Neurogenic bladder management and cutaneous non-continent ileal conduit

Robot-assisted laparoscopic cystectomy with non-continent urinary diversion for neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction: Midterm outcomes

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to assess midterm functional outcomes and complications of robot-assisted laparoscopic cystectomy with non-continent urinary diversion in patients with neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed a retrospective single center study including all patients who underwent robot-assisted laparoscopic cystectomy with non-continent urinary diversion between January 2008 and December 2018 for neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction. Perioperative data, early and late complications, reoperation rate, renal function, and patient satisfaction (PGI-I) were evaluated.

RESULTS

One hundred and forty patients were included (70 multiple sclerosis, 37 spinal cord injuries, 33 others) with a median follow-up of 29 months (12-49). The main indication for surgery was an inability to perform intermittent self-catheterization (n = 125, 89%). The early complication rate (<30 days) was 41% (n = 58), including 72% (n = 45) minor complications (Clavien I-II) and 29% (n = 17) major complications (Clavien III-V). Three patients died in the early postoperative period. Late complications appear in 41% (n = 57), with 9% (n = 13) being ureteroileal anastomotic stricture. The overall reintervention rate was 19% (n = 27), mainly for lithiasis surgery. Pre- and postoperative renal function were comparable. Most of patients reported an improvement in their quality of life following their surgery (PGI-I 1-2).

CONCLUSION

Robot-assisted laparoscopic cystectomy with non-continent urinary diversion may be of particular interest in patients with neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction who are unable to benefit from conservative treatment, as it provides midterm protection of the upper urinary tract and an improvement in quality of life.

[Guidelines on the urological management of the adult patient with spinal dysraphism (spina bifida)]

INTRODUCTION

Improved life expectancy and prenatal screening have changed the demographics of spina bifida (spinal dysraphism) which has presently become a disease of adulthood. Urinary disorders affect almost all patients with spinal dysraphism and are still the leading cause of mortality in these patients. The aim of this work was to establish recommendations for urological management that take into account the specificities of the spina bifida population.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

National Diagnosis and Management Guidelines (PNDS) were drafted within the framework of the French Rare Diseases Plan at the initiative of the Centre de Référence Maladies Rares Spina Bifida - Dysraphismes of Rennes University Hospital. It is a collaborative work involving experts from different specialties, mainly urologists and rehabilitation physicians. We conducted a systematic search of the literature in French and English in the various fields covered by these recommendations in the MEDLINE database. In accordance with the methodology recommended by the authorities (Guide_methodologique_pnds.pdf, 2006), proposed recommendations were drafted on the basis of this literature review and then submitted to a review group until a consensus was reached.

RESULTS

Bladder dysfunctions induced by spinal dysraphism are multiple and varied and evolve over time. Management must be individually adapted and take into account all the patient's problems, and is therefore necessarily multi-disciplinary. Self-catheterisation is the appropriate micturition method for more than half of the patients and must sometimes be combined with treatments aimed at suppressing any neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO) or compliance alteration (anticholinergics, intra-detrusor botulinum toxin). Resort to surgery is sometimes necessary either after failure of non-invasive treatments (e.g. bladder augmentation in case of NDO resistant to pharmacological treatment), or as a first line treatment in the absence of other non-invasive alternatives (e.g. aponeurotic suburethral tape or artificial urinary sphincter for sphincter insufficiency; urinary diversion by ileal conduit if self-catheterisation is impossible).

CONCLUSION

Spinal dysraphism is a complex pathology with multiple neurological, orthopedic, gastrointestinal and urological involvement. The management of bladder and bowel dysfunctions must continue throughout the life of these patients and must be integrated into a multidisciplinary context.

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.

Urinary undiversion by conversion of the incontinent ileovesicostomy to augmentation ileocystoplasty in spinal cord injured patients

Context: Spinal cord injury (SCI) patients with neurogenic bladder and the inability to self-catheterize may require incontinent diversion to provide low-pressure drainage while avoiding the use of indwelling catheters. We demonstrate that in patients with significant functional improvement, the ileovesicostomy can be a reversible form of diversion, with simultaneous bladder augmentation using the same segment of ileum utilized for the ileovesicostomy. Multidisciplinary management should be utilized to assure mastery of intermittent catheterization before urinary undiversion. This technique allows for transition to a regimen of intermittent self-catheterization with excellent functional and urodynamic outcomes.Design: Case Series.Setting: Tertiary care hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.Participants: Three individuals with an SCI.Interventions: Conversion of bladder management from an incontinent ileovesicostomy to an augmentation ileocystoplasty, with intermittent catheterization.Outcome Measures: Ability to regain urinary continence with preservation of renal function as determined by serum creatinine and renal ultrasound.Results: Three SCI patients who had an incontinent ileovesicostomy developed sufficient functional improvement to intermittently self-catheterize reliably and underwent conversion of ileovesicostomy to ileocystoplasty. For each, the ileovesicostomy channel was taken down and detubularized, then used to create an ileal patch for augmentation ileocystoplasty. Intermittent catheterization was then used for periodic bladder drainage. All achieved large capacity, low-pressure bladders with complete continence and stable creatinine.Conclusion: In motivated SCI patients, it is possible to regain continence by converting the ileovesicostomy into augmentation ileocystoplasty, avoiding the disadvantages of a urostomy. A multidisciplinary collaborative approach facilitates the optimal rehabilitation of SCI individuals.

