Quality of life after cystectomy and orthotopic neobladder versus ileal conduit urinary diversion

Quality of life after definitive treatment for bladder cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Radical cystectomy (RC) is considered the standard treatment for muscle invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). However, RC is often burdened by significant impact on quality of life (QoL); Continence preserving methods (e.g., continent cutaneous urinary diversion and orthotopic neobladder-ONB), have been proposed as alternatives to improve postoperative QoL. Trimodal therapy (TMT) emerged as alternative to surgery. To assess the impact of these treatments from the patients' perspective, we undertook a systematic review and meta-analysis of literature, focusing on studies reporting QoL data about each of the abovementioned approaches. A systematic review was carried out including all prospective and retrospective studies enrolling patientstreated with radical intent for non-metastatic MIBC from 1999 to 2021 (either RC or TMT). All studies included specifically reported QoL for one of the main treatment approaches explored (RC followed by ileal conduit urinary diversion-ICUD, ONB or TMT). Pooled analysis for EORTC QLQ-C30 and BLM-30 questionnaires showed that ONB yielded a significant advantage only for Physical Functioning (pooled mean standardized difference -0.73 SD, p-value 0.019, I 2 = 93 %) and for Emotional Functioning (pooled mean standardized difference -0.16 SD, p-value 0.029, I 2 = 0 %). A trend in favour of higher mean reported values after TMT for Global Health Score, Physical Functioning and Role Functioning was found, if compared to both RC approaches. Significant benefit for ONB if compared to ICUD was detected only for specific subdomains of QoL questionnaires. No direct comparison with TMT is available, but data suggest advantage of this approach when compared to both reconstructive scenarios.

Psychosocial distress and quality of life in patients after radical cystectomy - one year follow-up in 842 German patients

PURPOSE

This study aims to report on psychosocial distress and QoL in bladder cancer patients after radical cystectomy (RC) and urinary diversion to obtain a better basis for patient counseling and postoperative care.

METHODS

The study relied on prospectively collected data for 842 patients, who underwent three weeks of inpatient rehabilitation after RC and creation of an ileal conduit (IC) or ileal neobladder (INB). Data on QoL and psychosocial distress were collected by validated questionnaires. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify predictors for high psychosocial distress.

RESULTS

Four-hundred and forty-seven patients (326 male, 121 female) received an IC, while 395 patients (357 male, 38 female) received an INB. Health-related QoL improved steadily in the whole cohort during follow-up. Patients with an INB reported better physical function but suffered more from diarrhea and financial worries. Patients with an IC reported reduced satisfaction with their body image, increased worries about the future, and suffered more from constipation. Psychosocial distress increased significantly during follow-up. One year after surgery, 43.1% of patients suffered from high psychosocial distress. Multivariate regression analysis identified age ≤ 59 years (OR 1.731; CI 1.056-2.838; p = 0.030) and lymph node metastases (OR 2.073; CI 1.133-3.793; p = 0.018) as independent predictors for high psychosocial distress.

CONCLUSION

QoL improves significantly in all patients one year after RC. However, psychosocial distress remains high in a substantial number of patients.

IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS

To prevent chronic psychological disorders, easily accessible opportunities for psycho-oncological counseling are needed for patients following RC.

Robotic radical cystectomy - more precision needed?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Recently, several trials as well as registry-data analyses investigating the role of robot-assisted radical cystectomy with extra or intracorporal urinary diversion were completed and follow up matured. This review aims to comment on the current evidence-based findings and interpret the future role of the robotic approach as a part of the treatment of bladder cancer.

RECENT FINDINGS

Numerous trials and registry-data analyses revealed no significant differences in progression-free and overall survival after open radical cystectomy or robot-assisted radical cystectomy irrespective of urinary diversion. Perioperative parameters, especially intraoperative blood loss, transfusions, thromboembolic events, wound infections and hospitalization were significantly increased in open radical cystectomy. Patients' convalescence, and especially early postsurgical quality of life, was improved by the robotic approach. The highly demanding surgery itself displayed by a flat learning curve required more than 130 surgeries per institution to reach a stable plateau of complications. The performance of high-quality radical cystectomy irrespective of the approach was significantly increased in high-volume centres. Local recurrence occurs in 11% after radical cystectomy. Current research focuses on intraoperatively usable detection methods and instruments to minimize the risk of residual tumour cells.

SUMMARY

Taken together, the total intracorporal approach in radical cystectomy holds the potential to improve perioperative parameters and reduces hospitalization without impairing oncological performance of the procedure. To provide best results for the patient radical cystectomy and especially the technically challenging total intracorporal procedure will gain importance in bladder cancer treatment but should be limited to high-volume centres.

Neobladder "Function": Tips and Tricks for Surgery and Postoperative Management

Orthotopic neobladder (ONB) reconstruction is a continent urinary diversion procedure increasingly used in patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer following radical cystectomy (RC). It represents a valid alternative to the ileal duct in suitable patients who do not prefer a stoma and are motivated to undergo adequate training of the neobladder. Careful patient selection, taking into account the absolute and relative contraindications for ONB as well as an adequate recovery protocol after surgery are integral to the success of this procedure and the oncological and functional outcomes. The objective of this review is to summarize the current data on RC with ONB in terms of patient selection, preoperative preparation, surgical techniques and functional (continence and sexual activity) and oncological outcomes, with particular attention to the management of complications and the impact on quality of life (QoL).

NBCA-Lipiodol Mixture Embolization of Persistent Urine Leakage After Orthotopic Neobladder Formation: Techniques and Outcomes

Objective

To show the effective and successful technical approach of percutaneous embolization for persistent urine leakage that occurred after orthotopic neobladder formation.

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent percutaneous embolization of N-butyl cyanoacrylate (NBCA) and lipiodol mixture after orthotopic neobladder formation at the Seoul National University Hospital (Seoul, Korea) from 1 January 2018 to 31 December 2020.

