Narrow Band Imaging Cystoscopy and Bipolar Plasma Vaporization for Large Nonmuscle-invasive Bladder Tumors—Results of a Prospective, Randomized Comparison to the Standard Approach

Repeat Transurethral Resection for Non-muscle-invasive Bladder Cancer: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-analysis in the Contemporary Era

CONTEXT

Repeat transurethral resection (reTUR) is a guideline-recommended treatment strategy in high-risk non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) patients treated with transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT); however, the impact of recent procedural/technological developments on reTUR outcomes has not been assessed yet.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the outcomes of reTUR for NMIBC in the contemporary era, focusing on whether temporal differences and technical advancement, specifically, photodynamic diagnosis and en bloc resection of bladder tumor (ERBT), affect the outcomes.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

Multiple databases were queried in February 2023 for studies investigating reTUR outcomes, such as residual tumor and/or upstaging rates, its predictive factors, and oncologic outcomes, including recurrence-free (RFS), progression-free (PFS), cancer-specific (CSS), and overall (OS) survival. We synthesized comparative outcomes adjusting for the effect of possible confounders.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Overall, 81 studies were eligible for the meta-analysis. In T1 patients initially treated with conventional TURBT (cTURBT) in the 2010s, the pooled rates of any residual tumors and upstaging on reTUR were 31.4% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 26.0-37.2%) and 2.8% (95% CI: 2.0-3.8%), respectively. Despite a potential publication bias, these rates were significantly lower than those in patients treated in the 1990-2000s (both p < 0.001). ERBT and visual enhancement-guided cTURBT significantly improved any residual tumor rates on reTUR compared with cTURBT based on both matched-cohort and multivariable analyses. Among studies adjusting for the effect of possible confounders, patients who underwent reTUR had better RFS (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.78, 95% CI: 0.62-0.97) and OS (HR: 0.86, 95% CI: 0.81-0.93) than those who did not, while it did not lead to superior PFS (HR: 0.74, 95% CI: 0.47-1.15) and CSS (HR: 0.94, 95% CI: 0.86-1.03).

CONCLUSIONS

reTUR is currently recommended for high-risk NMIBC based on the persistent high rates of residual tumors after primary resection. Improvement of resection quality based on checklist applications and recent technical/procedural advancements hold the promise to omit reTUR.

PATIENT SUMMARY

Recent endoscopic/procedural developments improve the outcomes of repeat resection for high-risk non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer. Further investigations are urgently needed to clarify the potential impact of the use of these techniques on the need for repeat transurethral resection in the contemporary era.

How do endoscopic bladder tumor resection techniques affect pathology practice? EAU Section of Uro-Technology (ESUT) and Uropathology (ESUP) survey

PURPOSE

We aimed to examine how different endoscopic bladder tumor resection techniques affect pathologists' clinical practice patterns.

METHODS

An online survey including 28 questions clustered in four main sections was prepared by the ESUT ERBT Working Group and released to the pathologists working in the institutions of experts of the ESUT Board and the working groups and experts in the uropathology working group. A descriptive analysis was performed using the collected data.

RESULTS

Sixty-eight pathologists from 23 countries responded to the survey. 37.3% of the participants stated that they always report the T1 sub-staging. Of those who gave sub-staging, 61.3% used T1a, b. 85.2% think that en bloc samples provide spatial orientation faster than piecemeal samples, and 60% think en bloc samples are timesaving during an inspection. 55.7% stated that whether the tissue sample is en bloc or piecemeal is essential. 57.4% think en bloc sample reduces turnaround time and is cost-effective for 44.1%. A large number of pathologists find that the pathology examination of piecemeal samples has a longer learning curve.

CONCLUSION

The survey shows that pathologists think that they can diagnose faster, accurately, and cost-effectively with ERBT samples, but they do not often encounter them in practice. Moreover, en bloc samples may be a better choice in pathology resident training. Evidence from real-life observational pathology practice and clinical research can reveal the current situation more clearly and increase awareness on proper treatment in endoscopic management of bladder tumors.

A 10-year renaissance of en bloc resection of bladder tumors (ERBT): Are we approaching the peak or is it back to the trough?

BACKGROUND

The number of studies suggesting that en bloc resection of bladder tumor (ERBT) is superior to transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) for non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) management is growing. The aim of this review is to discuss the features of these procedures and to determine the prospects of en bloc in NMIBC management.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a literature search using two databases (Medline and Scopus) and included any research which reported ERBT outcomes.

RESULTS

The lasers with minimal tissue penetration depth are becoming the main tool for ERBT. Unfortunately, most of the systematic reviews continue to be characterized by high heterogeneity. However, recent studies indicate that ERBT may have the edge when it comes to the detrusor muscle rate and the quality of the histological specimen. ERBT may favor in terms of in-field relapse, but its rate in the studies varies greatly. As for out-field relapse-free survival, the data are still lacking. The strongest evidence supports that ERBT is superior to TURBT in complications rate (bladder perforation). ERBT is feasible irrespective to tumor size and location.

CONCLUSIONS

ERBT has gained in momentum with the increasingly widespread use of this kind of laser surgery. The introduction of novel sources (TFL and Thulium:YAG pulsed laser) will definitely affect how the field develops and will result in further improvements in safety and precision. The latest trials make us more certain in our belief that ERBT will be beneficial in terms of histological specimen quality, relapse rate and complications rate.

En bloc resection of bladder tumors (ERBT) revisited 12 years after reintroduction: too good to be further ignored

En bloc resection of bladder tumors (ERBT) orginally described in 1980 and adopted by few centers in the late 1990s has regained attention in the 2010s as a renaissance of a technique with high potential. The advent of new lasers indirectly lead to a better understanding of anatomical dissection from the experience in anatomical dissection in endoscopic enucleation of the prostate. 12 years after the reintroduction of ERBT evidence mounts that it is not only equivalent but better in some regards. However, ERBT still falls short with regard to wide adoption despite the striking technique inherent and reproducible features of accurate staging and specimen quality as requested by pathologist, as well and despite the high intraoperative safety and fast adoption of this technique even in early phase of training. The editorial walks the reader through the timeline of the renaissance speculating why there is a blockage between cognitive understanding and dissonance in surgical practice. The special issues presents the meta-analysis of surgical and oncological data on one hand and the level of understanding and power of this surgical technique in fields offsite oncological results in training achieving results almost right from the start after adoptation. Unlike in earlier years reviewing the literature of ERBT in 2023, ERBT seems not only to be a viable alternative, but something one should turn towards no to underperform with regards to the endpoints achievable by ERBT in a critical disease like bladder cancer.

Diagnostic and therapeutic effects of fluorescence cystoscopy and narrow-band imaging in bladder cancer: a systematic review and network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

This review aims to compare the efficacies of fluorescence cystoscopy, narrow-band imaging (NBI), and white light cystoscopy in the treatment and diagnosis of bladder cancer.

METHODS

The authors searched PubMed, EMbase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library from January 1990 to April 2022. A total of 26 randomized controlled studies and 22 prospective single-arm studies were selected. Most patients had nonmuscle-invasive bladder cancer. The study protocol has been registered at PROSPERO.

