Urinary diversion via a continent ileal reservoir: clinical results in 12 patients

Current Surgical Treatment for Neurogenic Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction in Patients with Chronic Spinal Cord Injury

This study aimed to present a comprehensive literature review of the efforts of a spinal cord injury workgroup in Taiwan regarding urologic surgery for neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD) in patients with chronic spinal cord injury (SCI). Surgical procedures should be viewed as a final option for managing patients with SCI who have persistent symptoms and complications that cannot be resolved by other means. Surgeries can be grouped according to their purpose: reducing bladder pressures, reducing urethra resistance, increasing urethra resistance, and urinary diversion. The choice of surgery depends on the type of LUTD based on urodynamic tests. Additionally, cognitive function, hand motility, comorbidities, efficacy of surgery, and related complications should be considered.

Cystectomy for Benign Indications

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This article evaluates the historical influences, current use, surgical techniques, and recent evidence on outcomes for cystectomy performed for benign indications.

RECENT FINDINGS

At the population level, cystectomy for benign indications has similar perioperative morbidity to radical cystectomy for cancer. Postoperative patient satisfaction is high and functional outcomes appear good, including sexual function. Patient regret about diversion choice is low provided decisions are well informed. Cystectomy is important both as a primary procedure for benign disease and as an adjunct to primary urinary diversion. Early morbidity remains high but long-term results are encouraging. Further studies are needed to guide patient decision-making, to help inform diversion choice, and to understand the long-term impact of surgery and diversion choice on quality of life.

Hemi-Kock Continent Stoma With Augmentation Cystoplasty: Modifications and Outcomes

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the long-term outcomes and impact of surgical modifications on the need for secondary surgery of the Hemi-Kock continent catheterizable stoma, comprising a detubularized ileal segment with an attached stapled ileoileal intussusception of the catheterizable channel, in patients with complex lower urinary tract disorders. The technique may be used for augmentation in patients with reduced bladder capacity who require a continent catheterizable channel. Compared to the flap and ileocecal valve procedures, the hemi-Kock technique has not been widely adopted.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a retrospective case series including all patients who underwent a hemi-Kock catheterizable channel with cystoplasty from a single institution. Surgical technique and modifications in valve construction and tapering of the catheterizable limb are described.

RESULTS

A total of 109 patients, with a median age of 38 years (range 18-72), underwent the procedure. At a mean of 10.4 years, 98 patients (90%) reported that they were managing with clean intermittent catheterization ± pads; 11 (10%) were failures. A total of 70 (64.2%) patients underwent secondary interventions with >60% performed endoscopically or under local anesthesia, mainly for bladder stones. Fourteen patients (12.8%) required valve revisions. However, the rate decreased from 18.2% (8/44) to 9.3% (6/65) following incorporation of the surgical modifications.

CONCLUSION

We present the largest cohort to date of patients managed with a Hemi-Kock catheterizable channel and cystoplasty. Valve revision rate improved with surgical modifications. We demonstrate long-term durability and maintenance of stomal catheterization in the vast majority of patients.

Urethral fixation technique improves urinary continence recovery in male patients undergoing open radical cystectomy and ileal orthotopic neobladder

BACKGROUND

We assessed urinary continence recovery and perioperative complications in patients operated on with the novel urethral fixation technique during open radical cystectomy (RC) with ileal orthotopic neobladder (IONB).

METHODS

A retrospective cohort of 82 consecutive male patients undergoing open RC with IONB between 07/2013 and 06/2020 was analyzed. A study group of 48 patients operated on with the urethral fixation technique was compared with a control group of 34 patients receiving standard neovesico-urethral anastomosis. In the study group, the urethral stump was fixed to the dorsal median raphe posteriorly and to the medial portion of levator ani muscle postero-laterally in order to avoid urethral retraction/deviation. Urinary continence recovery and perioperative complications were assessed and compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

The two groups were comparable with regard to demographic, clinical and pathological variables. At the median follow-up of 36 months, 42 (87.5%) patients in the study, and 22 (64.7%) in the control group during daytime, and 32 (66.7%) patients in the study, and 15 (44.1%) patients in the control group during nighttime used no pads or a safety pad (p=0.01 and p=0.04, respectively). Ninety-day postoperative complications were observed in 14 (29.2%) patients in the study, and in 10 (29.4%) cases in the control group (p=0.77).

CONCLUSIONS

In our exploratory case-control study of male patients undergoing open RC with IONB, we observed a significant improvement in daytime and nighttime urinary continence recovery with no increase in perioperative complications using the novel urethral fixation technique compared to the standard neovesical-urethral anastomosis.

Diagnosis and Management of Kock Afferent Nipple Valve Obstruction

OBJECTIVE

To characterize afferent nipple valve obstruction in Kock diversions presenting with hydronephrosis and discuss appropriate work-up and management.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 7 cases of afferent nipple valve obstruction.

