Psychosocial issues related to sexual functioning among African-American prostate cancer survivors and their spouses

OBJECTIVE

Focus on cancer survivorship and quality of life (QOL) is a growing priority. The aim of this study was to identify and describe the most salient psychosocial concerns related to sexual functioning among African-American (AA) prostate cancer survivors and their spouses.

METHODS

Twelve AA prostate cancer survivors and their spouses participated in semi-structured individual interviews. The interviews assessed couples' experiences with psychosocial adjustment and sexual functioning posttreatment for localized prostate cancer. The data were analyzed using the constant comparison method and content analysis.

RESULTS

In this qualitative study of couples surviving prostate cancer, there were divergent views between the male prostate cancer survivors and their female partners, particularly regarding sexual functioning. For the males, QOL issues emerged as the primary area of concern, whereas survival of their husbands was considered most important among the female spouses. The male respondents expressed unease with the sexual side effects of their cancer treatment, such as erectile dysfunction and decreased sexual desire and satisfaction. Female spouses recognized decreased sexual desire in their partners following treatment, but this was not considered a primary concern.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients and their spouses may have differing perceptions regarding QOL and the impact of sexual functioning on survivorship. This study points to the need for further research and intervention development to address these domains with a goal to improve QOL.

Optimizing Cancer Control and Functional Outcomes following Robotic Prostatectomy

Background

Since robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy was introduced, different modifications in the technique have been described to improve cancer control and minimize the possibility of erectile dysfunction and incontinence.

Methods

We reviewed the recent English literature on specific topics including when to preserve the neurovascular bundle (NVB), and we describe techniques to diminish the rate of positive margins and to preserve continence and potency.

Results

Identifying predictor factors of local advanced disease helps in deciding when to preserve the NVB without compromising cancer control. Techniques to decrease the positive margins based on experience and modifications of the apical dissection are reviewed. Minimal disruption or reconstruction of the anatomic structures of the periprostatic tissues helps to maintain continence. Different degrees of NVB preservation can be performed based on the characteristics of the cancer. Cautery-free techniques and other modifications in the dissection to minimize the NVB injury are also discussed.

Conclusions

The understanding of the predictor factors of local advanced disease, together with modifications in the technique, helps to not only achieve cancer control but also improve quality of life after robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy.

Epidemiology and natural history of penile cancer

An extensive literature search was performed using the key words squamous cell carcinoma of the penis, phimosis, circumcision, chronic balanitis, cigarette smoking, genital warts and human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. All selected studies were classified according to the level of evidence (LE). The final grades of recommendation were assigned after discussion by the full panel of the International Consultation on Penile Cancer in November 2008. The factors positively associated with invasive penile cancers include the presence of phimosis (LE 3a), tobacco smoking (LE 3a-4), chewing tobacco (LE 3a), injury to the penis (LE 3a), balanitis (LE 3a), genital warts (LE 3a), and high-risk HPV infection (LE 3a-4).

Laparoscopic extraperitoneal radical prostatectomy: impact of the learning curve on perioperative outcomes and margin status

OBJECTIVE

After improved technical modifications that followed the original reports by pioneering laparoscopic surgeons, the impact of the learning curve has not been objectively assessed for laparoscopic extraperitoneal radical prostatectomy (LERP). In this study, we assessed the impact of the learning curve on operative and oncologic outcomes at a high surgical volume institution.

METHODS AND MATERIAL

We prospectively analyzed 400 consecutive patients with localized prostate cancer treated with LERP between January 2004 and July 2006. Patients were divided into 4 equal groups (1-100, 101-200, 201-300, and 301- 400). Kruskal-Wallis test was performed to determine whether all the preoperative variables were comparable among groups. Fisher's exact test was performed to determine the association of margin status with pathological stage. Chi-square test was performed to determine whether margin status was associated with groups (1 vs. 2, 3, & 4). Wilcoxon rank-sum test was used to determine whether operative time was statistically different in group 1 (1-100) compared with groups 2, 3, and 4.

