Significance of Distal Ureteral Margin at Radical Cystectomy for Urothelial Carcinoma

The impact of double-J ureteral stenting before radical cystectomy on the development of upper tract urothelial carcinoma

BACKGROUND

It is controversial whether the use of a double-J stent (DJ) in patients with bladder cancer before radical cystectomy (RC) increases the risk of tumour seeding in the upper tract and thus the risk of metachronous upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC). The aim of our study is to investigate the risk of upper tract recurrence after RC in patients previously managed with a DJ stent.

METHODS

A total of 699 patients who had undergone RC between January 2003 and March 2022 with complete perioperative data and pathological outcome were included in our study. Patients treated preoperatively with a DJ stent were identified and compared for development of metachronous UTUC with those who did not receive prior internal stenting. Multivariable Cox regression analysis was used to determine predictors of UTUC occurrence among the possible pathological features; risk factors for mortality after RC were also examined.

RESULTS

Of 699 patients, 117 (16.7%) were managed preoperatively with a DJ stent. The overall probability of metachronous UTUC was 1%, 4% and 6% at 1, 3 and 5 years, respectively. The groups with and without DJ stenting were comparable regarding their clinicopathologic features, except for the higher incidence of hydronephrosis in the DJ group. At similar follow-up periods (median follow-up 32 months), metachronous UTUC was detected in four (3.4%) patients in the DJ group and in 13 (2.2%) in the non-stented group (P=0.44). The median interval (IQR) from cystectomy to UTUC was 40.5 (20-49) months in the DJ group and 37 (24-82) in the non-stented group (P=0.7). In the multivariable analysis, only presence of CIS (HR 3.83, 95% CI 1.19-12.29, P=0.024) and positive ureteral margin (HR=5.2, 95% CI 1.38-19.57, P=0.015) were predictors of metachronous UTUC. The study is limited by the retrospective nature and relatively short follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Ureteral stenting for management of hydronephrosis in patients with bladder cancer undergoing RC is a viable option, without higher risk for UTUC or mortality. Patients with positive ureteral margin and CIS are considered high-risk groups for upper tract recurrence and should receive long-term, rigorous follow-up.

Cumulative incidence and risk factors for recurrence of upper tract urothelial carcinoma in patients undergoing radical cystectomy

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the cumulative incidence of upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) recurrence and identify its risk factors in patients who underwent radical cystectomy (RC).

Patients and methods

We performed RC on 385 patients between September 2002 and February 2020. After excluding 20 patients-13 with simultaneous nephroureterectomy, 6 with distal ureteral stump positivity and 1 with urachal cancer-365 patients were included in the analysis. To predict UTUC recurrence, we examined the cancer extension pattern in cystectomy specimens and categorized them into three types: cancer located only in the bladder (bladder-only type), cancer extending to the urethra or distal ureter (one-extension type) and cancer extending to both the urethra and distal ureter (both-extension type). We determined hazard ratios for UTUC recurrence for each covariate, including this cancer extension pattern.

Results

Of the 365 patients, 60% had the bladder-only type, 30% had the one-extension type and 10% had the both-extension type. During a median follow-up period of 72 months for survivors, UTUC recurred in 25 of the 365 patients, with cumulative incidences of 3.7% at 5 years and 8.3% at 10 years. The median interval from cystectomy to recurrence was 65 months (interquartile range: 36-92 months). In the multivariate analysis, the extension pattern was a significant predictor of UTUC recurrence. The hazard ratios for UTUC recurrence were 3.12 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.15-8.43, p = 0.025) for the one-extension type and 5.96 (95% CI = 1.98-17.91, p = 0.001) for the both-extension type compared with the bladder-only type.

Conclusions

The cancer extension pattern in cystectomy specimens is predictive of UTUC recurrence. A more extensive cancer extension in cystectomy specimens elevates the risk of subsequent UTUC recurrence. Intensive long-term monitoring is essential, particularly for patients with the both-extension type.

Upper Tract Urinary Cancer Recurrence after Radical Cystectomy: Risk Assessment of Intraoperative Frozen Section

<b><i>Introduction:</i></b> Upper tract urinary cancer recurrence (UTUCR) after radical cystectomy (RC) is outcome-limiting. Surgical recommendations on intraoperative performance of frozen section analysis (FSA) and management of positive ureteral margin (PUM) are lacking. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> 634 RC cases were identified (2010–2018). In patients with PUM, sequential ureteral resections up to a negative margin were performed. We investigated the accuracy of FSA, significance of PUM, and identified risk factors (RFs) to stratify patients for UTUCR. <b><i>Results:</i></b> FSA was performed in 355 patients, including a total of 693 ureters. FSA sensitivity was 0.93 and specificity 0.99. PUM conversion was possible in 52 (91.2%) cases. UTUCR occurred in 17 (4.8%) patients. Identified UTUCR RFs are non-muscle invasive bladder carcinoma (NMIBC) (OR 3.8, 95% confidence intervals [CI] 1.4–10.2, <i>p</i> = 0.008), multifocal bladder cancer in cystectomy specimen (OR 4.7, CI 1.1–20.8, <i>p</i> = 0.042), and recurrent NMIBC (OR 4.1, CI 1.5–10.9, <i>p</i> = 0.006). Risk-group stratification showed a six-fold increase in UTUCR risk (low-to high-risk). <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> FSA is a sensitive and specific method to identify PUM. UTUCR occurs significantly more often in patients with recurrent, multifocal NMIBC at the time of RC. Patients can be risk stratified for UTUCR. In case of NMIBC-PUM, surgeons can safely opt for a kidney preserving strategy.

