Contemporary open radical cystectomy: analysis of perioperative outcomes

Long-Term Outcomes of Orthotopic Neobladder Versus Ileal Conduit Urinary Diversion in Robot-Assisted Radical Cystectomy (RARC): Multicenter Results from the Asian RARC Consortium

PURPOSE

Robot-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) has gained traction in the management of muscle invasive bladder cancer. Urinary diversion for RARC was achieved with orthotopic neobladder and ileal conduit. Evidence on the optimal method of urinary diversion was limited. Long-term outcomes were not reported before. This study was designed to compare the perioperative and oncological outcomes of ileal conduit versus orthotopic neobladder cases of nonmetastatic bladder cancer treated with RARC.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The Asian RARC consortium was a multicenter registry involving nine Asian centers. Consecutive patients receiving RARC were included. Cases were divided into the ileal conduit and neobladder groups. Background characteristics, operative details, perioperative outcomes, recurrence information, and survival outcomes were reviewed and compared. Primary outcomes include disease-free and overall survival. Secondary outcomes were perioperative results. Multivariate regression analyses were performed.

RESULTS

From 2007 to 2020, 521 patients who underwent radical cystectomy were analyzed. Overall, 314 (60.3%) had ileal conduit and 207 (39.7%) had neobladder. The use of neobladder was found to be protective in terms of disease-free survival [Hazard ratio (HR) = 0.870, p = 0.037] and overall survival (HR = 0.670, p = 0.044) compared with ileal conduit. The difference became statistically nonsignificant after being adjusted in multivariate cox-regression analysis. Moreover, neobladder reconstruction was not associated with increased blood loss, nor additional risk of major complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Orthotopic neobladder urinary diversion is not inferior to ileal conduit in terms of perioperative safety profile and long-term oncological outcomes. Further prospective studies are warranted for further investigation.

Open versus Robot-Assisted Radical Cystectomy for the Treatment of pT4a Bladder Cancer: Comparison of Perioperative Outcomes

We compared the perioperative outcomes of open (ORC) vs. robot-assisted (RARC) radical cystectomy in the treatment of pT4a MIBC. In total, 212 patients underwent ORC (102 patients, Group A) vs. RARC (110 patients, Group B) for pT4a bladder cancer. Patients were prospectively followed and retrospectively reviewed. We assessed operative time, estimated blood loss (EBL), intraoperative and postoperative complications, length of stay, transfusion rate, and oncological outcomes. Preoperative features were comparable. The mean operative time was 232.8 vs. 189.2 min (p = 0.04), and mean EBL was 832.8 vs. 523.7 mL in Group A vs. B (p = 0.04). An intraoperative transfusion was performed in 32 (31.4%) vs. 11 (10.0%) cases during ORC vs. RARC (p = 0.03). The intraoperative complications rate was comparable. The mean length of stay was shorter after RARC (12.6 vs. 7.2 days, p = 0.02). Postoperative transfusions were performed in 36 (35.3%) vs. 13 (11.8%) cases (p = 0.03), and postoperative complications occurred in 37 (36.3%) vs. 29 (26.4%) patients in Groups A vs. B (p = 0.05). The positive surgical margin (PSM) rate was lower after RARC. No differences were recorded according to the oncological outcomes. ORC and RARC are feasible treatments for the management of pT4a bladder tumors. Minimally invasive surgery provides shorter operative time, bleeding, transfusion rate, postoperative complications, length of stay, and PSM rate.

Assessing Trifecta and Pentafecta Success Rates between Robot-Assisted vs. Open Radical Cystectomy: A Propensity Score-Matched Analysis

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to evaluate the surgical and oncological outcomes of robot-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) versus open radical cystectomy (ORC) using trifecta and pentafecta parameters.

METHODS

The clinical data of 41 patients who underwent RARC between 2018 and 2022 were prospectively collected and retrospectively compared to those of 330 patients undergoing ORC using 1:1 propensity score matching. Trifecta was defined as simultaneous negative surgical margins (SMs), a lymph node (LN) yield ≥ 16, and the absence of major complications (Clavien-Dindo grade III-V) within 90 days postoperatively. Pentafecta additionally included a 12-month recurrence-free rate and a time between the transurethral resection of a bladder tumor (TURBT) and radical cystectomy (RC) ≤ 3 months. The continuous variables were compared using the Mann-Whitney U test, and the categorical variables were analyzed using the chi-squared test.

RESULTS

No statistically significant differences in trifecta and pentafecta success rates were observed between the RARC and ORC cohorts after propensity score matching. However, the RARC group exhibited significantly reduced blood loss (RARC: 317 mL vs. ORC: 525 mL, p = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

RARC offers distinct advantages over ORC in terms of reduced blood loss, while trifecta and pentafecta success rates do not differ significantly between the two surgical approaches.

Disease-Free Survival of Patients With Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer Treated With Radical Cystectomy Versus Bladder-Preserving Therapy: A Nationwide Study

PURPOSE

Although level I evidence is lacking that radical cystectomy (RC) is superior to bladder-preserving therapy (BPT), RC is still advocated as the recommended treatment in patients with nonmetastatic muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). This study sought to compare the survival of patients with MIBC treated with BPT versus those treated with RC.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

All patients with nonmetastatic MIBC diagnoses were identified via the population-based Netherlands Cancer Registry. Only patients treated with BPT or RC were included. The primary endpoint was 2-year disease-free survival (DFS), defined as time from start of treatment until locoregional recurrence, distant metastasis, or death. The secondary endpoint was overall survival (OS). Inverse propensity treatment weighting (IPTW) was used based on propensity scores to adjust for baseline differences between treatment groups. Survival was analyzed with Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazards models.

RESULTS

A total of 1432 patients were included, of whom 1101 underwent RC and 331, BPT. Median follow-up was 39 months (range, 27-51 months). The IPTW-adjusted 2-year DFS was 61.5% (95% CI, 53.5%-69.6%) with BPT and 55.3% (95% CI, 51.6%-59.1%) with RC, with an adjusted hazard ratio of 0.84 (95% CI, 0.69-1.05). The adjusted 2-year OS for patients treated with BPT versus RC was 74.0% (95% CI, 67.0%-80.9%) versus 66.0% (95% CI, 62.7%-68.8%), respectively, with an adjusted hazard ratio of 0.80 (95% CI, 0.64-0.98).

CONCLUSIONS

There was no statistically significant difference between the 2-year DFS of patients treated with BPT and RC. We propose that both RC and BPT should be offered as a curative treatment option to eligible patients with nonmetastatic MIBC.

Complications After Radical Cystectomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials with a Meta-regression Analysis

CONTEXT

Radical cystectomy is considered a procedure of high complexity with a relative high complication rate.

OBJECTIVE

To systematically summarize the literature regarding the complications of radical cystectomy and the factors that contribute to them.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

We searched MEDLINE/PubMed, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Cochrane Library, according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on complications related to radical cystectomy.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

A total of 3766 studies were screened, and 44 studies were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. Complications following radical cystectomy are quite common. The most common complications were gastrointestinal complications (20%), infectious complications (17%), and ileus (14%). The majority of complications occurring were Clavien I-II (45%). Specific measurable patient factors are related to certain complications and can be used to stratify risk and assist in preoperative counseling, while proper design of high-quality RCTs may better reflect real-life complication rates.

