Experience in 100 Patients with an Ileal Low Pressure Bladder Substitute Combined with an Afferent Tubular Isoperistaltic Segment

Metabolic acidosis after ileal urinary diversion and radical cystectomy. Do we know as much as we think we do? A systematic review

Urine contact with the mucosa of the urinary diversion (UD) after radical cystectomy (RC) produces different ion exchanges that favor the development of metabolic acidosis (MA). This phenomenon is a frequent cause of hospital readmission and short/long-term complications. We performed a systematic review of MA in RCs with ileal UD, analyzing its prevalence, diagnosis, risk factors and treatment. We systematically searched Pubmed® and Cochrane Library for original articles published before May 2022 according to PRISMA guidelines. A total of 421 articles were identified. We selected 25 studies that met the inclusion criteria involving 5811 patients. Obtaining precise data on the prevalence of MA is difficult, largely due to the heterogeneity of the diagnostic criteria used given the diversity of studies analyzed. Development of MA is multifactorial. In the early period, MA is more prevalent in patients with UD with longer ileal segments, better urinary continence, and impaired renal function. Age and diabetes are risk factors associated with MA in later periods. MA is the most common cause of second or more hospital readmissions. Prophylaxis with oral bicarbonate for three months in patients at risk could improve these results. Although MA after ileal UD is a well-known condition, this review highlights the need to implement homogeneous criteria for the diagnosis, follow-up, and treatment, in addition to protocolizing prevention/prophylaxis strategies in patients at risk.

Variation in Lymph Node Yield After Radical Cystectomy

OBJECTIVES

To test the hypothesis that lymph node yield will vary by pathology assistant (PA) in patients undergoing radical cystectomy (RC) with pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND).

METHODS

This is a single-institution retrospective review that included patients who underwent an RC with PLND for bladder cancer from January 1, 2007, to January 1, 2018. Predicted mean lymph node counts were generated using multivariable regression analysis.

RESULTS

In a total of 430 patients who underwent RC with PLND, the median lymph node count (interquartile range) was 15.0 (11.0-21.0). The frequency of the limits of lymphadenectomy was as follows: external iliac, internal iliac, and obturator (true pelvis) (33.3%); true pelvis plus common iliac to the level of the aortic bifurcation (47.9%); and inferior mesenteric artery (18.8%). On descriptive analysis, there were differences in lymph node yield when evaluating the following variables: level of dissection, clinical stage, neoadjuvant chemotherapy, surgical approach, surgeon, pathologist, and PA (P < .05). On multivariable analysis, adjusted lymph node counts varied between surgeons, pathologists, clinical stage, and level of dissection but not by PA (P = .18).

CONCLUSIONS

Lymph node yield after RC varies on several known levels, including surgeon, extent of lymphadenectomy, clinical stage, and pathologist. This study found no significant variation in lymph node yield according to PA.

Use of treatment pathway improves neoadjuvant chemotherapy use in muscle-invasive bladder cancer

PURPOSE

To assess the trends of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) use since its introduction in our practice pathway in patients with cT2 + bladder cancer over a 20-year period.

METHODS

This is a retrospective review of patients with cT2 + bladder cancer who underwent RC between 01/01/1998 and 01/01/2018 that aimed to evaluate the trends of NAC use and associated after implementation of a multidisciplinary treatment pathway. Cohorts were stratified into eras: pre-NAC (1998-2007) to NAC eras (2008-2018). Univariate analysis was conducted using Chi-squared test and Kaplan-Meier estimates were used to evaluate survival.

RESULTS

In 904 total patients who underwent RC, there were 493 with cT2 + UCC disease. The rate of NAC peaked at 84.2% in the most recent year of analysis in all patients and was 100% in cT2 + patients eligible for NAC. There was an increased rate of complete response (downstage to pT0) from 8.7% to 15.8% (p = 0.018) between the two eras. Unadjusted survival analysis revealed improved overall survival (OS) between eras with 5-year OS 53.2% vs. 42.7% and 10-year OS 42.7% vs. 26.4% in the NAC vs. pre-NAC cohorts, respectively (p = 0.016).

CONCLUSIONS

In this review of 20 years of experience, we report a dramatic rise in the use of NAC after adoption of a multidisciplinary pathway that is associated with expected survival benefits.

Acid-base disorders after orthotopic bladder replacement: comparison of an ileal neobladder and an ileal conduit

Objectives: For many years, creation of an orthotopic neobladder after cystectomy has been popular. In the present study, we measured the extent of metabolic acidosis in patients with ileal neobladders compared with ileal conduits and defined risk factors for development of metabolic acidosis.

Methods: We retrospectively studied 95 patients, who underwent radical cystectomy and urinary diversion to treat invasive bladder cancer from January 2001 to December 2014 at Hallym University Kangnam Sacred Heart Hospital, through investigation of acid-base balance, serum electrolyte levels and renal function one month and one year after operation.