Hybrid ileal pouch with concomitant anti-refluxing and refluxing ureteroileal anastomosis

PURPOSE

We report our preliminary experience of using a hybrid ileal pouch, assessing oncologic outcomes, complications, voiding, and renal function.

METHODS

The study included 25 patients with bladder cancer treated with radical cystectomy with a hybrid ileal pouch with concomitant anti-refluxing and refluxing anastomosis, performed by a single surgeon. The patients were divided into two groups (first and last cases) according to the surgery date. Postoperative complications, separate renal function by renal scan, voiding function by uroflowmetry with residual urine, and oncologic outcomes were assessed.

RESULTS

The surgery duration was shorter in the last cases than the first cases. The voiding volume increased with time. There were 23 cases of grade 3 complication in 12 patients and one case of grade 4 complication (sepsis). In the first cases, ureterovesical stenosis occurred in five cases, whereas in the last cases, there were no cases of stenosis. In separate renal function, there was no difference between the left and right side or between the first and last cases.

CONCLUSIONS

The hybrid ileal pouch showed acceptable oncologic and functional outcomes and complications; therefore, it can be used according to the appropriate surgical situation with a relatively short bowel segment during neobladder construction.

Accuracy of Frozen Section Analysis of Urethral and Ureteral Margins During Radical Cystectomy for Bladder Cancer: A Systematic Review and Diagnostic Meta-Analysis

CONTEXT

The question of the ability of frozen section analysis (FSA) to accurately detect malignant pathology intraoperatively has been discussed for many decades.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis assessing the diagnostic estimates of FSA of the urethral and ureteral margins in patients treated with radical cystectomy (RC) for bladder cancer (BCa).

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

The MEDLINE and EMBASE databases were searched in February 2021 for studies analyzing the association between FSA and the final urethral and ureteral margin status in patients treated with RC for BCa. The primary endpoint was the value of pathologic detection of urethral and ureteral malignant involvement with FSA during RC compared with the final margin status. We included studies that provided true positive, true negative, false positive, and false negative values for FSA, which allowed us to calculate the diagnostic estimates.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Fourteen studies, comprising 8208 patients, were included in the quantitative synthesis. Forest plots revealed that the pooled sensitivity and specificity for FSA of urethral margins during RC were 0.83 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.38-0.97) and 0.95 (95% CI 0.91-0.97), respectively. While for the FSA of ureteral margins, the pooled sensitivity and specificity were 0.77 (95% CI 0.67-0.84) and 0.97 (95% CI 0.95-0.98), respectively. Calculated diagnostic odds ratios indicated high FSA effectiveness, and patients with a positive urethral or ureteral margin at final pathology are over 100 times more likely to have positive FSA than patients without margin involvement at final pathology. Area under the curves of 96.6% and 96.7% were reached for FSA detection of urethral and ureteral tumor involvement, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Intraoperative FSA demonstrated high diagnostic performance in detecting both urethral and ureteral malignant involvement at the time of RC for BCa. FSA of both urethral and ureteral margins during RC is accurate enough to be of great value in the routine management of BCa patients treated with RC. While its specificity was great to guide intraoperative decision-making, its sensitivity remains suboptimal yet.

PATIENT SUMMARY

We believe that the frozen section analysis of both urethral and ureteral margins during radical cystectomy should be considered more often in urologic practice, until quality of life-based cost-effectiveness studies can identify patients within each institution who are unlikely to benefit from it.

Achieving disease free distal ureteral margin at the time of radical cystectomy: Why and for whom? (an overview of literature)

OBJECTIVE

Achieving negative status of distal ureteral margin at the time of radical cystectomy (RC), and its therapeutic benefit, remains controversial. The aim of this review was to evaluate frequency, reliability and impact of positive distal ureteral margin after radical cystectomy for bladder cancer on upper tract recurrence, cancer specific and overall survival, and to identify best candidates for intraoperative frozen section analyses.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A systemic review was performed following the PRISMA guideline. PubMed/Medline (with following terms; bladder cancer or cystectomy and frozen section or ureteral margin), and Cochrane Library were searched up to April 2020, to identify all papers evaluating distal ureteral margin and discussing clinical interest. Previous reviews and single case reports were excluded.

RESULTS

In total, thirty-two relevant studies were identified. Mean rate of positive ureteral frozen section after RC was close to 10% [1.1-25.4%]. Frozen section (FS) achieved a very good specificity [83-100%] and reserved sensibility [45-100%]. In many cases, an initial positive margin on FS can be converted to negative. Positive FS and/or PS (permanent section) were associated with upper urinary tract recurrence (UUTR). Conversion from positive FS to negative PS was associated with low UUTR frequency and better cancer survival in large retrospective studies. The relevant prognostic factor associated with positive FS and/or PS was CIS within the bladder.