RESULTS

The median time from diversion creation to afferent nipple valve intervention was 17-years. Presentations included febrile-UTIs, worsening renal function and hydronephrosis. All patients underwent upper tract imaging confirming bilateral hydronephrosis or hydronephrosis of a solitary kidney followed by nephrostomy tube insertion to drain the obstructed kidney(s). On nephrostogram assessment afferent nipple valve obstruction was confirmed by a lack of contrast passing through the valve. In 4 of these patients the afferent valve could not be cannulated while in one patient endoscopic retrograde balloon dilation was performed but failed after 12-months. One patient had successful antegrade balloon dilation (four-years follow-up). In five patients and the one patient who failed retrograde balloon dilation open surgical repair of the afferent nipple valve was successful (median follow-up time 5-years).

CONCLUSION

It is essential to consider afferent nipple valve obstruction in a patient with a Kock diversion presenting with bilateral hydronephrosis/hydronephrosis of a solitary kidney, even after many years following the original diversion. Appropriate work-up consists of upper tract imaging, endoscopy and retrograde studies or nephrostomy insertion with nephrostogram. Management options include endoscopic retrograde or antegrade balloon dilation or valve incision. Failing that, surgical repair may be successful with long-term upper tract preservation.

Totally intracorporeal robot-assisted urinary diversion for bladder cancer (Part 1). Review and detailed characterization of ileal conduit and modified Indiana pouch

Objective

To review the most used robot-assisted cutaneous urinary diversion (CUD) after radical cystectomy for bladder cancer and create a unified compendium of the different alternatives, including new consistent images

Methods

A non-systematic review of the literature with the keywords “bladder cancer”, “cutaneous urinary diversion”, and “radical cystectomy” was performed.

Results

Twenty-four studies of intracorporeal ileal conduit (ICIC) and two of intracorporeal Indiana pouch (ICIP) were included in the analysis. Regarding ICIC, the patients’ age ranged from 60 to 76 years. The operative time to perform a urinary diversion ranged from 60 to 133 min. The total estimated blood loss ranged from 200 to 1 117 mL. The rate of positive surgical margins ranged from 0% to 14.3%. Early minor and major complication rates ranged from 0% to 71.4% and from 0% to 53.4%, respectively. Late minor and major complication rates ranged from 0% to 66% and from 0% to 32%, respectively. Totally ICIP data are limited to one case report and one clinical series.

Conclusion

The most frequent type of CUD is ICIC. Randomized studies comparing the performance of the different types of CUD, the performance in an intra- or extracorporeal manner, or the performance of a CUD versus orthotopic ileal neobladder are lacking in the literature. To this day, there are not enough quality data to determine the supremacy of one technique. This manuscript represents a compendium of the most used CUD with detailed descriptions of the technical aspects, operative and perioperative outcomes, and new consistent images for each technique.

A right colon pouch with a novel efferent channel concept: long-term results of the Turin pouch

PURPOSE

To report stoma stenosis rates and efferent channel (EC) complications at long term follow-up for Turin pouch (TP).

METHODS

This is a retrospective analysis of the prospectively maintained database of patients who underwent TP between March 2006 and May 2018. The TP is a U-shaped right colon pouch. The EC was conceived by the tubularization of 5 cm of the colon wall with the use of a stapler and sutured to the skin (EC-cutaneostomy). The ureters are sutured separately to the last 10 cm of ileum before the ileocecal valve. In literature, catheterization problems have been described on average in 20.3% of patients and stoma stenosis in 19.5% of the patients with flap valve systems.

RESULTS

Thirty-eight consecutive patients underwent a TP procedure. The median age was 55 years (IQR: 52-60). Median operative time was 201 min (IQR: 170-210), median reconstructive time was 61 min (IQR: 55-65) and the blood loss was 244 ml (IQR: 150-300) and 4 patients (10.5%) needed blood transfusions. The median follow-up was 52 months (IQR: 37-92). Complete 24h continence was achieved in 34 (89%) patients. Seven (18.4%) patients reported difficulties in EC catheterization and 4 (10.5%) patients had stoma stenosis. This study is limited by the relatively small number of patients.

CONCLUSION

In relation to similar systems, the TP seems to offer comparatively good functional results but EC and stoma complications were lower than other pouch variants in literature.

Orthotopic neobladder after cystectomy for bladder cancer

More than 90% of bladder cancer is composed of transitional cell carcinoma (TCC), being characterized by the development of multiple tumors in the entire urinary tract over time. When cystectomy is conducted, the urinary tract must be reconstructed by various procedures, which can include an orthotopic neobladder using the patient's own intestine formed into a spherical shape anastomosed to the urethra. Using this procedure, patients can void urine from their own urethra even after cystectomy. The incidence of subsequent urethral cancer arising after cystectomy is known to be relatively high; however, if patients with a high risk of urethral recurrence are appropriately excluded, a neobladder can be safely provided for patients. Orthotopic neobladder use is reviewed from an oncological viewpoint and the patient's quality of life after cystectomy for bladder cancer.