Results: One month after the operation, metabolic acidosis was found from 18 patients (31.0%) in an ileal neobladder group and from 4 (14.8%) in an ileal conduits group. One year after the operation, the numbers became 11 (22.9%) and 2 (10.0%), respectively. However, there was not a statistical difference. The blood biochemical profiles of the two groups did not differ significantly after urinary diversion. Logistic analysis revealed that lower estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was associated with metabolic acidosis at one month (odds ratio, OR = 0.94 [0.91–0.97]; p < 0.001) and one year (OR = 0.94 [0.92–0.97]; P = 0.001) after urinary diversion. In multivariate analysis, lower eGFR is a significant risk factor for metabolic acidosis at one month.

Conclusions: Patients with ileal neobladders and conduits are at the similar risk of metabolic acidosis. A close association between renal function and development of metabolic acidosis was observed, especially stronger in an early period after operation.

Ves.Pa.-Designing a Novel Robotic Intracorporeal Orthotopic Ileal Neobladder

OBJECTIVE

To present a detailed description of the "Ves.Pa." procedure to create a novel robotic intracorporeal ileal orthotopic neobladder, together with technical tips for the creation of a time-efficient robotic intracorporeal neobladder.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We evaluated the presumed volume of the final Ves.Pa. in silico, exploring ex vivo the anatomical and technical feasibility of reconfiguring the bowel. During tests performed in a robotic pelvic model, procedures were recorded to identify possible improvements in operating times.

RESULTS

After initial evaluation of the anatomical feasibility of the technique, its practicability was confirmed during ex vivo tests. It is also possible to create two different versions of the pouch, in cases of short right or short left ureter ("Ves.Pa. Reverse"). Tests on our robotic pelvic model confirmed the feasibility of the technique, and some details to improve its time efficiency were identified, for example, further simplification of the suturing of the neobladder.

CONCLUSION

Despite the increasing use of robotic radical cystectomy, most urological departments do not perform "ideal" intracorporeal urinary diversion due to perceived technical difficulties in reconfiguring the ileum and operating times in comparison with open surgery. An idea for a novel intracorporeal robotic orthotopic neobladder (with many characteristics for creating a feasible test pouch) has been designed. Clinical studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Pelvic Lymph Node Dissection may be Limited on the Contralateral Side in Strictly Unilateral Bladder Cancer without Compromising Oncological Radicality

BACKGROUND

Results of a dynamic multimodality mapping study showed no lymphatic drainage of the lateral bladder wall to the contralateral internal iliac region.

OBJECTIVES

To validate whether pathoanatomical mapping in bladder cancer (BC) patients can confirm these results.

METHODS

Between 01/2000 and 07/2013, 825 BC patients preoperatively staged ≥pT1 and without clinical signs of metastases (cN0 cM0) underwent extended pelvic lymph node dissection (ePLND) and radical cystectomy at our department. Of these patients, 23% (193/825) were lymph node (LN) positive in the pathological specimen; 26% (51/193) of this subgroup had strictly unilateral BC. Pathoanatomical mapping was used to retrospectively validate the distribution of LN involvement in these 51 patients.

RESULTS

A median of 35 LNs were removed per patient (range: 13-80 LNs), with a median of 2 positive LNs (range: 1-14 LNs). 27% (14/51) of patients presented with LN metastases on the contralateral side. No positive LNs were found in the contralateral internal iliac region or the contralateral fossa of Marcille. 10% (5/51) of patients had LN metastases only on the contralateral side without evidence of metastases on the tumor-bearing side.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings corroborate the data of a dynamic mapping study showing bilateral lymphatic drainage in almost one third of patients with strictly unilateral BC, but no lymphatic drainage from the lateral bladder wall to the contralateral internal iliac region. If prospective studies confirm these results, the contralateral internal iliac region may be omitted during ePLND in patients with strictly unilateral BC.

Robot-assisted radical cystectomy and intracorporeal neobladder formation: on the way to a standardized procedure

BACKGROUND

Robot-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) with intracorporeal diversion has been shown to be feasible in a few centers of excellence worldwide, with promising functional and oncologic outcomes. However, it remains unknown whether the complexity of the procedure allows its duplication in other non-pioneer centers. We attempt to address this issue by presenting our cumulative experience with RARC and intracorporeal neobladder formation.

METHODS

We retrospectively identified 62 RARCs in 50 men and 12 women (mean age 63.6 years) in two tertiary centers. Intracorporeal Studer neobladders were created, duplicating the steps of standard open surgery. Perioperative and postoperative variables and complications were analyzed using standardized tools. Functional and oncological results were assessed.

RESULTS

The mean operative time was 476.9 min (range, 310 to 690) and blood loss was 385 ml (200 to 800). The mean hospital stay was 16.7 (12 to 62) days with no open conversion. Perioperative complications were grade II in 15, grade III in 11, and grade IV in 5 patients. The mean nodal yield was 22.9 (8 to 46). Positive margins were found in in 6.4%. The 90- and 180-day mortality rates were 0% and 3.3%. The average follow-up was 37.3 months (3 to 52). Continence was achieved in 88% of patients. The cancer-specific survival rate and overall survival rate were 84% and 71%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

A RARC with intracorporeal neobladder creation is safe and reproducible in 'non-pioneer' tertiary centers with robotic expertise with acceptable operative time and complications. Further standardization of RARC with intracorporeal diversion is a prerequisite for its widespread use.