CONCLUSION

FS should be recommended for patients with CIS within the bladder. Achieving negative FS/PS might be associated with lower rates of UUTR and better survival, for patients with higher life expectancy. Prospective randomized controlled studies need to be performed to provide definitive recommendations in this area.

The impact of carcinoma in situ in ureteral margins during radical cystectomy: A case-controlled study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

The presence of carcinoma in situ (Cis) in association with bladder cancer is associated with a poor prognosis. However, the prognosis associated with the presence of Cis in ureteral margins (CUM) during radical cystectomy has been poorly defined. To assess the prognosis associated with the presence of Cis in ureteral margins in patients with pM0 bladder cancer who have not undergone neoadjuvant chemotherapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective case-control study was conducted between 2001 and 2016 using data from one academic center in France. From 1,450 radical cystectomies, 122 patients (case) who had CUM were matched according to age, sex, pTNM stage and urinary diversion method with a population sample of 122 patients (controls) who did not have Cis in ureteral margins during radical cystectomy. The survival analysis was performed by Kaplan-Meier using a (95%) CI. Multivariate Cox regression analysis was used to test the effect of CUM on cancer-specific survival. Recurrence-free survival was defined as a recurrence of urothelial carcinoma in the upper urinary tract.

RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS

The mean follow-up period was 55.43 ± 39.6 months. The rate of Cis in the bladder in the CUM cases group was evaluated at 11.47%. The median overall and specific survival was inferior in the CUM cases group estimated at 43.3 [35.33-56.93] months, 52.43 [42.16-68.93] months respectively compared to the control group with a significant difference (P= 0.001, P= 0.0039). The cumulative probability of urothelial recurrence-free survival was decreased in the case group compared with the control group (63.9% vs. 92.6%, P = 0.0001). Multivariate analysis shown that urothelial recurrence was associated with CUM [(P <0.001), (HR adjusted =11.31), (95% CI): (3.38-37.77)] and the macroscopic appearance of the ureter (thickened, dilated) [(P= 0.003), (HR adjusted =4.62), (95% CI): (3.31-8.84)].

CONCLUSION

CUM is a poor prognostic factor that impacts cancer-specific survival and Recurrence-free survival. The presence of CUM has been independently associated with a significant increase in the risk of urothelial recurrence, and a decrease in both overall and specific survival. This supports the use of frozen section analysis to complete radical cystectomy without CUM.

Ureteral and urethral recurrence after radical cystectomy: a systematic review

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The clinical significance of ureteral and urethral recurrence in patients treated with radical cystectomy for bladder cancer is scarce and heterogeneous. The aim of the current review is to summarize the recent literature on incidence, diagnosis and oncologic outcomes of ureteral and urethral recurrences after radical cystectomy.

RECENT FINDINGS

Frozen section analysis (FSA) of ureteral margin had a sensitivity and specificity of 69-77 and 83-96%, respectively. Considering the ureteral margin, the reported sensitivity and specificity were 33-93 and 99-100%, respectively. Transurethral biopsy of the prostatic urethra might help in counseling patients' treatment, although its accuracy and prognostic role is highly questionable. In patients treated with radical cystectomy, recurrence of the urethra or ureteral are rare, occurring approximately in 5% of patients. During the follow-up, urinary cytology and cross-sectional imaging improve the early detection of recurrence in asymptomatic patients, although the majority are diagnosed for symptomatic presentation. Their use should be tailored to the patient's risk of ureteral and/or urethral recurrence. Urethrectomy is indicated in case of singular urethral recurrence, whereas no clear data exists regarding the best management of ureteral recurrence, except surgical removal.

SUMMARY

Intraoperative FSA of ureters and urethra share good specificity but poor sensitivity. Recurrence at urethra and upper tract are rare and discordant data exists regarding survival outcomes. Oncologic surveillance after radical cystectomy with the aim to detect these recurrences should be tailored to the individualized patient's risk.

The impact of routine frozen section analysis during partial cystectomy for bladder cancer on surgical margin status and long-term oncologic outcome

OBJECTIVES

The utility of frozen section analysis (FSA) during partial cystectomy has not been established. We assessed the impact of intraoperative FSA in partial cystectomy cases on surgical margin (SM) status and patient outcome.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

A retrospective review identified 76 consecutive patients who underwent partial cystectomy for bladder carcinoma with (n = 66; 87%) or without (n = 10; 13%) FSA for SMs at our institution from 2004 to 2018. FSA was correlated with the diagnosis of the frozen section control, the status of final SM, and the prognosis.

RESULTS

Final SM was positive in 9 (12%) cystectomies, including 6 (9%) FSA vs. 3 (30%) non-FSA cases (P = 0.091). There were no significant differences in tumor size, histology, or tumor grade/stage between the 2 cohorts. FSAs were reported as positive (n = 7; 11%), atypical (n = 10; 15%), and negative (n = 49; 74%). All of the positive and negative FSA diagnoses were confirmed accurate on the frozen section controls, whereas atypical diagnoses were revised to benign (n = 4), atypical (n = 4), and carcinoma (n = 2) on the controls. Ten (77%) of 13 initial FSA-positive (6 of 7)/atypical (4 of 6; excluding benign diagnoses on the controls) cases achieved negative conversion by excision of additional tissue. Thus, final SM was positive in 1 (14%) FSA-positive case, 3 (30%) FSA-atypical cases (including one at the SM where FSA was not sampled), and 2 (4%) FSA-negative cases (at the SM where FSA was not sampled). Kaplan-Meier analysis and log-rank test revealed an association of performing FSA with the risk of disease progression (P = 0.021), but not intravesical recurrence (P = 0.434) or cancer-specific mortality (P = 0.560). Initial positive/atypical FSA, as an independent prognosticator, was associated with reduced progression-free (P = 0.002) and cancer-specific (P = 0.004) survival rates, compared with initial negative FSA. Positive SM was also associated with a larger tumor size (P < 0.05) and a higher risk of intravesical recurrence (P = 0.070) or disease progression (P = 0.096).