Current Indications and Techniques for the Use of Bowel Segments in Pediatric Urinary Tract Reconstruction

Today, there are few indications for the use of bowel in pediatric urology. This is in large extent due to the successful conservative therapy in patients with neurogenic bladder and the improved success of primary reconstruction in patients with the bladder exstrophy-epispadias complex. Only after the failure of the maximum of conservative therapy or after failure of primary reconstruction, bladder augmentation, or urinary diversion should be considered. Malignant tumors of the lower urinary tract (e.g., rhabdomyosarcomas of the bladder/prostate) are other rare indications for urinary diversion. Replacement or reconstruction of the ureter with a bowel segment is also a quite rarely performed procedure. In this review, the advantages and disadvantages of the different options for the use of bowel segments for bladder augmentation, bladder substitution, urinary diversion, or ureter replacement during childhood and adolescence are discussed.

Anterior Pelvic Reconstruction with Ileum after Cancer Treatment

Ileum has been used to reconstruct the lower urinary tract in 15 patients (10 women, five men) after treatment for bladder or gynaecological cancer. Seven patients had previously received radical pelvic irradiation. Four methods were used: group 1 (five patients): bladder patch after partial cystectomy or bladder augmentation after clam cystotomy for bladder contracture; group 2 (four patients): bladder replacement after subtotal (supratrigonal) cystectomy; group 3 (two patients): ureteric replacement for lower ureteric obstruction or fistula, and group 4 (four patients): complete replacement of bladder and lower ureters after anterior pelvic exenteration, with creation of neovagina from caecum in the two female patients.

Review of the results indicates that ileum provides a versatile and safe material for anterior pelvic reconstruction in cancer patients, even after previous pelvic irradiation.

Long-term third-party assessment of results after continent cutaneous diversion with Lundiana pouch

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the long-term functional outcomes and complications after continent cutaneous diversion with the Lundiana pouch.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Complications, re-operations, renal function, and continence were ascertained from patient charts. Outcome variables were validated by a second and independent review of the patient files.

RESULTS

A complication of Clavien-Dindo grade ≥III, including unscheduled re-admissions, occurred in 45/193 patients (23%) at ≤90 days of surgery. At a median follow-up of 13 years, 105/193 patients (54%) had undergone at least one re-operation, with uretero-intestinal stricture being the most prevalent cause [28 patients (15%)]. Re-operations were more prevalent in patients operated during the first half of the study period than during the second half (2000-2007; 62% vs 47%; P = 0.03), and they were also more frequent in patients who underwent surgery for benign causes than in patients who underwent surgery for malignancy (60% vs 51%; P = 0.04). Continence was achieved in 172/188 patients (91%). In all, 16% of all patients required revisional surgery of the outlet to remain continent with an easily catheterisable pouch or to address stomal stenosis. The mean decrease in estimated glomerular filtration rate was more pronounced in patients with benign indications for urinary diversion than in those with malignancies, even after adjusting for younger age at surgery and longer follow-up in the former group (22 vs 11 mL/min/1.73 m² ; P < 0.006). A disinterested third-party assessment revealed 10 postoperative complications, 17 re-operations during follow-up, and seven occasions of hospitalisation due to pyelonephritis (included in data above) not recorded at the primary data review.

CONCLUSIONS

The Lundiana pouch is associated with a high risk of re-operation, although the functional results are good. Independent review by a third party increased the validity of the outcome data.

W-pouch With Modified Non-isolated Extra Limb for Continence in Cutaneous Diversion After Radical Cystectomy

OBJECTIVE

To report the functional results of continent cutaneous ileal urinary diversion using modified W-pouch with non-isolated extra limb for continence.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From January 2013 to January 2016, 21 patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer with median (interquartile range) of 59 (56.5-62.5) years old underwent radical cystectomy with pelvic lymphadenectomy; they then had an ileal continent cutaneous pouch constructed from W-pouch with non-isolated extra limb for continence. The technique entails the creation of a detubularized ileal W-pouch with extra limb fashioned from 59 cm of the terminal ileum. This extra limb is not isolated from the pouch. The proximal part of this limb is tailored and fixed in a subserous extramural tunnel for continence, whereas the distal part is left continuous with the pouch. The median (interquartile range) of follow up was 12 (8-17) months. Evaluation of the technique included operative time, continence efficiency, overall complications, and quality of life questionnaire for the patients.

RESULTS

The median (interquartile range) of operative time of the operation was 4.7 (3.9-5.4) hours. The median (interquartile range) of operative time of the cutaneous pouch creation was 39 (33-43) minutes. No perioperative mortality had occurred. The incidence of continence was 95.2%. The overall complications were 42.8%, and most of them were grade 1 or 2 on Clavien-Dindo classification system.