[Antibiotic prophylaxis in urology]

INTRODUCTION

Antibiotic prophylaxis (AP) is used to minimize infectious complications resulting from interventions. Due to high rates of development of bacterial resistance and side effects, the use of antibiotics must be weighed on the basis of high levels of evidence. The main endpoints of urology AP are the prevention of symptomatic urogenital infections, urosepsis and wound infections. The purpose of this review is to bring objectives, principles and recommendations on urology AP according to the latest scientific evidence.

METHODS

We carried out a systematic search of MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library using keywords such as AP, prophylaxis, antibiotics, urological surgery, urogenital surgery and the names of the urologic procedures. The results of studies on the AP for each procedure were classified according to the levels of evidence and grades of recommendation from the European Association of Urology.

RESULTS

There are a number of good quality studies on AP about endoscopic resection of the prostate (TURP), urodynamic studies and transrectal prostate biopsies (trPB). The majority of the studies about other procedures have several limitations (sample size, consistency of definitions, statistics and trial design). Lack of consistency in the definitions of infectious complications does not allow comparison between different studies.

CONCLUSIONS

The AP is evidence-based is indicated only for TURP and trPB. It is desirable to perform randomized, prospective and controlled trials in order to rationalize the use of antibiotics, improve the cost/benefit ratio and reduce bacterial antibiotic resistances.

[Treatment of invasive bladder cancer: robot-assisted radical cystectomy and intracorporeal urinary diversion]

PURPOSE

Robot-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) and intracorporeal urinary diversion are only performed in a few centers of excellence worldwide. Functional and oncologic outcomes are comparable. We report on our experience with RARC and intracorporeal diversion.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively identified 86 RARCs in 72 men and 14 women (mean age 69.7 years). All patients underwent robot-assisted radical cystectomy and pelvic lymphadenectomy followed by intracorporeal urinary diversion using ileal conduit or neobladder. Of the 86 patients, 24 patients (28%) underwent intracorporeal ileal conduit and 62 patients (72%) underwent intracorporeal neobladder formation. A Studer pouch was created in all who underwent intracorporeal neobladder diversion. Cancer specific survival (CSS) and overall survival (OS) are reported.

RESULTS

The mean operative time was 418.9 min (range 205-690 min) and blood loss was 380 ml (range 100-1000 ml). The mean hospital stay was 17.5 days (range 5-62 days). All the surgeries were completed with no open conversions. Minor complications (grade I and II) were reported in 23 patients, while major complications (grade III and above) were reported in 21 patients. The mean nodal yield was 20.3 (range 0-46). Positive margins were found in in 8%. The average follow-up was 31.5 months (range 3-52 months). Continence could be achieved in 88% of patients who received an intracorporeal neobladder. The cancer-specific survival (CSS) and overall survival (OS) were 80% and 70%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

RARC with intracorporeal diversion seems to be safe and reproducible in tertiary centers with robotic expertise. Operative times are acceptable and complications as well as functional and oncologic outcomes are comparable. Further standardization of RARC with intracorporeal diversion may lead to a wider adoption of the approach.

CCND1/CyclinD1 status in metastasizing bladder cancer: a prognosticator and predictor of chemotherapeutic response

The CCND1 gene encodes the protein CyclinD1, which is an important promoter of the cell cycle and a prognostic and predictive factor in different cancers. CCND1 is amplified to a substantial proportion in various tumors, and this may contribute to CyclinD1 overexpression. In bladder cancer, information about the clinical relevance of CCND1/CyclinD1 alterations is limited. In the present study, amplification status of CCND1 and expression of CyclinD1 were evaluated by fluorescence in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry on tissue microarrays from 152 lymph node-positive urothelial bladder cancers (one sample each from the center and invasion front of the primary tumors, two samples per corresponding lymph node metastasis) treated by cystectomy and lymphadenectomy. CCND1 amplification status and the percentage of immunostained cancer cells were correlated with histopathological tumor characteristics, cancer-specific survival and response to adjuvant chemotherapy. CCND1 amplification in primary tumors was homogeneous in 15% and heterogeneous in 6% (metastases: 22 and 2%). Median nuclear CyclinD1 expression in amplified samples was similar in all tumor compartments (60-70% immunostained tumor nuclei) and significantly higher than in non-amplified samples (5-20% immunostained tumor nuclei; P<0.05). CCND1 status and CyclinD1 expression were not associated with primary tumor stage or lymph node tumor burden. CCND1 amplification in primary tumors (P=0.001) and metastases (P=0.02) and high nuclear CyclinD1 in metastases (P=0.01) predicted early cancer-related death independently. Subgroup analyses showed that chemotherapy was particularly beneficial in patients with high nuclear CyclinD1 expression in the metastases, whereas expression in primary tumors and CCND1 status did not predict chemotherapeutic response. In conclusion, CCND1 amplification status and CyclinD1 expression are independent risk factors in metastasizing bladder cancer. High nuclear CyclinD1 expression in lymph node metastases predicts favorable response to chemotherapy. This information may help to personalize prognostication and administration of adjuvant chemotherapy.