Non-continent urinary diversion (ileal conduit) as salvage therapy in patients with refractory lower urinary tract dysfunctions due to multiple sclerosis: results of a national cohort from the French Association of Urology (AFU) Neurourology Committee and the French-speaking Neurourology Study Group (GENULF)

OBJECTIVE

To describe the outcomes of ileal conduit as a salvage therapy for refractory lower urinary tract dysfunctions (LUTDs) due to multiple sclerosis (MS) in a national neurourology referral center network.

METHODS

A retrospective multicenter French study was carried out to identify MS patients who underwent non-continent urinary diversion for refractory LUTDs from January 2010 to December 2015. Multiple sclerosis status, urological history, surgical indication and technique, postoperative complications, renal anatomy and function at last follow-up as well as number of rehospitalizations for urinary tract infections (UTI) were collected. Preoperative and postoperative urinary-related quality of life (urQoL) through the Qualiveen^TM short-form questionnaire (QSF^TM) and patient global impression of improvement (PGI-I) were collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

Overall, 10 centers identified 211 patients with a mean age of 54±11 and mean preoperative EDSS (expanded disability status scale) score of 7.3±0.9. The main indication for diversion was MS progression leading to impossible intermittent self-catheterization (55%). Cystectomy was performed either by open (34.6%), laparoscopic (39.3%) or robotic (21.8%) approach (unknown: 4.2%) with cystectomy in all cases. Early complications were reported in 42% of the patients, mainly Clavien I or II grades. There was no difference in GFR (glomerular filtration rate) after surgery. After diversion, patients had fewer hospitalizations for UTI and better urQoL on QSF™ confirmed by evaluation of PGI-I.

CONCLUSION

This study, reporting the largest series of ileal conduit in selected MS patients with end-stage LUTDs, showed significant improvement in symptomatic UTI and quality of life with a low high-grade complication rate.

Long-term neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction: A case of cardiovascular nightmares

CONTEXT

Individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) suffering from autonomic dysreflexia (AD) due to neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO) can effectively be treated with intradetrusor onabotulinumtoxinA. We present a complex case to highlight the treatment's potential limitations to ameliorate AD and improve lower urinary tract (LUT) function in this population.

FINDINGS

A 46-year old man, who was relying on an indwelling urethral catheter for bladder emptying due to severely impaired hand function following a SCI (C5, AIS B) sustained 30 years ago, underwent intradetrusor onabotulinumtoxinA injections for treatment of refractory NDO and associated AD. Although LUT function slightly improved (i.e. cystometric capacity increased while detrusor pressure was reduced), severe bladder-related AD persisted post-treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

This case raises awareness of serious considerations when treating NDO-related AD in individuals with longstanding neurogenic LUT dysfunction and compromised dexterity following SCI. Given the limited improvement in LUT function and persisting bladder-related AD following treatment, urinary diversion as advocated in the wider literature should be considered to protect an individual's urinary tract from further deterioration and thus eliminate bladder-related AD consequences long-term. Early treatment and management of NDO and AD is crucial to minimize complications associated with these two major health risks in this population.

Management of urethrocutaneous fistulae complicating sacral and perineal pressure ulcer in neurourological patients: A national multicenter study from the French-speaking Neuro-urology Study Group and the Neuro-urology committee of the French Association of Urology

PURPOSE

To describe the epidemiologic characteristics of urethrocutaneous fistulae (UCF) in sacro-perineal pressure ulcer (SPPU) in neurourological patients and to assess outcomes after surgical urinary diversion.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Through the French-speaking Neurourology Study Group and Association of Urology network, a retrospective multicenter study in nine major urology and physical medicine and rehabilitation (PMR) units was conducted. All patients with SPPU associated with UCF between 2000 and 2016 were included. Data concerning: sociodemography, clinical, medical and biological comorbidities, neurological and urological history, pressure ulcer characteristics, and finally urinary diversion surgery were collected. Complications and SPPU healing/relapse were assessed.

RESULTS

In all, 74 patients were included. The median age on diagnosis: 45.9 years (interquartile range [IQR], 38.7-53.4) and median follow-up: 15.1 months (IQR, 5.7-48.8). A psychiatric disorder was the most frequent comorbidity (44.6%). Only 59.5% and 50% had regular PMR and urologic follow-up, respectively. Seventy-one patients (95.9%) underwent urinary diversion surgery. Among those, relapse occurred in 15 (21.1%) at the end of the follow-up. The diversion was noncontinent in 85.9%. The major complications rate was 26.8%. A total of 30 late complications in 21 patients were reported. The most frequent was obstructive pyelonephritis (n = 9). All of the patients who underwent surgical diversion without cystectomy (n = 5) developed a pyocyst. Finally, the pressure ulcer healing rate when patients underwent both urinary diversion and pressure ulcer surgery was 74.4%.