CONCLUSION

Modification of W-pouch with non-isolated extra limb as continent cutaneous pouch can simplify the technique and shorten the operative time with efficient continence, less side effects, and good quality of life.

Technique of Suprafascial Anastomosis With Reduced Risk of Stenosis of the Efferent Outlet in Continent Catheterizable Urinary Diversion

OBJECTIVE

To describe our technique and long-term experience with a technique of a suprafascial anastomosis for the efferent continent segment in continent cutaneous urinary diversion, which aims to reduce the rate of stomal strictures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between 1998 and 2013, up to 191 patients underwent continent cutaneous urinary diversion with a suprafascial anastomosis technique at our institution. A complete follow-up was achievable in 82 patients. The retrospective analysis included continence rates, stomal complications, and other complications related to the urinary diversion such as anastomotic insufficiencies, fistulas, or hernias.

RESULTS

The study population consisted of 82 patients with 67 (82%) women and 15 (18%) men with a median age of 58 years. The median length of follow-up was 82 months (range 13-203) with a median survival time of 46 (range 13-193) months. At the time of the analysis, 46 patients (57%) were still alive. Five out of 82 patients (6%) presented with a relevant stenosis in umbilical stoma that required surgical revisions. Nine patients (12%) with functional stenosis could be treated conservatively. Continence was achieved in 74 of 82 patients (90%). Only 8 patients reported some degree of incontinence.

CONCLUSION

The technique of a suprafascial stoma is a simple and safe technique that may help prevent the incidence of stomal complications.

Continent catheterizable tubes/stomas in adult neuro-urological patients: A systematic review

AIMS

To systematically review all available evidence on the effectiveness and complications of continent cutaneous stoma or tube (CCS/T) to treat bladder-emptying difficulties in adult neuro-urological patients.

METHODS

The search strategy and studies selection were performed on Medline, Embase, and Cochrane using the PICOS method according to the PRISMA statement (CRD42015019212; http://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO).

RESULTS

After screening 3,634 abstracts, 11 studies (all retrospective, enrolling 213 patients) were included in a narrative synthesis. Mean follow-up ranged from 21.6 months to 8.7 years (median: 36 months, IQR 28.5-44). At last follow-up, the ability to catheterize rate was ≥84% (except in one study: 58.3%) and the continence rate at stoma was >75%. Data comparing health-related quality-of-life before and after surgery were not available in any study. Overall, 85/213 postoperative events required reoperation: 7 events (7 patients) occurring ≤3 months postoperatively, 22 events (16 patients) >3 months, and 56 events (55 patients) for which the time after surgery was not specified. Sixty additional complications (60 patients) were reported but did not require surgical treatment. Tube stenosis occurred in 4-32% of the cases (median: 14%, IQR 9-24). Complications related to concomitant procedures (augmentation cystoplasty, pouch) included neovesicocutaneous fistulae, bladder stones, and bladder perforations. Risk of bias and confounding was high in all studies.

CONCLUSIONS

CCS/T appears to be an effective treatment option in adult neuro-urological patients unable to perform intermittent self-catheterization through the urethra. However, the complication rate is meaningful and the quality of evidence is low, especially in terms of long-term outcomes including the impact on the quality-of-life.

Bowel function in patients with urinary diversion: a gender-matched comparison of continent urinary diversion with the ileocecal pouch and ileal conduit

PURPOSE

To evaluate stool habits and associated quality of life (QoL) in a matched pair analysis of patients who underwent continent cutaneous diversion using the ileocecal segment [Mainz pouch I (MzPI)] with an intussuscepted ileal nipple as efferent segment with those receiving an ileal conduit (IC) after radical cystectomy.

METHODS

We identified 250 patients who underwent radical cystectomy and urinary diversion (UD) with either MzPI with an ileal nipple or IC in our database. A detailed history of stool habits using the modified Wexner score was obtained, and questions addressing general lifestyle, comparison of symptom differences before and after surgery considering bowel function as well as bowel-associated QoL were assessed.

RESULTS

Forty-five age- and sex-matched pairs could be compared. Overall, stool incontinence (p = 0.481) and the Wexner score (p = 0.464) revealed no differences between both groups. However, patients with MzPI as compared to those with IC had significant higher rates of stool frequency (53 vs 31 %), softer stool consistencies (60 vs 13 %), diarrhea (62 vs 20 %) and a lower rate of constipation (4 vs 22 %). Patients with MzPI had a trend toward lower bowel-associated QoL compared with patients with IC. Similarly, the MzPI group reported a significantly impaired overall postoperative QoL (51 %) compared to the IC group (29 %) (p = 0.024).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients following UD by MzPI have an increased stool frequency and softer stool consistency. However, there is no difference between both groups in terms of de novo stool incontinence. Change in bowel habits should be part of preoperative informed consent in any kind of UD. Careful patient selection is of paramount importance.