Results

Among total of 182 patients of neobladder formation, five patients (four males and one female) were enrolled in this study, and their median age was 61.0 years (interquartile range (IQR): 42.5–69.5 years). All the patients showed persistent urine leakage at the neobladder-urethral anastomosis site and percutaneous drainage was primarily performed. The median time to perform percutaneous embolization was 40 days (IQR: 31.5–71.5 days) postoperatively. Elective two-staged embolization was performed in three cases for large diameter with a large fluid-filled cavity, while re-embolization was needed for delayed recurrence of urine leakage in two cases. Complete resolution of urine leakage was seen in all the cases and the median time to leakage closure was 55 days (IQR: 27.5–82.5 days). The median follow-up period after leakage closure was 26 months (IQR: 15.5–36.4 months), and embolization material-related bladder stone was a noticeable complication (two cases) during follow-up, which was removed endoscopically within 1 year after embolization. All patients' quality of life (EQ-5D-5L score) was well-maintained during the entire period.

Conclusions

Persistent urine leakage after neobladder formation can be effectively managed with percutaneous embolization of “dumbbell technique” by reinforcing the closure of leakage tract from inner opening to the outer opening even for large diameter (>1 cm).

The impact of orthotopic reconstruction on female sexuality and quality of life after radical cystectomy for non-malignant bladder conditions

OBJECTIVE

To review the literature on the impact on female quality of life and sexual function of orthotopic reconstruction after radical cystectomy for non-malignant bladder conditions. Radical cystectomy is commonly required to treat malignant conditions but may also be considered for the treatment of non-malignant diseases. These heterogeneous group of disorders includes interstitial cystitis, painful bladder syndrome, neurogenic bladder, haemorrhagic/ radiation cystitis, endometriosis and refractory genitourinary fistula. Treatment begins with non-invasive medical therapies but, in non-responder cases, a surgical solution should be considered. Such invasive techniques include urinary diversion and reconstructive procedures that have an impact on healthrelated quality of life, physical, social, and mental status.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This narrative review research was done using the PubMed database up until 2020, July. All papers referring to cystectomy for benign indication were considered.

RESULTS

In comparison to other reconstructive options, orthotopic neobladder allows the restoration of a normal self-image and consequently it is the most suitable procedure when a surgical reconstruction is necessary for non-malignant conditions. However, women can face many disorders that impact on everyday life, such as voiding dysfunction or sexual activity problems.

CONCLUSIONS

Scant data is available about quality of life, sexual life and self-perception in women treated by cystectomy for benign conditions and most literature is dedicated to those indicators in cancer patients. More research is needed to understand the tolerability and the quality of life results of the female population affected by benign conditions undergoing this kind of surgical approach.

Orthotopic bladder substitution: Surgical aspects and optimization of outcomes

Objectives

Orthotopic bladder substitution (OBS) is a management option for urinary diversion in men and women undergoing cystectomy. The aim of the procedure is to provide a functional continent urinary reservoir of adequate capacity, compliance and low pressure. We have provided a narrative review of the existing literature and highlighted areas where improvement and standardization can be recommended.

Methods

Literature search included database search for publications from January 1970 to November 2020, using keywords including OBS, bladder reconstruction, neobladder, radical cystectomy, robotic cystectomy, intracorporeal neobladder, surgical technique, patient selection and outcomes.

Results

Due to various factors including indications, operative technique and risk of complications, OBS is an enormous undertaking and commitment for patients, surgeons and health professionals involved in the care pathway. The main considerations for patient selection, the technical elements of the procedure and the rationale behind these are discussed. Previously considered to be a choice for a select few, the inclusion criteria have expanded over the last decade. Similarly, surgical techniques including the choice and configuration of bowel segments, construction of anastomosis and nerve or organ sparing procedures have evolved over the years. Minimally invasive laparoscopic and robotic assisted surgery has added further perspectives to the existing literature on OBS. Understanding the principles of operative techniques and assessing the best evidence to influence patient management is crucial as it has a major impact on clinical outcomes. Peri‐ and post‐operative care, focused on the prevention of complications and morbidity, affects long‐term functional and oncological outcomes, which ultimately dictates the quality of life.

Conclusions

This concise overview of OBS literature highlights the importance of pre‐operative, peri‐operative, and post‐operative aspects with regards to the optimization of patient care. To achieve the best results, meticulous attention should be paid in all these areas, surgical and multi‐disciplinary. Patient education and counseling, with shared decision making are central to the success of the procedure.

Erectile dysfunction post radical cystectomy. The role of early rehabilitation with pharmacotherapy in nerve sparing and non-nerve sparing group: A randomized, clinical trial

OBJECTIVES

No clinical studies testing erectile function (EF) post radical cystectomy (RC) were done. Our objective was to assess the effect of early pharmacologic therapy after RC using intracorporeal injection (ICI), phosphodiesterase inhibitor (PDE5i) and PDE5i+ICI.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In our randomized, double-blinded study, we prospectively enrolled 160 potent male patients with invasive bladder cancer. Patients were operated by RC using the nerve-sparing (NS) or non-nerve sparing (NNS) technique. They were treated since 1 month postoperatively by different regimens (PDE5i vs. ICI vs. ICI+PDE5i). Patients were evaluated using the international index of erectile function questionnaire and were followed up regularly at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months using the same parameters.

RESULTS

One month after therapy, the mean of EF domain improved in both NS and NNS group. In the NNS group, in patients treated with ICI alone and ICI+PDE5i, the EF domain at 12 months moved to the moderate and to the mild category respectively. In patients treated by the NS approach, the mean value remained in the mild category with or without therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Early pharmacotherapy since one-month post RC using ICI and a combination of ICI+PDE5i can improve the erectile function of patients operated with a NNS approach.

Predictors of need for catheterisation and urinary retention after radical cystectomy and orthotopic neobladder in male patients

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the prevalence of catheterisation and urinary retention in male patients with bladder cancer after radical cystectomy (RC) and orthotopic neobladder (ONB) and to identify potential predictors.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Using an Institutional Review Board approved, prospectively maintained bladder cancer database, we collected information using a diversion-related questionnaire from 299 consecutive male patients with bladder cancer upon postoperative clinic visit. Urinary retention was defined as ≥3 catheterisations/day or a self-reported inability to void without a catheter. Uni- and multivariable Cox regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of catheterisation and urinary retention.

