Postprostatectomy incontinence

Age at surgery is not a prognostic factor for the AdVance-XP male sling efficacy: A post-hoc analysis of a prospective 7-year multicentric study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the factor age at the surgery on long-term postoperative outcomes in patients with postprostatectomy incontinence (PPI) after AdVance XP transobturator male sling implantation.

METHODS

A total of 115 male patients with PPI, who had undergone AdVance XP sling implantation, were included. Patients had PPI with endoscopically confirmed good sphincteric-contractility and a positive coaptive response. Kruskal-Wallis test with Dunn post-hoc tests were used to analyze the postoperative outcome differences between the patient groups aged less than 66, 66-75, and over greater than 75 years. Outcome measures were the 24 h pad test, the number of daily pads used, the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire short form (ICIQ-SF), International Quality of Life Score (IQOL), Patient Global Impression of Improvement (PGI-I), International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5), International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), and Visual Analog Scale scores. Observation time points were 3, 6, 12, 24, 36, 48, 60, and 84 months after surgery.

RESULTS

Between the age groups, there was no difference in the success rate of the procedure (defined as 0 pads/24 h and less than 5 g in the 24-h pad test) at any point in time. Subjective parameters measures using the ICIQ-SF, PGI-I, IQOL, and IPSS scores showed no differences between the two cohorts. Only erectile function (IIEF-5 score) was lower in older patients in comparison to the cohort aged less than 66 years (p < 0.05 at 3, 6, 12, 24, 36, and 48 months).

CONCLUSIONS

The present study complements the European multicentre AdVance XP follow-up study. Here, we show that age at surgery does not affect the objective success, subjective success, or the complication rate. Thus, we do not recommend factoring in chronological age into surgical selection criteria for the AdVance XP implantation.

Complications after male adjustable suburethral sling implantation

Introduction

Argus suburethral sling implantation is a minimally invasive operation with the possibility to adjust the tension of the sling at any time after the procedure, which provides good treatment results for male stress urinary incontinence (SUI).

Aim

To determine the predictive factors, the incidence, severity and timing of the onset of complications after Argus sling implantation for males with post-operative SUI.

Material and methods

A total of 41 patients who underwent Argus sling implantation due to post-operative SUI were included. Median follow-up was 12 months. All complications were captured and graded according to severity and classified by timing of onset. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of the most common side effects.

Results

Overall 22 (54%) of 41 males have experienced 31 complications. Three (7%) patients have experienced only intra-operative, 16 (39%) patients only post-operative and 3 (7%) patients both intra-operative and post-operative complications. The most common intra-operative complications were bladder perforation (12%) and external iliac vein injury (5%), while post-operative complications were acute urinary retention (29%), infection (10%) and perineal pain (7%). Previous radiotherapy has significantly increased the risk of intra-operative complications, while a non-significant tendency was observed for younger age, previous androgen deprivation therapy and grade 3 SUI. In terms of severity, most post-operative complications were classified as grade 3 according to the modified Clavien-Dindo system.

Conclusions

Argus sling implantation provides a tolerable complication rate, where acute urinary retention was the most common side effect. Previous radiotherapy significantly increases the risk of serious intra-operative complications.

Adjustable sling for the treatment of post-prostatectomy urinary incontinence: systematic review and meta-analysis

Urinary incontinence after prostatectomy has a significant negative impact on the quality of life of the patient. The surgical treatment includes several models of male slings, such as adjustable slings. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of adjustable sling in the treatment of post-prostatectomy urinary incontinence. This is a systematic review of literature. The following electronic databases were searched until January 2018: PubMed®, Embase, CENTRAL and LILACS. The keywords used in the search strategies were: "prostatectomy" [Mesh], "urinary incontinence" [Mesh] and "suburethral slings" [Mesh]. Randomized clinical trials and observational studies, with or without Control Group, and follow-up of more than 12 months were included. Only one randomized study with high risk of bias was included and it concluded the effectiveness equivalence between adjustable and non-adjustable slings. All other studies were cases series with patients of varying levels of incontinence intensity and history of pelvic radiation therapy and previous surgeries. The meta-analysis for 0 pad in 24 hours demonstrated an effectiveness of 53%. For the 0 to 1 pad test in 24 hours, the meta-analysis resulted in an effectiveness of 69%. Risk factors for surgery failure include prior radiation, severity of post-prostatectomy urinary incontinence, and previous surgeries. The meta-analysis of the extrusion rate was 9.8% and the most commonly reported adverse effects were pain and local infection. Evidence of low quality indicates that adjustable slings are effective for treating post-prostatectomy urinary incontinence, with frequency of adverse events similar to the surgical option considered gold standard (the artificial urinary sphincter implant).