Reconstructive techniques for creation of catheterizable channels: tunneled and nipple valve channels

Cutaneous catheterizable channels allow for continent bladder emptying when an alternate route is desired. The goals of channel creation in the neurogenic bladder population are successful urine elimination, renal preservation, continence and lastly cosmesis. In addition to a particular surgeon's comfort and experience with a given procedure, individual patient factors such as medical comorbidities, anatomic factors, and occupational function should be central to the selection of a surgical approach. An ideal channel is one that is short, straight, and well supported by associated blood supply and surrounding adventitia, so as to minimize difficulty with catheterization. Two types of channel continence mechanisms are discussed at length in this review-the tunneled channel, and the nipple valve. The appendicovesicostomy (Mitrofanoff), and reconfigured ileum (Yang-Monti) are both tunneled channels. The ileocecal valve is a commonly used nipple valve and provides continence when reinforced. The continent catheterizable ileal cecocystoplasty (CCIC) is an example of this channel technique. This method couples a tapered ileal limb as a catheterizable channel, the ileocecal valve as the continence mechanism, and the cecum and ascending colon as a bladder augmentation. While this procedure has higher perioperative complications relative to a simple tunneled channel, it has increased channel length flexibility and is also coupled with a bladder augment, which is completely performed using one bowel segment. Continent channel creation in adults can improve quality of life and minimize morbidity associated with neurogenic bladder. However, the decision to proceed with creation of a catheterizable channel should be made only after careful consideration of the patient's medical comorbidities, physical abilities social support, and surgeon experience.

The Impact of Transtomal Rigid Endoscopy in Continent Cutaneous Urinary Diversions

OBJECTIVE

To determine if transtomal rigid endoscopy damages the continence mechanism of continent cutaneous reservoirs. We report the largest and longest series to date from a single institution demonstrating the safety of transtomal rigid endoscopy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted an institutional review board-approved retrospective review of a prospectively accrued database of all patients with urinary diversions that underwent rigid endoscopic procedures for various reasons between 2000 and 2013. Pre- and postoperative continence, difficulty with catheterization, and need for surgical revision post procedure were evaluated.

RESULTS

From 2000 to 2013, 71 patients with continent cutaneous diversions underwent 191 endoscopic procedures by a single surgeon. Mean follow-up was 603 days. Mean age was 58.4 years. The mean number of procedures per patient was 2.7 (1-7). All procedures were performed by gaining access through the stoma with an offset rigid nephroscope and a 28-30Fr access sheath. Two patients reported incontinence postoperatively; 1 patient was treated conservatively by way of indwelling catheter for 1 week and full continence returned. The second patient had small-volume incontinence preoperatively that worsened postoperatively. The procedure uncovered an existing efferent limb-cutaneous fistula. Patients undergoing repeated procedures were not at any higher risk of incontinence. There were no patients that had difficulty with catheterization postoperatively. No surgical revisions were required for worsened continence postoperatively.

CONCLUSION

Transtomal rigid endoscopic procedures do not negatively affect the continence mechanism in continent cutaneous diversions. Transtomal rigid endoscopy allows for safe endoscopic access in these difficult to treat patients.

[Continent urinary diversion following anterior exenteration]

BACKGROUND

Quality of life after anterior or total exenteration is determined, among other factors, by the type of urinary diversion. There are two different types of urinary diversion: incontinent diversion (ureterocutaneostomy, ileal conduit, and colonic conduit) and continent diversions (continent cutaneous pouch, orthotopic neobladder, and rectal reservoir).

RESULTS

Invasive bladder cancer and advanced or recurrent gynecological tumors are the main indications for continent urinary diversion in women. In patients with non-irradiated bladder cancer, an orthotopic neobladder (except those with tumor invasion of the bladder neck or urethra) or a rectal reservoir is an option. In patients who had received preoperative radiotherapy, non-irradiated bowel segments should be used for urinary diversion (e.g., the transverse colon). In patients with planned postoperative radiation, the urinary diversion should be outside the radiation field.

CONCLUSION

Advantages and disadvantages of all types of urinary diversion should be objectively discussed with the patient. Especially exenteration for advanced or recurrent gynecological cancers should be performed in centers with a multidisciplinary team (gynecologist, urologist, radiotherapist, and in cases with complete exenteration the gastrointestinal surgeon).

Indiana continent catheterizable urinary reservoir

INTRODUCTION

Radical pelvic surgery requires continent or incontinent urinary diversion. There are many techniques, but the orthotopic neobladder is the most used. A continent catheterizable urinary reservoir is sometimes a good alternative when this derivation is not possible or not indicated. This paper has aimed to present our experience with the Indiana pouch continent urinary reservoir.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The series is made up of 85 patients, 66 women and 19 men, with a mean age of 56 years (31-77 years). Variables analyzed were operating time, estimated blood loss, transfusion rate, hospital stay and peri-operatory complications.