RESULTS

Self-catheterisation was reported in 51 patients (17%), of whom, 22 (7.4% of the total patients) were in retention. Freedom from any catheterisation at 3, 5, and 10 years after RC was 85%, 77%, and 62%, respectively. Freedom from retention at 3, 5, and 10 years after RC was 93%, 88%, and 79%, respectively. Multivariable Cox regression showed that higher body mass index (BMI; ≥27 kg/m² ) significantly increased the need for catheterisation (hazard ratio [HR] 2.34, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.26-4.32) as well as retention (HR 5.20, 95% CI 1.74-15.51). Greater medical comorbidity (Charlson Comorbidity Index score ≥2) correlated with the need for any catheterisation (HR 1.84, 95% CI 1.02-3.3), but not retention. Pathological stage and type of diversion were not significant predictors of the need to catheterise or urinary retention.

CONCLUSION

In males undergoing RC with ONB, retention requiring catheterisation to void is uncommon. Patients with a BMI of ≥27 kg/m² are at significantly increased risk of retention and need for self-catheterisation.

Radical cystectomy: a review of techniques, developments and controversies

Radical cystectomy (RC) with urinary diversion is considered the standard treatment for muscle invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). As one of the most challenging surgical techniques performed by urologists, RC was described many decades ago, and yet patient morbidity rates have remained stagnant over the years. This review outlines the most recent indications and techniques for RC and analyses the current landscape of complications after cystectomy. There is significant room for improvement with respect to both oncologic and functional outcomes after RC. Future efforts will need to focus on unifying reporting methodology, optimal patient selection criteria, enhanced surgical techniques and peri-operative care pathways, and technological advances to improve patient outcomes.

Quality of life and functional outcomes after radical cystectomy with ileal orthotopic neobladder replacement for bladder cancer: a multicentre observational study

PURPOSE

Ileal orthotopic neobladder (IONB) reconstruction is the preferred urinary diversion among selected patients who have undergone radical cystectomy (RC) for bladder cancer (BCa). There is insufficient data regarding patients' quality of life (QoL), sexual and urinary outcomes. Our objectives were to assess QoL in a multicentre cohort study, and to identify related clinical, oncological and functional factors.

METHODS

Patients who underwent RC with IONB reconstruction for BCa from 2010 to 2017 at one of the three French hospitals completed the following self-reported questionnaires: European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) generic (QLQ-C30) and bladder cancer specific instruments (QLQ-BLM30). To assess urinary symptoms, patients completed the Urinary Symptom Profile questionnaire (USP) and a three-day voiding diary. Univariate and multivariate analyses were computed to identify clinical, pathological, and functional predictors of global QoL score.

RESULTS

Seventy-three patients completed questionnaires. The median age was 64 years and 86.3% were men. The median interval between surgery and responses to questionnaires was 36 months (range 12-96). Fifty-five percent of patients presented a high global QoL (EORTC-QLQC30, median score 75). A pre-RC American Society of Anesthesiologists score > 2, active neoplasia, sexual inactivity, and stress urinary incontinence were associated with a worse QoL. After a multivariate analysis, sexual inactivity was the only independent factor related to an altered QoL.

CONCLUSION

Patients with IONB reconstruction after RC have a high global QoL. Sexual activity could independently impact the global QoL, and it should be assessed pre- and post-operatively by urologists.

Radical cystectomy and W-shaped ileal orthotopic neobladder reconstruction with serosa-lined tunneled ureteroileal anastomoses: A critical analysis of the short-term voiding patterns and urodynamic and functional outcomes

Introduction

We present the short-term voiding patterns and functional and urodynamic outcomes of W-shaped ileal orthotopic neobladder (ONB) following radical cystectomy (RC).

Materials and Methods

Forty-one patients who underwent RC and W-shaped ONB creation between July 2015 and January 2018 were enrolled. Data were analyzed in terms of voiding patterns, urodynamic findings, and functional outcomes at 6 months after surgery. Pouch-related quality of life (QoL) was assessed using European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Generic (QLQ C30), Bladder Cancer-Specific Instruments (QLQ BM30), and IONB-Patient-Reported Outcome (IONB-PRO).

Results

The mean length of follow-up was 19.4 months. At first follow-up, three patients had developed acidosis and rising serum creatinine, and one of them required temporary hemodialysis. One patient developed urethral-pouch anastomotic stricture, which required bladder neck incision. Balloon dilatation was performed for ureteroileal anastomotic stricture and mesh repair for incisional hernia was required in one patient each. Upper tract changes were observed in two patients. During the first and second follow-up, maximum flow rate, voided volume, and postvoid residual urine were 12 ± 4.7 mL/s, 212 ± 120 mL, and 72 + 81 mL and 14.7 ± 5.3 mL/s, 254 ± 168 mL, and 123.7 ± 42.5 mL, respectively. The mean pouch capacity and compliance were 436 ± 103.5 mL and 50.6 ± 17.8 mL/cm H₂O. No patient required clean intermittent catheterization for bladder emptying. In EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaire, the "Cognitive" domain had the highest and "global QoL" domain had the lowest level of functional scores. "Nausea and vomiting and abdominal bloating and flatulence" domain had the lowest level and "financial difficulties and urinary symptoms" had the highest level of symptomatology in EORTC QLQ questionnaire. The IONB-PRO questionnaire showed the highest level of functioning in "relation life" and the lowest level in "emotional life" domain.

Conclusion

The Ghoneim pouch has a low complication rate with near-normal voiding patterns with an acceptable QoL impairment.