Long-term results of the implantation of the AMS 800 artificial sphincter for post-prostatectomy incontinence: a single-center experience

OBJECTIVES

Report the long-term outcomes of the AMS 800 artificial sphincer (AS) for the treatment post-prostatectomy incontinence (PPI) in a single center in Brazil.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Clinical data from patients who underwent the procedure were retrieved from the medical records of individuals with more than 1 year of follow-up from May 2001 to January 2016. Continence status (number of pads that was used), complications (erosion or extrusion, urethral atrophy, and infection), malfunctions, and need for secondary implantation were evaluated. The relationship between complications and prior or subsequent radiation therapy (RT) was also examined.

RESULTS

From May 2001 to January 2016, 121 consecutive patients underwent AS implantation for PPI at an oncological referral center in Brazil. At the last visit, the AS remained implanted in 106 patients (87.6%), who reported adequate continence status (maximum of 1 pad/day). Eight-two subjects (67.8%) claimed not to be using pads on a regular basis at the final visit (completely dry). Revision occurred in 24 patients (19.8%).Radiation therapy (RT) for prostate cancer following radical prostatectomy was used in 47 patients before or after AS placement. Twelve patients with a history of RT had urethral erosion compared with 3 men without RT (p=0.004).

CONCLUSION

Considering our outcomes, we conclude that AS implantation yields satisfactory results for the treatment of PPI and should remain the standard procedure for these patients. Radiation therapy is a risk factor for complication.

Telephone - delivered quality of life after 365 male stress urinary incontinence (SUI) operations

Objectives:

To assess patient satisfaction and quality of life and factors that may be related to these outcomes.

Materials and Methods:

Between 2000 and 2008 a retrospective chart review and telephone survey of all surgeries for male SUI was performed. Average age at times of operation was 69.4 ± 7.4 (median 69). As part of the survey 270 of 365 patients were available (response rate: 74%). The average follow up time (from operation to telephone survey) was 34.8 ± 22.8 months (median 32).

Results:

Pad use per day improved significantly after operation from 6.23±5.3 to 1.61±2.92 pads/day (p=0.001). 74.7% (n=198) declared to be continent with one safety pad and 87.7% (n=236) confirmed the postoperative improvement of incontinence. 189 (70.5%) patients were “very satisfied” and “satisfied”. In 81% (n=218) the expectation in operation could be met, therefore 84.3% (n=226) would undergo it again and 90.3% (n=243) would recommend it to others. Lower age (rs=0.211), few postoperative pads per day (rs=0.58), high reduction of pads (rs=-0.35) and physical activity level (rs=0.2) correlate significantly with better satisfaction.

Conclusions:

Eighty-seven pint seven percent (87.7%) of our incontinence operations (n=236) lead to an improvement, which is independent from the number of prior incontinence operations and preoperative pad count. The postoperative quality of life remains constant over the observed follow up time. Certain subgroups of patients (younger age, high physical activity level, large reduction of pads) demonstrated superior satisfaction rates.

Surgery for stress urinary incontinence due to presumed sphincter deficiency after prostate surgery

BACKGROUND

Incontinence after prostatectomy for benign or malignant disease is a well-known and often a feared outcome. Although small degrees of incidental incontinence may go virtually unnoticed, larger degrees of incontinence can have a major impact on a man's quality of life.Conceptually, post-prostatectomy incontinence may be caused by sphincter malfunction or bladder dysfunction, or both. Most men with post-prostatectomy incontinence (60% to 100%) have stress urinary incontinence, which is involuntary urinary leakage on effort or exertion, or on sneezing or coughing. This may be due to intrinsic sphincter deficiency and may be treated with surgery for optimal management of incontinence. Detrusor dysfunction is more common after surgery for benign prostatic disease.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the effects of surgical treatment for urinary incontinence related to presumed sphincter deficiency after prostate surgery for:- men with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) - transurethral resection of prostate (TURP), photo vaporisation of the prostate, laser enucleation of the prostate or open prostatectomy - and- men with prostate cancer - radical prostatectomy (retropubic, perineal, laparoscopic, or robotic).

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Incontinence Group Specialised Register, which contains trials identified from Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, MEDLINE in process, ClinicalTrials.gov, and handsearching of journals and conference proceedings (searched 31 March 2014); MEDLINE (January 1966 to April 2014); EMBASE (January 1988 to April 2014); and LILACS (January 1982 to April 2014). We handsearched the reference lists of relevant articles and conference proceedings. We contacted investigators to locate studies.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised or quasi-randomised trials that include surgical treatments of urinary incontinence after prostate surgery.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently screened the trials identified, appraised quality of papers, and extracted data.

