. Among our patients, 35 cases met the criteria for clinically insignificant prostate cancer. Pathological revision of the prostatic biopsies, definitive prostatectomy specimens and re-staging were done by single pathologist. Assessment of recurrence rate was done. Up and down grading of the Gleason scoring was studied.The preoperative data and biopsy results using the Contemporary Epstein criteria were fulfilled on 35 cases. On definitive pathology; 16 cases (45.7%) had Gleason score6, while 8.6% of cases are non-organ confined (2 cases and 1 case with extra- capsular and Seminal vesicles infiltrations, respectively). Both lobes were involved in 20 cases. Moreover, 40% (14 cases) showed upgrading of the score. Lymphatic permeation could be recognized in four cases. Mean follow-up time 88.1 months, 8.6% cases develop metastasis.Whenever Epstein criteria are applied in Middle East patients, the decision of active surveillance based for clinically insignificant prostate cancer (who met the Epstein criteria) will miss nearly 46% of unfavorable prostate cancer. As well as a risk of later metastasis could be in 8.6% of them.

OBJECTIVES To use a matched-pair analysis design to compare the safety and efficacy of shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) and ureteroscopy (URS). Controversy still exists regarding whether SWL or URS is the best management of upper ureteral calculi. METHODS We reviewed the records of patients with a single radiopaque upper ureteral stone treated by URS or SWL from January 2003 to December 2005. SWL was performed as an outpatient procedure using the electromagnetic lithotripter (Dornier Lithotripter S). URS was performed using an 8F or 8.5F semirigid ureteroscope. Intracorporeal lithotripsy with pneumatic or holmium laser energy was used when needed. A matched-pair analysis was performed using 3 parameters (sex, stone size, and degree of hydronephrosis). The success rates, retreatment rates, auxiliary procedures, and complications were compared in each group. RESULTS A total of 427 patients were treated for upper ureteral stones. Forty-three matched pairs were identified and compared. The success rate was 83.7% for SWL vs 88.4% for URS (P = .8). The retreatment rate was significantly greater in the SWL group than in the URS group (65% vs 2.3%, respectively; P < .001). The need for auxiliary procedures was equal in both groups (16.3%). The complication rate was 14% in the URS group and 4.7% in the SWL group (P = .1). CONCLUSIONS SWL and semirigid URS are highly effective in the treatment of proximal ureteral stones

We addressed the impact of stone density and size on the role of computerized tomography for diagnosing residual stones after percutaneous nephrolithotomy.We prospectively evaluated 100 renal units that underwent percutaneous nephrolithotomy. The study included 55 opaque and 45 lucent or faint stones. Patients were examined after the procedure by plain x-ray of the kidneys, ureters and bladder, linear tomography, ultrasound and spiral computerized tomography. Minute residual stones were defined as 1 or 2 caliceal stones less than 5 mm, as measured by computerized tomography.Stone-free status was achieved in 38 renal units. Minute and significant residual stones were detected in 26 and 36 renal units, respectively. For faint and lucent stones sensitivity for overall stone detection was 100% for computerized tomography, 11.1% for plain x-ray, 22.2% for linear tomography and 22.2% for ultrasound (p0.05). Sensitivity for detecting significant residual stones was 100% for computerized tomography, 20% for plain x-ray, 33.3% for linear tomography and 20% for ultrasound (p0.05). For opaque stones sensitivity for overall stone detection was 100% for computerized tomography, 62.9% for plain x-ray, 74.3% linear tomography and 48.6% for ultrasound (p0.05). Sensitivity for detecting significant residual stones was 100% for computerized tomography, 85.7% for plain x-ray (p not significant), 95.2% for linear tomography (p not significant) and 57.1% for ultrasound (p0.05).Computerized tomography provides the most sensitive tool for detecting residual stones after percutaneous nephrolithotomy. Nevertheless, it should not be routinely performed in patients with opaque stones because it yields no statistically valuable increase in the diagnosis of significant residual stones compared with that of plain x-ray and linear tomography.