CONCLUSIONS

In our study, RCTs with a low risk of bias had higher complication rates than studies with a high risk of bias, underlining the need for further improvement on complication reporting in order to refine surgical outcomes.

PATIENT SUMMARY

Radical cystectomy is usually followed by high complication rates, which affect patients and are, in turn, strongly associated with patients' preoperative health status.

Age represents the main driver of surgical decision making in patients candidate to radical cystectomy

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Age might influence the choice of surgical approach, type of urinary diversion (UD) and lymph node dissection (LND) in patients candidate to radical cystectomy (RC) for urothelial bladder cancer (UBC). Similarly, age may enhance surgical morbidity and worsen perioperative outcomes. We tested the impact of age (octogenarian vs. younger patients) on surgical decision making and peri- and postoperative outcomes of RC.

METHODS

Non-metastatic muscle-invasive UBC patients treated with RC at 18 high-volume European institutions between 2006 and 2021 were identified and stratified according to age (≥80 vs. <80 years). Intraoperative Complications Assessment and Reporting with Universal Standards and European Association of Urology guidelines recommendations were accomplished in collection and reporting of, respectively, intraoperative and postoperative complications. Multivariable logistic regression models (MVA) tested the impact of age on outcomes of interest. Sensitivity analyses after 1:3 propensity score matching were performed.

RESULTS

Of 1955 overall patients, 251 (13%) were ≥80-year-old. Minimally invasive RC was performed in 18% and 40% of octogenarian and younger patients, respectively (p < 0.001). UD without bowel manipulation (ureterocutaneostomy, UCS) was performed in 31% and 7% of octogenarian and younger patients (p < 0.001). LND was delivered to 81% and 93% of octogenarian and younger patients (p < 0.001). At MVA, age ≥80 years independently predicted open approach (odds ratio [OR]: 1.55), UCS (OR: 3.70), and omission of LND (OR: 0.41; all p ≤ 0.02). Compared to their younger counterparts, octogenarian patients experienced higher rates of intraoperative (8% vs. 4%, p = 0.04) but not of postoperative complications (64% vs. 61%, p = 0.07). At MVA, age ≥80 years was not an independent predictor of length of stay, intraoperative or postoperative transfusions and complications, and readmissions (all p values >0.1). These results were replicated in sensitivity analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

Age ≥80 years does not independently portend worse surgical outcomes for RC. However, octogenarians are unreasonably more likely to receive open approach and UCS diversion, and less likely to undergo LND.

Robot-assisted radical cystectomy: Where we are in 2023

Open radical cystectomy (ORC) is associated with high rates of perioperative morbidity and mortality, owing to its extensive surgical nature and the high frequency of multiple co-morbidities among patients. As an alternative, robot-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) has been increasingly adopted worldwide, being a reliable treatment option that utilizes minimally invasive surgery. Seventeen years have passed since the advent of the RARC, and comprehensive long-term follow-up data are now becoming available. The present review focuses on the current knowledge of RARC in 2023, and analyzes various aspects, including oncological outcomes, peri/post-operative complications, post-operative quality of life (QoL) change, and cost-effectiveness. Oncologically, RARC showed comparable oncological outcomes to ORC. With regard to complications, RARC was associated with lower estimated blood loss, lower intraoperative transfusion rates, shorter length of stay, lower risk of Clavien-Dindo grade III-V complications, and lower 90-day rehospitalization rates than ORC. In particular, RARC with intracorporeal urinary diversion (ICUD) performed by high-volume centers significantly reduced the risk of post-operative major complications. In terms of post-operative QoL, RARC with extracorporeal urinary diversion (ECUD) showed comparable results to ORC, while RARC with ICUD was superior in some respects. As the RARC implementation rate increases and the learning curve is overcome, more prospective studies and randomized controlled trials with large-scale patients are expected to be conducted in the future. Accordingly, sub-group analysis in various groups such as ECUD, ICUD, continent and non-continent urinary diversion, etc. is considered to be possible.

Radical cystectomy and urinary diversion outcomes in patients with single vs. double renal unit: A 2:1 matched-pair analysis

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate perioperative and functional outcomes of radical cystectomy (RC) and urinary diversion (UD) in patients with a single kidney (SK) vs. double kidneys (DK).

METHODS

We reviewed records of patients who underwent RC for bladder cancer with a history of prior or concurrent nephrectomy at USC between 2004 and 2020. Patients with chronic kidney disease who were already on dialysis were excluded. UD, perioperative complications, and postoperative glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of the SK group were compared with a group of patients who underwent RC with DK using 2:1 matching with respect to age, sex, preop GFR, and tumor stage.

RESULTS

We included 186 patients (SK = 62 and DK = 124). Half of the SK patients underwent continent UD. SK patients had a higher length of hospital stay compared to the DK group; however, 90-day complications, readmission, and mortality rates were similar. In patients with continent diversion, SK vs. DK showed similar 90-day complications (71% vs. 69%, P = 1.0). SK patients had significantly lower GFRs at discharge, 3-, and 12-month following RC compared to the DK group. Postoperative GFRs of the SK patients with continent vs. incontinent UD were statistically similar. On multivariable analysis, UD (i.e. continent vs. incontinent) was not associated with post-op GFR decline at discharge, 3- and 12-month following RC.

CONCLUSIONS

Perioperative outcomes of radical cystectomy patients with single kidney are similar to double kidney patients, except for more GFR decline in single kidney cases. Continent urinary diversion in single kidney is as safe as double kidney patients.

Bloodless surgery in urologic oncology: A review of hematologic, anesthetic, and surgical considerations

The urologic oncology patient who refuses blood transfusion can present unique challenges in perioperative blood management. Since blood loss and associated transfusion can be expected in many complex urologic oncology surgeries, a multidisciplinary approach may be required for optimal outcomes. Through collaboration with the hematologist, anesthesiologist, and urologist, various techniques can be employed in the perioperative phases to minimize blood loss and the need for transfusion. We review the risks and benefits of these techniques and offer recommendations specific to the urologic oncology patient.

Mortality prediction models after radical cystectomy for bladder tumour: A systematic review and critical appraisal

INTRODUCTION

To identify risk-predictive models for bladder-specific cancer mortality in patients undergoing radical cystectomy and assess their clinical utility and risk of bias.

METHODS

Systematic review (CRD42021224626:PROSPERO) in Medline and EMBASE (from their creation until 31/10/2021) was screened to include articles focused on the development and internal validation of a predictive model of specific cancer mortality in patients undergoing radical cystectomy. CHecklist for critical Appraisal and data extraction for systematic Reviews of prediction Modelling Studies (CHARMS) and Prediction model Risk Of Bias ASsessment Tool (PROBAST) were applied.

RESULTS

Nineteen observational studies were included. The main predictors were sociodemographic variables, such as age (18 studies, 94.7%) and sex (17, 89.5% studies), tumour characteristics (TNM stage (18 studies, 94.7%), histological subtype/grade (15 studies, 78.9%), lymphovascular invasion (10 studies, 52.6%) and treatment with chemotherapy (13 studies, 68.4%). C-index values were presented in 14 studies. The overall risk of bias assessed using PROBAST led to 100% of studies being classified as high risk (the analysis domain was rated to be at high risk of bias in all the studies), and 52.6% showed low applicability. Only 5 studies (26.3%) included an external validation and 2 (10.5%) included a prospective study design.