MAIN RESULTS

Only one study with 45 participants met the inclusion criteria. Men were divided in two sub-groups (minimal or total incontinence) and each group was randomised to artificial urethral sphincter (AUS) implantation or Macroplastique injection. Follow-up ranged from six to 120 months. In the trial as a whole, the men treated with AUS were more likely to be dry (18/20, 82%) than those who had the injectable treatment (11/23, 46%) (odds ratio (OR) 5.67, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.28 to 25.10). However, this effect was only statistically significant for the men with more severe ('total') incontinence (OR 8.89, 95% CI 1.40 to 56.57) and the CIs were wide. There were more severe complications in the group undergoing AUS, and the costs were higher. AUS implantation was complicated in 5/22 (23%) men: the implant had to be removed from one man because of infection and in one man due to the erosion of the cuff, in one man the pump was changed due to mechanical failure, in one man there was migration to the intraperitoneal region, and one man experienced scrotal erosion. In the injectable group, 3/23 (13%) men had a complication: one man treated with Macroplastique injection had to be catheterised because of urinary retention and two men developed urinary tract infections.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

The evidence available at present was of very low quality because we identified only one small randomised clinical trial. Although the result was favourable for the implantation of AUS in the group with severe incontinence, this result should be considered with caution due to the small sample size and uncertain methodological quality of the study found.

Post-prostatectomy incontinence: Etiology, evaluation, and management

Urinary incontinence after prostatectomy or radiation is a devastating problem in men and remains the most feared complication following the treatment of localized prostate cancer. With an increasing number of radical prostatectomies performed globally for prostate cancer, the impact of urinary incontinence on quality of life assumes an even greater importance. With the advent of male sling procedures, more men are now seeking treatment for incontinence. Since the introduction of the artificial urinary sphincter almost four decades ago, several surgical procedures have emerged to manage post-prostatectomy incontinence, including the male sling for milder forms of incontinence. Several of the newer procedures have shown promise in the United States; many others have been developed and utilized in other parts of the world, though they have not yet gained FDA approval in the United States. The present review seeks to illuminate the etiology, evaluation, and management of post-prostatectomy incontinence. An effort has been made to provide an algorithm to clinicians for appropriate surgical management. The surgical techniques of commonly performed procedures and their outcomes are described.

Recombinant insulin-like growth factor-1 activates satellite cells in the mouse urethral rhabdosphincter

Background

The goal of this study is to demonstrate the efficacy of a new method for the treatment of urinary incontinence by stimulation of urethral rhabdosphincter satellite cells. We show that satellite cells do exist in the sphincter muscle of retired male mice breeders by staining for c-Met, a satellite cell specific protein. Once activated by recombinant mouse Insulin-like Growth Factor-1(rIgf-1), the satellite cells develop into muscle cells within the rhabdosphincter thereby potentially strengthening it.

Methods

20 μl (1 μg/μl) of rIgf-1 was surgically injected directly into the urethral wall of retired male mouse breeders. Mice injected with phosphate buffered saline (PBS) were used as controls. 4 weeks later, urethras were harvested and serially-sectioned through the sphincter for routine hematoxylin-eosin staining as well as immunohistochemical staining with satellite cell specific anti-c-Met antibody and proliferation specific anti-Ki-67 antibody.

Results

Anti-c-Met antibody positive cells (c-Met⁺) were identified in the rhabdosphincter. c-Met⁺ cells increased by 161.8% relative to controls four weeks after rIGF-1 injection. Anti- Ki-67 antibody positive cells were identified and characterized as cells with centrally located nuclei in striated muscle bundles of rIGF-1 treated animals.

Conclusions

Satellite cells in the mouse rhabdosphincter can be activated by rIGF-1 treatment, which subsequently are incorporated into existing skeletal muscle bundles. Using this approach, the rhabdosphincter can be induced to regenerate and potentially strengthen via satellite cell activation and likely improve urinary continence.

Surgery for stress urinary incontinence due to presumed sphincter deficiency after prostate surgery

BACKGROUND

Incontinence after prostatectomy for benign or malignant disease is a well known and often a feared outcome. Although small degrees of incidental incontinence may go virtually unnoticed, larger degrees of incontinence can have a major impact on a man's quality of life.Conceptually, postprostatectomy incontinence may be caused by sphincter malfunction and/or bladder dysfunction. The majority of men with post-prostatectomy incontinence (60 to 100%) have stress urinary incontinence, which is the complaint of involuntary urinary leakage on effort or exertion, or on sneezing or coughing. This may be due to intrinsic sphincter deficiency and may be treated with surgery for optimal management of incontinence. Detrusor dysfunction is more common after surgery for benign prostatic disease.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the effects of surgical treatment for urinary incontinence related to presumed sphincter deficiency after prostate surgery for either benign LUTS secondary to BPH (transurethral resection of prostate (TURP), photo vaporization of the prostate, laser enucleation of the prostate and open prostatectomy) or radical prostatectomy for prostate cancer (retropubic, perineal, laparoscopic, or robotic).

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched the Cochrane Incontinence Group Specialised Register (searched 28 June 2010), MEDLINE (January 1966 to January 2010), EMBASE (January 1988 to January 2010), LILACS (January 1982 to January 2010) and the reference lists of relevant articles, handsearched conference proceedings and contacted investigators to locate studies.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised or quasi-randomised trials that include surgical treatments of urinary incontinence after prostate surgery.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently screened the trials identified, appraised quality of papers and extracted data.