Neobladder long term follow-up

One of the commonest forms of orthotopic bladder substitution for bladder cancer survivors, used in our institute, is the use of ileocecal segment. Sometimes, the need for Indiana pouch heterotropic continent diversion arises.

AIM

To compare the long-term effect of orthotopic ileocecal bladder and heterotropic Indiana pouch following radical cystectomy in bladder cancer patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between January 2008 and December 2011, 91 patients underwent radical cystectomy/anterior pelvic exentration and orthotopic ileocecal bladder reconstruction (61 patients) and Indiana pouch (30 patients), when orthotopic diversion could not be technically or oncologically feasible.

RESULTS

Convalescence was uneventful in most patients. All minor and major urinary leakage cases, in both diversions groups, where successfully conservatively treated. Only one patient in the ileocecal group with major urinary leak required re-exploration with successful revision of uretro-colonic anastomosis. Only one patient in the Indiana pouch group had accidentally discovered sub-centimetric stone, which was simply expelled. The overall survival proportion of ileocecal group was 100% compared to 80% in the Indiana pouch group (p<0.001). The disease free survival proportion of ileocecal group was 90.8% compared to 80% in the Indiana pouch group (p=0.076). Effective comparative daytime and nighttime urinary continence as well as renal function deterioration were not statistically significant between both reconstruction types.

CONCLUSION

Both ileocecal bladder and Indiana pouch are safe procedures in regard to long-term effects over kidney function following radical cystectomy.

Robotic intracorporeal orthotopic ileal neobladder: replicating open surgical principles

BACKGROUND

Robotic radical cystectomy (RC) for cancer is beginning to gain wider acceptance. Yet, the concomitant urinary diversion is typically performed extracorporeally at most centers, primarily because intracorporeal diversion is perceived as technically complex and arduous. Previous reports on robotic, intracorporeal, orthotopic neobladder may not have fully replicated established open principles of reservoir configuration, leading to concerns about long-term functional outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

To illustrate step-by-step our technique for robotic, intracorporeal, orthotopic, ileal neobladder, urinary diversion with strict adherence to open surgical tenets.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

From July 2010 to May 2012, 24 patients underwent robotic intracorporeal neobladder at a single tertiary cancer center. This report presents data on patients with a minimum of 3-mo follow-up (n=8).

SURGICAL PROCEDURE

We performed robotic RC, extended lymphadenectomy to the inferior mesenteric artery, and complete intracorporeal diversion. Our surgical technique is demonstrated in the accompanying video.

OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

Baseline demographics, pathology data, 90-d complications, and functional outcomes were assessed and compared with patients undergoing intracorporeal ileal conduit diversion (n=7).

RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS

Robotic intracorporeal urinary diversion was successfully performed in 15 patients (neobladder: 8 patients, ileal conduit: 7 patients) with a minimum 90-d follow-up. Median age and body mass index were 68 yr and 27 kg/m2, respectively. In the neobladder cohort, median estimated blood loss was 225 ml (range: 100-700 ml), median time to regular diet was 5 d (range: 4-10 d), median hospital stay was 8 d (range: 5-27 d), and 30- and 90-d complications were Clavien grade 1-2 (n=5 and 0), Clavien grade 3-5 (n=2 and 1), respectively. This study is limited by small sample size and short follow-up period.

CONCLUSIONS

An intracorporeal technique of robot-assisted orthotopic neobladder and ileal conduit is presented, wherein established open principles are diligently preserved. This step-wise approach is demonstrated to help shorten the learning curve of other surgeons contemplating robotic intracorporeal urinary diversion.

High CD10 expression predicts favorable outcome in surgically treated lymph node-positive bladder cancer patients

CD10 predicts survival in different cancers. The prognostic significance in bladder cancer still has to be documented. One hundred fifty lymph node-positive bladder cancer patients were treated by cystectomy and standardized pelvic lymphadenectomy in curative intent. CD10 expression was evaluated in tissue microarrays (TMAs) constructed from histopathological normal urothelium, primary tumor (tumor center and invasion front), and corresponding lymph node metastases and correlated with tumor characteristics (stage, extracapsular extension, number, and total diameter of metastases) and survival. CD10 expression was successively lost from normal urothelium to primary tumor to metastases (P < .05) and decreased from the tumor center to the invasion front (P < .002). High CD10 expression in tumor center or invasion front (P < .05) but not in the metastases predicted favorable outcome; the prognostic information in the tumor center was independent from tumor stage and lymph node parameters. High CD10 expression level was not associated with specific tumor characteristics. A well-defined sampling strategy for TMAs allows detection of specific biomarker expression patterns and may generate prognostic information inherent in particular tumor areas. The favorable outcome in bladder cancer patients with high CD10 expression might suggest a tumor suppressive function of CD10.

MMP-2 and MMP-9 in lymph-node-positive bladder cancer

Background

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP), particularly MMP-2 and MMP-9, participate in tumour progression and metastasis in various cancers. Their significance in urothelial cancer of the bladder (UCB) is unclear. Expression analysis of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in tissue microarrays (TMA) constructed of corresponding samples from histopathological normal urothelium, tumour centre and invasion front of primary tumours and lymph-node (LN) metastases might help to elucidate their relevance in UCB.