RESULTS

All groups were comparable with respect to preoperative data. Positive margin rate significantly decreased after the first 200 cases for patients with pT2a-c disease (28.4% to 31.9% vs. 11.6% to 11.5%). Margin status was significantly associated with groups (Group 1 & 3: P=0.0044 and group 1 & 4: P=0.0021). Operative time significantly decreased after the first 100 cases (350 min vs. 218 min, 192 min, and 223 min) (P<0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

In a tertiary care academic institution, the operative and pathologic outcomes improved significantly with increased surgical experience. At our institution, the operative and pathologic outcomes improved after 100 and 200 cases, respectively.

Laparoscopic extraperitoneal radical prostatectomy: impact of the learning curve on perioperative outcomes and margin status

OBJECTIVE

After improved technical modifications that followed the original reports by pioneering laparoscopic surgeons, the impact of the learning curve has not been objectively assessed for laparoscopic extraperitoneal radical prostatectomy (LERP). In this study, we assessed the impact of the learning curve on operative and oncologic outcomes at a high surgical volume institution.

METHODS AND MATERIAL

We prospectively analyzed 400 consecutive patients with localized prostate cancer treated with LERP between January 2004 and July 2006. Patients were divided into 4 equal groups (1-100, 101-200, 201-300, and 301- 400). Kruskal-Wallis test was performed to determine whether all the preoperative variables were comparable among groups. Fisher's exact test was performed to determine the association of margin status with pathological stage. Chi-square test was performed to determine whether margin status was associated with groups (1 vs. 2, 3, & 4). Wilcoxon rank-sum test was used to determine whether operative time was statistically different in group 1 (1-100) compared with groups 2, 3, and 4.

RESULTS

All groups were comparable with respect to preoperative data. Positive margin rate significantly decreased after the first 200 cases for patients with pT2a-c disease (28.4% to 31.9% vs. 11.6% to 11.5%). Margin status was significantly associated with groups (Group 1 & 3: P=0.0044 and group 1 & 4: P=0.0021). Operative time significantly decreased after the first 100 cases (350 min vs. 218 min, 192 min, and 223 min) (P<0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

In a tertiary care academic institution, the operative and pathologic outcomes improved significantly with increased surgical experience. At our institution, the operative and pathologic outcomes improved after 100 and 200 cases, respectively.

Phase II study of intravesical therapy with AD32 in patients with papillary urothelial carcinoma or carcinoma in situ (CIS) refractory to prior therapy with bacillus Calmette-Guerin (E3897): a trial of the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group

OBJECTIVE

To assess the safety and effectiveness of AD32, a doxorubicin analogue with little systemic exposure when administered intravesically, in patients with recurrent or refractory superficial urothelial carcinoma (formerly called transitional cell carcinoma [TCC]), or carcinoma in situ (CIS), who have failed prior BCG-based immunotherapy.

METHODS

Eligible patients received six weekly doses (800 mg) of intravesical AD32 and were evaluated at 12-week intervals for 24 months or until date of worsening disease. Primary analysis was the proportion of all patients recurrence-free at 12 months. Treatment-related and GU-specific toxicities were also examined. All participating institutions submitted the protocol for Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval.

RESULTS

The study was halted due to unavailability of study drug after accrual of 48 of a planned 64 patients; 42 were included in the analysis. Of these, 28 (67%) were still alive after median follow-up of 61.1 months. Of 21 TCC patients, 18 (85.7%) experienced disease recurrence (median time to recurrence, 5.3 months). Of the 5 CIS patients with complete response (CR), 3 (60%) experienced disease recurrence; (median time to recurrence, 37.3 months). Recurrence-free rates at 12 and 24 months were 20% (90% CI, 7.8%, 36.1%) and 15% (90 CI, 4.9%, 30.2%), respectively, for patients with TCC and 80% (90% CI, 31.4%, 95.8%) at both intervals for CIS patients with CR. Infection was the most common treatment-related toxicity; no grade 4 or higher toxicity was observed. The most common GU-specific toxicity was increased frequency/urgency.