RESULTS

In the pairwise meta-analysis, 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) reduced the short-term and long-term recurrence rates of bladder cancer compared with white light cystoscopy (WLC); however, no statistical difference was observed in intermediate-term recurrence rates (RR=0.79, 95% CI: 0.57-1.09). Hexaminolevulinic acid and NBI reduced short-term, intermediate-term, and long-term recurrence rates. The sensitivity of 5-ALA, hexaminolevulinic acid, NBI, and WLC for bladder cancer were 0.89 (95% CI: 0.81-0.94), 0.96 (95% CI: 0.92-0.98), 0.96 (95% CI: 0.92-0.98), and 0.75 (95% CI: 0.70-0.79), respectively; however, only NBI had the same specificity as WLC (0.74 vs. 0.74). Compared with WLC, 5-ALA improved the detection rate of carcinoma in situ and Ta stage bladder cancer but had no advantage in T1 stage tumors (OR=2.39, 95% CI:0.79-7.19). Hexaminolevulinic acid and NBI improved the detection rates of all nonmuscular-invasive bladder cancers. In the network meta-analysis, there was no significant difference in either recurrence or detection rates between 5-ALA, hexaminolevulinic acid, and NBI.

CONCLUSION

Fluorescence cystoscopy and NBI are advantageous for treating and diagnosing patients with nonmuscle-invasive bladder cancer.

Narrow band imaging versus white light cystoscopy alone for transurethral resection of non-muscle invasive bladder cancer

BACKGROUND

Disease recurrence and progression remain major challenges for the treatment of non-muscle invasive bladder cancer. Narrow band imaging (NBI) is an optical enhancement technique that may improve resection of non-muscle invasive bladder cancer and thereby lead to better outcomes for people undergoing the procedure.  OBJECTIVES: To assess the effects of NBI- and white light cystoscopy (WLC)-guided transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) compared to WLC-guided TURBT in the treatment of non-muscle invasive bladder cancer.

SEARCH METHODS

We performed a comprehensive literature search of 10 databases, including the Cochrane Library, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, MEDLINE, Embase, several clinical trial registries, and grey literature for published and unpublished studies, irrespective of language. The search was performed per an a priori protocol on 3 December 2021.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomized controlled trials of participants with suspected or confirmed non-muscle invasive bladder cancer. Participants in the control group must have received WLC-guided TURBT alone (hereinafter simply referred to as 'WLC TURBT'). Participants in the intervention group had to have received NBI- and WLC-guided TURBT (hereinafter simply referred to as 'NBI + WLC TURBT').

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently selected studies for inclusion/exclusion, performed data extraction, and assessed risk of bias. We conducted meta-analysis on time-to-event and dichotomous data using a random-effects model in RevMan, according to Cochrane methods. We rated the certainty of evidence for each outcome according to the GRADE approach. Primary outcomes were time to recurrence, time to progression, and the occurrence of a major adverse event, defined as a Clavien-Dindo III, IV, or V complication. Secondary outcomes included time to death from bladder cancer and the occurrence of a minor adverse event, defined as a Clavien-Dindo I or II complication.  MAIN RESULTS: We included eight studies with a total of 2152 participants randomized to the standard WLC TURBT or to NBI + WLC TURBT. A total of 1847 participants were included for analysis.  Based on limited confidence in the time-to-event data, we found that participants who underwent NBI + WLC TURBT had a lower risk of disease recurrence over time compared to participants who underwent WLC TURBT (hazard ratio 0.63, 95% CI 0.45 to 0.89; I2 = 53%; 6 studies, 1244 participants; low certainty of evidence). No studies examined disease progression as a time-to-event outcome or a dichotomous outcome. There was likely no difference in the risk of a major adverse event between participants who underwent NBI + WLC TURBT and those who underwent WLC TURBT (risk ratio 1.77, 95% CI 0.79 to 3.96; 4 studies, 1385 participants; low certainty of evidence). No studies examined death from bladder cancer as a time-to-event outcome or a dichotomous outcome. There was likely no difference in the risk of a minor adverse event between participants who underwent NBI + WLC TURBT and those who underwent WLC TURBT (risk ratio 0.88, 95% CI 0.49 to 1.56; I2 = 61%; 4 studies, 1385 participants; low certainty of evidence).  AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: Compared to WLC TURBT alone, NBI + WLC TURBT may lower the risk of disease recurrence over time while having little or no effect on the risks of major or minor adverse events.

Role of Macroscopic Image Enhancement in Diagnosis of Non-Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer: An Analytical Review

Early diagnosis of non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) is of paramount importance to prevent morbidity and mortality due to bladder cancer. Although white light imaging (WLI) cystoscopy has long been considered the gold standard in the diagnosis of bladder cancer, it can miss lesions in a substantial percentage of patients and is very likely to miss carcinoma in situ and dysplasia. Tumor margin detection by WLI can be inaccurate. Moreover, WLI could, sometimes, be inadequate in distinguishing inflammation and malignancy. To improve the diagnostic efficacy of cystoscopy, various optical image enhancement modalities have been studied. These image enhancement modalities have been classified as macroscopic, microscopic, or molecular. Photodynamic diagnosis (PDD), narrow band imaging (NBI), and Storz image 1 S enhancement (formerly known as SPIES) are macroscopic image enhancement modalities. A relevant search was performed for literature describing macroscopic image enhancement modalities like PDD, NBI, and image 1 S enhancement. The advantages, limitations, and usefulness of each of these in the diagnosis of bladder cancer were studied. Photodynamic diagnosis requires intravesical instillation of a photosensitizing agent and a special blue light cystoscope system. PDD has been shown to be more sensitive than WLI in the detection of bladder cancer. It is superior to WLI in the detection of flat lesions. Bladder tumor resection (TURBT) by PDD results in more complete resection and reduced recurrence rates. PDD-guided TURBT may have some role in reducing the risk of progression. Narrow band imaging provides increased contrast between normal and abnormal tissues based on neovascularization, thereby augmenting WLI. NBI requires a special light source. There is no need for intravesical contrast instillation. NBI is superior to WLI in the detection of bladder cancer. The addition of NBI to WLI improves the detection of flat lesions like carcinoma in situ. NBI is not useful in predicting invasive tumors or grades of tumors. NBI-directed TURBT reduces recurrence rates and recurrence free survival. But its efficacy in retarding progression is unproven. Image 1 S-enhancement utilizes software-based image enhancement modes without the need for a special light source or intravesical contrast instillation. This system provides high-quality images and identifies additional abnormal-looking areas. Another advantage of this system is simultaneous side-by-side visualization of WLI and enhanced image, providing WLI images as the control for comparison. As with PDD, S-enhancement produces a lower rate of a missed bladder cancer diagnosis. The system significantly improves the diagnosis of NMIBC. The sensitivity and negative predictive value of image 1 S enhancement increase with the increase in cancer grade. A negative test by S-enhancement effectively rules out NMIBC. All the image enhancement modalities have proven their utility in improving detection and short-term cancer control. But none of these modalities have proven their utility in delaying progression, or in long-term cancer control. Cancer progression and long-term control are governed by the biological nature of cancer cells. Early detection by optical enhancement may not be of utility in this regard. Well-designed studies are needed to establish the efficacy of these modalities in the evaluation of patients with bladder cancer. The last word, in this regard, is yet to be written.