CONCLUSIONS

Using clinical predictors to assess the risk of bladder-specific cancer mortality is a feasibility alternative. However, the studies showed a high risk of bias and their applicability is uncertain. Studies should improve the conducting and reporting, and subsequent external validation studies should be developed.

Association of Open vs Robot-Assisted Radical Cystectomy With Mortality and Perioperative Outcomes Among Patients With Bladder Cancer in Sweden

IMPORTANCE

Mortality rates resulting from bladder cancer have remained unchanged for more than 30 years. The surgical community has put hope in robot-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) with intracorporeal urinary diversion (ICUD) in an effort to improve surgical outcomes and bladder cancer survival without strong supporting evidence.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate perioperative, safety, and survival outcome differences between RARC with ICUD and open radical cystectomy (ORC).

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This nationwide population-based cohort study used data from the Swedish National Register of Urinary Bladder Cancer and population-based Cause of Death Register, which includes clinical information on tumor characteristics, treatment, and survival and covers approximately 97% of patients with urinary bladder cancer in Sweden. All patients who underwent radical cystectomy for bladder cancer in any hospital between January 2011 and December 2018 were included. Follow-up data were collected until December 2019. Data analysis was conducted from June to December 2020.

EXPOSURES

RARC or ORC.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The main outcomes were all-cause and cancer-specific mortality between RARC and ORC, compared using propensity score matching. Secondary outcomes were differences in perioperative outcomes after the different surgical approaches.

RESULTS

Throughout the observation period, 889 patients underwent RARC and 2280 patients underwent ORC at 24 Swedish hospitals. The median (IQR) age was 71 (66-76) years and 2386 patients (75.3%) were men. After a median (IQR) follow-up of 47 (28-71) months, the 5-year cancer-specific mortality rates were 30.2% (variance, 1.59) for ORC and 27.6% (variance, 3.12) for RARC, and the overall survival rates were 57.7% (variance, 2.46) for ORC and 61.4% (variance, 5.11) for RARC. In the propensity score-matched analysis, RARC was associated with a lower all-cause mortality (hazard ratio, 0.71; 95% CI, 0.56-0.89; P = .004). Compared with ORC, RARC was associated with a lower estimated blood loss (median [IQR] 150 [100-300] mL vs 700 [400-1300] mL; P < .001), intraoperative transfusion rate (odds ratio [OR], 0.05; 95% CI, 0.03-0.08; P < .001), and shorter length of stay (median [IQR], 9 [6-13] days vs 13 [10-17] days; P < .001), and with a higher lymph node yield (median [IQR], 20 [15-27] lymph nodes vs 14 [8-24] lymph nodes; P < .001) and 90-day rehospitalization rate (OR, 1.28; 95% CI, 1.02-1.60; P = .03). The RARC group, compared with the ORC group had lower risk of Clavien-Dindo grade III or higher complications (OR, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.43-0.87; P = .009).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

These findings suggest that compared with ORC, RARC with ICUD was associated with a lower overall mortality rate, fewer high-grade complications, and more favorable perioperative outcomes.

A modified ileal conduit technique in patients undergoing radical cystectomy: Single-centre experience

Objective:

We aimed to evaluate perioperative outcomes and complications of a modified technique of ileal conduit diversion.

Methods:

Forty-seven cases of radical cystectomy with modified ileal conduit diversion were performed at our institution from January 2015 to January 2020. After radical cystectomy, a segment of ileum was used to pack the conduit and was placed below the digestive anastomosis. Then, the mesentery window of the ileo-ileal anastomosis was sutured. The ureters were anastomosed on their native side on single loop ureteral stents. All procedures were performed by a single surgical team. Intra- and postoperative complications were classified and reported according to the Satava and Clavien–Dindo grading systems.

Results:

The mean age of population was 66.40±10.14 years, and 76.6% were male. Concomitant diabetes was found in 31.9% of patients. About three quarters of patients had T2G3 bladder cancer. Mean blood loss was 449.36±246.50 ml, and hospitalization was 10.32±5 days. With a mean follow-up of 17.36±12.63 months, the recurrence rate was 17%, and 14.9% of patients died of bladder cancer. Out of the 47 patients, three (4.3%) experienced intraoperative complications, while 15 (31.9%) had postoperative complications. Of these, only three patients experienced Clavien–Dindo complications ⩾grade 3. Multivariate logistic regression model showed that diabetes ( p=0.023) and higher blood loss ( p=0.010) were significantly associated with an increased risk of postoperative complications. We reported one case of ureterointestinal anastomosis stenosis on the left side and none on the right side. Despite our results being promising, larger randomized trials with longer follow-up are needed to explore further the feasibility of this technique on a larger scale.

Conclusion:

We describe a safe and simple surgical technique with a similar postoperative complications rate and a lower incidence of ureteroileal anastomosis stenosis compared to the standard technique.

Level of evidence

4.

Complication Rate after Radical Cystectomy Depends on the Surgical Technique and Patient's Clinical Status

PURPOSE

This study aimed to explore the complication rates of radical cystectomy in patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer and identify potential risk factors.

METHODS

A total of 553 patients were included: 131 were operated on via an open approach (ORC), 242 patients via a laparoscopic method (LRC), and 180 by a robot-assisted procedure (RARC). Patient age, gender, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score, urinary diversion type, preoperative albumin level, body mass index (BMI), pathological (TNM) stage, and surgical times were collected. The severity of complications was classified according to the Clavien-Dindo scale (Grades 1-5).

RESULTS

The surgical technique was significantly related to the number of complications (p < 0.00005). Grade 1 complications were observed most frequently following LRC (52.5%) and RARC (51.1%), whereas mostly Grade 2 complications were detected after ORC (78.6%). Those with less severe complications had significantly higher albumin levels than those with more severe complications (p < 0.05). Patients with an elevated BMI had fewer complications if a minimally invasive approach was used rather than ORC. The patient's general condition (ASA score) did not impact the number of complications, and urinary diversion type did not affect the severity of the complications. Mean surgical time differed according to the urinary diversion type in patients with a similar TNM stage (p < 0.005); however, no difference was found in those with more locally advanced disease. Longer operation time and lower protein concentration were associated with higher probability of complication rate, that is, Clavien-Dindo score 3-5.

CONCLUSIONS

The risk of complications after RC is not related to the type of urinary diversion, and can be reduced by using a minimally invasive surgical technique, especially in patients with high BMI.

The Pull-through Anastomosis of Ureter to Enteric Conduit (PAUTEC): A Novel Technique for Urinary Diversion

OBJECTIVE

To describe and illustrate a novel technique of uretero-ileal anastomosis for use in urinary diversion - the Pull-through Anastomosis of Ureter To Enteric Conduit (PAUTEC). A second objective was to evaluate the surgical outcomes of the PAUTEC anastomosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Our novel anastomotic technique was described step-by-step and visually depicted with illustrations and the accompanying narrated video. Additionally, to evaluate safety and efficacy, a retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database was performed. Patients who underwent radical cystectomy alone or during pelvic exenteration, with ileal conduit diversion incorporating PAUTEC, 2016-2020 with ≥6 months follow-up were included. Surgical outcomes and renal function were analysed.