RESULTS

The main indication in 49 cases was resolution of complications related to the treatment of cervical cancer. Average operation time was 110.5 minutes (range 80-130 minutes). Mean blood loss was 450 cc (100-1000 cc). Immediate postoperative complications, all of which were treated medically, occurred in 16 patients (18.85%). One patient suffered anastomotic leakage. Hospital stay was 19 days (range 5-60 days) and there was no mortality in the series. Late complications occurred in 26 patients (32%), these being ureteral anastomotic stenosis in 11 cases, cutaneous stoma stenosis in 9 cases and reservoir stones in 6 cases.

CONCLUSION

The Indiana continent catheterizable urinary reservoir is a valid option for the treatment of both urological and gynecological malignancies as well as for the management of pelvic morbidity related to the treatment of pelvic cancers.

Current status of minimally invasive radical cystectomy: an outcome-based comparison

Minimally invasive approaches to radical cystectomy are 20 years old. Available data suggest that minimally invasive radical cystectomy can provide comparable outcomes to open radical cystectomy despite the scarcity of level 1-2 evidence. Perioperative, functional and early oncologic outcomes seem comparable between the two surgical approaches. Robotic technology has allowed more surgeons to perform minimally invasive radical cystectomy and has simplified technically demanding steps that posed problems in conventional laparoscopy. This is evident by the rapid dissemination of robotics in many bladder cancer centers worldwide and by the numerous emerging series of robot-assisted intracorporeal urinary diversion. Until more data are available regarding the oncologic performance of minimally invasive radical cystectomy, open radical cystectomy remains the gold standard procedure for now.

Continent urinary diversion

We present a review on the current options for continent urinary diversion and their different indications on the basis of patient selection. In current clinical practice continent urinary diversion is being used world-wide in patients undergoing radical cystectomy and in severe cases of benign bladder pathologies. We also discuss the specific complications of continent urinary diversion and highlight the need to rigorously monitor these patients in the long- term specifically in terms of their renal function and cancer recurrence.

Continent catheterizable vesicostomy in adults: initial experience at a Scandinavian tertiary referral centre

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to present the initial experience of continent catheterizable vesicostomy at a Scandinavian tertiary referral centre.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Eleven patients, on average 47 years old, with various severe lower urinary tract dysfunctionalities or complete urethral obliteration, underwent reconstruction with a continent catheterizable vesicostomy between 2004 and 2011, with a mean follow-up of 48 months.

RESULTS

For eight patients the first reconstructive attempt was successful. Three patients required more than one operation to become continent and to be able to catheterize easily. Two patients had previously been subjected to bladder neck closure and two had complete urethral obliteration, but no patient in this series had undergone bladder neck closure simultaneous to the vesicostomy procedure.

CONCLUSIONS

For patients who find it difficult to perform self-catheterization via the native urethra, or with an obliteration of the prostatic/membranous/bulbar urethra, construction of a continent catheterizable vesicostomy may be a feasible treatment option. The need for revision is noteworthy. Despite severe difficulties in a few of the patients in the present series, necessitating reoperations, all patients were finally satisfied with the procedure.

A modification to augmentation cystoplasty with catheterizable stoma for neurogenic patients: technique and long-term results

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the use of a modified Indiana continent urinary reservoir, the Indiana augmentation cystoplasty (IAC), for patients with neurogenic bladder (NGB). NGB with incontinence can be devastating for patients with neurologic illness. Augmentation cystoplasty with a continent catheterizable stoma creates a continent, low-pressure storage system, with catheterizable cutaneous stoma, leading to decreased urinary tract morbidity and increased quality of life.

METHODS

Retrospective chart review of the IAC procedure in a single center from 1993 to 2010 was performed and included subjects with NGB and minimum 1-year follow up. Patients' demographics, NGB diagnosis, surgery details, urodynamic findings, concurrent operations, complications, and continence outcomes were recorded.

RESULTS

Thirty-four patients met the inclusion criteria. Mean age at time of surgery was 39.8 years. Neurologic diagnoses included multiple sclerosis (n = 12), spina bifida (n = 9), and spinal cord injury (n = 14). Concurrent surgeries included: bladder neck closure (n = 3), pubovaginal sling (n = 4), hysterectomy (n = 3), artificial urinary sphincter (n = 1), and cystolithotomy (n = 1). Mean estimated blood loss was 461.8 mL. Short-term postoperative complications were prolonged ileus (n = 2), wound infection (n = 1), and transfusion (n = 1). Median follow-up was 31 months. Long-term complications occurred in 15 (44.1%) patients: recurrent urinary tract infections (n = 4), pyelonephritis (n = 1), pelvic abscess (n = 1), seroma (n = 1), bladder stones (n = 2), and stomal revision in (n = 4). All patients were continent at latest follow-up.

CONCLUSION

This modification of the Indiana continent urinary reservoir is an excellent surgical option providing a low-pressure reservoir with a reliable continence mechanism and easily catheterizable stoma, with few complications or need for reoperation.