Method

MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression was evaluated in TMA of 150 surgically treated LN-positive UCB patients. Biomarker expression was correlated with tumour characteristics (primary tumour and LN stage, number, total diameter and extracapsular extension of LN metastases) and overall survival.

Results

While there was a significant increase in MMP-9 expression from normal urothelium over primary tumours to metastases (median scores: 20, 50, 65; p<0.005), no such trend was observed in MMP-2 (median scores: 5, 22, 10; p<0.005). A comparison of expression in the tumour centre and the invasion front showed no difference in both MMP. No association between expression and histopathological tumour characteristics was identified. There was a non-significant trend for a more favourable outcome for patients with high MMP-2 expression in primary tumours.

Conclusion

In LN-positive UCB, MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression was not increased at the invasion front, suggesting an infiltration strategy independent of MMP-2 and MMP-9 activity. Larger series are needed to detect a potential significant trend for favourable outcome in cancers with high MMP-2 expression.

[Oncological pelvic surgery under urological aspects: bladder carcinoma]

The aim of the treatment of invasive bladder cancer with radical cystectomy and subsequent urinary diversion is to combine a safe oncological procedure with a satisfactory quality of life. Radical cystectomy is the treatment of choice for all patients with recurrent or multifocal high grade T1 bladder cancer, T1 tumors with high risk of progression, failure of Bacillus Calmette-Guérin treatment and muscle-invasive bladder cancer. Radical cystectomy offers excellent recurrence-free and cancer-specific survival rates as well as local tumor control in patients with organ-confined and node-negative diseases. Tumor control in non-organ-confined tumors is still satisfactory with long term recurrence-free survival (RFS) rates of about 50%. Nerve-sparing cystectomy is of importance for lower urinary tract function, including continence rates after orthotopic urinary diversion and for sexual function in males and females. Orthotopic urinary reconstruction using a neobladder achieves good continence rates. Overall quality of life after radical cystectomy remains good in most patients irrespective of the type of urinary diversion.

Studer orthotopic ileal bladder substitute construction - surgical technique and complication management: one-center and 12-year experience

PURPOSE

We have performed Studer neobladder creation in 61 patients (53 male and 8 female). The aims of this study were to evaluate the clinical outcomes, to review the surgical technique modification, postoperative complications management and metabolic disturbances.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

All patients were retrospectively studied and followed-up. The follow-up: 12 years to 2 months. 44 patients (41 male and 3 female) returned for a control visit. All completed IIQ-7 questionnaire. Continence was analysed. Kidney ultrasound, post void residual and uroflowmetry, blood tests (electrolytes, kidney markers, acid-base balance) were performed. All patients were divided into two groups: I (with Zuber mineral water intake) and group II (without Zuber mineral water intake) for acid-base balance analysis.

RESULTS

Early complications occurred in 13.1% (enterocolitis, neobladder-urethral anastomosis leakage, pyelonephritis, and lymphorrhoea). Late complications occurred in 14.0% (stricture of the neobladder-urethra anastomosis, urosepsis secondarily to bilateral hydronephrosis, stone formation, and pyonephrosis). In the follow-up 88.6% of patients revealed normal continence. The nocturnal incontinence, nocturia, and external or indwelling catheter were reported in 9, 6 and 5 patients, respectively). In IIQ-7 the mean negative impact of continence level on patients quality of life was 10.08% ± 14.47%. The mean Qmax., Qave., post void residual were 15.8 ± 4.9 ml/s, 7.9 ± 3.0 ml/s, and 151.2 ± 139.2 ml, respectively. Patients who regularly intake the Zuber present significant decrease of BE deficiency as compared to patient without Zuber usage.

CONCLUSIONS

The Studer neobladder is the alternative urinary diversion. This is the difficult, skill demanding procedure, nevertheless gaining experience with self modifications resulted in decrease of complications. The Zuber mineral water intake ameliorates the base excess deficiency after Studer creation.

Iatrogenic infections in urological practice Concepts of pathogenesis, prevention and management

In this paper we review the pathogenesis, prevention and management of iatrogenic infection in urological practice. A systematic literature search was conducted using MEDLINE. The topics discussed include the commonest home-care, outpatient, endourologic and open surgical procedures. In addition, we discuss iatrogenic urinary infections associated with special situations, including urinary diversion, urologic prostheses, diabetes mellitus, dialysis, kidney transplantation and complicated urinary tract infections (UTIs). The findings of the literature review are as follows. Prophylactic antibiotics are not recommended with clean intermittent catheterization. With prolonged catheterization, antibiotics should not be used unless symptoms of pyelonephritis or septicemia become apparent. With transrectal prostate biopsy, infection can be prevented by rectal cleansing, use of smaller needles and administration of antimicrobial prophylaxis before and after the procedure. With ureteral stents, antibiotics should be restricted to patients with clinical signs of infection and high-risk patients. Infections after transurethral resection of the prostate can be prevented by avoiding risk factors and using perioperative antibiotics. In endourological procedures, antibiotic prophylaxis is indicated in cases of infected stones, preoperative UTIs or prolonged procedures. Antibiotics are not recommended for clean wounds, as prophylaxis for clean-contaminated wounds or as therapy for contaminated and dirty wounds. In patients with urinary diversion, the objective is to prevent pyelonephritis by avoiding both reflux and obstruction of the upper urinary tract. In patients with urological prostheses, the most important measure to overcome iatrogenic infection is prevention. In dialysis patients, iatrogenic infections can be prevented by the development of new catheter materials that are less susceptible to biofilms. In kidney transplant recipients, iatrogenic infections can be prevented by treating all types of infection prior to transplantation and by using peri- and postoperative prophylactic antibiotics.