Comparison of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) between ileal conduit diversion and orthotopic neobladder based on validated questionnaires: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

The question of whether orthotopic neobladder (ONB) reconstruction is superior to ileal conduit diversion (ICD) with respect to health-related quality of life (HRQoL) remains controversial. The goal of this study is to perform a meta-analysis to compare post-ICD and post-ONB HRQoL in patients with bladder cancer.

METHODS

A systematic search of Medline, Embase, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and the annual congress abstracts of the European Association of Urology (EAU), the American Urological Association (AUA) and the Société Internationale d'Urologie (SIU) up to June 2017 was conducted to identify all relevant clinical trials using validated questionnaires to assess HRQoL. A systematic review and meta-analysis were then performed.

RESULTS

A total of 2507 patients from 26 eligible studies were included. Meta-analyses showed significant differences favouring ONB patients in global health status (WMD + 9.13, p = 0.004), physical functioning (WMD + 11.57, p = 0.0001), role functioning (WMD + 9.64, p = 0.002), and social functioning (WMD + 6.81, p = 0.03) based on the EORTC-QLQ-C30 questionnaire and in the total score of FACT questionnaire (WMD + 6.80, p = 0.001). However, ONB patients were more likely to have postoperative urinary symptoms than ICD patients (WMD - 22.19, p = 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

ONB patients are more likely to have a better global health status than ICD patients. Regardless of the type of urinary diversion (UD) surgery, a gradual improvement in HRQoL over preoperative status tended to stabilise after 12 months postoperatively.

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Protocols in Major Urologic Surgery

The purpose of the review

The analysis of the components of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols in urologic surgery.

Recent findings

ERAS protocols has been studied for over 20 years in different surgical procedures, mostly in colorectal surgery. The concept of improving patient care and reducing postoperative complications was also applied to major urologic surgery and especially procedure of radical cystectomy. This procedure is technically challenging, due to a major surgical resection and high postoperative complication rate that may reach 65%. Several clinical pathways were introduced to improve perioperative course and reduce the length of hospital stay. These protocols differ from ERAS modalities in other surgeries. The reasons for this are longer operative time, increased risk of perioperative transfusion and infection, and urinary diversion achieved using transposed intestinal segments. Previous studies in this area analyzed the need for mechanical bowel preparation, postoperative nasogastric tube decompression, as well as the duration of urinary drainage. Furthermore, the attention has also been drawn to perioperative fluid optimization, pain management, and bowel function.

Summary

Notwithstanding partial resemblance between the pathways in major urologic surgery and other pelvic surgeries, there are still scarce guidelines for ERAS protocols in urology, which is why further studies should assess the importance of preoperative medical optimization, implementation of thoracic epidural anesthesia and analgesia, and perioperative nutritional management.

Quality of Life After Radical Cystectomy

Approximately 1 in 5 new cases of clinically localized bladder cancer is muscle invasive and requires the patient to choose from 1 of 2 prevailing options for treatment: radical cystectomy or radiation to the bladder. However, these treatments are associated with detrimental effects on patient well-being and quality of life, particularly with respect to functional independence, urinary and sexual function, social and emotional health, body image, and psychosocial stress. Compared with the literature on other malignancies like breast or prostate cancer, high-quality studies evaluating the effects of bladder cancer treatment on quality of life are lacking.

Prognostic features for quality of life after radical cystectomy and orthotopic neobladder

PURPOSE

To analyse prognostic features on quality of life (QoL) following radical cystectomy and urinary diversion via orthotopic neobladder in a single-centre patient cohort.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Postoperative QoL of 152 patients was assessed retrospectively using the validated QLQ-C30 questionnaire. Potential associations of patient's quality of life including pre-and intraoperative characteristics, surgeon experience, postoperative time course, adjuvant therapies, and functional outcome were defined a priori and evaluated. Mann-Whitney-U-, Kruskal-Wallis-, Spearman correlation and post hoctesting were used. A multivariate analysis using a multiple logistic regression model was performed. A p value <0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.

RESULTS

Median follow-up was 48 months. Univariate analysis of prognostic features for health-related QoL revealed a significant impact of gender (p=0.019), performance status (p<0.001), experience of surgeon (>100 previous cystectomies, p=0.007), and nerve-sparing surgery (p=0.001). Patients who underwent secondary chemotherapy or radiotherapy had significant lower QLQ-C30 scores (p=0.04, p=0.02 respectively). Patients who were asymptomatic had a significantly higher quality of life (p<0.001). A significant impact of severity of incontinence based on ICIQ-SF score (p<0.001) and daily pad usage (p<0.001), existence of daytime incontinence (p<0.001), existence of urgency symptoms (p=0.007), and IIEF-5 score (p<0.001) could be observed. In multivariate analysis, independent prognostic relevance could be confirmed for preoperative ECOG performance status of 0 (p=0.020 vs. ECOG 1, p=0.047 vs. ECOG 2), experience of the respective surgeon (≥100 vs. <100 previous cystectomies, p=0.021), and daytime continence (p=0.032).

CONCLUSION

In the present study, we report health-related QoL outcomes in a contemporary patient cohort and confirm preoperative ECOG status, surgeon experience and daytime incontinence as independent prognostic features for a good postoperative QoL.

Is Health-Related Quality of Life after Radical Cystectomy Using Validated Questionnaires Really Better in Patients with Ileal Orthotopic Neobladder Compared to Ileal Conduit: A Meta-Analysis of Retrospective Comparative Studies

INTRODUCTION

From the most recent systematic revision of the literature, an orthotopic neobladder would seem to show marginally better health related quality of life (HR-QoL) scores compared with an ileal conduit. The aim of this study was to review all relevant published studies about the comparison between ileal orthotopic neobladder (IONB) and ileal conduit using validated HR-QoL questionnaires.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Studies were identified by searching multiple literature databases. Data were synthesized using meta-analytic methods conformed to the PRISMA statement.

RESULTS

The literature search identified 10 papers; pooled effect sizes of combined quality of life outcomes for ileal conduit versus IONB showed a significantly better HR-QoL in patients with IONB (Hedges' g = 0.278; p = 0.000);. The present study has an important limitation due to the type of the analyzed comparative studies, all retrospective and not randomized.