CONCLUSIONS

AD32 is safe and active for treatment of recurrent or refractory superficial bladder carcinoma. The agent awaits more complete characterization when drug production problems can be solved.

Pure laparoscopic and robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy in the management of prostate cancer

BACKGROUND

Until recently, open radical prostatectomy was the only approach for the surgical management of prostate cancer. Laparoscopy is now increasingly used as an alternative approach. The procedure can be performed directly or with robot assistance.

METHODS

We review the relevant literature regarding oncologic and functional outcomes with laparoscopic surgery in the management of localized prostate cancer.

RESULTS

Oncologic and functional outcomes are similar between open and laparoscopic radical prostatectomy. Pure laparoscopic prostatectomy and robotic assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy result in less blood loss and shorter convalescence. Costs associated with the initial investment, disposables, and maintenance of the robot system are higher than for pure laparoscopic prostatectomy.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic radical prostatectomy, either pure or robotic, is becoming the preferred approach for the surgical management of localized prostate cancer. Oncologic and functional outcomes are similar to the open approach.

Laparoscopic Extraperitoneal Radical Prostatectomy in Complex Surgical Cases

PURPOSE

Patients with a high body mass index, previous pelvic surgery or large prostate size are not considered ideal candidates for radical prostatectomy. We assessed the impact of body mass index, previous pelvic surgery and prostate weight on perioperative and pathological outcomes in patients treated exclusively with laparoscopic extraperitoneal radical prostatectomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From January 2004 to May 2005, 300 patients underwent laparoscopic extraperitoneal radical prostatectomy. Patients were divided into groups, including body mass index groups 1 (25 kg/m(2) or less), 2 (25.1 to 30), 3 (30.1 to 36) and 4 (greater than 36); prostate weight groups 1 (20 gm or less), 2 (20.1 to 40), 3 (40.1 to 60) and 4 (more than 60); and prior surgery groups 1 (no previous pelvic or prostatic surgery) and 2 (previous pelvic or prostatic surgery).

RESULTS

Logistic regression demonstrated that body mass index, large prostate size and previous pelvic surgery did not affect margin status. The Kruskal-Wallis test was performed to analyze if body mass index, large prostate size and previous pelvic surgery had an effect on perioperative variables. Only prostate weight correlated with a delay in Foley catheter removal (3 days, p=0.0005). The Wilcoxon rank sum test showed that patients with a higher body mass index had a slightly prolonged hospital stay (16 hours, p=0.02). Patients with a prostate of more than 40 gm had slightly increased blood loss (56 cc, p=0.03), which did not affect the transfusion rate.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic extraperitoneal radical prostatectomy can be performed in complex surgical cases without increased perioperative morbidity. Obese patients and those with a large prostate who prefer surgery as a treatment option for localized prostate cancer may benefit from the advantages that laparoscopic extraperitoneal radical prostatectomy offers.

Delayed metastatic renal carcinoma to prostate

Renal cell carcinoma metastatic to the prostate is a rare entity. We report a delayed (9 years) metachronous solitary metastasis presentation of renal cell carcinoma to the prostate. Including our patient, only 5 cases of metastatic renal cell carcinoma to the prostate have been reported. Four patients presented with hematuria and two with bladder outlet obstruction; one had an incidental finding after prostate biopsy. Radical prostatectomy could be considered for patients with the prostate as the only site of disease.

Urothelial carcinoma in a child

OBJECTIVES

Urothelial carcinoma of the bladder occurs rarely in the first 2 decades of life. We report a case of a 12 year-old child that presented with a Ta grade II/III urothelial carcinoma of the bladder.