Impact of enhanced optical techniques at time of transurethral resection of bladder tumour, with or without single immediate intravesical chemotherapy, on recurrence rate of non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer: a systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized trials

OBJECTIVE

To assess whether single immediate intravesical chemotherapy (SIIC) adds value to bladder tumour management in combination with novel optical techniques: enhanced transurethral resection of bladder tumour (TURBT).

METHODS

A systematic search was performed using the PubMed and Web of Science databases in September 2020 according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) extension statement for network meta-analyses. Studies that compared recurrence rates among intervention groups (TURBT with photodynamic diagnosis [PDD] ± SIIC, narrow-band imaging [NBI] ± SIIC, or white-light cystoscopy [WLC] + SIIC) and a control group (TURBT with WLC alone) were included. We used the Bayesian approach in the network meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Twenty-two studies (n = 4519) met our eligibility criteria. Out of six different interventions including three different optical techniques, compared to WLC alone, blue-light cystoscopy (BLC) plus SIIC (odds ratio [OR] 0.349, 95% credible interval [CrI] 0.196-0.601) and BLC alone (OR 0.668, 95% CrI 0.459-0.931) were associated with a significantly lower likelihood of 12-month recurrence rate. In the sensitivity analysis, out of eight different interventions compared to WLC alone, PDD by 5-aminolevulinic acid plus SIIC (OR 0.327, 95% CrI 0.159-0.646) and by hexaminolevulinic acid plus SIIC (OR 0.376, 95% CrI 0.172-0.783) were both associated with a significantly lower likelihood of 12-month recurrence rate. NBI with and without SIIC was not associated with a significantly lower likelihood of 12-month recurrence rate (OR 0.385, 95% CrI 0.105-1.29 and OR 0.653, 95% CrI 0.343-1.15).

CONCLUSION

Blue-light cystoscopy during TURBT with concomitant SIIC seems to yield superior recurrence outcomes in patients with non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer. The use of PDD was able to reduce the 12-month recurrence rate; moreover, concomitant SIIC increased this risk benefit by a 32% additional reduction in odds ratio. Although using PDD could reduce the recurrence rate, SIIC remains necessary. Moreover, ranking analysis showed that both PDD and NBI, plus SIIC, were better than these techniques alone.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of narrow band imaging for non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer

To assess the effect of narrow band imaging-guided transurethral resection of bladder tumor compared with white light on recurrence rates in non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer. A systematic review of the literature from inception to November 2020 using Medline, EMBASE and CENTRAL was undertaken. Randomized controlled trials comparing transurethral resection of bladder tumor undertaken with narrow band imaging with those undertaken with white light that reported recurrence rates of at least 12 months were included in the analysis. Primary outcomes were recurrence rates at 12 and 24 months. Secondary outcomes were reported adverse effects. A total of 387 abstracts were screened, of which 14 full text identified and three studies included in the meta-analysis (921 patients). Meta-analysis did not show a statistically significant benefit to narrow band imaging at 12 months; risk ratio 0.75 (95% confidence interval 0.50-1.14, P = 0.18, I²  = 61%). No included studies provided recurrence data beyond 12 months. Adverse effects were reported in one study and no significant difference of complication rate was observed between the two groups. Risk of bias was assessed to be generally low, and grading of recommendations assessment development and evaluations were of high certainty. This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials shows no difference in recurrence rates using narrow band imaging, although a trend in its favor was identified. Limitations include the varied reporting and administration of adjuvant therapies. Further well-designed trials are required to examine the benefit of this technology.

Bladder perforation during transurethral resection of the bladder: a comprehensive algorithm for diagnosis, management and follow up

INTRODUCTION

Despite bladder perforation (BP) is a frequent complication during transurethral resection of bladder (TURB) for bladder cancer (BCa), literature lacks systematic reviews focusing on this issue. We aimed to investigate incidence, diagnosis, therapy, and prognosis after BP during TURB for BCa; therapy was distinguished between conservative (without the need for bladder repair) and surgical management (requiring bladder wall closure).

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A systematic search was conducted up to April 2021 using PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and Web of Science to identify articles focusing on incidence, detection, management, or survival outcomes after iatrogenic BP. The selection of articles followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses process.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

We included 41 studies, involving 21,174 patients. Overall, 521 patients experienced BP during TURB for BCa, with a mean incidence of 2.4%, up to 58.3% when post-operative cystography is routinely performed after all TURB procedures. Risk factors were low body mass index (BMI) (p=0.01), resection depth (p=0.006 and p=0.03), and low surgical experience (p=0.006). Extraperitoneal BP (68.5%) were treated conservatively in 97.5% of patients; intraperitoneal BP were managed with surgical bladder closure in 56% of cases. Overall, three immediate BP-related deaths were recorded due to septic complications. Extravesical tumour seeding was observed after 6 intraperitoneal and 1 extraperitoneal BP (median time: 6.2 months). Intraperitoneal BP (p=0.0003) and bladder closure (p<0.001) were found as independent predictors of extravesical tumour recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

BP is more frequent than expected when proper diagnosis is routinely performed after all TURB procedures. Risk factors include low BMI, resection depth, and unexperienced surgeon. The risk of sepsis after BP suggests empirical antibiotic prophylaxis after BP.

Novel Visualization Methods Assisted Transurethral Resection for Bladder Cancer: An Updated Survival-Based Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background

Photodynamic diagnosis and narrow-band imaging could help improve the detection rate in transurethral resection (TUR) of bladder cancer. It remained controversial that the novel visualization method assisted transurethral resection (VA-TUR) could elongate patients' survival compared to traditional TUR.

Methods

We performed electronic and manual searching until December 2020 to identify randomized controlled trials comparing VA-TUR with traditional TUR, which reported patients' survival data. Two reviewers independently selected eligible studies, extracted data, assessed the risk of bias. Meta-analysis was conducted according to subgroups of types of visualization methods (A) and clinical stage of participants. Publication bias was detected.

Results

We included 20 studies (reported in 28 articles) in this review. A total of 6,062 participants were randomized, and 5,217 participants were included in the analysis. Only two studies were assessed at low risk of bias. VA-TURB could significantly improve the recurrence-free survival (RFS) (HR = 0.72, 95% CI: 0.66 to 0.79, P <0.00001, I² = 42%) and progression-free survival (PFS) (HR = 0.62, 95% CI: 0.46 to 0.82, P <0.0008, I² = 0%) compared with TUR under white light. The results remain stable whatever the type of visualization method. The difference could be observed in the non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) population (P <0.05) but not in the mixed population with muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) participants (P >0.05).

Conclusion

VA-TUR could improve RFS and PFS in NMIBC patients. No significant difference is found among different types of VA-TUR. VA-TUR may be not indicated to MIBC patients.

