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Cel pracyW literaturze wykazano związek między depresją a funkcjonowaniem seksualnym. Nadal jednak nie wiadomo, czy u osób z depresją, objawy dolnych dróg moczowych (ang. Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms, LUTS) współistnieją z zaburzeniami seksualnymi (ang. Sexual Dysfunction, SD) oraz czy z nimi korelują. Pacjenci z depresją stanowią wyjątkową populację ze względu na możliwy dwukierunkowy związek między SD a depresją, a także LUTS i depresją. Zatem celem tego eksperymentu było zbadanie u pacjentów z depresją zależności między stopniem nasilenia depresji, SD i LUTS.MetodaW tym przekrojowym badaniu przeanalizowano dane dotyczące depresji, funkcjonowania seksualnego oraz LUTS u pacjentów leczonych w oddziale psychiatrii dorosłych naszego szpitala. Zastosowano skalę oceny depresji Hamiltona, międzynarodowy wskaźnik funkcji erekcyjnej (IIEF), wskaźnik funkcjonowania seksualnego kobiet (FSFI) i międzynarodowy wskaźnik objawów towarzyszących chorobom prostaty (IPSS).WynikiStu dwóch pacjentów ze zdiagnozowaną i leczoną depresją zostało włączonych do badania. Stwierdzono wysoką częstość występowania SD (60,8%), a SD korelowało ze stopniem nasilenia depresji. LUTS były również bardzo rozpowszechnione, a 86% uczestników zgłaszało co najmniej łagodne nasilenie LUTS. Pomimo tego, że LUTS i SD współistniały u wielu pacjentów, w naszej kohorcie nie znaleźliśmy istotnej statystycznie różnic między LUTS i SD.WnioskiW naszej grupie pacjentów, u których zdiagnozowano i leczono depresję, nasilenie depresji miało negatywny wpływ na funkcjonowanie seksualne. Chociaż pomiędzy LUTS i SD nie było istotnych statystycznie różnic, współistniały one u wielu pacjentów. Dlatego LUTS i SD powinny być nadal wspólnie oceniane u pacjentów z depresją.

Purpose: An established link exists between overactive bladder (OAB) syndrome and impaired sleep. However, earlier research on this subject only focused on the general population, and certain patient subgroups have not been examined adequately. Depressed patients constitute a unique population because of a possible bidirectional relationship between OAB and depression. Thus, we investigated the association between OAB symptoms and sleep quality in patients with depression.Methods: In this prospective, cross-sectional study, we analyzed data on depression, sleep quality, and OAB symptoms from depressed patients treated at our department of adult psychiatry. Data were collected with the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression, the Holland Sleep Disorders Questionnaire, the Athens Insomnia Scale, and the OAB Module of the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire.Results: In total, 102 patients treated for depression were enrolled. Thirteen patients (12.7%) met the diagnostic threshold of OAB with the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire OAB Module. Patients with depression and concomitant OAB had significantly higher scores on the Holland Sleep Disorders Questionnaire than patients classified as nonOAB (P

Prospective cohort validation study. In spinal cord injury (SCI), neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction is associated with a reduced quality of life. No specific questionnaire has been translated, culturally adapted, and validated into Polish language to assess urinary disorder-specific quality of life in people after SCI. In this study, we translated, adapted, and validated the Polish versions of the Qualiveen and SF-Qualiveen in individuals with SCI. University Hospital in Krakow, Poland. Translation and cross-cultural adaptation of the Qualiveen and SF-Qualiveen were done using international recommendations and well-established methods. Adult patients with SCI from the Department of Urology at the University Hospital in Krakow, Poland completed the Polish versions of the Qualiveen, SF-Qualiveen, and International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form (ICIQ-SF) at baseline and 2 weeks later. The ICIQ-SF served as the reference instrument. Validity and reliability were determined. Polish-speaking patients with SCI (n = 178) were included. Content validity/cross-cultural adaptation of the translated questionnaires was investigated during face-to-face interviews. Construct/criterion validity was assessed, and positive correlations were found between the Qualiveen and ICIQ-SF as well as the SF-Qualiveen and ICIQ-SF. A reliability study revealed good internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha > 0.8) and reproducibility (intraclass correlation coefficients > 0.8) for both adapted questionnaires. We did not identify floor or ceiling effect. The Polish versions of the Qualiveen and SF-Qualiveen showed good measurement properties. Polish healthcare providers can now reliably and directly assess the urinary disorder-specific quality of life in individuals after SCI.

Background: The aim of this study was to perform a cross-sectional study of Polish neurogenic patients to measure, at the population level, the prevalence, bother and behavior associated with treatment for lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and overactive bladder (OAB). Methods: This epidemiological study was based on data from LUTS POLAND, a computer-assisted and population-representative telephone survey. Participants were classified by age, sex and place of residence. Results: LUTS POLAND includes 6005 completed interviews, of which 1166 (19.4%) were for individuals who had ever received any treatment by neurologists and/or neurosurgeons. Among these neurogenic participants, LUTS prevalence was 72.3%, statistically higher than for non-neurogenic respondents. At the population level, neurogenic patients had about a 20% higher risk for LUTS presence than non-neurogenic participants (relative risk: 1.17–1.21). LUTS prevalence did not differ between men and women. Frequency was the most common of the LUTS. Forty percent of neurogenic respondents described having more than one LUTS subtype (i.e., storage, voiding, and/or post-micturition symptom subtype), and more than 50% of respondents reported OAB symptoms. Both storage and voiding symptoms were bothersome, and many neurogenic individuals (42.3–51.0%) expressed anxiety about bladder function affecting quality of life. Only one-third (34.9–36.6%) of neurogenic participants had sought treatment for their LUTS, and the majority of such individuals received and maintained treatment. Conclusions: LUTS and OAB symptoms were highly prevalent and bothersome among Polish neurogenic patients at the population level. Because the scale of seeking treatment for LUTS was low, Polish neurogenic patients may not be adequately informed about multiple effects of LUTS and OAB.