CONCLUSIONS

Performing FSA during partial cystectomy may contribute to preventing positive SM and disease progression. Additionally, as seen in most of initial FSA-positive/atypical cases that achieved negative conversion, select patients may benefit from the routine FSA. Meanwhile, positive or atypical FSA was associated with significantly poorer prognosis.

Can frozen-section analysis of ureteric margins at the time of radical cystectomy predict upper tract recurrence?

Objective

To summarise the currently available literature and analyse available results of the outcome of intraoperative frozen-section analysis (FSA) on upper urinary tract recurrence (UUTR) after radical cystectomy (RC).

Materials and methods

A systematic review of the literature was performed according to the Cochrane Reviews guidelines and in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) checklist. Articles discussing ureteric FSA with RC were identified.

Results

The literature search yielded 21 studies, on which the present analysis was done. The studies were published between 1997 and 2019. There were 10 010 patients with an age range between 51 and 95 years. Involvement of the ureteric margins was noted in 2–9% at RC. The sensitivity and specificity of FSA were ~75% and 99%, respectively. Adverse pathology on FSA and on permanent section, prostatic urothelial carcinoma involving the stroma but not prostatic duct, and ureteric involvement on permanent section were all more likely to develop UUTR. Neither evidence of ureteric involvement nor ureteric margin status on permanent section were significant predictors of overall survival.

Conclusion

Routine FSA is mandatory for a tumour-free uretero–enteric anastomosis and is predictive of UUTR. To lower the UUTR, FSA is not necessary if the ureters are resected at the level where they cross the common iliac vessels. FSA is indicated whenever the surgeon encounters findings suspicious of malignancy, e.g. ureteric obstruction, periureteric fibrosis, diffuse carcinoma in situ, induration or frank tumour infiltration of the distal ureter is discovered unexpectedly during surgery, and prostatic urethral involvement.

Abbreviations

CIS: carcinoma in situ; FSA: frozen-section analysis; HR: hazard ratio; PRISMA: Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses; RC: radical cystectomy; (UT)UC: (upper tract) urothelial carcinoma; UUT(R): upper urinary tract (recurrence)

Impact of double J stenting or nephrostomy placement during transurethral resection of bladder tumour on the incidence of metachronous upper urinary tract urothelial cancer

Background

Whether or not double J (DJ) stenting during transurethral resection of a bladder tumour (TURBT) harms patients with regard to possible metachronous upper urinary tract urothelial cancer (UUTUC) development remains controversial. This study evaluated the impact of DJ compared to nephrostomy placement during TURBT for bladder cancer (BCa) on the incidence of metachronous UUTUCs.

Methods

We retrospectively analysed 637 patients who underwent TURBT in our department between 2008 and 2016. BCa, UUTUC and urinary drainage data (retrograde/anterograde DJ and percutaneous nephrostomy) were assessed, along with the prevalence of hydronephrosis, and mortality. Chi-square and Fisher’s exact test was performed for univariate analyses. Survival analysis was performed by the Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank tests.

Results

UUTUC was noted in 28 out of 637 patients (4.4%), whereas only eight (1.3%) developed it metachronously to BCa. Out of these, four patients received DJ stents, while four patients received no urinary drainage of the upper urinary tract. Placement of urinary drainage significantly correlated with UUTUC (50.0% vs. 17.9%; p = 0.041). DJ stenting significantly correlated with UUTUC (50.0% vs. 11%; p <  0.01), while no patient with a nephrostomy tube developed UUTUC. UUTUC-free survival rates were significantly lower for patients with DJ stents than for all other patients (p = 0.001). Patients with or without DJ stents had similar overall survival (OS) rates (p = 0.73), whereas patients with nephrostomy tubes had significantly lower OS rates than all other patients (p <  0.001).

Conclusions

Patients with DJ stenting during TURBT for BCa might have an increased risk of developing metachronous UUTUC. This study indicated advantages in placing nephrostomy tubes rather than DJ stents; however, confirmation requires investigation of a larger cohort. Even so, the increased mortality rate in the nephrostomy group reflected hydronephrosis as an unfavourable prognostic factor.