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis of not-randomized, retrospective comparative studies on the impact of ileal conduit versus IONB on HR-QoL showed a significant advantage of IONB subgroups.

Comparison of postoperative acute kidney injury between ileal conduit and neobladder urinary diversions after radical cystectomy: A propensity score matching analysis

Ileal conduit and neobladder urinary diversions are frequently performed after radical cystectomy. However, complications after radical cystectomy may be different according to the type of urinary diversion. Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common complication after surgery and increases costs, morbidity, and mortality of hospitalized patients. This study was performed to compare the incidence of postoperative AKI between ileal conduit and neobladder urinary diversions after radical cystectomy.All consecutive patients who underwent radical cystectomy in 2004 to 2014 in a single tertiary care center were identified. The patients were divided into the ileal conduit and ileal neobladder groups. Preoperative variables, including demographics, cancer-related data and laboratory values, as well as intraoperative data and postoperative outcomes, including AKI, intensive care unit admission rate, and the duration of hospital stay, were evaluated between the groups. Postoperative AKI was defined according to the Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcome criteria. Propensity score matching analysis was performed to reduce the influence of possible confounding variables and adjust for intergroup differences.After performing 1:1 propensity score matching, the ileal conduit and ileal neobladder groups each included 101 patients. The overall incidence of AKI after radical cystectomy was 30.7% (62 out of 202) and the incidences did not significantly differ between the groups (27 [26.7%], ileal conduit group vs 35 [34.7%], ileal neobladder group, P = 0.268). Intraoperative data, intensive care unit admission rate, and the duration of hospital stay were not significantly different between the groups.Postoperative AKI did not significantly differ between ileal conduit and neobladder urinary diversions after radical cystectomy. This finding provides additional information useful for appropriate selection of the urinary diversion type in conjunction with radical cystectomy.

Internal versus external ureteric stents for uretero-ileal anastomosis after laparoscopic radical cystectomy with orthotopic neobladder: A prospective comparative study

OBJECTIVE

To prospectively compare the use of external ureteric stents with internal JJ stenting of the uretero-ileal anastomosis in patients undergoing laparoscopic radical cystectomy (LRC) with a Y-shaped ileal orthotopic neobladder (ON).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The study included 69 patients undergoing LRC with ON. Patients were grouped according to the type of uretero-ileal stents used. An external ureteric stent was used in Group A (33 patients) and a JJ stent was used in Group B (36). We prospectively compared the duration of hospital stay, the incidence of short- and intermediate-term complications in the two study groups.

RESULTS

The mean (SD) follow-up periods were 29.18 (3.94) and 28.19 (3.37) months for patients in Groups A and B, respectively. Perioperative patient characteristics were comparable in the two study groups. The use of JJ stenting was associated with a shorter hospital stay compared with external stenting, at a mean (SD) of 14.63 (3.74) and 6.8 (3.03) days in Groups A and B, respectively (P < 0.001). The incidence of urinary leakage was comparable in the two study groups, at 6.1% in Group A vs 8.3% in Group B (P = 1.0). Strictures of the uretero-ileal anastomosis occurred in two patients (6%) in Group A and confirmed by intravenous urography. All strictures were treated with antegrade JJ fixation.

CONCLUSION

JJ stents could be used as an effective alternative to external ureteric stents to support the uretero-ileal anastomosis. JJ stenting is associated with a shorter hospital stay and similar complication rates compared with external stenting in patients undergoing LRC with ON.

Recent Trends in Postcystectomy Health-related Quality of Life (QoL) Favors Neobladder Diversion: Systematic Review of the Literature

The study aims to review the current evidence for quality of life posturinary diversion surgery comparing neobladder to other types of diversion. A review of literature from inception to July 2015 for all English-language articles was done. Based on our inclusion criteria, 22 studies (2450 patients) were included. Whereas none of the prospective studies showed any quality of life (QoL) advantage with ileal conduit diversion, 3 of the 5 prospective studies and 4 of the 6 studies published after 2011 show better QoL outcomes with neobladder than other urinary diversion types. All prospective studies published after 2011 have shown neobladder to have superior QoL outcomes than its comparators. Recent trends indicate that orthotopic neobladder postcystectomy is associated with better QoL outcomes compared to other urinary diversion types.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of non RCT's on health related quality of life after radical cystectomy using validated questionnaires: Better results with orthotopic neobladder versus ileal conduit

PURPOSE

The current literature on the impact of different urinary diversions on patients' health related quality of life (HR-QoL) showed a marginally better quality of life scores of orthotopic neobladder (ONB) compared to ileal conduit (IC). The aim of this study was to update the review of all relevant published studies on the comparison between ONB and IC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Studies were identified by searching multiple literature databases, including MEDLINE, CINAHL, the Cochrane Library, PubMed Data were synthesized using meta-analytic methods conformed to the PRISMA statement.

RESULTS

The current meta-analysis was based on 18 papers that reported a HR-QoL comparison between IC and ONB using at least a validate questionnaire. Pooled effect sizes of combined QoL outcomes for IC versus ONB showed a slight, but not significant, better QoL in patients with ONB (Hedges' g = 0.150; p = 0.066). Patients with ileal ONB showed a significant better QoL than those with IC (Hedges' g = 0.278; p = 0.000); in case series with more than 65% males, ONB group showed a slight significant better QoL than IC (Hedges' g = 0.190; p = 0.024). Pooled effects sizes of all EORTC-QLQ-C30 aspects showed a significant better QoL in patients with ONB (Hedges' g = 0.400; p = 0.0000).

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis of not-randomized comparative studies on the impact of different types of urinary diversions on HR-QoL showed demonstrated a significant advantage of ileal ONB compared to IC in terms of HR-QoL.