METHODS

We describe its clinical presentation and diagnostic procedures as well as treatment and follow-up. Finally, we review the literature to analyze the etiology, treatment, and surveillance of urothelial carcinoma in the pediatric population.

RESULTS

Since 1950, there are less than 100 cases of urothelial carcinoma reported in patients less than 30 years, and even less in children and adolescents. Most of the small series describe these tumors as being characteristically superficial and low grade (I-ll). This child presented with silent macroscopic hematuria and an MRI revealed a solid and papillary mass measuring 2.7 cm. A cystoscopy and resection of the tumor confirmed the diagnosis. A re-resection at two months confirmed no residual tumor in the bladder.

CONCLUSIONS

There is no established criteria for the etiology, treatment, and surveillance of urothelial carcinoma in the pediatric population. Children with gross hematuria as the presenting complaint should undergo a complete evaluation to rule out the presence of urothelial carcinoma.

Devastating complications after brachytherapy in the treatment of prostate adenocarcinoma

OBJECTIVE

To report a retrospective chart review of patients who developed recto-urethral fistula (RUF) or several bladder neck contracture (BNC) recurrences after brachytherapy for treating localized prostate cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In the past 3 years 18 patients with devastating complications after prostate brachytherapy were referred to our centre (RUF in 11, BNC in seven; mean age 63 years, range 60-81). All patients with RUF initially underwent diverting colostomy (six cystoprostatectomy with closure of the fistula, omental interposition and urinary diversion; one prostatectomy, bladder neck closure, fistula closure with omentum flap and continent vesicostomy). Three patients had the fistula closed with gracilis muscle flap using the York-Mason approach (one had a bladder neck closure and suprapubic tube; one elected to have no treatment). All patients with BNC had received three or more procedures to resect or incise their contracture. Four had diversion with a catheterizable segment, two used an indwelling Foley catheter and one uses intermittent catheterization.

RESULTS

All six patients who had cystoprostatectomy with urinary diversion have had no recurrence of their RUF. All three treated with the York-Mason procedure healed well. One developed recurrent prostate adenocarcinoma and two a secondary neoplasia in the prostate or rectum (leiomyosarcoma and neuroendocrine, respectively). The enterocystoplasty patient developed sepsis after colostomy reversal and subsequently died. In those patients with BNC, the four who underwent urinary diversion fared well; two tolerate the indwelling catheter poorly, and the seventh uses intermittent catheterization with occasional difficulty.

CONCLUSIONS

Brachytherapy with or without external irradiation can be associated with severe complications. RUF managed with aggressive anterior pelvic exenteration and urinary diversion can be associated with excellent results. The York-Mason procedure in patients with an adequate urinary continence mechanism and bladder dynamics may provide good functional results. The presence of a secondary malignancy in patients deserves further investigation. Many recurrences of a BNC tend be refractory to transurethral resection/incision; indwelling catheters are then poorly tolerated and patients may require a major reconstructive procedure.

Investigation of the safety and accuracy of intraoperative gamma probe directed biopsy of bone scan detected rib abnormalities in prostatic adenocarcinoma

PURPOSE

We evaluated the technique of intraoperative gamma probe directed rib biopsy in patients with suspected metastatic prostate adenocarcinoma. This technique can be used to identify accurately the rib in question, reliably obtain sufficient tissue for diagnosis, be performed with minimal patient morbidity and potentially alter the course of therapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From 1996 to 2001, 8 patients with biopsy proved adenocarcinoma of the prostate and suspicious rib lesions on radionuclide bone scanning underwent open rib biopsy as part of the evaluation for metastatic disease. Mean prostate specific antigen in the patient population was 17.1 ng/ml (range 6.1 to 36.5) and clinical stage was T1c to T3c. A new technique of intraoperative gamma probe directed biopsy was used to localize and resect the rib in question. At 6 to 12 hours before the operation each patient received an intravenous injection of 28 mCi. (99m)technetium-oxidronate. The hand held, pencil sized gamma probe in a sterile sleeve was used to localize the area of greatest activity in the target bone and 3 cm. of bone were resected.