MAIN RESULTS

Only one study with 45 participants met the inclusion criteria. Men were divided in two subgroups (minimal or total incontinence) and each group was randomized to artificial urethral sphincter (AUS) implantation or Macroplastique injection. Follow-up ranged from six to 120 months. In the trial as a whole, the men treated with AUS were more likely to be dry (18/20, 82%) than those who had the injectable treatment (11/23, 46%) (OR 5.67, 95% CI 1.28 to 25.10). However, this effect was only statistically significant for the men with more severe ('total') incontinence (OR 8.89, 95% CI 1.40 to 56.57) and the confidence intervals were wide. There were more severe complications in the group undergoing AUS, and the costs were higher.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

The evidence available at present is limited because only one small randomised clinical trial was identified. Although the result is favourable for the implantation of AUS in the group with severe incontinence, this result should be considered with caution due to the small sample size and uncertain methodological quality of the study found.

Surgery Insight: surgical management of postprostatectomy incontinence--the artificial urinary sphincter and male sling

Stress urinary incontinence in men is usually a result of intrinsic sphincter deficiency following prostate cancer surgery. Active conservative management with fluid restriction, medication management and pelvic floor exercises is indicated for the first 12 months. If bothersome incontinence persists, urodynamic evaluation is indicated in order to assess detrusor storage function, contractility and sphincteric integrity. Standard surgical options include urethral bulking agents, artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) and male sling. Periurethral injection of bulking agents is satisfactory in only a minority of patients, leaving AUS and male sling as the most common surgical treatments. In patients with severe urinary incontinence, AUS seems to have a higher rate of success than the male sling. Furthermore, AUS is indicated in men with detrusor hypocontractility as adequate detrusor contractility is needed to overcome the fixed resistance of the sling. In patients with milder levels of stress incontinence, the two techniques have approximately equal efficacy in the short-to-intermediate term. While current reports of the male sling are generally limited to 1-4 years' follow-up, the infection, erosion, and revision rate for the male sling seem somewhat lower than that for the AUS in appropriately chosen patients.

Pelvic floor muscle training to improve urinary incontinence after radical prostatectomy: a systematic review of effectiveness

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effectiveness of pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) for treating urinary incontinence (UI) after radical prostatectomy (RP) by reviewing evidence from randomized trials.

METHODS

Randomized trials published in English were included if they involved men with UI after RP and compared PFMT with a control group. Data were abstracted onto a standardized form using a prospectively developed protocol.

RESULTS

Eleven trials randomizing 1028 men (mean age 64 years) met the inclusion criteria; the duration of the trials was 3-12 months. One trial of 300 men found that those assigned to PFMT achieved continence more quickly (after 1, 3 and 6 months) than men not assigned to PFMT. Men receiving biofeedback-enhanced PFMT were more likely to achieve continence or have no continual leakage than those with no training within 1-2 months after RP (relative benefit increase 1.54; 95% confidence interval 1.01-2.34; four trials reporting). The relative benefit increase (1.19, 0.82-1.72; five studies) was no longer significant after 3-4 months. Biofeedback-enhanced PFMT was comparable to written/verbal PFMT instruction. Extracorporeal magnetic innervation (ExMI) and electrical stimulation (ES) were found to be initially (within 1-2 months) more effective than PFMT in one trial, but there were no significant differences between groups at > or = 3 months.

CONCLUSION

Based on available evidence, PFMT with or without biofeedback enhancement hastens the return to continence more than no PFMT in men with UI after RP. Additional trials are needed to confirm whether ExMI and ES are effective conservative treatment options.

Is There an Impact of Postoperative Urethral and Periurethral Anatomical Features in Post-Radical Retropubic Prostatectomy Incontinence?

OBJECTIVES

To determine the anatomical changes in urethral and periurethral tissues after radical retropubic prostatectomy (RRP) by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and correlate these changes to continence.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

14 patients with grade 2-5 incontinence and 16 continent (grade 1) patients who had undergone non-nerve-sparing RRP for clinically localized prostatic carcinoma were evaluated. The sphincteric urethral length, transverse and craniocaudal diameters of both levator ani muscles and the volume of periurethral fibrosis were determined by abdominopelvic MRI. Continent (group 1) and incontinent (group 2) groups were compared in terms of sphincteric urethral length, transverse and craniocaudal diameters of levator ani muscles, volume of periurethral fibrosis, prostate volume, age and pathological stage.

RESULTS

Among all the evaluated parameters, a statistically significant correlation was found only between the volume of periurethral fibrosis and the number of postoperative operations for urethral strictures in the incontinent group (p = 0.013, r = 0.859).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that the postoperative sphincteric urethral length is not the sole factor in regaining continence after RRP as mentioned in the literature.

Male incontinence: Pathophysiology and management

Post-prostatectomy incontinence in men is a devastating condition. It impacts the quality of life profoundly. Various types of male sling procedures have been introduced over the years. Bone anchored male sling appears to be effective and safe in intermediate term follow up. It certainly more effective than collagen implant and may provide alternative treatment option in patient with mild to moderate incontinence. In short term, other novel procedures seem to be promising. In spite of new technology, artificial urinary sphincter continues to provide high patient satisfaction and cure rates.