Aim: The aim of the study was to investigate the correlation between symptoms of overactive bladder (OAB) and severity of depressive symptoms in patients treated for depression. Method: 102 patients (43 males, 59 females) aged 20–67 (M = 46.1±11,3) treated for depression were included in this cross-sectional analysis. OAB symptoms were examined with the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Overactive Bladder Module (ICIQOAB). OAB-related quality of life was assessed with the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Overactive Bladder Quality of Life Module (ICIQ-OABqol). Depressive symptoms were assessed with the 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) and Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology - Self Report (QIDS-SR). Results: Symptoms of OAB assessed with IPSS and ICIQ-OAB were more severe in women than in men. In the entire group highest scores in IPSS of assessed OAB symptoms were observed in nocturia (1,53±1,64) followed by urinary frequency (1,19±1,48) and lowest in urgency (0,80±1,28). Symptoms of OAB (based on the ICIQOABqol total score) were more bothersome in women (48,74±29,18), than in men (39,18±17,70). In the whole group and in women the QIDS-SR total score correlated with the ICIQ-OAB score ( p < 0,05). The total QIDS-SR score correlated with the ICIQ-OABqol score in entire group (p < 0,05), in women (p < 0,05) and in men (p < 0,05). Patients suffering from at least moderate depression assessed with QIDS-SR had significantly more pronounced symptoms of urinary frequency (p = 0,005) and urgency (p = 0,039). A number of other significant (p < 0.05) correlations were observed between the total ICIQ-OAB score and certain items’ scores in the GHQ-30 both in women. Conclusions: OAB symptoms are common among patients treated for depressive disorders. There is a correlation between severity of depressive symptoms and OAB. OAB is bothersome and affects the quality of life in patients treated for depression. Comorbidity of OAB and depression has clinical significance and that should enhance interdisciplinary treatment approaches. Due to limitations of this study, further researches are essential to reveal more details of the correlation between OAB and depression.

Background Polish physicians and researchers lack an extensive and precise instrument in their native language for evaluating sexual dysfunction in individuals with neurogenic disorders. The aim of this study was to create a culturally adapted, validated, Polish language version of the Multiple Sclerosis Intimacy and Sexuality Questionnaire (MSISQ-15) for persons with multiple sclerosis (MS) and spinal cord injury (SCI). Methods International recommendations and standardized methods for instrument validation were followed. Sexually active patients with MS and SCI completed the MSISQ-15, International Index of Erection Function (IIEF-15, men), and Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire (PISQ-31, women). IIEF-15 and PISQ-31 were used as reference questionnaires. Responses were collected at baseline (test) and after 2 weeks (re-test). Results We recruited 299 Polish-speaking patients with MS or SCI. Interviews disclosed that the translated questionnaire had optimal content validity/cross-cultural adaptation. MSISQ-15 scores correlated significantly with the severity of sexual dysfunction as evaluated by IIEF-15 (r = − 0.487) and PISQ-31 (r = − 0.709). These correlations substantiated the high quality construct/criterion validity. An analysis of reliability presented good internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha of 0.93 for the total score of MS patients and 0.86 for the total score of SCI patients) and reproducibility (intraclass correlation coefficients of 0.91 for the total score of MS patients and 0.92 for the total score of SCI patients). There were no ceiling or floor effects. Conclusions The Polish version of MSISQ-15 exhibited excellent measurement properties. It is a suitable and reliable instrument to assess sexual dysfunction in MS and SCI individuals. The Polish MSISQ-15 will enhance routine clinical practice and assist research for neurogenic patients in Poland.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) on behavior related to treatment of Polish adults aged &ge, 40 years. Methods: We conducted a computer-assisted telephone survey with a study sample stratified by age, sex, and place of residence (type, size, urban versus rural) reflecting the entire Polish population. Participants rated the frequency and symptom-specific bother of individual LUTS and their effects on seeking and receiving treatment, treatment satisfaction, and treatment continuation. We adjusted multiple logistic regression models to analyze the simultaneous effects of predictor variables on each dependent variable. Results: Overall, 6005 participants completed the interview. One third (29.6&ndash, 33.5%) of participants with LUTS were seeking treatment, and 24.0&ndash, 26.4% received treatment. There was no difference in treatment seeking and receiving between urban and rural areas. Whereas storage and voiding symptoms were significantly related to treatment seeking by both men and women, treatment receiving correlated only with voiding symptoms in men and only with storage symptoms in women. Most respondents who received treatment were satisfied, treatment dissatisfaction was related to the presence of storage symptoms in both men and women. Only 50% of all participants continued their treatment, discontinuation of treatment was statistically more prevalent for women than for men. Conclusion: This investigation, the first population-representative study performed in Eastern Europe, revealed a low frequency of seeking treatment for LUTS. In addition, symptoms that inclined participants to seek treatment might not have been adequately addressed by the treatment they received. We also found a relatively high rate of treatment discontinuation. Clearly, there is a need for both improved patient education about LUTS treatment and a need for increased clinician awareness of the coexistence of different symptoms in men and women plus proactive evaluation by physicians for all types of LUTS and associated bother.

The prevalence of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and overactive bladder (OAB) has been measured by population-based investigations in many parts of the world. However, data are lacking for Eastern Europe, and there has not been any large population-representative study in any country of this region. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and associated bother of LUTS and OAB in a population-representative sample of persons aged ≥ 40 years in Poland. This investigation was conducted as a computer-assisted telephone interview. The survey sample was stratified by age, sex, and place of residence to reflect the entire Polish population. LUTS and OAB were assessed by a standardized protocol based on the International Continence Society definitions and validated questionnaires. Of 6005 participants, 57% were women, and the mean age (range) was 60.7 (40–93) years. The prevalence of LUTS was 69.8% (men 66.2%; women 72.6%). There was no difference in prevalence between urban and rural areas. LUTS were often bothersome among men and women, but women were more likely to be bothered compared with men. There were also statistically significant correlations between the frequency and the bother intensity of each of the LUTS. The prevalence of OAB was higher in women (39.5%) than in men (26.8%), and OAB increased with age. Lastly, LUTS had detrimental effects on the quality of life because one third of the participants had concerns about their urinary-specific quality of life. This investigation was the first nationwide, population-representative epidemiological study of LUTS and OAB in an Eastern-European country. LUTS were highly prevalent, often bothersome, and had negative effects on the quality of life of men and women aged ≥ 40 years. Our findings are comparable with other epidemiologic studies of LUTS and OAB conducted in different regions of the world.Trial registration: NCT04121936.

Aims No specific questionnaire to date has been available in Polish for evaluating health-related quality of life for urinary dysfunctions associated with multiple sclerosis (MS). The aim of this study was to translate, culturally adapt, and validate Polish versions of the Qualiveen and SF-Qualiveen for use in patients with MS. Methods Cross-cultural adaptation of the original English Qualiveen and SF-Qualiveen into Polish was performed according to international recommended and standard procedures. Adult patients with MS of the Department of Urology at the Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland, completed the Qualiveen, SF-Qualiveen, and International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form (ICIQ-SF) twice: at baseline and 2 weeks later. Results One hundred eighty-nine Polish-speaking patients with MS completed the questionnaires. An intercorrelation study revealed that internal consistency was good for the total Qualiveen and SF-Qualiveen (Cronbach's α >0.8). Test-retest reliability (reproducibility) demonstrated strong stability (intraclass correlation coefficient >0.8). Content validities were optimal. Significant relationships between the Qualiveen and the ICIQ-SF, as well as the SF-Qualiveen and the ICIQ-SF, confirmed good construct/criterion validity. Conclusion The Polish Qualiveen and SF-Qualiveen are reliable, valid, and consistent measures of urinary disorder-specific quality of life in patients with MS. After years of no appropriate Polish instrument being available for healthcare professionals to evaluate patients with MS, we provide these versions and recommend their use in research and clinical practice in Poland.