Pelvic radiation is associated with urinary fistulae repair failure and need for permanent urinary diversion

OBJECTIVE

To review our experience with nonmuscle flap repairs of enterourinary fistulae (EUF) and urinary cutaneous fistulae (UCF). EUF and UCF can be treated either with temporary urinary diversion allowing for healing by secondary intention or primary closure of the defect using an interposing omental, sliding, or muscle flap. Even after successful fistula repair, permanent urinary diversion can be required because of persistent urinary incontinence.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We reviewed 86 patients who underwent treatment of EUF or UCF at Washington University between the years 1998 and 2013. Of these, 39 patients underwent fistula repair, whereas 47 patients underwent either surgical or nonsurgical urinary diversion. Outcomes measured included postoperative fistula closure, need for permanent urinary diversion, and urinary incontinence.

RESULTS

The mean age in our series was 59 years (21-87 years) at the time of surgery, with median follow-up of 20 months (1-137 months). Among patients who underwent surgical repair, radiation was associated with higher rates of repair failure (P = .0002), postsurgical incontinence (P <.0001), and the need for permanent urinary diversion (P = .0076). At the time of final follow-up, 32 of the 44 radiated patients had required permanent diversion (72%) compared with 3 of the 42 nonradiated patients (7%; P <.0001).

CONCLUSION

Patients who undergo pelvic radiation before EUF and UCF repairs are at higher risk for developing repair failure and postsurgical incontinence. Many patients eventually require permanent urinary diversion. Therefore, EUF and UCF repairs in radiated patients should be undertaken with caution, and patients should be counseled about the possibility of urinary diversion as primary therapy.

Urinary diversion: long-term functional aspects

Functional aspects and quality of life (QOL) of patients with a urinary diversion (UD) represent important issues in Urology. Any form of UD has its specific problems. In experienced hands and with regular long-term follow-up, serious complications can be avoided and excellent long-term results can be achieved. Thus, the selection of an appropriate UD is critical to patient's long-term satisfaction. Patients must be fully counseled in all types of UD and should have ready access to all options. There are 3 kinds of factors to be considered in the selection of UD: patient, physician, and general factors. In the pre-operative counseling, it is mandatory to explain all factors that over time may contribute to affect the patient's urinary tract function and QOL, mainly linked to long-term complications of UD. One of the most important requirements for any bladder substitution is that it should not jeopardize the renal function. There are many urological and non-urological potential reasons for deterioration in renal function following UD. Continence results after neobladder (NB) are difficult to compare between series published in the literature because of a lack of consensus of definitions, varied follow-up periods, and different mechanisms of data collection. In up to 22% of patients with NB, significant residual urine volumes were observed. The overall patients' QOL reported in most articles was good, irrespective of the type of UD. QOL of patients with a well functioning NB seems to be significantly better than other forms of diversion. Well-designed randomized prospective trials are warranted to render definitive conclusions.

Body image following radical cystectomy and ileal neobladder or conduit in korean patients

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to compare the body images of patients who underwent radical cystectomy with an orthotopic ileal neobladder or an ileal conduit.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 114 adult patients who underwent radical cystectomy between March 2006 and December 2012 at a single institution, Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital in Korea, were evaluated in this retrospective chart-review study. Forty-two patients (29 orthotopic ileal neobladder and 13 ileal conduit) who completed questionnaires were included in the final analysis; the remaining patients were excluded. The patients were assessed with two questionnaires: the Korean version of the Body Image Scale (K-BIS) and the self-designed questionnaire.

RESULTS

The results did not differ significantly by age at surgery, time from surgery to survey, pathologic stage, grade, histologic subtype, education, residency, or Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status, but did differ significantly by age at survey and sex. The mean summary score for K-BIS showed significant differences between the two groups (p=0.001). We found that patients who underwent an orthotopic ileal neobladder had a significantly better body image. The self-designed questionnaire score was not significantly different between the two groups (p=0.572).

CONCLUSIONS

In our retrospective analysis, patients who underwent orthotopic ileal neobladder had a superior body image compared with those who underwent an ileal conduit.

Sexual function after non-nerve-sparing radical cystoprostatectomy: a comparison between ileal conduit urinary diversion and orthotopic ileal neobladder substitution

OBJECTIVE

To compare the erectile function (EF) and sexual desire (SD) in men after radical cystoprostatectomy (RCP) who had either an ileal conduit urinary diversion or orthotropic ileal neobladder substitution.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eighty one sexually active men with bladder cancer were enrolled in this prospective study. After RCP according to patients' preferences they underwent either ileal conduit urinary diversion (n = 41) or orthotropic ileal neobladder substitution (n = 40). EF and SD were assessed using International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaire. Patients were assessed at 4-week before surgery and were followed up at 1, 6, and 12-month postoperatively using the same questionnaire.

RESULTS

Postoperatively the EF and SD domains deteriorated significantly in both groups, but in a small proportion of the patients submitted to ileal neobladder they gradually improved with time (P = 0.006). At 12-month postoperative period, 4 (9.8 %) and 14 (35.0 %) patients in ileal conduit and ileal neobladder groups were able to achieve erections hard enough for vaginal penetration and maintained their erection to completion of intercourse, respectively (P = 0.006). Among patients in the ileal conduit and ileal neobladder groups, additional 4 (9.8 %) and 7 (17.1 %) patients were able to get some erection, but were unable to maintain their erection to completion of intercourse (P = 0.02). At 12-month follow up period 24.4 % of the ileal conduit and 45.0 % of the ileal neobladder patients rated their sexual desire very high or high (P = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

When performed properly, orthotopic ileal neobladder substitution after RCP offers better long-term results in terms of EF and SD.

Quality of life in women undergoing urinary diversion for bladder cancer: results of a multicenter study among long-term disease-free survivors

Purpose

Women undergoing radical cystectomy (RC) and urinary diversion for bladder cancer experience substantial limitations in health-related quality of life (HRQOL). However, the level of discomfort caused by different urinary diversion has been never evaluated in long term survivors. The aim of this multicenter study is to evaluate differences in HRQOL among recurrence-free women undergoing cutaneous ureterostomy (CUS), Bricker's ileal conduit (BK-IC) and Orthotopic neobladder VIP (ONB-VIP) in disease-free females treated with radical cystectomy (RC), with long-term follow up (mean 60.1 months; range 36-122 months).