RESULTS

PAUTEC anastomosis was performed on 43 ureters in 23 patients. Mean age was 66 years [50-80] and 21 of 23 patients were male. One patient had a conservatively-managed small urine leak. No ureteric strictures have been identified to date. Mean serum creatinine was 1.15 mg/dL [0.69-2.08] (102umol/L, range 61-184 umol/L) preoperatively, and 1.09 mg/dL [0.61-2.59] (96.3 umol/L, range 54-229 umol/L) at follow-up, demonstrating no significant change (P= .26, paired t-test). Mean follow-up was 15 months [6-44].

CONCLUSION

A PAUTEC technique of uretero-ileal anastomosis is feasible and technically straightforward, with satisfactory outcomes observed to date.

Short-term morbidity and mortality following radical cystectomy: a systematic review

OBJECTIVE

To study short-term (<90 days) morbidity and mortality following radical cystectomy (RC) for bladder cancer and identify modifiable risk factors associated with these.

DESIGN

Systematic review.

METHODS

The systematic review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. PubMed and EMBASE were searched for relevant papers on 11 June 2019 and rerun on 27 May 2020. Studies reporting complications, reoperations, length of stay and mortality within 90 days were included. Studies were reviewed according to criteria from the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine and the quality of evidence was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.

RESULTS

The search retrieved 1957 articles. Sixty-six articles were included. The quality of evidence was poor to good. Most studies were retrospective, and no randomised clinical trials were identified. Of included studies a median of 6 Martin criteria for reporting complications after surgery were fulfilled. The Clavien-Dindo classification for grading complications was most frequently used. The weighted overall complication rate after RC was 34.9% (range 28.8-68.8) for in-house complications, 39.0% (range 27.3-80.0) for 30-day complications and 58.5% (range 36.1-80.5) for 90-day complications. The most common types of complications reported were gastrointestinal (29.0%) and infectious (26.4%). The weighted mortality rate was 2.4% (range 0.9-4.7) for in-house mortality, 2.1% (0.0-3.7) for 30-day mortality and 4.7% (range 0.0-7.0) for 90-day mortality. Age and comorbidity were identified as the best predictors for complications following RC.

CONCLUSION

Short-term morbidity and mortality are high following RC. Reporting of complications is heterogeneous and the quality of evidence is generally low. There is a continuous need for randomised studies to address any intervention that can reduce morbidity and mortality following RC.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

104937.

Comparison of Outcomes Between Radical Radiotherapy and Radical Cystectomy in Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer in a Cancer Specialized Unit of a Developing Country

Introduction Radical cystectomy (RC) is the current standard of care for treating muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC), however bladder preservation by offering radical radiotherapy (RT) is gaining interest for improving the quality of life while maintaining a reasonable oncological outcome. In this study, we have compared outcomes of the two treatment options. Materials and methods This is a 10-year retrospective cohort study that included all patients who were treated for histologically proven muscle-invasive bladder cancer in the department of uro-oncology at Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre from January 2005 to January 2015. Data was analysed using Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS), version 21 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY). The primary end point of our study was to calculate the three- and five-year disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). Results A total of 230 patients were included in the study with male gender predominating (88%). The mean and standard deviation for age was 58.32+11.128. Radical cystectomy was performed in 119 patients while 111 received RT. Clinically, 34% had stage 2 disease, while 66 % had stage 3 cancer. The median follow-up duration was 41 months (range: 2-155). During follow-up 57.4% of patients showed no recurrence. Local recurrence was found in 9.6% patients and distant metastasis in 32.2%. The three-year DFS of RC was 63% and that of RT was 57% while the five-year DFS for RC and RT were 60% and 49%, respectively (p=0.196). The three-year OS of RC was 64% and that for RT was 58%. On further analysis the five-year OS of RC was 53% and that for RT was 50% (p=0.98). Upon stage-based comparisons, we found no statistically significant difference between the three- and five-year DFS and OS of stage 2 and stage 3 when treated with either modality. Conclusion Most studies favor RC and consider it as the gold standard treatment for muscle-invasive bladder tumor treatment. The current study reveals that bladder preservation approach by chemo radiotherapy is a viable treatment option, having comparable oncological outcomes with patients receiving radical cystectomy, and can be offered to patients having muscle-invasive urothelial bladder cancer.

Outcomes of Urinary Diversion for Late Adverse Effects of Gynecologic Radiotherapy

OBJECTIVE

To describe the risks of urinary diversion performed to address adverse effects of gynecologic radiation, with the hypothesis that high grade complications would be more common in sarcopenic women and in those undergoing continent diversion (vs noncontinent) or concomitant cystectomy (vs bladder-sparing diversion).

METHODS

A retrospective review was performed of patient records of women who underwent urinary diversion for urinary adverse effects of gynecologic radiotherapy during the period of 2008-2018 from 3 tertiary centers. Skeletal muscle index was calculated to assess for sarcopenia based on preoperative computed tomography scans. Outcomes include high-grade postoperative complications within 90 days of surgery, 30-day readmission rate, and long-term (>90 days) outcomes.

RESULTS

Among 34 women who met the inclusion criteria, the majority were white/Caucasian (73.5%). Twenty-six of 34 (76.5%) underwent noncontinent diversion. Seventy nine percent (27/34) (79.4%) of women experienced complications within 90 days; 9 of 34 (26.5%) experienced high-grade (Clavien grade ≥3) complications. Thirty-two percent (11/34) were readmitted within 30 days. Rates of high-grade complications were not significantly impacted by diversion type (P = .49), concurrent cystectomy (P = .70), or sarcopenia (P = 1.0).

CONCLUSIONS

Urinary diversion for late adverse effects of gynecologic radiotherapy is associated with high peri-operative risk, even in skilled hands. In this series, neither sarcopenia, nor continent diversion, nor cystectomy were associated with increased complications. Patients and surgeons should consider risks and benefits when deciding to proceed with urinary diversion, however further study is needed to elucidate significant preoperative markers which may predispose patients to significant complications.

Survival after radical cystectomy for bladder cancer: Multicenter comparison between minimally invasive and open approaches

Objective

To investigate oncological outcomes in patients with bladder cancer who underwent minimally invasive radical cystectomy (MIRC) or open radical cystectomy (ORC).

Methods

We identified patients with bladder cancer who underwent radical cystectomy (RC) in 13 centers of the Chinese Bladder Cancer Consortium (CBCC). Perioperative outcomes were compared between MIRC and ORC. The influence of surgical approaches on overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) in the entire study group and subgroups classified according to pathologic stage or lymph node (LN) status was assessed with the log-rank test. Multivariable Cox proportional hazard models were used to evaluate the association among OS, CSS and risk factors of interest.

Results

Of 2 098 patients who underwent RC, 1 243 patients underwent MIRC (1 087 laparoscopic RC and 156 robotic-assisted RC, respectively), while 855 patients underwent ORC. No significant differences were noted in positive surgical margin rate and 90-day postoperative mortality rate. MIRC was associated with less estimated blood loss, more LN yield, higher rate of neobladder diversion, longer operative time, and longer length of hospital stay. There was no significant difference in OS and CSS according to surgical approaches (p=0.653, and 0.816, respectively). Subgroup analysis revealed that OS and CSS were not significantly different regardless of the status of extravesical involvement or LN involvement. Multivariable Cox regression analyses showed that the surgical approach was not a significant predictor of OS and CSS.