Preliminary short-term outcomes of a modified double-T ileal continent cutaneous urinary diversion using Yang-Monti tube implantation through serosa-lined extramural tunnel: the PGIMER pouch

OBJECTIVE

To present our simplified technical modification of double-T continent cutaneous diversion (CCD) using Yang-Monti tubes.

METHODS

During 2008-2011, 8 adult patients underwent CCD; 4 had classical exstrophy, 2 bladder cancer, 1 recurrent vaginal cancer post-radiotherapy, and 1 prostate cancer with post-simple retropubic prostatectomy urethral stricture with incontinence. For reconstruction, a 45- to 50-cm segment of terminal ileum sparing 25 cm of terminal ileum was harvested. Its distal 3- to 6-cm and proximal 3-cm segments were separated on vascular pedicle and fashioned into Yang-Monti tubes (1 proximally and 1 or 2 distally). The middle 40- to 45-cm detubularized segment was fashioned into a "W" shape, and serosal aspects of adjacent loops were sutured together close to the mesentery. The tubes were implanted into the W pouch via extramural serosa-lined tunnel (Abol-Enein and Ghoneim). The pouch was closed transversely over an 18-Fr pouchostomy and 16-Fr stomal catheter. The ureters were implanted into the proximal tube using the Wallace principle, over 6- to 8-Fr infant feeding tubes exteriorized through the pouch. The distal end of the distal tube was made into a flush stoma.

RESULTS

In the early postoperative period, intestinal obstruction (2 cases), ureteroileal anastomotic leakage (3 cases) and vesico-ileocutaneous fistula (1 case) were encountered. No ureteroileal anastomotic obstruction or catherization-related difficulty was observed until the last follow-up (2 months to 3 years). Of 15 anastomoses, 14 were nonrefluxing.

CONCLUSION

Ileal double-T CCD using the Yang-Monti principle is technically feasible and relatively simple, particularly in nonirradiated ileum. However, early complications indicate a learning curve, and long-term follow-up and larger data are needed.

Urinary diversion and bladder reconstruction/replacement using intestinal segments for intractable incontinence or following cystectomy

BACKGROUND

Surgery performed to improve or replace the function of the diseased urinary bladder has been carried out for over a century. Main reasons for improving or replacing the function of the urinary bladder are bladder cancer, neurogenic bladder dysfunction, detrusor overactivity and chronic inflammatory diseases of the bladder (such as interstitial cystitis, tuberculosis and schistosomiasis). There is still much uncertainty about the best surgical approach. Options available at the present time include: (1) conduit diversion (the creation of various intestinal conduits to the skin) or continent diversion (which includes either a rectal reservoir or continent cutaneous diversion), (2) bladder reconstruction and (3) replacement of the bladder with various intestinal segments.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the best way of improving or replacing the function of the lower urinary tract using intestinal segments when the bladder has to be removed or when it has been rendered useless or dangerous by disease.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Incontinence Group Specialised Trials Register (searched 28 October 2011), which contains trials identified from the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE and CINAHL, and handsearching of journals and conference proceedings, and the reference lists of relevant articles.

SELECTION CRITERIA

All randomised or quasi-randomised controlled trials of surgery involving transposition of an intestinal segment into the urinary tract.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Trials were evaluated for appropriateness for inclusion and for risk of bias by the review authors. Three review authors were involved in the data extraction. Data were combined in a meta-analysis when appropriate.

MAIN RESULTS

Five trials met the inclusion criteria with a total of 355 participants. These trials addressed only five of the 14 comparisons pre-specified in the protocol. One trial reported no statistically significant differences in the incidence of upper urinary tract infection, uretero-intestinal stenosis and renal deterioration in the comparison of continent diversion with conduit diversion. The confidence intervals were all wide, however, and did not rule out important clinical differences. In a second trial, there was no reported difference in the incidence of upper urinary tract infection and uretero-intestinal stenosis when conduit diversions were fashioned from either ileum or colon. A meta-analysis of two trials showed no statistically significant difference in daytime or nocturnal incontinence amongst participants who were randomised to ileocolonic/ileocaecal segment bladder replacement compared to an ileal bladder replacement. However, one small trial suggested that bladder replacement using an ileal segment compared to using an ileocolonic segment may be better in terms of lower rates of nocturnal incontinence. There were no differences in the incidence of dilatation of upper tract, daytime urinary incontinence or wound infection using different intestinal segments for bladder replacement. However the data were reported for 'renal units', but not in a form that allowed appropriate patient-based paired analyses. No statistically significant difference was found in the incidence of renal scarring between anti-refluxing versus freely refluxing uretero-intestinal anastomotic techniques in conduit diversions and bladder replacement groups. Again, the outcome data were not reported as paired analysis or in form to carry out paired analysis.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

The evidence from the included trials was very limited. Only five studies met the inclusion criteria; these were small, of moderate or poor methodological quality, and reported few of the pre-selected outcome measures. This review did not find any evidence that bladder replacement (orthotopic or continent diversion) was better than conduit diversion following cystectomy for cancer. There was no evidence to suggest that bladder reconstruction was better than conduit diversion for benign disease. The clinical significance of data from one small trial suggesting that bladder replacement using an ileal segment compared to using an ileocolonic segment is better in terms of lower rates of nocturnal incontinence is uncertain. The small amount of usable evidence for this review suggests that collaborative multi centre studies should be organised, using random allocation where possible.