Urinary diversion: 30 years experience of a single centre in Republic of Macedonia

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this report is to present our 30 years experience with various types of urinary diversions, in particular the Bricker and Studer techniques for the management of muscle invasive bladder cancer at our institution. Perioperative, early and late complications are also evaluated.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Between 1977 and 2007, 186 male and 15 female patients underwent combined radical cystectomy, pelvic lymphadenectomy and urinary diversion. In two subgroups of patients we evaluated the complications, divided as early and late, and subdivided as those related or unrelated to the neobladder. Mean follow up time was 28 months (range 12-60 months).

RESULTS

Two main types of urinary diversion were performed: the ileal conduit diversion using a technique previously described by Bricker and the ileal neobladder diversion using a technique previously described by a Studer. The ages at surgery ranged from 40 to 82 years with a mean age of 60 years. Histopathologically, transitional cell carcinoma was the most common tumor cell type (93,7%), followed by difuse papilomatosis (5.5%) and adenocarcinoma (0.7%). The pathological tumor stage was pT1 (4.7%), pT2 (31.4%), pT3 (50.3 %) and pT4a (13,3%). Histological evidence of regional lymph node involvement was seen in 25% of the cases. From 52 patients from the Studer subgroup perioperative complications were found in 16 patients (30.7%). Specific early complications directly related to the neobladder occurred in 14 (26.9%) patients. Prolonged ileus in 2 patient (3.8%), ureteral leakage in 9 patients (17.3%), mucous buildup within the diversion in 3 patients (5.7%). Late complications occurred in 10 patients (19.2%): retention of the urine in 4 patients (7.6%) (stricture of the urethra-pouch anastomosis in one 1 patient) and to big reservoir in 3 patients. One patient (1.9%) developed prolonged metabolic acidosis. Stone formation was observed in one patient, two years postoperatively. Unilateral hydroureteronephrosis was observed in 2 patients whereas bilateral hydroureteronephrosis was observed in one patients at one year postoperatively. Perioperative and late complications were similar in the 32 patients from the Bricker subgroup.

CONCLUSION

We show that our results with urinary diversion are promising in patients requiring radical cystoprostatectomy. The two methods preferred in our institution offer a sufficient protection of the upper urinary tract with a low complication rate, good voiding function and continence.

Real-time MRI of Orthotopic Ileal Neobladder Voiding: Preliminary Findings

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this preliminary study was to analyze the dynamic changes in the configuration of the neobladder and naïve bladder during voiding using real-time MRI.

METHODS

This study included 10 male patients who had a radical cystectomy and an ileal orthotopic neobladder due to organ-confined bladder cancer and had good urinary function, and 5 male control volunteers. With the subjects in the lateral decubitus position, real-time MRI was performed during micturition. A sagittal slice orientation was used to depict the bladder and the entire length of the urethra; individual movements along the X-axis and Y-axis of the bottom and top of the neobladder and the naïve bladder were recorded and analyzed. Urodynamic studies (UDS) and video voiding cystourethrography were performed in patients.

RESULTS

Five of the 10 neobladder patients could void in the lateral decubitus position. In normal controls and patients who could void, the bladder outlet bladder moved ventrocranially during micturition. The ileal bladder outlet moved a significantly longer distance than the naïve bladder during micturition (X-axis, -13.4+/-1.5 vs. -3.6+/-4.3 cm, p=0.0014; Y-axis, -10.6+/-0.5 vs. -2.0+/-6.5 cm, p=0.0187). The distance that the bladder top moved between the naïve bladders and the neobladder did not differ. UDS did not show a difference between patients who could and could not void at lateral position.

CONCLUSIONS

During micturition, the neobladder was found to rotate and move more dynamically than the naïve bladder. Real-time MRI is useful for assessing dynamic voiding function of orthotopic neobladders.

The S-shaped orthotopic ileal neobladder substitute incorporating a new seromuscular antireflux technique (split ileal end) in a series of 50 patients

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to assess the function of our new technique, complications, continence, voiding patterns in those patients with the clinical evaluation of the S-shaped orthotopic ileal neobladder substitute incorporating a new antireflux technique.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between April 2002 and November 2006, 50 patients (44 men and 6 women) underwent radical cystectomy and S-shaped ileal neobladder reconstruction with our new antireflux technique (split seromuscular). The mean age of male patients was 58 years (45-71 years). The mean age of female patients was 50 years (45-55 years). In all patients an S-shaped ileal pouch was constructed incorporating the new antireflux technique. This antireflux has not yet been described in the literature before. All procedures are performed by the same surgeons and the mean follow-up was 30 months. Complications were registered as early (occurring within 3 months) or late (occurring after 3 months), and as diversion-related and diversion-unrelated. Continence and voiding patterns were also evaluated.