Is HCl duloxetine effective in the management of urinary stress incontinence after radical prostatectomy?

INTRODUCTION

Up to 70% of patients who undergo radical prostatectomy complain about urine leakage, but persistent stress incontinence 1 year after surgery affects <5% of them. HCl duloxetine is a dual serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor that relieves the symptoms of stress urinary incontinence. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of HCl duloxetine in the management of urinary incontinence after radical prostatectomy and its impact in urodynamic parameters such as maximal urethral closure pressure (MUCP), abdominal leak point pressure (ALPP) and retrograde leak point pressure (RLPP).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study included 18 men with stress urinary incontinence 12 months after radical prostatectomy. All underwent a pad test to quantify the degree of urine loss and a urodynamic evaluation before and after a three month treatment with HCl duloxetine. The intrinsic sphincter was evaluated by ALPP and RLPP and the striated sphincter by MUCP.

RESULTS

At the pretreatment evaluation the mean ALPP was 52.1 cm H(2)O, the mean MUCP was 52.5 cm H(2)O and the mean RLPP was 43.1 cm H(2)O. After 3 months of HCl duloxetine treatment the mean ALPP was 59.1 cm H(2)O, the mean MUCP was 67.3 cm H(2)O and the mean RLPP was 45.1 cm H(2)O. There was a statistically significant correlation among RLPP, MUCP and ALPP before treatment. After HCl duloxetine treatment there was significant correlation between RLPP and ALPP.

CONCLUSION

The use of HCl duloxetine results in mild increase of MUCP and in significant reduction of urine loss. Its action on the extrinsic sphincter does not provide a complete treatment option for postprostatectomy incontinence.

Ejaculatory urine incontinence after radical prostatectomy

OBJECTIVES

Urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction remain the long-term complications that affect most patients' lives after radical prostatectomy. Previous reports evaluating incontinence have focused on volumes of urine loss and daily pad use to assess these issues. We have observed that small volumes of urinary incontinence during sexual activity can be just as disconcerting to patients. We attempt to further describe and assess the phenomenon of urinary incontinence with ejaculation in a series of patients.

METHODS

We reviewed the experience of one physician who received referrals for the treatment of erectile dysfunction after radical prostatectomy from July 2002 to March 2005 and identified 26 men experiencing urine leak predominantly during ejaculation. Questionnaires assessing urinary incontinence were sent to all these patients.

RESULTS

The mean age was 62 years (range 54 to 73). Sixteen patients underwent bilateral nerve-sparing, five unilateral nerve-sparing, and five nonnerve-sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy. At a median follow-up of 42 months (range 15 to 118), all patients had experienced urine leakage (volume 0.5 teaspoon to 1 cup) during ejaculation. The incontinence questionnaire revealed that most patients had mild incontinence; however, they experienced ejaculatory urine incontinence "most, or all of the time" and considered it a "big problem."

CONCLUSIONS

Although the prevalence of ejaculatory urine incontinence is unclear, in our experience it occurs often enough to be considered a part of the routine postprostatectomy evaluation. A better understanding of the pathophysiology of postprostatectomy incontinence will lead to targeted therapy and an improved quality of life for the patient.

Male Bulbourethral Sling After Radical Prostatectomy: Intermediate Outcomes at 2 to 4-Year Followup

PURPOSE

We reviewed our experience with 49 consecutive patients undergoing a male sling procedure.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The 7-item International Prostate Symptom Score and 22-item incontinence quality of life questionnaire (although not validated in Italian) were used to assess the clinical impact of the bulbourethral sling. Surgical outcome was also assessed by videourodynamics at 1 year. Urodynamic success was defined as no leakage during videourodynamic evaluation.

RESULTS

Mean followup was 32 months (range 26 to 48). Preoperatively 3 patients used 2 pads daily (mild incontinence), 34 used 3 to 5 (moderate incontinence) and the remaining 12 used more than 5 (severe incontinence). Clinical success was defined as a decrease in pad use to completely dry (no pad) or to social continence (1 pad daily) at followup. Of the 49 patients 38 (77%), 33 (67%) and 63% (31) were considered socially continent at the 3-month, 1-year and 3-year followup, respectively. Only 15 of the 49 patients (30%) were considered completely dry at the 3-year followup. Significant perineal pain was reported in the early postoperative period but it resolved in all patients. Infection occurred in 3 patients, while no erosion was found.

CONCLUSIONS

The male perineal sling is a safe surgical option for post-prostatectomy urinary incontinence, especially when strict patient selection is done. Patient satisfaction is superior to urodynamic results and the procedure allows physiological voiding. Patients should be informed of the possibility of progressive failure with time and significant perineal pain in the early postoperative period.