Dataset for the reporting of carcinoma of the bladder-cystectomy, cystoprostatectomy and diverticulectomy specimens: recommendations from the International Collaboration on Cancer Reporting (ICCR)

The International Collaboration on Cancer Reporting (ICCR) is a not for profit organisation whose goal is to produce standardised internationally agreed and evidence-based datasets for pathology reporting. With input from pathologists worldwide, the datasets are intended to be uniform and structured. They include all items necessary for an objective and accurate pathology report which enables clinicians to apply the best treatment for the patient. This dataset has had input from a multidisciplinary ICCR expert panel. The rationale for some items being required and others recommended is explained, based on the latest literature. The dataset incorporates data from the World Health Organization (WHO) 2016, and also from the latest (8th edition) TNM staging system of the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC). Fifteen required elements and eight recommended items are described. This dataset provides all the details for a precise and valuable pathology report required for patient management and prognostication. This dataset is intended for worldwide use, and should facilitate the collection of standardised comparable data on bladder carcinoma at an international level.

Radical Cystectomy in Female Patients - Improving Outcomes

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To review the methods of improving surgical, oncological, and functional outcomes in women with bladder cancer treated with radical cystectomy.

RECENT FINDINGS

Οrthotopic urinary diversion (ONB) is a safe option for well-selected women as it combines high rates of daytime and nighttime continence with exceptional oncologic outcomes. It is considered safe even for patients with limited lymph node disease and trigone involvement, as long as a preoperative biopsy of the bladder neck or an intraoperative frozen section analysis of distal urethral margin rules out malignant disease. Nerve-sparing techniques have shown promising results. For well-selected patients with early invasive disease, sparing of internal genitalia has proven to be oncologically safe. Yet, generally accepted and evidence-based oncological and functional follow-up schemes for women after radical cystectomy are still lacking. Properly designed prospective studies are needed with adequate number of participants in order to safely conclude about a broader use of pelvic organ-sparing cystectomy.

Positive ureteric margins at radical cystectomy: Can it be predicted at initial transurethral resection of bladder tumour?

Objective

To identify primary tumour-related factors at transurethral resection of bladder tumour (TURBT) that may predict positive distal ureteric margins (PUM) at the time of radical cystectomy (RC).

Patients and methods

A retrospective, cohort study was conducted using our institution's data from June 2007 to June 2016. Patients who underwent TURBT followed by RC for non-metastatic urothelial carcinoma (UC) of the bladder were identified. In all, 211 patients underwent RC for UC during the study period. The patients were divided into two groups: Group-I (n = 17) with PUM and Group-II (n = 194) with negative ureteric margins. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine the predictors of PUM.

Results

On univariate analysis, multifocality, tumours involving the ureteric orifice, trigonal tumours, presence of carcinoma in situ (CIS), and lymphovascular invasion at TURBT, were significantly more common in Group-I. On multivariate analysis, tumour involvement in the ureteric orifice(s) and presence of associated CIS significantly predicted PUM.

Conclusions

Primary tumour-related factors on initial TURBT that predicted PUM (at RC) were involvement of the ureteric orifice(s) and presence of associated CIS. These results may help to select patients who can be selectively offered intraoperative frozen section analysis.

Clinical benefits of frozen section assessment during urological surgery: Does it contribute to improving surgical margin status and patient outcomes as previously thought?

Despite significant advances in patient selection as well as surgical technique over the past few decades, it is still not uncommon for patients with urological malignancy and positive surgical margins to be observed. Meanwhile, intraoperative pathology consultation with frozen section assessment, which generally provides useful information for the optimal procedure, has been widely utilized for the assessment of surgical margins during urological surgeries. Thus, it remains unanswered whether intraoperative frozen section assessment has an impact on final surgical margin status as well as long-term oncological outcomes. The present review summarizes and discusses available data assessing the utility of frozen section assessment of the surgical margins during urological surgeries, such as radical prostatectomy, partial nephrectomy and radical cystectomy. The current findings suggest that select patients might benefit from the routine frozen section assessment.

Systematic Review on the Fate of the Remnant Urothelium after Radical Cystectomy

CONTEXT

Urothelial carcinoma is considered a pan-urothelial disease. As such, the remnant urothelium in the upper urinary tract and urethra following radical cystectomy (RC) remains at risk for secondary urothelial tumors (SUTs).

OBJECTIVE

To describe the incidence, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes of patients with SUTs after RC.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A systematic search was conducted using PubMed database according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines to identify studies between 1970 and 2016 reporting on malignant diseases of the urothelium after RC for bladder cancer. The search strategy separated between upper and lower tract urothelial tumors.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Of a total of 1069 studies, 57 were considered for evidence synthesis. SUTs occured in approximately 4-10% of patients after RC. Carcinoma in situ of the bladder, a history of nonmuscle invasive bladder cancer, and tumor involvement of the distal ureter are the strongest risk factors for secondary upper tract tumors. Risk factors for secondary urethral tumors represent urothelial malignancy in the prostatic urethra/prostate and bladder neck (in women), nonorthotopic diversions, and positive findings on permanent sections. The majority of patients (84%) with SUTs, presented with urothelial recurrence without evidence of metastasis. Of those, 84.0% were treated with surgery, 10.5% with systemic chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy, and 5.6% with topical chemotherapy and/or immunotherapy. After a median follow-up of 91 mo (range: 26-155), 65.9% of patients died of disease and 21.5% died of other causes. Detection and treatment of SUTs at an asymptomatic stage can reduce the risks of cancer-specfific and overall mortality by 30%. A limitation of the study is that the available data were retrospective.