RESULTS

There is no reflux in all patients except one. Early complications occurred in 8 patients. The most common early diversion-related complication was urinary leakage in 3 patients. No patients sustained an early diversion-related complication attributed to the new antireflux technique. Late complications occurred in 6 patients. Overall, 39 patients voided to completion without needing catheterization. A total of 7 patients required some form of clean intermittent catheterization to empty the new bladder completely including 5 of 44 men (12.5%) and 2 of 6 women (33.3%).

CONCLUSIONS

The functional results with this pouch incorporating the new antireflux technique were efficient. Our S-shaped pouch has reduced the length of intestine (37 cm) that minimized the metabolic and malabsorption complications. Moreover it is simple.

Orthotopic ileal neobladder reconstruction after renal transplant

Radical cystectomy and urinary diversion is an effective curative treatment for muscle invasive bladder cancer. The orthotopic ileal neobladder has become a favorable choice of urinary diversion as it offers superior quality of life, cosmetic outcome and the potential for normal voiding. We treated two patients with bladder cancer who previously underwent renal transplant for end-stage renal disease. Radical cystectomy and orthotopic ileal neobladder reconstruction was performed in both patients. One patient had two renal transplants and underwent transplant nephrectomy at the time of cystectomy. In the other patient, the native kidneys were still present and the ureters were anastomosed to the neobladder. There is excellent function of the neobladder. There were no increased complications seen in these patients. Our cases demonstrate that an orthotopic ileal neobladder is safe and feasible after renal transplant and should be offered to these patients.

A comparison of the Bricker versus Wallace ureteroileal anastomosis in patients undergoing urinary diversion for bladder cancer

PURPOSE

In recent years few studies have evaluated the success and complications of the 2 most common types of ureteroenteric anastomotic techniques, the Bricker and the Wallace anastomosis. We evaluated the complications of the Bricker and Wallace techniques of ureteroenteric anastomosis in a single surgeon, single institution series.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From 2001 to 2005 a total of 186 patients underwent ileal conduit or ileal neobladder after cystectomy for bladder cancer. All patients were followed for a minimum of 12 months after surgery with complete clinical information. In all cases the ureters were anastomosed to a segment of ileum in a separate (Bricker) or conjoined (Wallace) fashion.

RESULTS

Of the 186 patients 94 underwent a Bricker (51%), 90 underwent a Wallace (48%) and 2 patients underwent both procedures (Wallace on duplicated system on 1 side, Bricker on contralateral side). Ureteral stricture developed in 5 of 186 (2.6%) patients and the overall stricture rate for all ureters was 7 of 371 (1.9%). In patients undergoing Bricker anastomosis the total stricture rate for all ureters was 3.7% (7 of 187). With the Wallace anastomosis the total stricture rate for all ureters was 0% (0 of 184). This difference in stricture rate in the Bricker vs Wallace subgroups was significant (p = 0.015). There was no difference in age, gender, creatinine, prior radiation, complications or mode of diversion between the groups. Body mass index was higher in the Bricker vs the Wallace group (29.0 vs 25.9 kg/m(2)). Of the 5 patients with strictures 1 underwent successful open repair, 1 had successful interventional radiological repair and 3 were treated with chronic ureteral stents (1 after failed open repair and 2 after failed radiological repair).

CONCLUSIONS

Both the Bricker and the Wallace anastomoses provide acceptably low stricture rates in a single surgeon case series. Indeed, the Wallace anastomosis had no strictures in this series. The Bricker group had a higher body mass index which was likely due to the often disparate ureteral lengths in obese patients after retrosigmoidal tunneling, which would have affected the choice of technique.

Does Body Mass Index Affect Outcome After Reconstruction of Orthotopic Neobladder?

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the impact of body mass index (BMI) on outcome after orthotopic neobladder (NB) reconstruction.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of patients who underwent radical cystectomy and NB from 1992 to 2004. The patients were categorized according to BMI into group 1, BMI less than 25 kg/m2; group 2, BMI 25 to 29.9 kg/m2; and group 3, BMI greater than 30 kg/m2. The relationships among the BMI categories, the predominant complications (eg, urinary tract infection [UTI]; pyelonephritis; ureteral, bladder neck, and urethral stricture), other complications, and continence were analyzed.

RESULTS

Of the 343 patients who underwent radical cystectomy, 116 had an NB. The patient characteristics among the BMI groups were similar. Group 1 had fewer complications compared with the other groups (P <0.012). The principal complications observed were UTI, stricture, and pyelonephritis. The incidence of UTI, pyelonephritis, and wound infection were less in group 1 than in the other groups, with statistically significant differences (P = 0.001, P = 0.04, and P = 0.04, respectively). At the last follow-up visit, only 10% of the patients required clean intermittent catheterization to empty the NB, and no statistically significant differences were found in the continence status and voiding pattern among the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

An increased incidence of UTI, pyelonephritis, and wound infection was found in patients with increased BMI. However, they were transient and not life threatening. The continence and voiding patterns were relatively similar. Hence, an NB can be offered to patients with an increased BMI, and they should be formally counseled.