Materials and methods

All consecutively treated female patients from two urological institutions who underwent RC and urinary diversion from January 2000 to December 2008, with no evidence of tumor recurrence at a minimum follow up of 36 months, were included. Patients received the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) generic (QLQ-C30) and bladder cancer-specific instruments (QLQ-BLM30) and the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy for Bladder Cancer (FACT-BL). Clinical data and questionnaire results were analyzed in order to evaluate the HRQOL differences among diversion groups.

Results

We identified 37 females (median age: 68, range 45–82 years), including 12 status-post CUS, 16 who underwent BK-IC, and 9 who underwent ONB-VIP. Most were healthy (24/37 with no comorbidities, 4/37 Charlson 1-2, 9/37 Charlson 3 or greater – we didn’t considered bladder cancer in Charlson evaluation because bladder cancer was the main inclusion criteria). Women undergoing CUS endorsed worse FACT-BL scores compared with BK-IC and ONB-VIP patients, worse HRQOL regarding physical and emotional well-being (p=0.008 and p=0.02, respectively), and a trend toward worse EORTC QLQ-C30 scores for appetite loss and fatigue (p=0.05 for both).

Conclusions

In our study long-term disease-free females treated with CUS endorsed worse HRQOL compared with women who underwent BK-IC or ONB-VIP, mostly due to worse physical and emotional perception of their body image.

Modified orthotopic spiral ileal bladder substitution: surgical technique and long-term results

OBJECTIVES

The objectives of this study are to introduce the surgical technique of a modified spiral orthotopic ileal neobladder and to assess the long-term outcomes.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between January 1998 and January 2006, 44 male and 7 female patients with bladder cancer received radical cystectomy (RC) and pelvic lymphadenectomy. An ileal segment 40 cm to 45 cm long was isolated to create a spiral orthotopic ileal neobladder, and the ureters were implanted into the reservoir using a non-refluxing split-cuff nipple technique. Preoperative, perioperative, and postoperative data were collected. Complications were classified as early (less than 3 months after surgery) or late (more than 3 months after surgery). Continence incidence and urodynamic studies were evaluated 5 years after surgery. Duration of follow-up was an average of 95 months (range 60-156 months).

RESULTS

There were no perioperative deaths. The mean operative time was 315 ± 34 minutes. The mean blood loss was 783 ± 316 ml. There were 31 early complications in 21 patients (41%) and 42 late complications in 30 patients (59%). Urodynamic studies showed the maximum neobladder capacity to be 500 ± 71 ml, maximum flow rate to be 16 ± 5 ml/s and post-voiding residual (PVR) to be 50 ± 44 ml. Postoperative continence was excellent with a daytime continence rate of 90% and a nocturnal continence rate of 78% 5 years after surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

The modified spiral neobladder is easy to perform and allows for excellent long-term results with regard to complications and continence.

[Patients' acceptance of urinary diversion. The pouch of Sisyphus]

It is important that any patient with a urinary diversion can accept the psychological impact alongside the surgical and physical aspects. However, there are currently no validated methods or instruments available to allow direct measurement of this phenomenon in these patients. Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is often high following different types of urinary diversion-this may suggest a high acceptance level and thus may act as a secondary end point. Such an assessment is a retrospective validation of successful patient selection, allowing us to redirect the nihilistic misinterpretation that urologists should return to offering ileal conduits as a standard. In modern urinary diversion, high patient acceptance develops from comprehensive counselling providing a realistic expectation, careful patient-to-method-matching, strict adherence to surgical detail during the procedure and a meticulous lifelong follow-up. Coping strategies, disease-related social support and confidence in the success of treatment are among other factors which contribute to acceptance of urinary reconstruction as either independent or combined factors. Significant experience is required in every respect, as misjudgement and mistakes in any of these issues may be detrimental to the patients' health. It should be acknowledged that there is no 'best' urinary diversion in general terms. A reconstructive surgeon must have all techniques available and choices need to be tailored to the individual patient.

Morbidity and Quality of Life in Bladder Cancer Patients following Cystectomy and Urinary Diversion: A Single-Institution Comparison of Ileal Conduit versus Orthotopic Neobladder

Objective. To evaluate and compare noncontinent and continent urinary diversion after radical cystectomy in patients with bladder cancer. Methods. A total of 301 patients submitted to radical cystectomy at the Charité-University Hospital Berlin from 1993 to 2007 including 146 with an ileal conduit and 115 with an ileal neobladder. Clinical and pathological data as well as oncological outcome were retrospectively analyzed and compared. Quality of life was analyzed using the EORTC QLQ-C30 and BLM30 questionnaires. Results. 69.1% and 69.6% of all patients who received an ileal conduit and ileal neobladder, respectively, developed early complications. The two groups differed significantly concerning the occurrence of postoperative ileus (P = 0.02) favoring patients who received an ileal conduit but not with regard to any other early-onset complication evaluated. Patients with ileal neobladder had a significantly better global health status and quality of life (P = 0.02), better physical functioning (P = 0.02), but also a higher rate of diarrhoea (P = 0.004). Conclusion. Cystectomy with any type of diversion remains a complication-prone surgery. Even if the patient groups are not homogeneous in all respects, there are many arguments in favor of the ileal neobladder as the urinary diversion of choice.

Comprehensive handbook for developing a bladder cancer cystectomy database

OBJECTIVE

In an effort to standardize data collection for research regarding bladder cancer, the Bladder Cancer Working Group sought to provide a handbook that can be used as a guide for prospective or retrospective data collection.

METHODS

Expert opinions for various data groups were compiled through a team of researchers at the BCAN. Peer review of each data group was performed from within the group.

RESULTS

Essential and comprehensive data elements are provided for 9 groups of data elements, including demographics, comorbidities, staging, laboratory data, operative details, pathology, complications, outcomes, and quality of life measurements.