CONCLUSIONS

SUTs are rare oncological events and most patients have an adverse prognosis despite absence of distant disease at diagnosis. Therefore, surveillance of the remnant urothelium should be implemented for patients with histological features of panurothelial disease as it may improve timely detection and treatment.

PATIENT SUMMARY

Secondary tumors of the renal pelvis, ureters, and urethra occur in approximately 4-10% of patients after radical removal of the bladder for bladder cancer. These patients' prognoses are reduced, likely due to delayed diagnosis. Therefore, routine surveillance might be important to detect tumors at an early stage.

Utility and significance of ureteric frozen section analysis during radical cystectomy

OBJECTIVE

To assess the utility of routine frozen section analysis of ureters at the time of radical cystectomy (RC) for urothelial cancer (UC), and the long-term outcomes of adverse ureteric pathology.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Pathological data on 2 047 patients undergoing RC for UC with routine frozen section analysis of ureters (January 1971 to December 2009) were analysed. Univariate and multivariable logistic and Cox proportional hazards models were used to determine the risk of upper tract UC (UTUC) recurrence, local recurrence and overall survival in those identified as having adverse pathology (severe atypia/carcinoma in situ [CIS] or UC) at time of frozen section analysis.

RESULTS

Adverse pathology was identified by frozen section analysis in 178 patients (8.6%). Frozen section analysis was found to have poor sensitivity in identifying adverse pathology (59.1%), which was improved in patients with preoperative CIS (68.0%). After a median (interquartile range) follow-up of 12.4 (1.9-10.1) years, 28 patients (1.4%) developed UTUC recurrence. There were no uretero-enteric anastomotic recurrences. Adverse pathology on frozen section analysis was associated with UTUC recurrence on univariate analysis (hazard ratio [HR] 6.2, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.9-13.5), but 15/28 patients (54%) with UTUC recurrence had benign ureteric frozen section analysis on initial sectioning. Adverse pathology on frozen section analysis was not independently associated with the risk of local recurrence (HR 1.08, 95% CI 0.61-1.89) or overall survival (HR 1.12, 95% CI 0.94-1.35) in multivariate models.

CONCLUSIONS

Ureteric frozen section analysis has poor sensitivity and may be marginally improved in pre-existing CIS. UTUC recurrence is rare and can occur despite negative frozen section analysis. Our data question the utility of routine frozen section analysis of the distal ureteric margin at the time of RC.

Pathology of Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma with Emphasis on Staging

The first two authors contributed equally to this work Classification of upper tract urothelial preneoplastic and neoplastic lesions mirrors that of the urinary bladder, with all lesions of the bladder urothelium being possible in the upper tract and vice versa. There are three major groups of non-invasive urothelial neoplasms: flat, papillary, and inverted. These three groups share a similar morphological spectrum of intraurothelial changes, ranging from hyperplasia to dysplasia to carcinoma in situ. However, they differ in terms of architectural growth pattern compared to the surrounding non-neoplastic mucosal surface. Infiltrating urothelial carcinoma is defined as a urothelial tumor that invades beyond the basement membrane. Unlike in non-invasive papillary urothelial neoplasms (pTa), the role of histologic grade in pT1 and higher stage tumors has been suggested to be of only relative importance. The vast majority of tumors of the upper urinary tract are urothelial carcinoma. More commonly seen, however, are foci of squamous differentiation and, less frequently, glandular differentiation. Pure urothelial carcinomas also display a wide range of variant morphologies, and recognition of these morphologies is important for diagnosis, classification, and prognosis.

A retrospective analysis of incidence and its associated risk factors of upper urinary tract recurrence following radical cystectomy for bladder cancer with transitional cell carcinoma: the significance of local pelvic recurrence and positive lymph node

Objective

The aim of this study is to examine the incidence and risk factors of upper urinary tract recurrence (UUTR) following radical cystectomy (RC) in bladder cancer and to evaluate its relationship with neobladder (Neo) or ileal conduit (IC).

Materials and Methods

All clinicopathologic parameters and perioperative parameters of 311 patients who underwent RC with either Neo or IC by a single surgeon from 1999 to 2012 were retrospectively included in this study. Patients with a history of renal surgery, concomitant UUTR, or a histopathology of non-transitional cell carcinoma were excluded. For statistical analyses of predictive risk factors of UUTR, a multivariate analysis was performed with known risk factors of UUTR, including type of urinary diversion with significance defined as P < 0.05.

Results

During the median follow-up period of 53 months, 143 (46.0%) IC and 168 (54.0%) Neo were performed, resulting in 11 (3.5%) cases of UUTR (Neo 7 and IC 4) after RC and all patients then underwent nephroureterectomy. No significant differences in incidence and overall survival in UUTR were observed according different types of urinary diversion (p = 483), and the prognosis for survival of Neo was insignificantly better than that of IC (5-year overall survival 78% vs 74%, respectively, p>0.05). Higher number of positive lymph nodes (HR 9.03) and the presence of pelvic local recurrence (HR 7286.08) were significant predictive factors of UUTR (p<0.05).

Conclusion

This study reports a UUTR rate of 3.5%, and positive lymph nodes and presence of local recurrence at the pelvis as important risk factors. No significant differences in incidence and survival were observed between Neo and IC.