Conclusions

Our study showed that MIRC was comparable to conventional ORC in terms of OS and CSS.

Extraperitoneal Antegrade vs Transperitoneal Open Radical Cystectomy: Single Center Experiences with 200 Cases

BACKGROUND: Radical cystectomy (RC) is one of the most complex surgeries and has a high rate of morbidity. Gastrointestinal complications are the most common type of complications. To reduce these complications some modifications have been described. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate perioperative outcomes of our extraperitoneal antegrade RC technique (EARTC), where the peritoneum is opened at the end of cystectomy just before of ileal reconstruction. METHODS: Group 1 included 120 patients who were operated with a standard RC technique and Group 2 included 80 patients who were operated with the EARC technique in this study. Groups were compared according to preoperative variables including patient characteristics, perioperative parameters, pathologic data, and postoperative overall and gastrointestinal complications. RESULTS: There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of preoperative characteristics and mean operative time. The group 1 has longer time for the exposure of abdominal cavity to the atmosphere (p < 0.01). Hospitalization time was significantly lower in Group 2 (p < 0.01). Concerning the rate of 90-day overall perioperative complication, no statistically significant difference was determined between the groups. Gastrointestinal complication was significantly higher in Group 1 (p:0.048). The average number of removed lymph nodes was similar between the groups (p:0.85). The time for recovery of bowel function, the time for passage of stool and the rate of postoperative ileus were significantly lower in Group 2 (p < 0.01, p < 0.01 and p < 0.043) respectively). CONCLUSIONS: EARC provides advantages over the standard technique in terms of gastrointestinal symptoms and poses no disadvantage when the oncological outcome and operative difficulty were considered.

A novel prevention bundle to reduce incisional infections after radical cystectomy

PURPOSE

Our institution implemented a novel intervention bundle to reduce incisional surgical site infections (SSIs) for patients undergoing radical cystectomy. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of the bundle in reducing incisional SSIs post-cystectomy.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A before-after cohort study was performed on all patients who underwent radical cystectomy by urologic oncologists at The Ottawa Hospital from January 2016 to March 2019. Thirty-day postoperative incisional SSIs were identified from the medical record and were compared to institutionally collected National Surgical Quality Improvement Program data. The SSI reduction strategy was implemented as of March 1st, 2018. Adjusted associations between the SSI intervention with the risk of incisional SSI were determined. Cystectomy incisional SSI rates were compared to all other National Surgical Quality Improvement Program-collected surgeries at The Ottawa Hospital during the same time period.

RESULTS

One hundred and thirty-two patients were included; 41 following implementation of the SSI reduction bundle. Mean age was 69 years, 104 (79%) were male, and 59 (45%) received neobladders. The risk of incisional SSI decreased from 16.5% preintervention to 2.4% post intervention (risk ratio 0.17; P = 0.004). Intraoperative transfusion and diabetes were independently associated with an increased risk of incisional SSI (P < 0.05). The SSI rate for all other surgical procedures at our institution remained stable during the same time period.

CONCLUSIONS

The risk of SSI after radical cystectomy is high. Use of an SSI reduction bundle was associated with a large reduction in incisional SSIs. Further evaluation of this intervention in other centers is warranted.

Venous thromboembolism after radical cystectomy and urinary diversion: a single-center experience with 1737 consecutive patients

Background: To investigate the incidence, timing, and risk factors of venous thromboembolic events (VTE) following radical cystectomy and urinary diversion in a large cohort of patients.Patients and Methods: The electronic data base of patients underwent radical cystectomy and urinary diversion in a tertiary referral center between January 2004 and February 2014 was retrospectively reviewed. Patients developed VTE namely deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) within 90 days after surgery were identified and compared to those without VTE. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to evaluate the predictors of the VTE.Results: Out of 1737 patients, 77 VTE have occurred in 70 (4%) patients. DVT and PE occurred in 34 (2%) and 43 (2.5%) patients, respectively. PE was the leading cause of mortality in 17 patients. The median (range) time for VTE was 11 days (1-92) with 39 (50.6%) events developed after the stoppage of thrombo-prophylaxis. On multivariate analysis, older age ≥60 years (OR = 1.9; p = 0.009), female gender (OR = 1.9; p = 0.02), morbid obesity (BMI ≥35 kg/m²) (OR = 2.4; p = 0.008) and preoperative platelet count (≥300.000/cc) (OR = 1.6; p = 0.045) were significant predictors for developing VTE.Conclusion: The overall incidence of VTE is 4% with more than half of events occurred after the stoppage of thromboprophylaxis highlighting the necessity of adopting an extended protocol. Independent predictors included older age, female gender, morbid obesity and preoperative thrombocytosis. These group of patients require particular attention for the prevention of this complication.

Prospective, randomized clinical trial comparing use of intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography to standard care during radical cystectomy

Purpose:

Our prospective, randomized clinical study aims to evaluate the utility of intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) in patients undergoing radical cystectomy.

Materials and Methods:

Eighty patients were randomized to a standard of care group or the intervention group that received continuous intraoperative TEE. Data are presented as means ± standard deviations, median (25^th percentile, 75^th percentile), or numbers and percentages. Characteristics were compared between groups using independent sample t-tests, Wilcoxon–Mann–Whitney tests or Chi-square tests, as appropriate. All tests were two-sided and P < 0.05 was considered to indicate statistical significance.

Results:

Both groups had similar preoperative demographic characteristics. There was a significant difference between central line insertion with all insertions in the control group (15%, 6 vs. 0%, 0; P < 0.003). Of all the perioperative complications, 80% occurred in the control group versus 20% in the TEE group, with 21% of controls experiencing a cardiac or pulmonary complication compared to 5% in the TEE group (8 vs. 2, P < 0.04). The control group patients were more likely to have adverse cardiac complications than the TEE group (15%, 6 vs. 3%, 1; P < 0.040). Postoperative cardiac arrhythmia was observed only in the control group (13%, 5 vs. 0%, 0; P <.007). Prolonged intubation was only observed in the control group (10%, 4 vs. 0%, 0; P < 0.017).

Conclusion:

TEE can be a useful monitoring tool in patients undergoing radical cystectomy, limiting the use of central line insertion and potentially translating into earlier extubation and decreased postoperative cardiac morbidities.

Use and duration of antibiotic prophylaxis and the rate of urinary tract infection after radical cystectomy for bladder cancer: Results of a multicentric series

OBJECTIVES

To assess the rate of urinary tract infection (UTI), the characteristics of the bacterial aetiological agents involved, the type and duration of antibiotics used, and the clinical risk factors of UTI in a multi-institutional cohort of patients who had undergone radical cystectomy (RC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The pre- and postoperative characteristics of patients who had undergone open RC at 1 of 3 institutions between 2009 and 2015 were analyzed by means of the patient charts. Patients were classified according to the presence or absence of UTI. Analysis of the severity of UTI was based on the EAU/EAU Section of Infections in Urology (ESIU) classification system. The bacterial aetiological agents and their antibiotic susceptibility were also assessed. Factors predicting postoperative UTI were identified using univariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

Of 217 patients, 42 (19.4%) had developed postoperative UTI, of whom 50% had urosepsis or uroseptic shock. Multivariable analysis showed continent urinary derivation as the only significant predictor of UTI with an odds ratio of 5.03 (95% confidence interval 2.12-11.9, P < 0.001). The duration of perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis was not associated with an increased risk of UTI. Enterococcus was the most commonly isolated bacteria (25.7%), but this species is not covered by the recommended antibiotic prophylaxis.