NBI utility in oncologic surgery: An organ by organ review

The main aims of the oncologic surgeon should be an early tumor diagnosis, complete surgical resection, and a careful post-treatment follow-up to ensure a prompt diagnosis of recurrence. Radiologic and endoscopic methods have been traditionally used for these purposes, but their accuracy might sometimes be suboptimal. Technological improvements could help the clinician during the diagnostic and therapeutic management of tumors. Narrow band imaging (NBI) belongs to optical image techniques, and uses light characteristics to enhance tissue vascularization. Because neoangiogenesis is a fundamental step during carcinogenesis, NBI could be useful in the diagnostic and therapeutic workup of tumors. Since its introduction in 2001, NBI use has rapidly spread in different oncologic specialties with clear advantages. There is an active interest in this topic as demonstrated by the thriving literature. It is unavoidable for clinicians to gain in-depth knowledge about the application of NBI to their specific field, losing the overall view on the topic. However, by looking at other fields of application, clinicians could find ideas to improve NBI use in their own specialty. The aim of this review is to summarize the existing literature on NBI use in oncology, with the aim of providing the state of the art: we present an overview on NBI fields of application, results, and possible future improvements in the different specialties.

Does bipolar energy provide any advantage over monopolar surgery in transurethral resection of non-muscle invasive bladder tumors? A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To provide most recent and high quality evidence concerning the comparison between monopolar and bipolar transurethral resection of non-muscle invasive bladder tumors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Two researchers performed a systematic review of the current literature independently, to identify studies published in English language. MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews were searched from inception to 31st May 2019. The included primary endpoints of the study were: detrusor muscle sampling rates, cautery artifact occurrence among specimens and 1- or 2-year recurrence rates, overall complication rate, transfusion rate, obturator reflex and bladder perforation rates. Secondary endpoints were length of hospital stay, operation room time, hemoglobin drop, urinary tract infections, TUR-syndrome, serum sodium drop and acute urinary retention rates.

RESULTS

23 studies (14 RCTs and 9 observational) were included for qualitative and quantitative synthesis, recruiting 9815 patients in monopolar resection group and 10,112 patients in bipolar resection group (experimental). We found significant differences in favor of bipolar energy in terms of cautery artifact and length of stay with bladder perforation rates were found to be significantly better in bipolar system even though these results did not sustain when RCT's only analysis was performed. No differences were found in rates of obturator reflex (even though RCT's analysis advised differently), tumor recurrence and most of the secondary endpoints.

CONCLUSIONS

Bipolar transurethral bladder tumor resection is as safe and efficient as its monopolar counterpart. Bipolar technology is related to less obturator nerve contractions and less tissue thermal artifacts during resection and may result in less hospital stay.

Bipolar versus monopolar transurethral resection of non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

PURPOSE

To compare the efficacy and safety of bipolar and monopolar transurethral resection of bladder tumors (TURBT) in non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) treatment.

METHODS

A systematic search of all Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs), which compared bipolar TURBT (bTURBT) and monopolar TURBT (mTURBT) in NMIBC treatment, were performed in PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library and Embase up to February 1, 2019. We evaluated their efficacy by operative time, hospitalization time, catheterization time, and recurrence rate. While obturator jerk, bladder perforation, thermal damage, and overall complications were used to evaluate their safety.

RESULTS

A total of 13 RCTs, involving 2379 patients, were included. There were no statistically significant differences in efficacy between bTURBT and mTURBT in NMIBC treatment, such as operative time (p = 0.12), hospitalization time (p = 0.13), catheterization time (p = 0.50), and recurrence rate (p = 0.88). Compared to the safety in mTURBT in NMIBC treatment, no significant advantages were observed in that in bTURBT as well, such as obturator jerk (p = 0.12), bladder perforation (p = 0.11), thermal damage (p = 0.24), and overall complications (p = 0.65).

CONCLUSIONS

Our analysis demonstrated that bTURBT has no significant advantages in efficacy and safety in NMIBC treatment compared to that in mTURBT. Thus, bTURBT could not completely replace mTURBT as a safer and more effective NMIBC treatment.

Safety and efficacy of bipolar versus monopolar transurethral resection of bladder tumor: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Transurethral resection of bladder tumor is the standard of care for the management of patients with bladder mass. Primary objective of this study was to compare safety and efficacy of the two energy modalities used for TURBT (monopolar and bipolar).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Systematic literature search of various electronic databases was conducted to include all the randomized studies comparing two groups. Standard PRISMA (Preferred reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-analysis) guidelines were pursued for this review and study protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42019139987).

RESULTS

In the present review, eight RCTs including 1147 patients were included. Resection time, hospital stay and catheter duration were significantly shorter with bipolar group. There was no significant difference in incidence of obturator reflex (OR 0.65, CI [0.35, 1.2], p = 0.17), whereas incidence of bladder perforation was significantly higher in the monopolar group (6.4% versus 3.3%, p = 0.01. However, sensitivity analysis including 3 high quality studies revealed equal incidence of bladder perforations. Need for blood transfusion was similar in the two groups but fall in hemoglobin was significantly lower in bipolar group (MD - 0.45 CI [- 0.72, - 0.18], p = 0.0009). Bipolar group was found to have significantly lower incidence of tissue artifacts due to thermal energy on pathological examination (OR 0.27 CI [0.15, 0.47], p < 0.00001).

CONCLUSIONS

Bipolar and monopolar devices are equally safe in terms of obturator jerk and bladder perforation. Bipolar group was significantly better as compared to monopolar for hospital stay, catheter duration and fall in hemoglobin; however, the clinical relevance of most of these parameters is little.

Diagnostic accuracy of photodynamic diagnosis with 5-aminolevulinic acid, hexaminolevulinate and narrow band imaging for non-muscle invasive bladder cancer

Objective: To assess the diagnostic test accuracy (DTA) of photodynamic diagnosis with 5-aminolaevulinic acid (5-ALA), hexylaminolevulinate (HAL) and narrow band imaging (NBI) for non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC), with white light-guided cystoscopy (WLC) as reference standard. Materials and Methods: A systematic review and narrative synthesis was performed in accordance with PRISMA. Major electronic databases were searched until 20th May 2019. All studies assessing the DTA of 5-ALA, HAL and NBI compared with WLC at patient and lesion-level were included. Relevant sensitivity analyses and risk of bias (RoB) assessment were undertaken. Results: 26 studies recruiting 3979 patients were eligible for inclusion. For patient-level analysis, NBI appeared to be the best (median sensitivity (SSY) 100%, median specificity (SPY) 68.45%, median positive predictive value (PPV) 90.75%, median negative predictive value (NPV) 100% and median false positive rate (FPR) 31.55%), showing better DTA outcomes than either HAL or 5-ALA. For lesion-level analysis, median SSY across NBI, HAL and 5-ALA were 93.08% (IQR 87.04-98.81%), 93.16% (IQR 91.48-97.04%) and 94.42% (IQR 82.37-95.73%) respectively. As for FPR, median values for NBI, HAL and 5-ALA were 20.40% (IQR 13.68-27.36%), 17.43% (IQR 12.79-22.40%) and 28.12% (IQR 22.08-42.39%), respectively. Sensitivity analyses based on studies with low to moderate RoB and studies with n>100 patients show similar findings. Conclusions: NBI appears to outperform 5-ALA and HAL in terms of diagnostic accuracy. All three modalities present high FPR, hence indicating the ability to detect additional cases and lesions beyond WLC.