Rehabilitation Therapy and Urinary Incontinence after Radical Retropubic Prostatectomy

INTRODUCTION

To assess the efficacy and evidence-based data in the literature about rehabilitation therapy in patients with post-prostatectomy urinary incontinence.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An analysis of published full-length papers identified by a Medline search from 1990 through 2004 was carried out. Abstracts published in peer-reviewed journals in the same period of time were also considered.

RESULTS

Efficacy, tolerability and safety of rehabilitation therapy were evaluated, according to the available data in the literature, with special regard to randomized controlled trials in order to define a clear-cut, evidence-based efficacy of this form of therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Rehabilitation therapy is a simple and safe way of managing post-prostatectomy urinary incontinence. Nonetheless, few randomized controlled studies have been carried out so far to establish its evidence-based efficacy and it is thus not possible to be scientifically sure of its value. It is therefore necessary to undertake well-designed randomized controlled studies, with a large number of patients, a well-matched control group and an adequate follow-up.

Correlation of abdominal leak point pressure with objective incontinence severity in men with post-radical prostatectomy stress incontinence

AIMS

To determine if the abdominal leak point pressure (ALPP) correlates with objective incontinence severity in patients suffering from post-prostatectomy stress incontinence.

METHODS

Twenty-nine men were evaluated for urinary incontinence after radical prostatectomy with videourodynamics and a 24-hr pad test. ALPP was determined with and without a 7-French urodynamics catheter and the lowest value was accepted. Six patients with urgency incontinence associated with detrusor overactivity or decreased bladder compliance were excluded leaving 23 patients for analysis. The relationship between the variables of ALPP, 24-hr pad weight, age and time from prostatectomy were examined with Pearson correlation.

RESULTS

The mean age was 66.4 years (SD +/- 7.9, range: 45-81) and the median time from radical prostatectomy was 23 months (IQR = 14-64, range: 9-204). The mean ALPP was 92.8 cm H(2)O (SD +/- 42.4 cm H(2)O) and the mean pad weight was 279.1 g (SD +/- 238.3 g). There was only a weak inverse correlation between ALPP and 24-hr pad weight which was not statistically significant (r = - 0.191, P = 0.38). Age and time from prostatectomy did not significantly correlate with ALPP (r = - 0.122, P = 0.58 and r = - 0.23, P = 0.29, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

ALPP did not correlate significantly with the 24-hr pad test in patients with post-prostatectomy stress incontinence. This suggests that in this patient subset, the ALPP is a relatively poor predictor of incontinence severity and, therefore, has limited clinical value in the urodynamic evaluation of post-prostatectomy incontinence. The urodynamic assessment of these patients should focus on the presence or absence of stress incontinence and on the presence of associated bladder dysfunction.

THE MALE SLING FOR POST-PROSTATECTOMY INCONTINENCE: MEAN FOLLOWUP OF 18 MONTHS

PURPOSE

We review our experience with 42 consecutive patients undergoing the bone anchored male sling procedure.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective chart review was performed, and complete data and followup were available in 38 of the 42 patients. Success was defined as wearing 1 thin pad or less per day, or social continence. Variables such as severity of incontinence, age, detrusor overactivity, previous artificial urinary sphincter, history of radiation and intraoperative flow pressures were analyzed for success and risk of failure.

RESULTS

With a mean followup of 18 months (range 6 to 26), 39.5% (15 of 38) were considered a success (socially continent). A statistically significant trend in the degree of preoperative incontinence predicting success was identified. Social continence in mild, moderate and severe cases was achieved in 67%, 50% and 0%, respectively (p =0.001/95% CI). Only 15.8% of patients were completely dry and not wearing pads. Significant perineal pain was reported in the early postoperative period but resolved in all patients. Infection occurred in 3 patients with erosion found in 1.

CONCLUSIONS

Although these results are not as encouraging as previous reports, carefully selected patients with mild to moderate incontinence are good candidates for the male sling. Patients with a history of radiation, previous artificial urinary sphincter or severe incontinence should be counseled about the higher risk of treatment failure. Patients should be informed of the possibility of progressive failure with time and the occurrence of significant perineal pain in the early postoperative period.

Voiding patterns in patients with post-prostatectomy incontinence: urodynamic and demographic analysis

PURPOSE

A significant percentage of patients with post-prostatectomy incontinence have been reported to void by Valsalva's maneuver, which is our observation as well. We determine the mechanism of voiding in patients with post-prostatectomy incontinence and correlate this to demographic data, urodynamic parameters and outcome after artificial urinary sphincter implantation, and identify possible risk factors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Videourodynamic data from 61 consecutive patients with post-prostatectomy incontinence were reviewed to determine voiding patterns. The causes of incontinence were radical prostatectomy in 58 patients and transurethral resection of the prostate followed by radiation therapy in 3. The relationship between voiding patterns and demographic data (age, diabetes mellitus, degree and duration of incontinence, history of radiation therapy or treated bladder neck contracture) as well as urodynamic parameters (bladder capacity, compliance, instability, sensation, leak point pressure and residual urine) were studied. After artificial urinary sphincter implantation outcome was assessed in relation to the voiding patterns.