RESULTS

Of the 8 patients who underwent the procedure 2 had metastatic prostate cancer on final rib pathological findings. Four of the remaining 5 patients had benign rib lesions (an old rib fracture) and 1 had metastatic lung cancer. The hot spot on bone scan was localized with 100% accuracy using our technique and a pathological diagnosis was made in all cases. Mean operative time was 61 minutes and estimated blood loss was less than 20 ml. in all cases. Seven of the 8 patients were discharged home the same day, while 1 required overnight hospitalization. There was 1 intraoperative complication of inadvertent entry into the pleural cavity, resulting in a small pneumothorax, which was treated with small chest catheter drainage and observation.

CONCLUSIONS

Intraoperative gamma probe directed rib biopsy of suspected metastatic lesions in patients with prostate cancer can be safely and accurately performed with minimal patient morbidity. The information obtained using this technique can be used to tailor treatment decisions for this subset of patients with prostate cancer.

Urinary incontinence after continent urinary diversion using cecal wrap or plicated ileum: a patient questionnaire review

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the clinical and urodynamic results of a tapered-cecal wrap (TCW) versus a tapered-plicated ileal (TPI) anti-incontinence mechanism.

METHODS

Of 54 consecutive patients who had undergone continent urinary diversions, 33 (17 with TCW and 16 with TPI) were evaluated. The primary disease that prompted diversion included bladder cancer (84%), neurogenic bladder (12%), and interstitial cystitis (3%). All patients were evaluated using a telephone questionnaire regarding ease of catheterization, degree of continence, occurrence of postoperative complications, and overall satisfaction in relation to their stoma. In addition, 6 patients in the TPI group and 5 in the TCW group underwent enterocystometry and outlet pressure recording. The mean follow-up was 30 months for the TCW group and 48 months for the TPI group.

RESULTS

The overall functional continence rate was 100% for the TCW group and 81.3% for the TPI group. Transient difficulty with catheterization occurred in 35.3% of the TCW group and 18.7% of the TPI group. No differences were observed in the occurrence of postoperative complications. Urodynamics demonstrated a statistically significant increase in maximal outlet pressure with the reservoir full in the TCW group that was not noted in the TPI group.

CONCLUSIONS

The addition of a cecal wrap to the efferent limb results in significantly improved continence. This was supported urodynamically with demonstration of an increase in maximal outlet pressure with the reservoir full in the TCW group. No difference in the surgical complication rate or long-term difficulty with catheterization was observed.

Controversies surrounding androgen deprivation for prostate cancer

BACKGROUND

Management of metastatic prostate cancer continues to evolve. The widespread use of the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) assay has led to earlier diagnosis and earlier detection of recurrent disease. Debates continue regarding the proper use and timing of endocrine therapy with orchiectomy, estrogen agonists, luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) analogs, LHRH antagonists, and androgen antagonists.

METHODS

The authors reviewed the significant published materials of the last 20 years that have shaped hormonal management of metastatic and progressive prostate cancer. Major areas of controversy were also identified.

RESULTS

The present approach to hormonal management is summarized. Five potential pathways to the development of androgen-independent prostate cancer are described. Controversial topics of hormonal management, including immediate vs delayed hormonal therapy, monotherapy vs maximal androgen blockade (MAB), and intermittent hormonal therapy, are discussed.

CONCLUSIONS

Orchiectomy, estrogen agonists, and LHRH analogs have therapeutic equivalence. Patients who have a rising PSA after definitive treatment for prostate cancer and high risk of recurrent disease may warrant early androgen deprivation. MAB does not appear to be significantly better than single-agent LHRH analog therapy. Intermittent therapy may delay emergence of androgen independence and maintain or improve quality of life.