CONCLUSION

Patients with continent urinary diversion after RC have a significantly higher risk of developing UTI. Prolonged perioperative administration of antibiotics does not seem to reduce the risk of UTI. Enterococcus as the most commonly isolated bacteria is not covered by most recommended antibiotic prophylaxis regimens. Therefore different antibiotic regimens should be considered for high-risk patients.

[Oncological results of a series of 93 laparoscopic radical cystectomies: 5 years of follow-up]

OBJECTIVE

To report oncological results at 5 years after laparoscopic radical cystectomy (LRC) with lymph node dissection for bladder cancer (BC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This is a retrospective single-center study of all patients who underwent LRC for BC by the same surgeon from February 2007 to March 2016. Demographic, perioperative and oncologic data were collected. We reported overall survival rate (OS), cancer specific (CSS) and recurrence-free survival (SSR), as primary indicators of oncologycal outcomes. These survival rates were estimated according to the Kaplan-Meier method. Log-rank tests were used to explore overall survival according tumor stage, lymph node involvement and surgical margins status.

RESULTS

In all, 93 patients (82 men and 11 women) underwent LRC. Mean age was 59 years. Minor complications (Clavien I-II) occurred in 24.7%. Major complications (Clavien IIIa-V) were observed in 8.6%. No patients received neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Median lymph node (LN) yield was 15 and 26.5% patients had positive LN. The positive surgical margins (SMs) rate was 5.3%. Median follow-up for the entire patients was 50 months (19-84 months). Forty-three patients (46.2%) were followed for at least 71 months. Five year RFS, CSS and OS were 67%, 85% and 79%, respectively. Non organ confined desease, positive LN and positive SMs were associated with poorer OS (P<0.039, P<0.016 and P<0.001).

CONCLUSION

LRC was associated with acceptable long-term oncologic outcomes, similar to those currently reported after open cystectomy for BC.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3.

[Evaluation of the learning curve of laparoscopic radical cystectomy for cancer: Morbidity and oncological results]

INTRODUCTION

The objective of this work was to evaluate the impact of the laparoscopic radical cystectomy learning curve on perioperative and oncological outcomes.

PATIENT AND METHODS

This is a retrospective and single-center study of all patients who underwent laparoscopic radical cystectomy for bladder cancer from February 2007 to March 2016, (93 patients) Perioperative and oncological data were collected. We used mixed statistical models to predict the number of patients needed in the learning phase. We compared the perioperative parameters of the patients in the learning phase with those of the rest of the patients. Overall survival was estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method.

RESULTS

Thirty-six patients are required for the learning phase (P1). The expertise phase begins after the 36th LRC (P2). In both phases, there was no significant difference in age, ASA score, and tumor stage (P=0.237, P=0.577, P=0.998). Mean operative time was 328.3min and 262.4min in P1 and P2 (P=0.0001), mean blood loss was 333.7mL and 194.3mL in P1 and P2 respectively (P=0.0003). The rate of major complications was high in the learning phase (P=0.042). There was no significant difference in lymph node yield, positive surgical margins and overall survival (P=0.068, P=0.194, P=0.703).

CONCLUSION

This learning experience was evaluated without compromising oncological results, but with a significantly higher rate of major complications.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3.

Complications After Ileal Urinary Derivations

Introduction

The aim of the study was to determine the most frequent early and late complications in different types of ileal urinary diversions.

Patients and methods

The study was conducted in a five-year period, on 106 patients who were diagnosed with invasive urinary bladder cancer and who had indication for radical cystectomy with one of the investigated types of urine derivation. They were divided into 2 groups, based on the type of ileal urinary diversions.

Results

The colonization of bacteria was more prominently present in the ileal conduit urinary diversion group (97%) compared to Ghoneim (25%) and Hautmann (10%) group, Ureteral stenosis was slightly less represented in the conduit group (9.1%). Wound infections were significantly more represented in the conduit (21.2%) than in the Ghoneim group (5%) Nighttime incontinence was present in 20% of patients in both groups or 4 patients in each group. Daytime incontinence in the Ghoneim group was present in 3 patients (15%) and in the Hautmann group 2 patients (10%). Late complications correlate significantly negative with the type of surgery and slightly negative with the grade, and significantly positively with the examined group and T stage, and slightly correlate positively to the N and R stages. Early complications correlate slightly negative with the type of surgery, slightly negative with the grade, and significantly positively with T stage, and slightly positively correlates with the N and R stage.

Conclusion

The most commonly reported complications in ileal conduit are: prolonged ileus, stoma infection, wound dehiscence and bacterial colonization, followed by peristomal skin complications and complications related only to the stoma, such as stenosis and stoma retraction, and prolaps of ileostoma and ileointestinal stenosis. The ileus rate in orthotopic derivation was significantly lower than that of the ileal conduit group, which led to the conclusion that the neomybladder position does not disturb the anatomic abdominal structure.

Female radical cystectomy patients have a higher risk of surgical site infections

INTRODUCTION

Surgical site infections (SSI) are common after radical cystectomy. The objectives of this study were to evaluate if female sex is associated with postoperative SSI and if experiencing an SSI was associated with subsequent adverse events.

METHODS

This was a historical cohort study of radical cystectomy patients from the American College of Surgeons' National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database between 2006 and 2016. The primary outcome was development of a SSI (superficial, deep, or organ/abdominal space) within 30 days of surgery. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the association between sex and other patient/procedural factors with SSI. Female patients with SSI were also compared to those without SSI to determine risk of subsequent adverse events.

RESULTS

A total of 9,275 radical cystectomy patients met the inclusion criteria. SSI occurred in 1,277(13.7%) patients, 308 (16.4%) females and 969 (13.1%) males (odds ratio = 1.27; 95% confidence interval 1.10-1.47; P = 0.009). Infections were superficial in 150 (8.0%) females versus 410 (5.5%) males (P < 0.0001), deep in 40 (2.1%) females versus 114 (1.5%) males (P = 0.07), and organ/abdominal space in 118 (6.2%) females versus 445 (6.0%) males (P = 0.66). On multivariable analysis, female sex was independently associated with SSI (odds ratio = 1.21 confidence interval 1.01-1.43 P = 0.03). Females who experience SSI had higher probability of developing other complications including wound dehiscence, septic shock, and need for reoperation (all P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Female sex is an independent risk factor for SSI following radical cystectomy. More detailed study of patient factors, pathogenic microbes, and treatment factors are needed to prescribe the best measures for infection prophylaxis.

Cystectomy for bladder cancer in elderly patients is not associated with increased 30- and 90-day mortality or readmission, length of stay, and cost: propensity score matching using a population database

Purpose

Radical cystectomy (RC) is an effective but underused treatment for bladder cancer in elderly patients. This study performed analysis of propensity scores (PSs) to determine the outcomes of RC for elderly patients, with results generalizable at the population-based level.