Introduction There is no comprehensive and specific questionnaire translated, adapted and validated in the Polish language for evaluating symptoms, quality of life and complications associated with the neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD). The aim of this study was to translate, culturally adapt and validate a Polish version of the Neurogenic Bladder Symptom Score (NBSS) for patients who experience NLUTD. Material and methods Standardised guidelines and well-established methods were used for translation and cross-cultural adaptation of the NBSS. Adult patients with multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injury completed the NBSS, the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form (ICIQ-SF), the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and the SF-Qualiveen. Responses were recorded twice within a 14-day period. Results Two hundred seventy-four Polish-speaking patients with NLUTD were included in the study. Content validity was optimal. Significant relationships between NBSS (Incontinence) and ICIQ-SF, NBSS (Storage and Voiding) and IPSS, and NBSS (Quality of Life) and SF-Qualiveen confirmed good construct/criterion validity. An intercorrelation study revealed that internal consistency was good for the total NBSS and specific domains (Cronbach's alpha >0.7). Test-retest reliability (reproducibility) demonstrated strong stability (intra-class correlation coefficients >0.7 for the total NBSS). No ceiling or floor effects were present. Conclusions The Polish NBSS demonstrated good measurement properties for a large cohort of patients with NLUTD. It is a suitable tool to assess NLUTD symptoms, consequences and quality of life. The Polish NBSS will support routine clinical practice of all types of physicians in Poland who care for patients with NLUTD.

Introduction Urinary incontinence (UI) is a major public health issue because of the high number of individuals affected, its adverse effects on job-related functioning, and the decline in quality of life. The association between UI and symptoms of depression has been evaluated extensively for the general population. However, relationships between UI and depression have not been adequately assessed for specific patient groups. Thus, we investigated the association between UI and depression severity in patients treated for depression. Material and methods This study was a single-center, prospective, cross-sectional inquiry. We analyzed questionnaire data on UI and depression from depressed patients treated in our Department of Adult Psychiatry. Patients completed the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Short Form and General Health Questionnaire whereas psychiatrists administered the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression. Results One hundred two patients were enrolled in the study. Most patients had mild depression. Patients who were incontinent mostly reported moderate UI and UI was statistically more prevalent in women than in men. Further, with the General Health Questionnaire, depression severity in women was significantly associated with the severity of UI. We did not observe correlation between depression severity analyzed with the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression and UI. Conclusions In the cohort of patients treated for depression, UI affected more women than men. In wo- men, UI was associated with the severity of depression. Because UI and depression may coexist and share the symptom burden, particularly in women, clinicians should be aware of the interconnection between these two conditions.

Introduction Urinary collecting system invasion (UCSI) has been found to have significant prognostic value for patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC). However, for RCC patients with venous tumor thrombus (VTT), only contradictory data exist regarding the prognostic efficacy of UCSI. Therefore, the aim of this study is to assess the prognostic relevance of UCSI in survival of patients with RCC and VTT. Material and methods Medical records in a prospectively maintained institutional database were analyzed for RCC-VTT patients who had undergone nephrectomy with thrombectomy. Then, the effect of UCSI on overall survival was analyzed. Results The study examined data for 114 patients, including patients with VTT present in the renal vein (35 patients, 31%), infrahepatic inferior vena cava (28 patients, 24%), and suprahepatic inferior vena cava (51 patients, 45%). Nineteen percent of patients had UCSI. The median overall survival of patients with UCSI was 9 months, whereas median overall survival was 10 months for patients without collecting system invasion. Survival and regression analyses rejected UCSI as a prognostic marker for overall survival. Conclusions UCSI has no effect on survival in our cohort of RCC-VTT patients. Therefore, it should not be considered in risk stratification models or in treatment decision-making for this patient group.

Cel pracyOcena związku subiektywnie ocenianych okoliczności biograficznych i skarg z zakresu dolnego odcinka układu moczowego sprawozdawanych przez pacjentów z zaburzeniami nerwicowymi i osobowości.MetodaRetrospektywna analiza współwystępowania okoliczności biograficznych opisanych w ustrukturowanym wywiadzie kwestionariuszowym (ankiecie życiorysowej) z częstomoczem i bezwiednym oddawaniem moczu zgłoszonymi przez 3929 pacjentów dziennego oddziału leczenia zaburzeń nerwicowych w wypełnianych przed kwalifikacją do leczenia kwestionariuszach objawowych.WynikiZgłaszanie objawu częstego oddawania moczu wiąże się u pacjentów oddziału dziennego leczenia nerwic z trudnościami w okresie dzieciństwa i adolescencji (m.in. poczuciem gorszości rodziny oraz poczuciem gorszości w rodzeństwie, niższym wykształceniem rodziców), a także z zakłóceniami wychowania seksualnego (nie uświadomieniem przed 18rż, karaniem za masturbację), oraz konfliktami w związku (nienawiścią, niechęcią do partnera, nie komunikowaniem się wprost), jak również zaburzoną historią/motywacją do jego powstania (szczególnie zawarciem małżeństwa pod naciskiem/przymusem lub z powodu zobowiązań) (...)WnioskiW analizowanej grupie pacjentów z zaburzeniami nerwicowymi i osobowości wybrane dolegliwości z zakresu układu moczowego okazały się wiązać zarówno z niekorzystnymi okolicznościami życiowymi z okresu dzieciństwa i adolescencji (co mogłoby wskazywać na tendencje do regresji oraz przetrwały charakter przeżywania dysfunkcji rodziny pochodzenia m.in. doznawania sytuacji opuszczenia) jak i ze stanowiącym w większym lub mniejszym stopniu ich konsekwencje dysfunkcjami wieku dorosłego - związku/małżeństwa oraz funkcjonowania zawodowego i radzenia sobie w sferze finansowej. Te powiązania, wskazują na prawdopodobne znaczenie tych obszarów przeżywania u pacjentów – nie tylko oddziałów dziennych i nie tylko placówek psychiatrycznych zgłaszających ‘skargi pseudo-urologiczne’, lecz także przynajmniej części pacjentów urologicznych – zgłaszających się faktycznie z powodu zaburzeń nerwicowych, szczególnie występujących pod postacią somatyczną.