[Optimizing the management of bladder cancer in older patients]

AIM

To define and present potential improvements for the management of bladder cancer in older patients.

METHOD

Bibliographical search was performed from the Medline bibliographic database (NLM Pubmed tool) and Embase focused on: bladder cancer, treatment, BCG, chemotherapy, cystectomy, and elderly.

RESULTS

The oncological principles of medico-surgical management of bladder cancer do not differ according to age. On the other hand, the patient comorbidities have been likely to alter the tolerance of these treatments. At the NMIBC stages, no adaptation of the standard treatment has demonstrated any interest. At the MIBC stages, the prognosis was improved by geriatric multidisciplinary perioperative management.

CONCLUSION

The indications and principles of surgical treatments must be identical regardless of the patient age. At the NMIBC stages, adjuvant therapy, including BCG therapy, should not be questioned because of the age of the patient. On the other hand, at the localized MIBC stages, neoadjuvant and adjuvant chemotherapy should not be considered as a standard and their indications assessed individually after geriatric assessment.

Diagnostic performance of image technique based transurethral resection for non-muscle invasive bladder cancer: systematic review and diagnostic meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To explore the diagnostic performance of image technique based transurethral resection for bladder cancer, with white light-guided cystoscopy (WLC) as the reference standard.

DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

DATA SOURCES

PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, Central Register of Controlled Trials and Embase from inception to 31 March 2018.

METHODS

Included studies reported the diagnostic performance of photodynamic diagnosis (PDD) with 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA), PDD with hexaminolevulinic acid (HAL) or narrow band imaging (NBI), with WLC as the reference standard at the patient or lesion level. The studies' risk of bias (RoB) was assessed using Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Studies-2. Data were pooled using a random effect diagnostic meta-analysis, and subgroup analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Twenty-six studies comprising a total of 3979 patients were included in this diagnostic meta-analysis. Pooled sensitivity (SSY), specificity (SPY), diagnostic OR (DOR) and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) values were calculated per group for NBI, HAL and 5-ALA at the lesion or patient level. NBI showed significant diagnostic superiority compared with WLC at the lesion level (SSY 0.94, 95% CI 0.82 to 0.98; SPY 0.79, 95% CI 0.73 to 0.85; DOR 40.09, 95% CI 20.08 to 80.01; AUROC 0.88, 95% CI 0.85 to 0.91). NBI presented the highest DOR (358.71, 95% CI 44.50 to 2891.71) in the patient level. Subgroup analyses were performed on studies with low to moderate RoB and at least 100 patients at the lesion level. These results were consistent with those of the overall analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Pooled data indicated that image technique based transurethral resection (NBI, HAL and 5-ALA) showed diagnostic superiority compared with WLC. Moreover, NBI is potentially the most promising diagnostic intervention, showing the best diagnostic performance outcomes. Further prognostic outcomes of novel imaging technologies compared with those WLC should be explored in addition to current diagnostic performance analysis.

Repeat Transurethral Resection in Non-muscle-invasive Bladder Cancer: A Systematic Review

CONTEXT

Initial treatment for most bladder cancers (BCs) involves transurethral resection (TUR) or tumours. Often more cancer is found after the initial treatment in around half of patients, requiring a second resection. Repeat transurethral resection (reTUR) is recommended for high-risk, non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) to remove any residual disease and improve cancer outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

To systematically review the practice and therapeutic benefit of an early reTUR for high-risk NMIBC.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A systematic review of original articles was performed using PubMed/Medline and Web of Science databases in December 2016 (initial) and October 2017 (final). We searched the references of included papers.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

We screened 15 209 manuscripts and selected 31 detailing 8409 persons with high-grade Ta and T1BC for inclusion. Detrusor muscle was found at initial TUR histology in 30-100% of cases. Residual tumour at reTUR was found in 17-67% of patients following Ta and in 20-71% following T1 cancer. Most residual tumours (36-86%) were found at the original resection site. Upstaging occurred in 0-8% (Ta to ≥T1) and 0-32% (T1 to ≥T2) of cases. Conflicting data report the impact of reTUR on subsequent recurrence and cancer-specific mortality. Recurrence for Ta was 16% in the reTUR group versus 58% in the non-reTUR group. For T1, recurrence ranged from 18% to 56%, but no clear trend was identified between reTUR and control. No clear relationship between reTUR and progression was found for Ta, although for T1 rates were higher in the non-reTUR group in series with control populations (5/6 studies). Overall mortality was slightly reduced in the reTUR group in two studies with controls (22-30% vs 26-36% [no reTUR]).

CONCLUSIONS

Residual tumour is common after TUR for high-risk NMIBC. The reTUR helps in the diagnosis of this residual cancer and may improve outcomes for cancers initially staged as T1.

PATIENT SUMMARY

Some bladder cancers (BCs) are aggressive but confined to the bladder surface. Initial treatment includes endoscopic resection. More cancer is found after the initial treatment in approximately half of patients. In the aggressive but confined group of BC, a second resection, a few weeks after the first, may help find this residual cancer and improve outcomes, although the evidence quality for this is weak.

Detection and recurrence rate of transurethral resection of bladder tumors by narrow-band imaging: Prospective, randomized comparison with white light cystoscopy

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of narrow-band imaging (NBI) as a diagnostic tool for detecting bladder tumors during cystoscopy compared with white light cystoscopy (WLC).

Materials and Methods

From December 2013 to June 2017, a randomized prospective study was conducted on 198 patients underwent transurethral resection of bladder tumor by a single surgeon. The patients were divided into two groups according to diagnostic method. In Group I, WLC only was performed. In Group II, NBI was additionally performed after WLC. We analyzed the rate of detection of bladder tumors as a primary endpoint. In addition, we evaluated rates of recurrence in each group.

Results

There were no significant differences between the two groups in characteristics except hypertension. In the analysis of rates of detection, the probability of diagnosing cancer was 80.9% (114/141) in the WLC group, and the probability of diagnosing cancer using WLC in the NBI group was 85.5% (159/186). After switching from WLC to NBI for second-look cystoscopy in the NBI group, NBI was shown to detect additional tumors with a detection rate of 35.1% (13/37) from the perspective of the patients and 42.2% (27/64) from the perspective of the tumors. The 1-year recurrence-free rate was 72.2% in the WLC group and 85.2% in the NBI group (p=0.3).

Conclusions

NBI had benefits for detecting tumors overlooked by WLC. Although the difference in the 1-year recurrence-free rate was not statistically significant, our results showed a trend for higher recurrence in the NBI group.

Optical improvements in the diagnosis of bladder cancer: implications for clinical practice

Background

For over 100 years white-light cystoscopy has remained the gold-standard technique for the detection of bladder cancer (BCa). Some limitations in the detection of flat lesions (CIS), the differentiation between inflammation and malignancy, the inaccurate determination of the tumor margin status as well as the tumor depth, have led to a variety of technological improvements. The aim of this review is to evaluate the impact of these improvements in the diagnosis of BCa and their effectiveness in clinical practice.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted according to the PRISMA statement to identify studies reporting on imaging modalities in the diagnosis of NMIBC between 2000 and 2017. A two-stage selection process was utilized to determine eligible studies. A total of 74 studies were considered for final analysis.