Patients and methods

We conducted a population-based, retrospective cohort study of patients who underwent RC in Taiwan during 2000–2010. Multivariable logistic regression was implemented to evaluate 30- and 90-day mortality and readmission rates, length of intensive care unit (ICU) stay, length of hospital stay (LOS), and cost. Enrolled patients were divided into younger (≤75 years) and older groups (>75 years) who were matched according to their PSs.

Results

We identified 430 patients with bladder cancer who underwent RC between 2000 and 2010. Older age was not significantly associated with 30-day readmission (odds ratio [OR] = 0.80, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.38–1.70), 90-day readmission (OR = 1.10, 95% CI = 0.60–2.00), 30-day mortality (OR = 3.07, 95% CI = 0.31–30.0), or 90-day mortality (OR = 2.98, 95% CI = 0.91–9.70) in the PS-matched group. Similar trends were also observed for both groups regarding the mean length of ICU stay, LOS, and overall medical expenditure within the same admission.

Conclusion

No significant differences existed between the older and younger groups for 30-and 90-day mortality and readmission rates, length of ICU stay, LOS, and medical expenditure in patients undergoing RC for bladder cancer. Some healthy elderly patients may be good candidates for this extensive curative treatment.

Robot-assisted radical cystectomy - first Polish clinical outcomes

Introduction

Urothelial cell carcinoma is the most common neoplasm of the genito-urinary tract, which, in advanced stages, is treated with radical cystectomy with pelvic lymphadenectomy. It can be performed by an open or minimally invasive approach (laparoscopic and robot-assisted radical cystectomy).

Large meta-analyses showed a significantly lower complication rate in the RARC (robot-assisted radical cystectomy) group compared to ORC (open radical cystectomy) in thirty and ninety days after surgery, with similar oncological and functional outcomes. The clinical outcomes of the first forty Polish RARC are explored in this article.

Material and methods

The Polish Radical Robotic Cystectomy Program (PRRC) was started in 2016 at the Nicolaus Copernicus Hospital in Toruń. Forty consecutive patients, with indications for cystectomy were included into the study. During radical robot-assisted cystectomy, obturator, external, internal, common iliac and presacral lymph nodes were dissected. Oncological outcomes, early complication rate, and the clinical variables were analyzed.

Results

The mean age in the study group was sixty-seven years, with the majority of patients being overweight and assessed as American Society of Anesthesiology Scale (ASA) – ASA III and ASA IV (2/3 of patients).

RARC was performed, with the median time of surgery being 324 minutes (170 minutes being the shortest). Mean blood loss was 365 ml (lowest – 50 ml), and only 2 patients required intraoperative blood transfusion.

Twenty patients had ileal conduit, and nineteen had other methods of urinary diversion. Only twenty-nine out of forty patients had minor complications (Clavien I and II), 11 had Clavien III and IV. Clavien V was not present. Only 3 patients required reoperation.

Conclusions

RARC is a reproducible oncological procedure, which can be safely performed in centers with robotic expertise, with acceptable operative time, complications, and functional and oncologic outcomes.

Tranexamic Acid versus Placebo to Prevent Blood Transfusion during Radical Cystectomy for Bladder Cancer (TACT): Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Radical cystectomy for bladder cancer is associated with a high risk of needing red blood cell transfusion. Tranexamic acid reduces blood loss during cardiac and orthopedic surgery, but no study has yet evaluated tranexamic acid use during cystectomy.

METHODS

A randomized, double-blind (surgeon-, anesthesiologist-, patient-, data-monitor-blinded), placebo-controlled trial of tranexamic acid during cystectomy was initiated in June 2013. Prior to incision, the intervention arm participants receive a 10 mg/kg loading dose of intravenously administered tranexamic acid, followed by a 5 mg/kg/h maintenance infusion. In the control arm, the patient receives an identical volume of normal saline that is indistinguishable from the intervention. The primary outcome is any blood transfusion from the start of surgery up to 30 days post operative. There are no strict criteria to mandate the transfusion of blood products. The decision to transfuse is entirely at the discretion of the treating physicians who are blinded to patient allocation. Physicians are allowed to utilize all resources to make transfusion decisions, including serum hemoglobin concentration and vital signs. To date, 147 patients of a planned 354 have been randomized to the study.

DISCUSSION

This protocol reviews pertinent data relating to blood transfusion during radical cystectomy, highlighting the need to identify methods for reducing blood loss and preventing transfusion in patients receiving radical cystectomy. It explains the clinical rationale for using tranexamic acid to reduce blood loss during cystectomy, and outlines the study methods of our ongoing randomized controlled trial.

TRIAL REGISTRATIONS

Canadian Institute for Health Research (CIHR) Protocol: MOP-342559; ClinicalTrials.gov, ID: NCT01869413. Registered on 5 June 2013.

Role of bowel suspension technique to prevent early intestinal obstruction after radical cystectomy with ileal orthotopic neobladder: A retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

We investigate the impact of the bowel suspension technique (BST) on paralytic ileus and early intestinal obstruction (≤60days) after radical cystectomy (RC) with ileal orthotopic neobladder (IONB).

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 310 patients who underwent RC with IONB for bladder cancer between 2001 and 2017. After forming the Studer IONB, ileal continuity was restored by side-to-side stapled anastomosis. Then, we suspended stapled anastomotic portion of bowel on the posterior peritoneum not to fall into the pelvic cavity. The clinicopathologic characteristics of patients were examined and the onset of paralytic ileus and early intestinal obstruction were identified. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify predictors associated with paralytic ileus and early intestinal obstruction.

RESULTS

Of the 310 total patients, paralytic ileus and early intestinal obstruction were identified in 100 (32.3%) and 15 (4.8%), respectively. When patients were divided into two groups (BST [-] vs. BST [+]), the rates of paralytic ileus were not significantly different (64/205[31.2%] vs. 36/105[34.3%], P = 0.585). However, early intestinal obstruction that required surgical treatment was significantly decreased (14/205[6.8%] vs. 1/105[1.0%], P = 0.024). On multivariate analysis, older age was commonly associated with paralytic ileus and early intestinal obstruction (P = 0.008 and P = 0.016). BST was inversely associated with early intestinal obstruction (95% CI: 0.01-0.85, P = 0.034), but not related to paralytic ileus.

CONCLUSION

BST significantly reduced early intestinal obstruction without increasing paralytic ileus after RC with IONB. BST could be used as useful technique to reduce severe bowel complications.

Effects of Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs as Patient Controlled Analgesia on Early Bowel Function Recovery after Radical Cystectomy

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of ketorolac, a commonly used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) as patient controlled intravenous infusion analgesia (PCIA) for the patients underwent radical cystectomy (RC) due to bladder cancer regarding post-operational indices of recovery. Total seventy patients who underwent radical cystectomy for the treatment of bladder cancer were included in the study. 35 patients received ketorolac as PCIA (NSAIDS group) and 35 patients had morphine infusion as PCIA (morphine group). Pain intensity, bowel function recovery and length of hospital stay were evaluated. Early postoperative complications were analyzed according to surgical types (robot RC vs. open RC). Demographics were similar between two groups. NSAIDS group showed a significant reduction in postoperative vomiting (p = 0.001), time to flatus (p = 0.028), time to first bowel movement (p = 0.001) and time to first clear liquid diet (p = 0.002) compared with morphine group. No statistically significant differences were observed between two groups regarding length of hospitalization, and postoperative complications. For 48 hours after RC, pain relief was slightly better in morphine group (p < 0.001). Both open RC and robot RC cases showed significantly better bowel function recovery with NSAIDS groups. Ketorolac as PCIA is relatively effective in pain management with better gastrointestinal recovery after RC.