Intra-detrusor injection therapy with onabotulinumtoxinA is generally accepted as a highly effective, minimally invasive and well-tolerated day procedure for patients with refractory overactive bladder (OAB) and neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO). The aim of this study was to summarize currently available methods of assessing treatment efficacy and risk factors that may influence the therapeutic effect of this approach. We found that there are discrepancies in the assessment methods. The evaluation of intra-detrusor injections with onabotulinumtoxinA in clinical trials are not always transposable into day-to-day practice. Moreover, the primary endpoints in clinical trials do not explore the entirety of meaningful patient-centered outcomes. Therefore, in daily clinical practice with patients with overactive bladder syndrome, the therapy should be assessed with objective measures (bladder diaries) and patient-oriented outcomes analyzing the quality of life (questionnaires). In neurogenic individuals, therapeutic efficacy should be additionally evaluated with urodynamic studies. Potential risk factors that may influence the treatment outcomes include urodynamically proven detrusor overactivity, elevated maximum detrusor pressure, greater maximum cystometric capacity, impaired bladder compliance, older age, male gender, a higher baseline bother score, previous anticholinergic treatment, and repeated injections with a subsequent decline in efficacy. The risk of intermittent catheterization following injections seems to depend on the etiology of detrusor overactivity, the injected dose, the injection technique, and the definition of significant post-void residual urine requiring catheterization.

Introduction The ZSI 375 is a new artificial urinary sphincter utilised in men suffering from stress urinary incontinence (SUI). We present the first European multicentre study on the effectiveness of ZSI 375. Material and methods This study was conducted in a retrospective, non-randomized format in centres across Europe. Between May 2009 and December 2014, ZSI 375 was fitted in 109 SUI patients following radical prostatectomy, transurethral resection of prostate (TURP), rectal surgery and high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU). Patients with history of pelvic radiotherapy or previous surgical treatment for incontinence or stricture were excluded from the series. Follow-up was completed by December 2016. The key outcome measures included overall improvement and complication rates. Results A total of 109 patients in 10 European centres were recruited and had the ZSI 375 device implanted. The average patient age was 72 years old. The indication for the majority of patients was incontinence following radical prostatectomy (100/109 patients, 91.74%). On average, patients were incontinent for 48.6 months prior to treatment. All patients used ≥4 pads daily at baseline and thus were classified as suffering from 'severe incontinence'. The average follow-up until the final visit was 43 months. The pad usage decreased to 0.84 on average by the last visit. There were no reported cases of device infection. A total of 9 patients had urethral cuff erosion (8.25%),which was the most common complication in this series. A further 3 men (2.75%) experienced mechanical failure requiring subsequent device reimplantation. The implantation of the ZSI 375 device was considered successful in 92.66% of patients. Conclusions The ZSI 375 is an effective surgical treatment option in men with severe stress urinary incontinence.

// Orsolya Modos 1 , Henning Reis 2 , Christian Niedworok 3 , Herbert Rubben 3 , Attila Szendroi 1 , Marcell A. Szasz 4 , Jozsef Timar 4 , Kornelia Baghy 5 , Ilona Kovalszky 5 , Tomasz Golabek 6 , Piotr Chlosta 6 , Krzysztof Okon 7 , Benoit Peyronnet 8 , Romain Mathieu 8 , Shahrokh F. Shariat 9 , Peter Hollosi 5,10 , Peter Nyirady 1 and Tibor Szarvas 1,3 1 Department of Urology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary 2 Institute of Pathology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany 3 Department of Urology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany 4 2nd Department of Pathology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary 5 1st Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary 6 Department of Urology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland 7 Department of Pathomorphology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland 8 Department of Urology, Rennes University Hospital, Rennes, France 9 Department of Urology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna General Hospital, Vienna, Austria 10 Tumor Progression Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary Correspondence to: Tibor Szarvas, email: // Keywords : urachal carcinoma, urachal cancer, urachus, mutation, EGFR, Pathology Section Received : April 08, 2016 Accepted : May 29, 2016 Published : June 05, 2016 Abstract Purpose: Targeted therapy represents an attractive alternative for rare tumors such as urachal carcinoma (UrC). The aim of this study was to assess the mutations of the most commonly affected 5 genes in the targetable EGFR-pathway in UrC and comapre their frequencies to those of found in urothelial and colorectal cancer. Materials and Methods: Mutational hot-spots of selected genes were tested in 22 UrC samples by pyrosequencing. Mutational patterns were compared to those published for colorectal and urothelial cancers. Furthermore, we sought correlations between mutations and clinicopathological and follow-up data. Results: We found 11 mutations in 10 of 22 (45%) patients. The most frequently mutated gene was KRAS (27%) followed by BRAF (18%) and NRAS (5%), while no mutations were detected in the EGFR and PIK3CA genes. No correlation was found between the mutation status and clinicopathological parameters (Sheldon/Mayo stage, tumor grade, metastases). Furthermore, none of the mutations correlated with progression-free or overall survival. Conclusions: The mutation pattern of UrC is more similar to colorectal than to urothelial cancer. However, the mutation characteristics of UrC seems to be unique suggesting that clinical decision-making for UrC cannot be simply adopted from urothelial or colorectal carcinoma. The high occurence of EGFR-pathway mutations warrants the testing for KRAS and BRAF mutations when considering anti-EGFR therapy in UrC.

Objawy z dolnego odcinka dróg moczowych (LUTS) charakteryzują się znaczną częstością występowania oraz potwierdzonym wynikami badań negatywnym wpływem na jakość życia, sen i dobrostan psychospołeczny chorych. Z drugiej strony, zarówno depresja, jak i lęk negatywnie wpływają na doświadczanie, nasilenie oraz uporczywość objawów LUTS. Niniejsze opracowanie ocenia związki LUTS z depresją i lękiem na podstawie przeprowadzonych dotychczas badań. Poszukiwaliśmy również wspólnych mechanizmów powstawania LUTS oraz depresji i lęku. Istnieje duża ilość dowodów łącząca objawy LUTS z lękiem oraz/lub depresją. Przeprowadzone do tej pory badania wykazały nie tylko występowanie znaczącego wpływu LUTS na dobrostan psychospołeczny, lecz także silnego negatywnego wpływu depresji oraz lęku na doświadczanie, rozwój oraz utrzymywanie się objawów LUTS. Wysoki odsetek pacjentów ze współwystępującymi depresją oraz lękiem ma duże znaczenie we właściwym leczeniu LUTS, podobnie jak występujące objawy LUTS grają istotną rolę w pojawianiu się i leczeniu depresji oraz lęku. Dlatego klinicyści powinni być świadomi istnienia dwukierunkowego związku między LUTS, a lękiem oraz/lub depresją. Niektórzy pacjenci mogą wymagać multidyscyplinarnego podejścia oraz skojarzonego leczenia. Dokładny mechanizm łączący występowanie LUTS z depresją i lękiem pozostaje w dużej mierze nieznany. Aby wyodrębnić leżące u podstaw tego zjawiska procesy patofizjologiczne potrzeba dalszych badań.