Results

Optical imaging technologies have emerged as an adjunct to white-light cystoscopy and can be classified according to their scope as macroscopic, microscopic and molecular. Macroscopic techniques including photodynamic diagnosis (PDD), narrow-band imaging (NBI) and the Storz Professional Image Enhancement System (IMAGE1 S, formerly known as SPIES) are similar to white-light cystoscopy, but are superior in the detection of bladder tumors by means of contrast enhancement. Especially the detection rate of very mute lesions in the bladder mucosa (CIS) could be significantly increased by the use of these methods. Microscopic imaging techniques like confocal laser endomicroscopy and optical coherence tomography permit a real-time high-resolution assessment of the bladder mucosa at a cellular and sub-cellular level with spatial resolutions similar to histology, enabling the surgeon to perform an 'optical biopsy'. Molecular techniques are based on the combination of optical imaging technologies with fluorescence labeling of cancer-specific molecular agents like antibodies. This labeling is intended to favor an optical distinction between benign and malignant tissue.

Conclusions

Optical improvements of the standard white-light cystoscopy have proven their benefit in the detection of BCa and have found their way into clinical practice. Especially the combination of macroscopic and microscopic techniques may improve diagnostic accuracy. Nevertheless, HAL-PDD guided cystoscopy is the only approach approved for routine use in the diagnosis of BCa by most urological associations in the EU and USA to date.

Narrow band imaging-assisted transurethral resection reduces the recurrence risk of non-muscle invasive bladder cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis

CONTEXT

Compared with white light imaging (WLI) cystoscopy, narrow band imaging (NBI) cystoscopy could increase the visualization and detection of bladder cancer (BC) at the time of transurethral resection (TUR). NBI cystoscopy could increase the detection of BC, but it remains unclear whether narrow band imaging-assisted transurethral resection (NBI-TUR) could reduce the recurrence risk of non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). Several randomized clinical trials (RCTs) have recently tested the efficacy of NBI-TUR for NMIBC.

OBJECTIVE

To perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs and evaluate the efficacy of NBI-TUR for NMIBC compared with white light imaging-assisted transurethral resection (WLI-TUR). The end point was recurrence risk.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A systematic review of PubMed, Medline, Ovid, Embase, Cochrane and Web of Science was performed in February 2016 and updated in July 2016.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Overall, six (n = 1084) of 278 trials were included. Three trials performed narrow band imaging-assisted electro-transurethral resection (NBI-ETUR), and two trials performed narrow band imaging-associated bipolar plasma vaporization (NBI-BPV). The last trial performed narrow band imaging-associated holmium laser resection (NBI-HLR). Statistical analysis was performed using Review Manager software (RevMan v.5.3; The Nordic Cochrane Center, Copenhagen, Denmark). The recurrence risk was compared by calculating risk ratios (RRs) with 95% confidence interval (CIs). Risk ratios with 95% CIs were calculated to compare 3-mo, 1-yr, and 2-yr survival rates. NBI-TUR was associated with improvements in the 3-mo recurrence risk (RR: 0.39; 95% CI, 0.26-0.60; p < 0.0001), 1-yr recurrence risk (RR: 0.52; 95% CI, 0.40-0.67; p < 0.00001) and 2-yr recurrence risk (RR: 0.60; 95% CI, 0.42-0.85; p = 0.004) compared with WLI-TUR.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with WLI-TUR, NBI-TUR can reduce the recurrence risk of NMIBC. The results of this review will facilitate the appropriate application of NBI in NMIBC.

A meta-analysis of narrow band imaging for the diagnosis and therapeutic outcome of non-muscle invasive bladder cancer

Objectives

To assess the additional detection rate (ADR) of within-patient comparisons of Narrow band imaging (NBI) and white light cystoscopy (WLC) for non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) detection and compare the impact of NBI and WLC on bladder cancer recurrence risk.

Methods

We searched relevant studies from PubMed, Embase, Medline, Web of Science and the Cochrane Library database for all articles in English published beforeJuly26^th, 2016. Pooled ADR, diagnostic accuracy, relative risk (RR) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated.

Results

Twenty-five studies including 17 full texts and eight meeting abstracts were included for analysis. Compared to WLC, pooled ADR of NBI for NMIBC diagnosis was 9.9% (95% CI: 0.05–0.14) and 18.6% (95% CI: 0.15–0.25) in per-patient and per-lesion analysis, respectively. Pooled ADR of NBI for carcinoma in situ (CIS) diagnosis was 25.1% (95% CI: 0.09–0.42) and 31.1% (95% CI: 0.24–0.39) for per-patient and per-lesion analyses, respectively. The pooled sensitivity of NBI was significantly higher than WLC both at the per-patient (95.8% vs. 81.6%) and per-lesion levels (94.8% vs. 72.4%). In addition, NBI significantly reduced the recurrence rate of bladder cancer with a pooled RR value of 0.43 (95% CI: 0.23–0.79) and0.81 (95% CI: 0.69–0.95) at month three and twelve, respectively.

Conclusions

NBI is a valid technique that improves the diagnosis of NMIBC and CIS compared to standard WLC either at per-patient or per-lesion level. It can reduce the recurrence rate of bladder cancer accordingly.

Non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer: a vision for the future

The management of non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) has evolved from the first reports on bladder endoscopy and transurethral resection to the introduction of adjuvant intravesical treatment. However, disease recurrence and progression remain an ongoing risk, placing a heavy burden on healthcare resources and on patients' quality of life. Deeper understanding of the molecular basis of the disease and developments in optics, lasers and computer science are already offering opportunities to revolutionize care and improve long-term prognosis. This article discusses developments likely to cause a paradigm shift towards the delivery of personalized care and reduced burden of disease in NMIBC.

Narrow band imaging for bladder cancer

Narrow band imaging (NBI) is a newly developed technology aiming to provide additional endoscopic information for patients with bladder cancer. This review focuses on the diagnostic accuracy and treatment outcome using NBI cystoscopy for the treatment of non-muscle invasive bladder cancer. Current results showed improved sensitivity of NBI cystoscopy compared to conventional white light cystoscopy, although lower specificity and increased false-positive results were reported using NBI cystoscopy. The treatment outcome using NBI technology in transurethral resection of bladder tumor had a positive impact while decreased number of residual tumors and tumor recurrence at follow-up were reported. In the future, the application of NBI technology might refine the treatment and follow-up protocol in patients with non-muscle invasive bladder cancer. However, this large scale prospective studies are required to confirm the real cost-effectiveness of this new technology.

Review of current optical diagnostic techniques for non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer

Introduction

Urinary bladder urothelial cell carcinoma is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in Europe. After prostate, lung and colon cancers, bladder cancer rates as the fourth most common cancer in men in the world.

Urinary bladder cancer detection, treatment, and staging have traditionally been based on an endoscopic examination – cystoscopy.

Material and methods

A Medline, and Web of Science database search was performed on September 2015 without setting time limits, using the terms ‘bladder cancer’ in conjunction with ‘cystoscopy’, ‘diagnosis’, ‘detection’, ‘fluorescence’, ‘blue-light’, ‘PDD’, ‘narrow band imaging’, ‘molecular imaging’, ‘optical coherence tomography’ or ‘confocal laser endomicroscopy’.