Clinical significance of ureteric 'skip lesions' at the time of radical cystectomy: the M.D. Anderson experience and literature review

OBJECTIVE

To assess the incidence and clinical significance of 'skip lesions' that are present in proximal but not in distal ureteric sections, which are occasionally found during the pathological examination of ureteric margins during radical cystectomy (RC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We identified 660 patients who underwent a RC and had at least two permanent margins for a given ureter. In all, 1173 ureters were analysed and classified as follows: 'normal' (no tumour, reactive atypia, mild or moderate dysplasia) or 'abnormal' (severe dysplasia, carcinoma in situ (CIS), or tumour). Transitions from 'normal' distal pathology to 'abnormal' on proximal section(s) determined frequency of skip lesions. Fisher's exact test and the log-rank test were used to study correlations.

RESULTS

Ureteric skip lesions were found in 4.8% patients (2.9% ureters). Pathology of skip lesions was CIS in 55.9%, transitional cell carcinoma in 23.5% and severe dysplasia in 20.6%. Skip lesions were associated with lymphovascular invasion (34.4% vs 13.7%, P = 0.004) and advanced pT stage (P = 0.007). On multivariate analysis, skip lesions correlated with lower median overall survival (OS) (inestimable vs 8.2 years, P = 0.014) in patients with pT0 or pTa disease and a trend towards lower OS (2.7 vs 8.8 years, P = 0.066) in pTis disease. Concordance between frozen distal margin and permanent proximal margin varied; sensitivity was 80% in those without and 20% in those with skip lesions.

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of a ureteric skip lesion may be associated with lower survival in patients with pT0, pTa or pTis urothelial carcinoma. Thus, while uncommon, ureteric skip lesions should be reported in pathological findings.

Positive surgical margins and their locations in specimens are adverse prognosis features after radical cystectomy in non-metastatic carcinoma invading bladder muscle: results from a nationwide case-control study

OBJECTIVE

To compare the prognoses associated with positive surgical margins (PSMs) according to their urethral, ureteric and/or soft tissue locations in patients with pN0 M0 bladder cancer who have not undergone neoadjuvant chemotherapy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A retrospective, case-control study was conducted between 1991 and 2011 using data from 17 academic centres in France. A total of 154 patients (cases) with PSMs met the eligibility criteria and were matched according to centre, pT stage, gender, age and urinary diversion method with a population-based sample of 154 patients (controls) from 3651 patients who had undergone cystectomies. The median follow-up period was 23.9 months. Multivariable Cox regression analysis was used to test the effects of PSMs on local recurrence (LR)-free survival, metastatic recurrence (MR)-free survival and cancer-specific survival (CSS).

RESULTS

The 5-year LR-free survival and CSS rates of patients with urethral and soft tissue PSMs were lower than those in the control group. A significant decrease in CSS was associated with soft tissue PSMs (P = 0.003, odds ratio = 0.425, 95% confidence interval 0.283-0.647). The prognosis was not affected in cases of ureteric PSMs.

CONCLUSIONS

Soft tissue PSMs were associated with poor CSS rates in patients with pN0 M0 bladder cancer. A correlation between urethrectomy and a reduction of the risk of LR in a urethral PSM setting was observed.

[Treatment of muscle-invasive and metastatic bladder cancer: update of the EAU guidelines]

CONTEXT

New data regarding treatment of muscle-invasive and metastatic bladder cancer (MiM-BC) has emerged and led to an update of the European Association of Urology (EAU) guidelines for MiM-BC.

OBJECTIVE

To review the new EAU guidelines for MiM-BC with a specific focus on treatment.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

New literature published since the last update of the EAU guidelines in 2008 was obtained from Medline, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and reference lists in publications and review articles and comprehensively screened by a group of urologists, oncologists, and a radiologist appointed by the EAU Guidelines Office. Previous recommendations based on the older literature on this subject were also taken into account. Levels of evidence (LEs) and grades of recommendations (GRs) were added based on a system modified from the Oxford Centre for Evidence-based Medicine Levels of Evidence.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Current data demonstrate that neoadjuvant chemotherapy in conjunction with radical cystectomy (RC) is recommended in certain constellations of MiM-BC. RC remains the basic treatment of choice in localised invasive disease for both sexes. An attempt has been made to define the extent of surgery under standard conditions in both sexes. An orthotopic bladder substitute should be offered to both male and female patients lacking any contraindications, such as no tumour at the level of urethral dissection. In contrast to neoadjuvant chemotherapy, current advice recommends the use of adjuvant chemotherapy only within clinical trials. Multimodality bladder-preserving treatment in localised disease is currently regarded only as an alternative in selected, well-informed, and compliant patients for whom cystectomy is not considered for medical or personal reasons. In metastatic disease, the first-line treatment for patients fit enough to sustain cisplatin remains cisplatin-containing combination chemotherapy. With the advent of vinflunine, second-line chemotherapy has become available.

CONCLUSIONS

In the treatment of localised invasive bladder cancer (BCa), the standard treatment remains radical surgical removal of the bladder within standard limits, including as-yet-unspecified regional lymph nodes. However, the addition of neoadjuvant chemotherapy must be considered for certain specific patient groups. A new drug for second-line chemotherapy (vinflunine) in metastatic disease has been approved and is recommended.