Introduction The treatment of choice for patients who have iatrogenic urinary incontinence is the implantation of an artificial urinary sphincter. We performed a prospective study on the outcomes of men undergoing artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) implantation (ZSI 375; Zephyr Surgical Implants, Geneva, Switzerland). Material and methods Patients with moderate-to-severe stress incontinence urinary were included. The ZSI 375 device is a one-piece device with a cuff and a pump unit. Patients underwent a perineal incision for cuff insertion and an inguinal incision for the pump unit to be placed in the scrotum. Complications and number of pads used to manage incontinence were recorded. Perioperative complications were categorized according to the Clavien-Dindo classification. Pain connected with implantation of AUS was assessed with the visual analogue scale (VAS). Results Between July 2013 and June 2017, 50 patients underwent ZSI 375 device insertion in the Department of Urology and Urological Oncology in Puławy, Poland. The follow-up stopped at the end of September 2017. The median (range) follow-up was 21.04 (1–50) months. No patient experienced bladder hyperactivity. Complications leading to a revision or permanent device removal arose in 12 patients (erosion = 9, infection = 0, mechanical failure = 3). Social continence (0 or 1 pad/day) was achieved in 29/50 patients (58%). An improvement (50% less pads/day) was achieved in 15/50 patients (30%). A failure was seen in 6/50 patients (12%). Perioperatively, all patients were classified as grade I in the Clavien-Dindo classification. Mean value of pain intensity in VAS was 0.82. Conclusions The ZSI 375 device is safe, effective and the follow-up period was long enough to identify all potential complications.

Cel pracyObjawy z dolnego odcinka dróg moczowych (lower urinary tract symptoms – LUTS) są powszechne i związane są z wysokimi kosztami leczenia. Liczne badania wykazały ich negatywny wpływ na jakość życia uwarunkowaną stanem zdrowia pacjentów, jak również na ich zdrowie fizyczne i psychiczne. Równoczesne występowanie LUTS oraz objawów psychiatrycznych jest częste i zostało opisane przez psychiatrów, urologów oraz ginekologów, jednak percepcja objawów z dolnego odcinka dróg moczowych przez lekarzy psychiatrów na nie została jak dotąd przeanalizowana.MetodaOpracowaną ankietę składającą się z 31 pytań dotyczących percepcji LUTS przez lekarzy psychiatrów, wysłano pocztą elektroniczną do lekarzy zarejestrowanych w Polskim Towarzystwie Psychiatrycznym. Internetowa platforma SurveyMonkey została użyta jako miejsce do zbierania i przechowywania odpowiedzi.WynikiDziewięćset pięćdziesiąt trzech lekarzy psychiatrów wypełniło kwestionariusz. Większość badanych stwierdziła, że jedynie ,,okazjonalnie” pyta swoich pacjentów o zaburzenia związane oddawanie moczu. Ankietowani oszacowali częstość zaburzeń oddawania moczu u swoich pacjentów jako ,,umiarkowanie częste” dolegliwości, występujące u ,,10-30%” chorych. Odnotowano jednak rozbieżności pomiędzy różnymi podgrupami ankietowanych. Ponadto, uzyskane odpowiedzi wskazują, że psychiatrzy mogą być nie w pełni świadomi wpływu swojego leczenia (psychoterapii/farmakoterapii) na poprawę LUTS. Większość ankietowanych nie zauważa również związku pomiędzy progresją choroby psychicznej a nasileniem LUTS.WnioskiPercepcja objawów z dolnego odcinka układu moczowego przez lekarzy psychiatrów wydaje się być ograniczona. Edukacja oraz informowanie lekarzy psychiatrów na temat wpływu LUTS może przyczynić się do poprawy jakości życia pacjentów, ich rokowania oraz długoterminowej opieki.

Cel pracyZwiązek pomiędzy nykturią, depresją i zaburzeniami snu w populacji ogólnej został szeroko udokumentowany. Dotychczasowe badania nie przeanalizowały jednak wpływu nykturii na nasilenie choroby u pacjentów chorujących na depresję, a także związku pomiędzy nykturią a zaburzeniami snu wśród omawianych pacjentów. W tym celu zbadaliśmy wpływ nykturii na nasilenie depresji oraz jakość snu u pacjentów cierpiących na depresję.MetodaPrzeprowadziliśmy badanie przekrojowe wśród pacjentów depresyjnych leczonych w oddziale oraz poradni przyklinicznej Kliniki Psychiatrii Dorosłych Uniwersytetu Jagiellońskiego w Krakowie. Wszyscy pacjenci spełnili kryteria DSM-5 oraz ICD-10 dla depresji. Nykturia została oceniona za pomocą skali International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), nasilenie depresji za pomocą 17-punktowego kwestionariusza Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HRSD), a jakość snu za pomocą Holland Sleep Disorders Questionnaire (HSDQ). Analiza statystyczna została przeprowadzona za pomocą testu ANOVA (post-hoc Tukey test).WynikiDo badania zostało włączonych 98 pacjentów. Nykturia została stwierdzona u 68 z nich. Większość pacjentów (35) wykazała łagodne nasilenie depresji. Średni wynik z kwestionariusza HSDQ wyniósł 78.8 (zakres 32-146). Wykonana przez nas analiza statystyczna wykazała brak wpływu nykturii na nasilenie depresji (p=0.625) przy jednak istotnie statystycznej korelacji pomiędzy nykturią a jakością snu (p=0.037). Test post-hoc analizujący korelację pomiędzy stopniem nasilenia nykturii a zaburzeniami snu pokazał, że większa liczba nocnych mikcji (co najmniej 3 epizody) prowadzi do istotnie wyższych wyników punktowych w kwestionariuszu HSDQ.WnioskiNasze badanie wykazało brak wpływu nykturii na nasilenie depresji u pacjentów ze zdiagnozowaną depresją. Niemniej, wskazaliśmy istotnie statystycznie związek pomiędzy nykturią a jakością snu u omawianych chorych. Dalsze badania z większą liczbą pacjentów są niezbędne do potwierdzenia omawianych wyników.

Introduction The treatment of choice for patients who have iatrogenic urinary incontinence is the implantation of an artificial urinary sphincter. We performed a prospective study on the outcomes of men undergoing artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) implantation (ZSI 375; Zephyr Surgical Implants, Geneva, Switzerland). Material and methods Patients with moderate-to-severe stress incontinence urinary were included. The ZSI 375 device is a one-piece device with a cuff and a pump unit. Patients underwent a perineal incision for cuff insertion and an inguinal incision for the pump unit to be placed in the scrotum. Complications and number of pads used to manage incontinence were recorded. Perioperative complications were categorized according to the Clavien-Dindo classification. Pain connected with implantation of AUS was assessed with the visual analogue scale (VAS). Results Between July 2013 and June 2017, 50 patients underwent ZSI 375 device insertion in the Department of Urology and Urological Oncology in Pulawy, Poland. The follow-up stopped at the end of September 2017. The median (range) follow-up was 21.04 (1-50) months. No patient experienced bladder hyperactivity. Complications leading to a revision or permanent device removal arose in 12 patients (erosion = 9, infection = 0, mechanical failure = 3). Social continence (0 or 1 pad/day) was achieved in 29/50 patients (58%). An improvement (50% less pads/day) was achieved in 15/50 patients (30%). A failure was seen in 6/50 patients (12%). Perioperatively, all patients were classified as grade I in the Clavien-Dindo classification. Mean value of pain intensity in VAS was 0.82. Conclusions The ZSI 375 device is safe, effective and the follow-up period was long enough to identify all potential complications.