Orthotopic ileal W-shaped neobladder: functional results and oncological outcome

INTRODUCTION

There still exists an ongoing debate regarding the optimal method of ureterointestinal reimplantation in continent urinary diversion. The main objectives of the present study was to analyze the long-term functional results and the oncological outcome after the construction of orthotopic ileal neobladders, based on the antireflux serous-lined extramural tunnel technique.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 32 bladder cancer patients (30 males and 2 females, mean age 588 years), who underwent between 1/9/1996 and 1/9/2006 extended pelvic lymphadenectomy and radical cystectomy, followed by the construction of orthotopic W-shaped ileal neobladder, entered the study. All ureters were reimplanted via serous-lined extramural tunnels for reflux prevention. Adjuvant systemic chemotherapy with gemcitabine plus cisplatin was applied in 17 cases. All patients were evaluable for follow up (mean follow up - 53.938 months). Evaluation included clinical, radiographic and urodynamical studies to determine functional and oncological outcomes.

RESULTS

None of the patients died in the hospital. Various early and late complications occurred in 18.8% and 21.9% of the patients, respectively. The overall incidence of day- and nighttime continence was 93.8% and 78.1%. Stenosis at the anastomotic site occurred in 2 uretero-ileal anastomoses (3.2%), while none of the patients showed evidence of pouchoureteral reflux. Renal function was stabilized or improved in 96.8% of the reimplanted renal units. Eight oncological failures were observed during follow-up: 1 local tumor recurrence and 7 metastatic tumor spreads. The overall and disease-specific patient survival was 72% and 81%, resp.

CONCLUSION

The serous-lined extramural tunnel technique provides an effective and safe ureteroileal anastomosis, achieving nonobstructed unidirectional flow of urine. The results are durable and sustained with time. Therefore, this technique should be recommended whenever a construction of a continent intestinal urinary reservoir is considered.

Urinary Diversion

A consensus conference convened by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Société Internationale d'Urologie (SIU) met to critically review reports of urinary diversion. The world literature on urinary diversion was identified through a Medline search. Evidence-based recommendations for urinary diversion were prepared with reference to a 4-point scale. Many level 3 and 4 citations, but very few level 2 and no level 1, were noted. This outcome supported the clinical practice pattern. Findings of >300 reviewed citations are summarized. Published reports on urinary diversion rely heavily on expert opinion and single-institution retrospective case series: (1) The frequency distribution of urinary diversions performed by the authors of this report in >7000 patients with cystectomy reflects the current status of urinary diversion after cystectomy for bladder cancer: neobladder, 47%; conduit, 33%; anal diversion, 10%; continent cutaneous diversion, 8%; incontinent cutaneous diversion, 2%; and others, 0.1%. (2) No randomized controlled studies have investigated quality of life (QOL) after radical cystectomy. Such studies are desirable but are probably difficult to conduct. Published evidence does not support an advantage of one type of reconstruction over the others with regard to QOL. An important proposed reason for this is that patients are subjected preoperatively to method-to-patient matching, and thus are prepared for disadvantages associated with different methods. (3) Simple end-to-side, freely refluxing ureterointestinal anastomosis to an afferent limb of a low-pressure orthotopic reconstruction, in combination with regular voiding and close follow-up, is the procedure that results in the lowest overall complication rate. The potential benefit of "conventional" antireflux procedures in combination with orthotopic reconstruction seems outweighed by the higher complication and reoperation rates. The need to prevent reflux in a continent cutaneous reservoir is not significantly debated, and this should be done. (4) Most reconstructive surgeons have abandoned the continent Kock ileal reservoir largely because of the significant complication rate associated with the intussuscepted nipple valve.

The 'pitcher pot' ileal neobladder: early experiences

OBJECTIVE

To analyse initial results of newly designed ileal neobladder-a modification of Studer neobladder

METHODS

Twenty-four patients with urinary bladder cancer underwent radical cystoprostatectomy from February 2005 to March 2006. Twenty-one of them had urinary diversion using ileal neobladder in spherical configuration with ileal neourethra (giving the shape of an inverted Indian earthenware container called a 'pitcher pot') to circumvent the problem of short mesentery and construct a low-pressure spherical ileal neobladder.

RESULTS

Early post-operative complications occurred in 42% of patients. Late complications occurred in 23% of patients. Most of these complications were minor, mainly as a result of wound infection, urine leak or urinary tract infections and were managed conservatively. No early post-operative mortality was observed. Daytime continence was achieved in 100% of patients who completed the 1 year follow-up. Night-time continence was variable as it depended on timed voiding--75% of patients achieved nocturnal continence by 1 year. The functional neobladder capacity was 426 ml. The mean post-operative residual volume was 36 ml. Three patients required cystoscopic mucus evacuation and catheterization. None of them required clean intermittent catheterization. No significant metabolic disturbance occurred in any patient.

CONCLUSIONS

Length of mesentery remains one of the factors in deciding the segment of intestine to be taken for neobladder. Ileal neourethra gives about 2-3 cm extra length to perform tensionless anastomosis, which is a key factor in the smooth recovery after such major surgery and also maintains optimum urodynamic features of neobladder.