Improving selection of appropriate urinary diversion following radical cystectomy for bladder cancer

Radical cystectomy represents the gold-standard of treatment for invasive bladder cancer. Following cystectomy, various options for urinary diversion may be offered to patients. This article represents an overview of the history of urinary diversion, explains the current selection criteria used at one of the most experienced bladder cancer centers worldwide, and provides an update on the current understanding of continence mechanisms. Furthermore, we review the current literature on quality of life for patients with different forms of urinary diversion. Excellent functional results can be achieved with continent forms of urinary diversion. It is important to consider the relative and absolute contraindications when choosing any form of urinary diversion. Proper patient selection and thorough standardized preoperative counseling is critical in achieving optimal results.

Urinary diversion after cystectomy: An Indian perspective

Radical cystectomy remains the standard treatment for muscle-invasive carcinoma bladder. Various methods have been described for the urinary diversion. In the last 150 years urinary diversion has evolved from cutaneous ureterostomy to the orthotopic neobladder. Especially during the last 20 years, much advancement has been made. We hereby have reviewed the current approaches being used at different centers in India. We have also analyzed the evolution of diversion from conduit to the orthotopic substitution at our center.

The efferent segment in continent cutaneous urinary diversion: a comprehensive review of the literature

OBJECTIVE

To critically assess the biophysical properties and current status of outlet formation in heterotopic intestinal urinary diversion. As despite three decades of clinical experience with continent cutaneous urinary diversion through bowel segments, no consensus has been reached for the optimal efferent segment although its function largely determines patient satisfaction.

METHODS

A comprehensive Medline literature search using the Medical Subject Headings database (search terms: continent urinary diversion followed by either efferent segment, nipple, Mitrofanoff, Yang-Monti, Benchekroun, tapered ileum, intussuscepted ileum, Kock pouch, T-valve, or Ghonheim) was conducted to identify all full-length original articles addressing the various principles and techniques of outlet formation as well as their outcomes and complications. Examined series were published in English between 1966 and 2010. All studies were systematically evaluated using a checklist (study design, number of patients, etc.) and rated according to the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine Levels of Evidence (LoE).

RESULTS

While there was a continuous flow of publications over the last three decades, the vast majority of studies were retrospective case series with numerous confounding factors and poorly defined, non-standardized outcomes (LoE, 3). Only a few investigations compare different efferent segments (LoE, 2a). No randomized studies exist. The major biophysical principles are based on the use of flap, nipple, and hydraulic valves. Vermiform appendix, intussuscepted ileal nipple, and the Yang-Monti tube are the most popular techniques and have well-established data on outcomes, complications, and failure rates. Artificial sphincter systems and tissue engineering have provided disappointing results thus far. Most reconstructive strategies are subject to a process of on-going improvement.

CONCLUSIONS

The continuous quest for optimization has not led to a single universally applicable efferent segment in continent cutaneous urinary diversion. While all techniques have their unique set of advantages and disadvantages, they will always remain a compromise. Success depends on selecting the optimal strategy for individual patients. A major change in principles in the near future is unlikely.

Ileal Conduit and Continent Ileocecal Pouch for Patients Undergoing Pelvic Exenteration: Comparison of Complications and Quality of Life

Objectives:

Creating a continent urinary pouch has become an alternative to the ileal conduit for patients undergoing exenteration for advanced gynecologic malignancies. The objective of this study was to compare clinical outcomes for the 2 methods.

Methods:

In this retrospective study, we compared intraoperative and postoperative complications and quality-of-life scores for the modified ileocecal pouch and the ileal conduit in anterior or total pelvic exenteration.

Results:

In 33 of 100 patients, an ileal pouch (IP) was created; the other 67 were treated by an ileal conduit (IC). Creating an IP prolonged the exenterative procedure by 97 minutes compared to an IC (IC, 453 minutes vs IP, 550 minutes;P= 0.009). Overall complication rates were similar, but patients with an IP had significantly more complications of urinary diversion (48%) than patients with an IC (31%;P= 0.03). Follow-up showed urinary loss and frequency of micturition to be comparable, but in patients with an IP, surgery for stomal complications (n = 2) and treatment of bladderstones were necessary more frequently (n = 3). Quality of life according to the 12-item Short Form Health Survey questionnaire was similar in both groups.

Conclusion:

A continent IP is an alternative to the IC in cases of pelvic exenteration. Early complications are more frequent with an IP than with an IC. The mode of urinary diversion has little influence on the quality of life in patients with advanced genital cancer.