Introduction Despite improvements in surgical techniques and implementation of minimally invasive procedures, male stress urinary incontinence affects a substantial number of patients after prostatic surgery. In response to increasing demand of optimal treatment modality, new alternatives to artificial urinary sphincter have recently been introduced. This review summarises the therapeutic surgical options with their outcomes in management of postprostatectomy stress incontinence. Material and methods We performed a literature review by searching the PubMed, Web of Science and Embase databases for articles published from January 2000 until April 2015 based on clinical relevance. Results Artificial urinary sphincter is currently considered the “gold standard” treatment of male stress urinary incontinence. Although the new devices in this group have recently been investigated, the AMS 800 remains the only widely used implant. Male slings and adjustable continence devices, achieve the social continence rates up to 60%. Periurethral injections of bulking agents, have limited efficacy of male stress incontinence. Argus sling and ProACT are both associated with substantial explantation rates. Stem cell therapy is a promising option but still requires additional testing. Conclusions The development of new alternatives to artificial urinary sphincter is constantly progressing. Although recently introduced minimally invasive treatment options have not yet surpassed the outcomes of the artificial urinary sphincter they should continue to be evaluated and compared against the gold standard.

Introduction: In March 2013, the European Association of Urology (EAU) released a new edition of the guidelines on management of male lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), including benign prostatic obstruction. The objective of this study was to evaluate how well the EAU guidelines have been implemented in day-to-day practice by Polish urologists. Material and methods: A structured questionnaire, which explored how urologists diagnose and manage male lower urinary tract symptoms, was emailed to all certified, actively practicing urologists from a list provided by the Polish Urological Association. Results: The questionnaire return rate was 33.7% (135/400). Overall, the median (quartile 1; quartile 3) frequency of correct answers was 65.0% (58.0%; 69.0%). Analysis of the association of availability and acceptance of the EAU guidelines with question answers showed no pattern. A multivariate regression model showed a positive correlation with regards to correct answers given in the survey and doctors’ participation in international congresses (p = 0.018, r = 0.181). Basket analysis showed the strongest association for those who failed to correctly answer the questions regarding diagnosis of LUTS and overactive bladder (OAB) (support = 27.41%, confidence = 86.05%). Conclusions: Although there is a significant degree of adherence to the 2013 EAU guidelines, some discrepancies between urologists’ practice and the recommendations regarding diagnosis and treatment of male LUTS do exist. The data obtained provide valuable benchmarks and also identify possible interventions that may improve the standard of care in this population of patients

Introduction and objectives Many epidemiological and experimental studies report a strong role of chemical carcinogens in the etiology of bladder cancer. However, the involvement of heavy metals in tumourigenesis of urothelial carcinoma of the bladder has been poorly investigated. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine the relationship between chromium (Cr) and bladder cancer. Material and Methods Chromium concentration in two 36-sample series of bladder cancer tissue and sera from patients with this neoplasm were matched with those of a control group. The amount of trace elements in every tissue sample was determined using atomic absorption spectrometry. This was correlated with tumour stage. Results While the median chromium concentration levels reached statistically higher values in the bladder cancer tissue, compared with the non-cancer tissue (99.632ng/g and 33.144ng/g, respectively; p

Introduction Active surveillance (AS) is always associated with a degree of uncertainty, whether or not prostate biopsy (TRUSBx) results indeed can be relied on for evaluation of cancer stage and histological grade, as the most commonly observed limitations of TRUSBx are undergrading, understaging and underestimating true prostate cancer (PCa) volume. We evaluated prostate cancer characteristics in men who could have been offered active surveillance based on clinical features and TRUSBx results, and compared them with the same patient's histology results following their radical prostatectomy (RP). Moreover, we assessed the level of consistency in reporting TRUSBx and RP specimens by the same pathologist on two separate occasions, as well as by another independent pathologist. Material and methods All patients who underwent RP between 2005 and 2008 had their medical records reviewed retrospectively. All histological specimens were prospectively re–evaluated by the same pathologist, as well as by a second to assess for intra– and interobserver variability, respectively. Results Eight out of a total of 124 patients who underwent RP could have been offered AS on the basis of initial microscopic reports. However, there was significant intra– and interobserver variability. The differences in the histological grade of the specimens obtained from TRUSBx and RP, reported by the same pathologist and by the second pathologist were apparent in 6 and 4 cases, and in 7 and 6 patients, respectively. Conclusions We recommend that the decision about AS should be made after at least two pathologists have jointly reviewed and agreed on the TRUSBx histology results.

Introduction: Symptomatic hypermobile kidney is treated with nephropexy, a surgical procedure through which the floating kidney is fixed to the retroperitoneum. Although both open and endoscopic procedures have a high success rate, they can be associated with risk of complications, relatively long hospital stay and high cost. Aim: We describe our percutaneous technique for fixing a hypermobile kidney and evaluate the efficacy of the per - cutaneous nephrostomy insertion in management of symptomatic nephroptosis. Material and methods: Between January 2005 and December 2011, 11 patients diagnosed with a symptomatic right nephroptosis of at least 1 year duration were treated with a single point percutaneous nephrostomy technique. All data were retrieved from patients' medical records and then retrospectively analysed. Results: Nephropexy through a single point percutaneous nephrostomy technique was successfully accomplished in 11 women. The mean operative time was 20 min. The intraoperative estimated blood loss was minimal in all cases. No major or minor intraoperative complications were noted. The average postoperative hospital stay was 2 days. Women returned to their usual activities 14 days following the surgery. Nine women had complete resolution of their pain, and 2 patients continued to complain of discomfort in their lumbar area. One patient was re-operated upon with satisfactory subjective and objective outcomes achieved. One patient refused re-operation. Conclusions: Percutaneous nephropexy is simple, inexpensive and effective for treatment of symptomatic hypermo- bile kidney. It remains a valuable alternative to open, laparoscopic, and robotic methods for fixing a floating kidney.

Introduction The technique of ureterorenoscopy has a significant learning curve. Cadavers embalmed by the Thiel method have been successfully used for simulation training in a number of surgical specialties. Here we present our experience of the first use of Thiel cadavers in a formal ureteroscopy training course. Material and methods The inaugural ‘Masterclass in Flexible Ureterorenoscopy’ was run with participants performing ureterorenoscopy on three Thiel cadavers under expert supervision. A qualitative questionnaire was delivered to the participants and faculty. Assessed domains were tissue characteristics of the cadaveric urinary tract, anatomical features and procedural aspects. A five-point Likert score was used to assess responses. Data regarding participant experience in endourology were also collected. Results 8 questionnaires were collected. All participants completed cadaveric ureterorenoscopy. Three-quarters reported the overall quality of tissue in the cadaveric bladder, ureters and pelvicalyceal system as high or excellent. Half reported the cadaveric bladder as being softer than in a live patient, whilst five out of eight thought that the cadaveric ureter was softer and more prone to trauma. Seven out of eight were satisfied with the overall quality of the cadaveric model. The quality of vision and irrigation in the upper urinary tracts was reported as high. Conclusions Thiel cadavers have been shown to have excellent tissue characteristics, as well as being durable and reusable. We have described the first use of Thiel cadavers in a designated ureterorenoscopy course, with high levels of delegate satisfaction. Further work is required to develop the role of Thiel cadavers as part of an integrated, modular urology training.