RESULTS

Stress incontinence was present in all patients while concomitant urgency/urge incontinence was present in 48%. Of the patients 43 (70.5%) voided by detrusor contraction (group 1) while the remaining 18 (29.5%) voided by straining (group 2). Mean patient age +/- SD was 70.8 +/- 6.9 and 69.2 +/- 7.2 years, and duration of incontinence was 48 +/- 33 and 46 +/- 30 months in groups 1 and 2, respectively (p >0.05). Also, no significant differences were found between the groups with regard to other demographic data. Delayed first sensation (at volume greater than 140 ml.) was seen in 42.5% and 29.4%, capacity less than 300 ml. in 41.9% and 39%, impaired/poor compliance in 25.6% and 22.2%, bladder instability in 16.3% and 5.6%, abdominal leak point pressure 60 cm. H(2)O or less in 59.4% and 60% and residual urine greater than 50 ml. in 11.6% and 17.6% in groups 1 and 2, respectively (p >0.05). After artificial urinary sphincter implantation 35% and 22.2% of patients used greater than 1 pad a day in groups 1 and 2, respectively. One patient in each group reported difficulty during urination and both patients had no residual urine.

CONCLUSIONS

No identifiable demographic or urodynamic risk factors could be detected in association with the strain pattern of voiding in patients with post-prostatectomy incontinence. The absence of a difference in bladder compliance, residual urine volume and outcome after artificial urinary sphincter implantation between detrusor and strain voiders would suggest no increased risk for complications in the strain voiding group.

[Contribution of the preoperative urodynamic findings in the determination of risks factors of urinary incontinence after radical retropubic prostatectomy]

The aim of the study was to determine whether preoperative urodynamic evaluation helps the physiotherapist to adapt preoperative management of patients undergoing radical retropubic prostatectomy (RP) by identifying a group at risk of incontinence.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We compared the preoperative urodynamic evaluation of 229 men scheduled for RP with their continence status, evaluated by standardized pad-test and questionnaire, at 6 weeks and 4 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

The primary urinary incontinence risk has been obtained for five patient's categories, namely normal, bladder instability, bladder outlet obstruction, hypocontractility, and mixed results. None of the patients diagnosed with detrusor instability and bladder outlet obstruction was continent at six weeks from surgery. At four months, although it improves, the continence status remains significantly poorer than observed in all other groups.

CONCLUSION

Preoperative urodynamic evaluation of patients scheduled for RP allows identifying patients with a high risk of postoperative urinary incontinence.

Polypropilene sling of the bulbar urethra for post-radical prostatectomy incontinence

OBJECTIVE

We present details of a modification of the Stamey procedure using a polypropilene mesh to compress the corpus spongiosum of the bulbar urethra in the treatment of sphincteric incompetence following radical prostatectomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between September 1999 and June 2000 nine patients 66-80 years old (mean age 74) with severe incontinence due to radical prostatectomy underwent the bulbourethral sling procedure with polypropilene (Prolene) mesh implant. After transperineal incision a 5cmx4cm rectangular prolene mesh was placed against the bulbar urethra and suspended by four prolene sutures transferred to a suprapubic incision through ligature carriers as in the four corner bladder and bladder neck suspension. If leakage recurred in the follow-up, a retightening procedure was performed in local anesthesia rescuing the prolene threads over a polypropilene mesh placed against the rectus fascia. Mean follow-up was 14 months (range 12-20). Continence status and post-void residual volume were evaluated after 1, 3 and 6 months post-operatively and successively every 3 months.

RESULTS

At the present follow-up considering the results of the retightening procedure five out of nine patients were cured, two out of nine improved and two were unchanged. Five out of nine patients reported slight to mild perineal/genital discomfort which disappeared in four at three months post-operatively. No patients required mesh removal for complications.

CONCLUSIONS

The male bulbourethral sling procedure using a polypropilene mesh is safe but further experience is needed to establish this procedure as plausible alternative for the treatment of post-radical prostatectomy urinary incontinence.

Assessment of the intrinsic urethral sphincter component function in postprostatectomy urinary incontinence

Postprostatectomy incontinence remains a disabling condition. Sphincter injury, detrusor instability, and decreased bladder compliance have been previously reported as major factors. The aim of this study was to evaluate the urethral sphincter intrinsic component, which may provide passive continence. A urodynamic evaluation was performed in 20 patients undergoing a radical retropubic prostatectomy in the preoperative period and 3 months after surgery. Patients with disabled urinary incontinence underwent a new urodynamic evaluation 6 months later. The urethral pressure profile was measured just before, then 10, 20, and 30 minutes after the injection of 0.5 mg/kg moxisylyte chlorhydrate, an alpha adrenergic blocker. Three different pressure components were defined in urethral sphincter capacity: baseline, adrenergic, and voluntary. A postoperative intrinsic urethral sphincter pressure component was found in 17 patients and its value was under 6 cm H(2)O in five cases of severe incontinence. No significant difference was observed for these patients on urethral profile components 6 months later. In contrast, in cases of significant intrinsic component value, no incontinence was observed in most patients. Passive continence after radical prostatectomy should be a matter of concern and may also explain paradoxical incontinence, despite high voluntary urethral pressure obtained after reeducation. A follow-up evaluation of the intrinsic sphincter component is suggested, by using an alpha receptor blockage test during urodynamic studies in the management of patients with postprostatectomy incontinence.