Results

The new imaging techniques can be classified according to their scope as macroscopic, microscopic, and molecular. Macroscopic techniques, such as narrow band imaging, are similar to white light cystoscopy; however, they help visualize even very minute lesions in the bladder mucosa by means of contrast enhancement.

Microscopic imaging techniques, such as optical coherence tomography and confocal laser endomicroscopy, provide high-resolution cross-sectional views of vesicular tissues, which resemble images obtained by histopathological examination. Therefore, these are referred as ‘optical biopsy’. Molecular imaging methods offer highly specific real-time visualization of cancer cells and their differentiation from healthy tissue, by combining optical imaging with fluorescent labeling of elements such as antibodies.

Conclusions

In this article we present a review of studies and literature concerning modern optical diagnostic techniques for non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer. We present available technology with its advantages and disadvantages, and studies regarding its effectiveness.

Role of Narrow Band Imaging in Management of Urothelial Carcinoma

Urothelial carcinoma of the bladder and upper tract is primarily diagnosed by white light endoscopy, which has well-known limitations that contribute to the increased risk of tumor recurrence and progression. Narrow band imaging (NBI) is an optical imaging technology that facilitates detection of tumor vasculature and differentiation of benign urothelium from neoplastic tissue. For urothelial carcinoma, NBI may be utilized in a variety of clinical settings, including office cystoscopy for initial identification and surveillance, transurethral resection for pathological diagnosis, and ureteroscopic management of upper tract lesions. Early evidence suggests that NBI increases the detection of urothelial carcinoma in the bladder and upper tract, including flat high-grade lesions such as carcinoma-in-situ that are a diagnostic challenge under white light. NBI also appears to improve the quality of transurethral resection and thereby reduce the frequency of tumor recurrence.

Recommendations for the improvement of bladder cancer quality of care in Canada: A consensus document reviewed and endorsed by Bladder Cancer Canada (BCC), Canadian Urologic Oncology Group (CUOG), and Canadian Urological Association (CUA), December 2015

This initiative was undertaken in response to concerns regarding the variation in management and in outcomes of patients with bladder cancer throughout centres and geographical areas in Canada. Population-based data have also revealed that real-life survival is lower than expected based on data from clinical trials and/or academic centres. To address these perceived shortcomings and attempt to streamline and unify treatment approaches to bladder cancer in Canada, a multidisciplinary panel of expert clinicians was convened last fall for a two-day working group consensus meeting. The panelists included urologic oncologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, patient representatives, a genitourinary pathologist, and an enterostomal therapy nurse. The following recommendations and summaries of supporting evidence represent the results of the presentations, debates, and discussions. Methodology

Comparing the Efficiency and Safety of Bipolar and Monopolar Transurethral Resection for Non-Muscle Invasive Bladder Tumors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

PURPOSE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of bipolar and monopolar transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) procedures for non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We searched for all studies investigating bipolar TURBT and monopolar TURBT for NMIBC patients in PubMed, Web of Knowledge, and the Cochrane Central Search Library. A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed. Efficacy was assessed by catheterization time, resection time, pathology, and recurrence rate. Safety was assessed by obturator nerve reflex, bladder perforation, hemoglobin decrease, and transfusion.

RESULTS

Our searches identified eight studies. Bipolar TURBT is associated with decreased resection time, catheterization time, and hemoglobin changes. There were no statistically significant differences between bipolar TURBT and monopolar TURBT for rates of obturator nerve reflex, bladder perforation, and transfusion. The grade of cautery artifact had no different between the two procedures or even was lower in the bipolar arm. There was no significant difference in recurrence rate when comparing the two procedures.

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review indicates that the bipolar technique is more efficacious and safer for NMIBC patients. More large-scale, multicenter, randomized controlled studies are needed before final clinical recommendations can be made.

A Comparison of the Progression and Recurrence Risk Index in Non-Muscle-Invasive Bladder Tumors Detected by Narrow-Band Imaging Versus White Light Cystoscopy, Based on the EORTC Scoring System

Background:

Transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder, the second most common urologic malignancy, is amenable to early diagnosis. This study presents the potential prognostic benefit for a less invasive modification to the standard endoscopic approach.

Objectives:

To evaluate the risk index for the progression and recurrence of additional tumors detected with narrow-band imaging (NBI) cystoscopy compared to standard white light imaging (WLI) cystoscopy in non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC), based on the European organization for research and treatment of cancer (EORTC) scoring system.

Patients and Methods:

Patients with NMIBC, who were scheduled for resection between May 2012 and May 2013, were studied and mapped under NBI and WLI cystoscopy by independent surgeons prior to resection. Detection rates and tumor characteristics, including EORTC progression and the recurrence risk index, were compared.

Results:

Fifty patients, aged 63.86 ± 10.05 years, were enrolled. The overall detection rate was 98.9% for NBI vs. 89.4% for WLI (P = 0.001), and the false-positive rates were 9.6% and 5.8%, respectively (P = 0.051). Ten tumors were detected by NBI alone, including four grade I tumors, four grade III tumors, and two carcinomas in situ. The tumor progression index was not significantly reduced with NBI compared to WLI (P > 0.05); however, the recurrence index was significantly lower in the NBI group (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

NBI cystoscopy improved the detection rate. Although false positives were more common with NBI, this was not statistically significant. NBI found additional aggressive tumors, which underscores the impact of detection in EORTC recurrence risk scoring.

Narrow band imaging and bladder cancer: when and how

Narrow band imaging (NBI) is an optical enhancement technology for endoscopy. NBI works filtering the standard white light in two bandwidths of illumination of 415 nm, blue, and 540 nm, green. As a result, capillaries on mucosal surface appear brown and veins in connective subepithelial layer cyan, enhancing the contrast among epithelial, subepithelial tissue and its vascularisation. Given that it is a filter, it is safe, does not need any kind of instillation and the vision modality can be switched from NBI to white light and vice versa without any limitations of time. NBI-assisted cystoscopy increases the detection rate of urothelial lesions and enhances visibility of tumour margins with respect to standard white light modality, although it does not need a particular learning curve. NBI exploration of the bladder should be avoided during active bleeding because the light absorption would be excessive impeding an optimal vision. Moreover, it should always be employed in combination with standard white light modality to avoid an excess of false-positive findings, particularly during or immediately after topic treatments. It can be used in office to anticipate bladder recurrences and in the operating theatre to perform a complete tumour resection. As a matter of fact, it is able to reduce the recurrence rate and ameliorate bladder cancer management by identifying high-grade cancerous tissue, especially Cis, undetected by the standard white light modality.

Bipolar Versus Monopolar Transurethral Resection of Nonmuscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer: A Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Bipolar energy has recently been used as a common alternative to conventional monopolar transurethral resection of the bladder (TURB) while managing nonmuscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). We established a meta-analysis comparing the safety and efficacy of plasmakinetic bipolar and monopolar TURB for NMIBC.

METHODS

A systematic search of PubMed, MEDLINE, Web of Science, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure was performed up to March 1, 2015. Outcomes of interest assessing the two techniques included demographic and clinical baseline characteristics, perioperative variables, and complications.