[b]Introduction and objective.[/b] There have been many studies published recently on obesity and the risk of renal cancer; however, the epidemiological evidence for such an association has not been consistent. Therefore, a systematic review was conducted of the prospective cohort studies to assess the association between obesity and the risk of renal cancer incidence and death. [b]Materials and methods.[/b] A search was conducted of the PubMed database and references to published studies from inception until May 2013. Guidelines for Assessing Quality in Prognostic Studies on the Basis of Framework for Potential Biases were followed for quality assessment of studies included in the systematic review. [b]Results. [/b]Twenty eligible studies were identified and included in the systematic review. Among the 20 selected studies, overall study quality was high. Although the evidence from the prospective cohort studies, linking obesity with renal cancer incidence, has not been entirely consistent, there is a convincing body of data for a positive relationship. Moreover, cumulative data is compelling for a strong positive association between obesity and fatal renal cancer. [b]Conclusions.[/b] There is a relatively consistent amount of evidence that obesity increases the risk of renal cancer and fatal renal cancer. Further research is needed as better understanding of mechanisms by which obesity may influence renal cancer development and progression will aid the fostering of strategies for prevention and treatment of one of the most lethal human malignancies.

Prostate, bladder and kidney cancers remain the most common urological malignancies worldwide, and the prevention and treatment of these diseases pose a challenge to clinicians. In recent decades, many studies have been conducted to assess the association between supplementation with selected vitamins and elements and urinary tract tumour initiation and development. Here, we review the relationship between vitamins A, B, D, and E, in addition to calcium, selenium, and zinc, and the risk of developing prostate, kidney and bladder cancer. A relatively consistent body of evidence suggests that large daily doses of calcium (> 2,000 mg/day) increase the risk of prostate cancer. Similarly, supplementation with 400 IU/day of vitamin E carries a significant risk of prostate cancer. However, there have been many conflicting results regarding the effect of these nutrients on kidney and bladder neoplasms. Moreover, the role of other compounds in urinary tract carcinogenesis needs further clarification.

Photodynamic diagnosis increases the detection rate and hence decreases recurrence rates of urothelial cancer (UC) of the bladder. This technique has been implemented in the upper urinary tract and like in the bladder, has shown to increase the detection rate of urothelial lesions.To determine the sensitivity, specificity, and detection rates for photodynamic diagnostic flexible ureterorenoscopy (PDD-FURS) and white light ureterorenoscopy (WL-FURS). Design between 2009 and 2013, PDD-FURS was performed within 106 Upper urinary tract (UUT) Units (Mean age-72.6±9.5). Indications for the procedure included abnormal upper urinary tract on imaging, normal flexible cystoscopy with abnormal urine cytology, endoscopic treatment and follow-up of UUT UC. Oral 5-aminolevulinic acid was used as the photosensitizer administered 3-4 h pre-operatively.48 lesions were detected, of which 95.8% (46/48) where visualised by PDD-FURS compared to 47.9% (23/48) shown by WL-FURS (P0.0001). PDD-FURS detected significantly more carcinoma in situ (CIS) or dysplasia lesions than WL-FURS (93.75% (15/16) vs. 18.75% (3/16), respectively, (P=0.0006)). Furthermore, PDD-FURS detected significantly more UC lesions than WL-FURS (96.9% (31/32) vs. 62.5% (20/32) (P=0.007)). PDD-FURS was more sensitive (95.8; range: 85.7-99.5) than WL-FURS (53.5; range: 37.7-68.8) in detecting UUT-UC (P0.0001). There was no difference (P=0.716) in the specificity between PDD-FURS (96.6; range: 88.1-99.6) and WL-FURS (95.2; range: 86.7-99).Our results PDD-FURS with oral 5-ALA as photosensitizer suggest higher sensitivity and detection rate of urothelial tumours than WL-FURS, with a good safety profile. In our series, PDD-FURS enhanced the visualisation of flat lesions, such as CIS and dysplasia that otherwise would have been missed.

OBJECTIVE To seek markers of oxidative stress and examine neural structural integrity in chronic penile ischaemia using a rabbit model of arteriogenic erectile dysfunction (ED), as the role of ischaemia in penile neuropathy and the oxidative mechanism of neurodegeneration in ED remains unknown. MATERIALS AND METHODS A rabbit model of atherosclerosis-induced ED was developed by partial balloon de-endothelialization of the iliac arteries. After 10 weeks, intracavernosal blood flow and erectile function in the arteriogenic ED group were compared with age-matched controls. Erectile tissues were processed for analysis of oxidative stress markers and nerve fibre density using enzyme immunoassay and immunohistochemical staining, respectively. Oxidative stress-sensitive genes were determined with quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Tissue ultrastructure was examined by transmission electron microscopy. RESULTS Significant erectile tissue ischaemia, erectile dysfunction, increased levels of oxidative products, and marked nitrotyrosine immunoreactivity was evident in the ED group. Oxidative stress-sensitive genes encoding hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), superoxide dismutase (SOD), aldose reductase (AR) and nerve growth factor (NGF) were up-regulated in the ischaemic erectile tissue. These changes were associated with collapsed axonal and Schwann cell profiles, neurodegeneration, mitochondrial structural damage, increased caveolae, loss of endothelium, and sporadic vacuolization. CONCLUSIONS Neuropathy appears to follow the vascular insult in arteriogenic ED. Neural injury in penile ischaemia involves a neurovascular phenomenon mediated by oxidative free radicals. Mitochondrial structural damage and increased HIF-1α gene expression may be early signals of oxidative stress and neurodegeneration in ED. Up-regulation of SOD, AR and NGF may be a coordinated defensive reaction to oxidative radicals that seems to fail to prevent neural injury in the ischaemic penis. Our study introduces the concept of oxidative neurodegeneration in the pathophysiology of arteriogenic ED. Therapeutic strategies to protect penile nerves from free radical incursion may enhance the efficacy of surgical and pharmacological interventions in arteriogenic ED.