ICUD-EAU International Consultation on Bladder Cancer 2012: Radical cystectomy and bladder preservation for muscle-invasive urothelial carcinoma of the bladder

CONTEXT

New guidelines of the International Consultation on Urological Diseases for the treatment of muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) have recently been published.

OBJECTIVE

To provide a comprehensive overview of the current role of radical cystectomy (RC) in MIBC.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A detailed Medline analysis was performed for original articles addressing the role of RC with regard to indication, timing, surgical extent, perioperative morbidity, oncologic outcome, and follow-up. The analysis also included radiation-based bladder-preserving strategies.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

The major findings are presented in an evidence-based fashion and are based on large retrospective unicenter and multicenter series with some prospective data.

CONCLUSIONS

Open RC is the standard treatment for locoregional control of MIBC. Delay of RC is associated with reduced cancer-specific survival. In males, standard RC includes the removal of the bladder, prostate, seminal vesicles, and distal ureters; in females, RC includes an anterior pelvic exenteration including the bladder, entire urethra and adjacent vagina, uterus, and distal ureters. A procedure sparing the urethra and the urethra-supplying autonomous nerves can be performed in case of a planned orthotopic neobladder. Further technical variations (ie, seminal-sparing or vaginal-sparing techniques) aimed at improving functional outcomes must be weighed against the risk of a positive margin. Laparoscopic surgery is promising, but long-term data are required prior to accepting it as an option equivalent to the open procedure. Lymphadenectomy should remove all lymphatic tissue around the common iliac, external iliac, internal iliac, and obturator region bilaterally. Complications after RC should be reported according to the modified Clavien grading system. In selected patients with MIBC, bladder-preserving therapy with cystectomy reserved for tumor recurrence represents a safe and effective alternative to immediate RC.

Urothelial carcinoma at the uretero-enteric junction: multi-center evaluation of oncologic outcomes after radical nephroureterectomy

OBJECTIVE

The natural history of urothelial carcinoma arising at the uretero-enteric junction (UEJ) is poorly defined, and the data guiding clinical management of these patients is limited. Therefore, we evaluated oncologic outcomes of patients treated for urothelial carcinoma at the UEJ.

METHODS

Utilizing a multi-institutional database of patients treated with radical nephroureterectomy (RNU), we assessed the clinicopathologic parameters and oncologic outcomes of UEJ tumors compared with other upper tract urothelial carcinomas (UTUC). Survival analyses were performed to determine independent predictors of disease recurrence and cancer-specific mortality after RNU.

RESULTS

The study included 1,363 patients, 921 men and 442 women with 36 months median follow-up after RNU. Compared with UTUC in the kidney or ureter, UEJ tumors (n = 22) were more likely to demonstrate features of advanced disease, which were proved to be independent predictors of disease recurrence and cancer-specific mortality after RNU. The 5 year disease-free survival (DFS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) rates were 25% and 39% in those with UEJ tumors vs. 69% and 73% in those with UTUC in the kidney or ureter (P = 0.001 and P = 0.008, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

UEJ tumors harbor features of locally advanced disease associated with high risk of systemic recurrence and death from cancer after RNU. Our findings suggest the need for integration of systemic therapy into the management paradigm of these patients.

Treatment of muscle-invasive and metastatic bladder cancer: update of the EAU guidelines

CONTEXT

New data regarding treatment of muscle-invasive and metastatic bladder cancer (MiM-BC) has emerged and led to an update of the European Association of Urology (EAU) guidelines for MiM-BC.

OBJECTIVE

To review the new EAU guidelines for MiM-BC with a specific focus on treatment.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

New literature published since the last update of the EAU guidelines in 2008 was obtained from Medline, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and reference lists in publications and review articles and comprehensively screened by a group of urologists, oncologists, and a radiologist appointed by the EAU Guidelines Office. Previous recommendations based on the older literature on this subject were also taken into account. Levels of evidence (LEs) and grades of recommendations (GRs) were added based on a system modified from the Oxford Centre for Evidence-based Medicine Levels of Evidence.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Current data demonstrate that neoadjuvant chemotherapy in conjunction with radical cystectomy (RC) is recommended in certain constellations of MiM-BC. RC remains the basic treatment of choice in localised invasive disease for both sexes. An attempt has been made to define the extent of surgery under standard conditions in both sexes. An orthotopic bladder substitute should be offered to both male and female patients lacking any contraindications, such as no tumour at the level of urethral dissection. In contrast to neoadjuvant chemotherapy, current advice recommends the use of adjuvant chemotherapy only within clinical trials. Multimodality bladder-preserving treatment in localised disease is currently regarded only as an alternative in selected, well-informed, and compliant patients for whom cystectomy is not considered for medical or personal reasons. In metastatic disease, the first-line treatment for patients fit enough to sustain cisplatin remains cisplatin-containing combination chemotherapy. With the advent of vinflunine, second-line chemotherapy has become available.

CONCLUSIONS

In the treatment of localised invasive bladder cancer (BCa), the standard treatment remains radical surgical removal of the bladder within standard limits, including as-yet-unspecified regional lymph nodes. However, the addition of neoadjuvant chemotherapy must be considered for certain specific patient groups. A new drug for second-line chemotherapy (vinflunine) in metastatic disease has been approved and is recommended.