RESULTS

Eight eligible trials evaluating bipolar TURB (bTURB) versus monopolar TURB (mTURB) for NMIBC were identified including six randomized controlled trials (RCTs), one prospective study, and one retrospective study. The bTURB was associated with shorter operative time (P = 0.002), shorter hospital stay (P < 0.001), less established blood loss (P < 0.001), and shorter catheterization time (P = 0.004). There were fewer complications such as obturator nerve reflex (P < 0.001) and bladder perforation (P = 0.003) in the bTURB group. The postoperative recurrence rate in 2 years also showed advantages of bTURB over mTURB.

CONCLUSION

Our data showed that bTURB appeared to be a safe and efficient method and had presented several advantages when compared with conventional mTURB in the management of NMIBC. As a promising technique, bTURB may be used as a preferable choice instead of mTURB for superficial bladder tumor.

A network meta-analysis of therapeutic outcomes after new image technology-assisted transurethral resection for non-muscle invasive bladder cancer: 5-aminolaevulinic acid fluorescence vs hexylaminolevulinate fluorescence vs narrow band imaging

Background

This study included a network meta-analysis of evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to assess the therapeutic outcome of transurethral resection (TUR) in patients with non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer assisted by photodynamic diagnosis (PDD) employing 5-aminolaevulinic acid (5-ALA) or hexylaminolevulinate (HAL) or by narrow band imaging (NBI).

Methods

Relevant RCTs were identified from electronic databases. The proceedings of relevant congresses were also searched. Fifteen articles based on RCTs were included in the analysis, and the comparisons were made by qualitative and quantitative syntheses using pairwise and network meta-analyses.

Results

Seven of 15 RCTs were at moderate risk of bias for all quality criteria and two studies were classified as having a high risk of bias. The recurrence rate of cancers resected with 5-ALA-based PDD was lower than of those resected using HAL-based PDD (odds ratio (OR) = 0.48, 95 % confidence interval (CI) [0.26–0.95]) but was not significantly different than those resected with NBI (OR = 0.53, 95 % CI [0.26–1.09]). The recurrence rate of cancers resected using HAL-based PDD versus NBI did not significantly differ (OR = 1.11, 95 % CI [0.55–2.1]). All cancers resected using 5-ALA-based PDD, HAL-based PDD, or NBI recurred at a lower rate than those resected using white light cystoscopy (WLC). No difference in progression rate was observed between cancers resected by all methods investigated.

Conclusions

The recurrence rate of some bladder cancers can be decreased by the implementation of either PDD- and NBI-assisted TUR; in real settings, clinicians should consider replacing WLC as the standard imaging technology to guide TUR.

A comparison of NBI and WLI cystoscopy in detecting non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer: A prospective, randomized and multi-center study

Several single-center studies have investigated whether narrow-band imaging (NBI) cystoscopy is more effective in detecting primary and recurrent non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) compared with white-light imaging (WLI) cystoscopy. In this study, we further evaluated the diagnostic value of NBI cystoscopy compared with WLI cystoscopy for primary NMIBC in a multi-center study. Suspected bladder cancer patients from 8 research centers received both NBI and WLI. Two experienced doctors in each center were responsible for the NBI and WLI assessments, respectively. The number of tumors and position of each tumor were recorded, and suspicious tissues were clamped and histologically examined. The sensitivity, specificity, and false-positive rate of NBI and WLI were evaluated. Of the 384 patients, 78 had a confirmed urothelial carcinoma (UC). The sensitivities of NBI and WLI were 97.70%, and 66.67%, respectively (P < 0.0001); the specificities were 50% and 25%, respectively; and the false positive rates were 50% and 75%, respectively. Based on 300 valid biopsy specimens, the NBI and WLI sensitivities were 98.80% and 75.45%, respectively (P < 0.0001). These results suggest that NBI has a high sensitivity and has superior early bladder tumor and carcinoma in situ (CIS) detection rates compared with WLI cystoscopy.

Decision Based on Narrow Band Imaging Cystoscopy without a Referential Normal Standard Rather Increases Unnecessary Biopsy in Detection of Recurrent Bladder Urothelial Carcinoma Early after Intravesical Instillation

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to calculate the operating characteristics of narrowband imaging (NBI) cystoscopy versus traditional white light cystoscopy (WLC) in common clinical scenarios involving suspicion of bladder urothelial carcinoma (UC).

Materials and Methods

Sixty-three consecutive patients initially underwent WLC and then NBI in a single session for evaluation of microscopic hematuria (group I, n=20), gross hematuria (group II, n=19), and follow-up for prior UC (group III, n=24), by an experienced urologist. All lesions that were abnormal in contrast with adjacent normal mucosa were diagnosed as positive and biopsied.

Results

Sixty-six biopsies from 47 patients were performed. Pathologic examination showed 17 cases of UC from 21 sites. While the overall sensitivity of NBI was similar to that of WLC (100% vs. 94.1%), the specificity of NBI was significantly lower than that of WLC (50% vs. 86.9%, p < 0.001), particularly in group III (38.9% vs. 88.9%, p=0.004). Based on identification by NBI only, 23 additional biopsies from 18 cases were performed for identification of one patient with UC, who belonged to group III. In this group, to identify this specific patient, 15 additional biopsies were performed from 10 patients. All seven cases with positive findings from NBI within 2 months after the last intravesical therapy were histologically proven as negative.

Conclusion

In evaluation for recurrence early after intravesical instillation, the decision based on NBI increased unnecessary biopsy in the absence of an established standard for judging NBI.

Advances in imaging technologies in the evaluation of high-grade bladder cancer

Bladder cancer ranges from a low-grade variant to high-grade disease. Assessment for treatment depends on white light cystoscopy, however because of its limitations there is a need for improved visualization of flat, multifocal, high-grade, and muscle-invasive lesions. Photodynamic diagnosis and narrow-band imaging provide additional contrast enhancement of bladder tumors and have been shown to improve detection rates. Confocal laser endomicroscopy and optical coherence tomography enable real-time, high-resolution, subsurface tissue characterization with spatial resolutions similar to histology. Molecular imaging offers the potential for the combination of optical imaging technologies with cancer-specific molecular agents to improve the specificity of disease detection.

Developments and controversies in the management of noninvasive bladder cancer

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To summarize recent developments and controversies in the diagnosis and management of nonmuscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC).

RECENT FINDINGS

The majority of incident bladder cancer diagnoses are noninvasive. The mainstay of diagnosis remains cystoscopy and transurethral resection, with enhanced optical techniques potentially improving detection of nascent disease. Intravesical chemotherapeutic and immunotherapeutic agents reduce the likelihood of recurrence and progression, with novel agents showing promise. The identification of variant histology with aggressive phenotypes permits identification of patients unlikely to respond to intravesical agents, in whom early cystectomy is advocated. Risk stratification of patients with NMIBC continues to improve and should be used to inform surveillance and treatment paradigms. Tobacco cessation may improve disease-specific endpoints and overall mortality.

SUMMARY

NMIBC encompasses a variety of tumors with heterogeneous natural histories, making clinical management challenging. Improved detection with novel technologies and optimization of existing treatment modalities hold promise of improving oncologic outcomes in the future.