Urinary incontinence following treatment of localized prostate cancer

BACKGROUND

Urinary incontinence (UI) following treatment for localized prostate cancer is a significant adverse consequence most commonly seen after radical prostatectomy. UI can significantly impair the quality of life of patients who can otherwise expect a long survival.

METHODS

The authors review past and present literature on UI following treatment for localized prostate cancer. Special focus is placed on the rate of UI following different modes of therapy, the effect of posttreatment UI on patients' quality of life, and the success of different methods used to treat the incontinence.

RESULTS

Postprostatectomy UI has been reported in 25%-70% of cases, but few patients report being significantly bothered by the symptom. Postradiation adverse effects are mainly acute inflammatory, while late complications are rare but usually more serious. Comparative studies estimate UI following prostatectomy to be two times more common than following radiation, and surgical patients are three times more likely to continue to use pads. Watchful waiting carries a risk of incontinence related to prostate tumor progression. Several interventions can improve UI.

CONCLUSIONS

UI is the most common adverse consequence from treatment for localized prostate cancer. All of the possible treatment modalities carry some risk of UI. Providing accurate information to patients allows them to make informed decisions regarding treatment and can improve the quality of life in the posttreatment period.

Effect of pelvic-floor re-education on duration and degree of incontinence after radical prostatectomy: a randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Urinary incontinence is a common long-term complication after radical prostatectomy. Spontaneous recovery of normal urinary control after surgery can take 1-2 years. We aimed to investigate whether there was any beneficial effect of pelvic-floor re-education for patients with urinary incontinence as a result of radical prostatectomy.

METHODS

102 consecutive incontinent patients who had had radical retropubic prostatectomy for clinically localised prostate cancer and who could comply with the ambulatory treatment schedule in our hospital were randomised, after catheter removal, into a treatment group (n=50) and a control group (n=52). Patients in the treatment group took part in a pelvic-floor re-education programme for as long as they were incontinent, and for a maximum of 1 year. The control group received placebo therapy. The primary endpoint was continence rate at 3 months. Incontinence was assessed objectively with the 1 h and 24 h pad tests and subjectively by the visual analogue scale. The groups were analysed on an intention-to-treat basis by ANOVA and chi2-test.

FINDINGS

In the treatment group continence was achieved after 3 months in 43 (88%) of 48 patients. In the control group, continence returned after 3 months in 29 (56%) of 52 patients. At 1 year, the difference in proportion between treatment and control group was 14% (95% CI 2-27). In the treatment group improvement in both duration (log-rank test, p=0.0001) and degree of incontinence (Wald test, p=0.0010) was significantly better than in the control group.

INTERPRETATION

Pelvic-floor re-education should be considered as a first-line option in curing incontinence after radical prostatectomy.

Transurethral ultrasound: evaluation of anatomy and function of the rhabdosphincter of the male urethra

PURPOSE

A combined anatomic-sonographic study was undertaken to investigate whether the anatomical arrangement and the contractions of the rhabdosphincter of the male urethra could be visualized by transurethral ultrasound. Furthermore, this new technique was compared with standard urodynamic tests.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In 7 cadavers transurethral ultrasound was performed to define sono-morphological criteria of the rhabdosphincter, and the sonographic pictures were then compared to histological sections. In 48 patients the rhabdosphincter of the male urethra was investigated by transurethral ultrasound and urodynamic techniques. Of these patients 40 were completely continent after radical prostatectomy and 8 presented with urinary stress incontinence after transurethral resection of the prostate or radical prostatectomy. The decrease of the distance between the rhabdosphincter and the transducer during contraction served as quantitative parameter for the contractility of the muscle.

RESULTS

The anatomical arrangement and contractions of the rhabdosphincter loop could be clearly visualized on transurethral ultrasound (during contraction the rhabdosphincter retracts the urethra, pulling it towards the rectum). Ultrasound showed scars in 3 patients with postoperative urinary stress incontinence, thinning of the muscle in 3 complete atrophy of the rhabdosphincter in 2 and minimal contractions of the rhabdosphincter in 1. Urethral closure pressures were decreased and decrease in rhabdosphincter-transducer distance was statistically significantly decreased in the incontinent patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Our sono-morphological data and anatomical histological results strongly suggest that the rhabdosphincter constitutes the main component of the continence mechanism in post-prostatectomy patients. Unlike urethral pressure profiles, which can only reveal zones of higher intraluminal pressure between the bladder and the penile urethra, transurethral ultrasound is highly specific for measurement of the function of the rhabdosphincter.