CONCLUSIONS

Establishment of a comprehensive bladder cancer database is important in initiating multicenter collaborations. While not every data point is critical, this review may be useful in serving as a reference in initiating projects and providing a framework for collaborations.

Radical cystectomy with orthotopic neobladder for invasive bladder cancer: a critical analysis of long-term oncological, functional, and quality of life results

PURPOSE

The present contribution analyses long-term data regarding oncological, functional, and quality of life aspects of patients subjected to cystectomy due to malignancy with subsequent orthotopic bladder substitution.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted to review literature published from 1887 until today. Oncological aspects, special considerations on female patients, quality of life, geriatric patients, and impact of minimally invasive surgery were also addressed and discussed.

RESULTS

After more than three decades, orthotopic bladder substitution subsequent to radical cystectomy has stood the test of time by providing adequate long-term survival and low local recurrence rates. Compared to radical cystectomy, neither radiation nor chemotherapy, nor a combination of both, offer similar long-term results. Orthotopic bladder substitution does not compromise oncological outcome and can be performed with excellent results regarding functional and quality of life issues. Chronological age is generally not a contraindication for cystectomy.

CONCLUSION

Orthotopic bladder substitution should be the diversion of choice both in men and in women, whenever possible. For orthotopic urinary diversion, a careful patient selection considering tumor extent, patient motivation, preoperative sphincter function, other local and systemic adverse confounding factors, and overall life expectancy must be taken into account. Minimally invasive techniques are promising concepts for the future, awaiting confirmation in larger patient cohorts.

Going with the flow: quality-of-life outcomes of cancer survivors with urinary diversion

PURPOSE

The purpose of this descriptive study was to describe health-related quality of life (HRQOL) concerns among cancer patients with continent urinary diversion (UD) and incontinent UD.

SUBJECTS AND SETTINGS

Study participants were accrued from members of the California United Ostomy Association and 2 cancer centers in Southern California.

INSTRUMENT

The City of Hope HRQOL-Ostomy Questionnaire (COHHRQOL-O) is a modified HRQOL measurement tool based on the original work done over a number of years by Grant and colleagues.

METHODS

The COHHRQOL-O was mailed to 2,890 individuals. Of the 1,600 returns, there were 307 responses from patients with UD, indicating that they had a UD and a diagnosis that clearly indicated cancer.

RESULTS

The majority of respondents were diagnosed with bladder cancer, and the average time since surgery was 9.5 years. While most patients reported being sexually active prior to UD, less than 27% resumed sexual activity after surgery. More than 75% of patients also reported difficulty in adjusting to their UD, with the majority reporting difficulty with urine leakage. Those who were incontinent reported a range of bothersome issues, such as skin problems around the UD, difficulties in managing UD care, fear of recurrence, financial worries, family distress, and uncertainty about the future.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study add to our understanding of how patients adjust to a UD and what problems and issues can occur, even years after the initial surgery. Mastering UD care is best done under the guidance of a WOC nurse, and access to WOC nurse is essential when problems occur.

How close are we to knowing whether orthotopic bladder replacement surgery is the new gold standard?--evidence from a systematic review update

OBJECTIVES

To compare the clinical effectiveness and risk profile of the different types of surgeries using transposed intestinal segments in a systematic review update. Urinary diversion is designed to improve or replace the function of the diseased urinary bladder.

METHODS

Studies reporting on surgery involving intestinal segments transposed into the urinary tract were identified between January 1990 and January 2007 using MEDLINE, PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Library. All articles published in English language reporting on at least 10 patients and follow-up of at least 1 year were included. This is a substantive update of our previously published systematic review that reported on the evidence between January and to January 2003 (Nabi G, Yong SM, Ong E, et al. J Urol. 2005;174:21-28).

RESULTS

Between January 1990 and January 2007, a total of 5651 abstracts were reviewed. Of them, 557 studies met the inclusion criteria reporting on 46,921 participants (an additional 14,126 participants reported on between January 2003 and January 2007). Operative complications were lowest in ileal conduit diversion, whereas postoperative morbidity and mortality were lower for orthotopic bladder replacement surgery. Of the 35 quality-of-life studies, only 2 studies (Dutta SC, Chang SC, Coffey CS, et al. J Urol. 2002;168:164-167; Hobisch A, Tosun K, Kinzl J, et al. World J Urol. 2000;18:338-344) reported a better quality of life with orthotopic bladder replacement.

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review update fails to reveal a clear winner, with each intervention type having advantages and disadvantages. With > 46,000 patients included in transposed intestinal segment research over the past 16 years, it is surely a criticism of our speciality that we are no closer to answering the question of what is the best way to improve or replace the function of the diseased bladder.

Candidate quality of care indicators for localized bladder cancer

The surgical management of clinically localized bladder cancer is challenging, and the quality of care delivered to patients with bladder cancer is a subject of increasing interest. Multiple large studies have examined the association between surgical volume and outcomes after radical cystectomy. These studies generally find lower mortality and complication rates at high-volume centers, though interpretation of the data must be tempered by limitations of the datasets driving the studies. Benefits of regionalization of care also must be weighed against other measures proven to predict outcomes; a delay in time to cystectomy beyond 3 months, for example, is strongly associated with increased mortality. Other candidate process measures supported by existing literature include adequacy of lymphadenectomy as measured by nodal yield and availability or offering of orthotopic diversion when appropriate. Assessment and reporting of bladder cancer outcomes should be risk adjusted based on oncologic risk factors and patient comorbid illness. Perioperative morbidity and mortality, cause-specific survival, and overall survival are all key measures. Assessment of health-related quality of life after bladder cancer treatment should also be standardized for reporting. Multiple survey instruments have been developed in recent years, but none has yet been well validated or widely adopted. In particular, capturing variation in quality of life outcomes between patients undergoing bladder-sparing protocols vs. continent diversion vs. incontinent diversion is an important but difficult goal that has not yet been met. The urologic oncology community should take a strong lead in achieving consensus regarding the definition, assessment, and reporting of quality of care data for bladder cancer.