To our knowledge the mechanism of neurodegeneration in the overactive bladder remains unknown. We examined mitochondrial integrity and searched for markers of oxidative neural injury in the ischemic overactive bladder.A rabbit model of overactive bladder was developed by inducing moderate pelvic ischemia. After 16 weeks cystometrograms and blood flow recordings from overactive bladders were compared with those in age matched controls. Bladder tissues were processed to assess oxidative products, oxidative stress sensitive genes and nerve fiber density using enzyme immunoassay, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemical staining, respectively. Tissue ultrastructure was examined by transmission electron microscopy.Ischemia increased spontaneous bladder contractions and led to cyclic ischemia-reperfusion. Tissue levels of oxidative and nitrosative products, and oxidative stress sensitive genes encoding superoxide dismutase and aldose reductase were up-regulated in the overactive bladder. Transmission electron microscopy of overactive bladder tissues showed mitochondria with distinctive morphological features, characterized by swollen membranes, decreased granules, a total loss of granules and sporadic membrane damage. These changes were associated with sporadic loss of epithelial mucosal membrane, twisted smooth muscle cells, diffused vacuolization and marked neurodegeneration.Our findings suggest free radical mediated ultrastructural damage and neurodegeneration in the overactive bladder. Overactivity associated mitochondrial stress may have a central role in epithelial damage, smooth muscle cell injury and neurodegeneration. Superoxide dismutase and aldose reductase up-regulation in the overactive bladder imply intrinsic defensive reaction against free radicals that apparently fails to prevent oxidative damage and neurodegeneration. Therapeutic strategies targeting basic mitochondrial processes such as energy metabolism or free radical generation may help better manage wall degeneration and neuropathy in the overactive bladder.

INTRODUCTION Creation of a watertight vesicourethral anastomosis is a challenging and time-consuming procedure. In an attempt to simplify this critical step of radical prostatectomy we have developed a laparoscopic running single suture technique and presented preliminary results previously. Here we report our two-year experience with the Chlosta's single running suture technique. MATERIAL AND METHODS Between January 2013 and June 2014, 60 consecutive patients underwent laparoscopic radical prostatectomy with a running vesicourethral anastomosis using our modified technique for clinically localized prostate cancer. Analyses of the patients' data from a prospectively maintained database with respect to perioperative characteristics, morbidity and urinary continence was performed. RESULTS The mean anastomotic time was 10.2 min. There was no clinically significant anastomotic leakage observed. Only 3 patients developed perioperative morbidity, but none of them was classified as major. Bladder neck contracture occurred in only one man and it was managed endoscopically. Overall continence rates at 3, 6, 12, and 18 months were 73%, 85%, 96.7%, and 95%, respectively, and 76.8%, 89.3%, 96.4%, and 96.4%, respectively when analysis was limited to those without adjuvant radiotherapy. CONCLUSIONS Obtained results confirm our initial observation from the preliminary report and support the use of our single running suture for the vesicourethral anastomosis in LRP.

Aim: To investigate the safety, surgical efficiency and patients' ability to recover from urinary continence as a result of a single absorbable running suture versus single-knot running suture for vesicourethral anastomosis (VUA) during laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP). Material and Methods: In a prospective randomised study, we evaluated 162 consecutive patients who underwent LRP with VUA using the single running suture technique or the single-knot running suture technique. Perioperative patients' characteristics, morbidity and urinary continence were analysed. Results: The baseline characteristics were similar between the 2 groups. The single running suture technique was related to decreased anastomotic and total operative times compared with the Van Velthoven technique (13.17 ± 5.74 min vs. 28.49 ± 6.45 min, p = 0.0001, and 174.41 ± 62.97 min and 184.94 ± 46.16 min, p = 0.04, respectively). Overall, urinary continence rates at 3, 6 and 12 months in groups 1 and 2 were 49.4 and 69.1%, 81.5 and 86.4%, and 91.4 and 93.8%, respectively (all with p > 0.05 except the follow-up assessment at 3 months following surgery, p = 0.011). Conclusions: Both methods ensure satisfactory rates of urinary leakage and bladder neck stricture, as well as continence after LRP. However, since the single running suture VUA technique is easier to perform, and the mean anastomosis time of the single running suture VUA technique is shorter than that of the Van Velthoven technique, it appears, therefore, preferable.

Pelviureteric junction (PUJ) obstruction is a condition frequently encountered in both adult and pediatric patients. Congenital abnormalities and crossing lower-pole renal vessels are the most common underlying pathologies in both men and women. This report presents a case of a young woman who was complaining of intermittent abdominal pain in whom right-sided hydronephrosis was diagnosed. The patient was scheduled for a laparoscopic right-sided Anderson-Hynes pyeloplasty. During the procedure a partly extraperitoneal appendix, with extensive adhesions to the posterior abdominal wall abutting on the ureter just below the obstructed PUJ, was identified. The patient underwent dismembered laparoscopic Anderson-Hynes pyeloplasty with concurrent appendectomy for likely dual pathologies being responsible for her symptoms.

Background: There has been a large body of research on obesity and the risk of prostate cancer (PCa) that has been published recently. However, the epidemiological evidence for such an association has not been consistent. This may be attributed to the nature of case-control and retrospective studies, which generally are more prone to biases. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review of prospective cohort studies to assess the association between obesity and the risk of PCa incidence and death. Methods: A search of the PubMed database and references of published studies (from inception until March 2013) was conducted. Twenty-three eligible studies were identified and included in the systematic review. Results: The evidence from the prospective cohort studies linking obesity with PCa incidence has not been consistent. However, cumulative data is compelling for a strong positive association between obesity and fatal PCa. Conclusions: Obesity is a significant diet-related risk factor for fatal PCa. Further well-constructed, large cohort studies on the potential association between obesity and PCa, as well as on underlying mechanisms, are needed.

Introduction Controversies exist regarding the accuracy of transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) determination of transition zone volume (TZV) when compared with enucleated adenoma weight. Aim To determine the accuracy and reliability of measurements of the TZV by TRUS, by comparing preoperative radiological findings with the enucleated prostate adenoma volume, measured by fluid displacement volumetry (FDV), after retropubic prostatectomy performed by the Millin method, and, moreover, to evaluate changes in the surgical capsule size in the intermediate postoperative period. Material and methods We measured TZV preoperatively using TRUS and postoperatively with FDV in 112 patients who underwent retroperitoneal prostatectomy for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Results The TRUS volume correlated well with specimen volumes (r = 0.945, p < 0.0001). The median (quartile 1, quartile 3) absolute error was 7.35 ml (4.15 ml, 9.28 ml) and the median percent error was 9.12% (4.75%, 14.98%). Percent error, but not absolute error, was significantly related to TRUS TZV (p < 0.001 and 0.217, respectively). Adenomas > 80 cc were associated with lower percent error. The median volume of the residual prostate tissue measured 3.5 years after prostatectomy was 92.65 cc (65.75 cc, 109.58 cc), whereas the median volume of the surgical capsule, depending on the equation used for its calculation, was 24.80 cc (16.25 cc, 37.37 cc) and 31.43 cc (23.14 cc, 43.32 cc). Conclusions The TRUS TZV correlated well with values determined by FDV. It can be reliably used in clinical management of BPH.