Prophylactic antibiotics following radical cystectomy reduces urinary tract infections and readmission for sepsis from a urinary source

INTRODUCTION

Urinary tract infections (UTI) and sepsis contribute significantly to the morbidity associated with cystectomy and urinary diversion in the first 30 days. We hypothesized that continuous antibiotic prophylaxis decreased UTIs in the first 30 days following radical cystectomy.

METHODS

Patients with urothelial carcinoma of the bladder who underwent a radical cystectomy with urinary diversion for bladder cancer at Oregon Health and Science University from January 2014 to May 2015 were included in the study. The ureteral stents were kept for 3 weeks in both groups. In October 2014, we enacted a Department Quality Initiative to reduce UTIs. Following the initiative, all radical cystectomy patients were discharged home on antibiotic prophylaxis following a postoperative urine culture obtained during hospitalization. To evaluate the effectiveness of the initiative, the last 42 patients before the initiative were compared to the first 42 patients after the initiative with regard to the rate of UTI in the first 30 days following surgery. We used a combination of comprehensive chart review and the American College of Surgeons' National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) to determine UTI and readmission for urosepsis in the first 30 days following surgery. This ensured accurate capture of all patients developing a UTI.

RESULTS

A total of 12% in the prophylactic antibiotic group had a documented UTI, whereas 36% in the no antibiotic group had a urinary tract infection (P<0.004). A total of 1 (2%) patient in the antibiotic group was readmitted for urosepsis whereas 7 (17%) patients in the no antibiotic group were admitted for urosepsis (P = 0.02). There was no association noted between urine culture at discharge and the development of UTI in the 30-day postdischarge period (P = 0.75). The median time to UTI was 19 days and the most common organism was Enterococcus (32%). Thirty-percent of patients not receiving prophylaxis developed a UTI 1 day after ureteral stent removal. No patients had a UTI following stent removal in the prophylaxis group. No adverse antibiotic related events were noted.

CONCLUSION

Prophylactic antibiotics in the 30 days following radical cystectomy is associated with a significant decrease in urinary tract infections and readmission from urosepsis after surgery.

The current status of robot-assisted cystectomy

Robot-assistance is being increasingly used for radical cystectomy (RC). Fifteen years of surgical evolution might be considered a short period for a radical procedure to be established as the treatment of choice, but robot assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) is showing promising results when compared with the current gold standard, open RC (ORC). In this review, we describe the current status of RARC and continue the discussion on the on-going RARC versus ORC debate.

Is the open cystectomy era over? An update on the available evidence

In 2018, robot-assisted radical cystectomy will enter its 15th year. In an era where an effort is being made to standardize complication reporting and videos of the procedure are readily available, it is inevitable and justified that like everything novel, robot-assisted radical cystectomy should be scrutinized against the gold standard, open radical cystectomy. The present comparison is focused on several parameters: oncological, functional and complication outcomes, and direct and indirect costs. Meta-analysis and prospective randomized trials comparing robot-assisted radical cystectomy versus open radical cystectomy have been published, showing an oncological equivalence and in some cases an advantage of robot-assisted radical cystectomy in terms of postoperative morbidity. In the present review, we attempt to update the available knowledge on this debate and discuss the limitations of the current evidence that prevent us from drawing safe conclusions.

Systematic review of perioperative outcomes and complications after open, laparoscopic and robot-assisted radical cystectomy

Radical cystectomy and regional lymph node dissection is the standard treatment for localized muscle-invasive and for high-risk non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer, and represents one of the main surgical urologic procedures. The open surgical approach is still widely adopted, even if in the last two decades efforts have been made in order to evaluate if minimally invasive procedures, either laparoscopic or robot-assisted, might show a benefit compared to the standard technique. Open radical cystectomy is associated with a high complication rate, but data from the laparoscopic and robotic surgical series failed to demonstrate a clear reduction in post-operative complication rates compared to the open surgical series. Laparoscopic and robotic radical cystectomy show a reduction in blood loss, in-hospital stay and transfusion rates but a longer operative time, while open radical cystectomy is typically associated with a shorter operative time but with a longer in-hospital admission and possibly a higher rate of high grade complications.

Treatment of Non-Metastatic Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer: AUA/ASCO/ASTRO/SUO Guideline

PURPOSE

This multidisciplinary, evidence-based guideline for clinically non-metastatic muscle-invasive bladder cancer focuses on the evaluation, treatment and surveillance of muscle-invasive bladder cancer guided toward curative intent.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic review utilizing research from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality as well as additional supplementation by the authors and consultant methodologists was used to develop the guideline. Evidence-based statements were based on body of evidence strengths Grade A, B or C and were designated as Strong, Moderate and Conditional Recommendations with additional statements presented in the form of Clinical Principles or Expert Opinions.

RESULTS

For the first time for any type of malignancy, the American Urological Association, American Society of Clinical Oncology, American Society for Radiation Oncology and Society of Urologic Oncology have formulated an evidence-based guideline based on a risk-stratified clinical framework for the management of muscle-invasive urothelial bladder cancer. This document is designed to be used in conjunction with the associated treatment algorithm.

CONCLUSIONS

The intensity and scope of care for muscle-invasive bladder cancer should focus on the patient, disease and treatment response characteristics. This guideline attempts to improve a clinician's ability to evaluate and treat each patient, but higher quality evidence in future trials will be essential to improve level of care for these patients.

Introduction of robot-assisted radical cystectomy within an established enhanced recovery programme

OBJECTIVES

To describe the implementation phase of a robot-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) programme including side-effect profiles and impact on length of stay (LOS).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In all, 114 consecutive patients (82% male) underwent RARC and urinary diversion between April 2013 and December 2015 [ileal conduit (97 patients) and orthotopic neobladder (17)]. Surgery was performed by two surgeons within a designated regional cancer centre. No exclusion criteria were applied. All patients were managed on the Exeter Enhanced Recovery Pathway (ERP) in a unit where embedded enhanced recovery practice was already established. Data were collected prospectively on the national cystectomy registry - the British Association of Urological Surgeons (BAUS) Complex Operations Dataset.

RESULTS

RARC was technically feasible in all but one case. The mean operating time was 3-5 h with an overall transfusion rate of 8.8%. There were higher-grade complications (Clavien-Dindo grade III-IV) in 18.4% of patients, with a 30-day mortality rate of 0.9%. The median (range) LOS after RARC was 7 (3-68) days, with a re-admission rate of 18.4%.

CONCLUSIONS

The present series shows that RARC can be safely implemented in a unit experienced in robot-assisted surgery (RAS). Case-selection in this setting is not deemed necessary. There are benefits in terms of lower transfusion rates and reduced LOS. The side-effect profile appears to differ from that of open RC, and despite the fact that complication rate is equivalent; 'technical' complications are over-represented in the RAS group. As such, they should improve with experience, recognition, and modification of surgical technique. ERPs can be safely applied to all patients undergoing RARC to maximise the benefits of minimally invasive surgery.