CONCLUSIONS

Our retrospective data suggest that UCF complicating SPPU is a rare and severe pathology. The combination of radical urinary diversion with cystectomy and pressure ulcer surgery should be performed as often as possible.

Anatomical description of the umbilical arteries and impact of their ligation on pelvic and perineal vascular supply after cystectomy in women

OBJECTIVE

In radical cystectomy, the surgeon generally ligates the umbilical artery at its origin. This artery may give rise to several arteries that supply the sexual organs. Our aim was to evaluate pelvic and perineal devascularisation in women after total cystectomy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We carried out a prospective anatomical and radiological study. We performed bilateral pelvic dissections of fresh adult female cadavers to identify the dividing branches of the umbilical artery. In parallel, we examined and compared the pre- and postoperative imaging investigations [magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) angiography] in patients undergoing cystectomy for benign disease to quantify the loss of pelvic vascularisation on the postoperative images by identifying the occluded arteries.

RESULTS

The anatomical study together with the radiological study visualised 35 umbilical arteries (n = 70) with their branching patterns and collateral arteries. The uterine artery originated from the umbilical artery in more than 75% of cases (n = 54) of the internal pudendal artery in 34% (n = 24) and the vaginal artery in 43% (n = 30). The postoperative MRI angiograms showed pelvic devascularisation in four patients. Devascularisation was dependent on the level of surgical ligation. In the four patients with loss of pelvic vascular supply, the umbilical artery had been ligated at its origin.

CONCLUSION

The umbilical artery gives rise to various branches that supply the pelvis and perineum. If the surgeon ligates the umbilical artery at its origin during total cystectomy, there is a significant risk of pelvic and perineal devascularisation.

Neurogenic bladder in spinal cord injury patients

Neurogenic bladder dysfunction due to spinal cord injury poses a significant threat to the well-being of patients. Incontinence, renal impairment, urinary tract infection, stones, and poor quality of life are some complications of this condition. The majority of patients will require management to ensure low pressure reservoir function of the bladder, complete emptying, and dryness. Management typically begins with anticholinergic medications and clean intermittent catheterization. Patients who fail this treatment because of inefficacy or intolerability are candidates for a spectrum of more invasive procedures. Endoscopic managements to relieve the bladder outlet resistance include sphincterotomy, botulinum toxin injection, and stent insertion. In contrast, patients with incompetent sphincters are candidates for transobturator tape insertion, sling surgery, or artificial sphincter implantation. Coordinated bladder emptying is possible with neuromodulation in selected patients. Bladder augmentation, usually with an intestinal segment, and urinary diversion are the last resort. Tissue engineering is promising in experimental settings; however, its role in clinical bladder management is still evolving. In this review, we summarize the current literature pertaining to the pathology and management of neurogenic bladder dysfunction in patients with spinal cord injury.

[Laparoscopic cystectomy and ileal conduit urinary diversion for neurogenic bladders and related conditions. Morbidity and better quality of life]

OBJECTIVES

To assess morbidity and functional consequences of laparoscopic cystectomy with ileal conduit urinary diversion: in neurologic patients.

MATERIALS

We reviewed the records of forty-two patients (ten men and thirty-two women) who underwent surgery between August 2007 and October 2013. The median age of the patient was 54 years old (range between 21-79 years). A laparoscopic cystectomy was performed followed by a short laparotomy to perform the ileal conduit urinary diversion. Records were reviewed to retrieve the indications and describe the postoperative and functional course. Patients and GPs were interviewed during phone calls to appreciate the quality of life by the PGII scale in order to assess the functional outcome.

RESULTS

The operation was performed on 42 patients, of whom 18 had multiple sclerosis, nine a post-traumatic neurogenic bladder. Among the total population, 10 patients (23.81%) required a transfusion of at least one packed red blood cells (1-7). The overall rate of early complications was 35.71%. Belated complications were seen in 52.38% of the population. The median duration of hospital stay was 16 days (range between 9-70 days). The median follow up was 34 months (range between 1-76 months). For patients, the PGII scale rating had a median value of 6 (2-7). All referring physicians described a better functional status.

CONCLUSION

The laparoscopic cystectomy can make postoperative course smoother for the neurological patients. However, the surgeon must weigh individually the benefit of performing the operation.

Dysfunction of lower urinary tract in patients with spinal cord injury

Over the past 50 years, the mortality for urorenal cause in patients with spinal cord injuries (SCI) has decreased from over 75% to 2.3%, as a result of dramatic improvements in the diagnosis and management of lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD). The aims of this chapter are to assess the physiopathology of upper and lower motor neuron lesion on bladder and sphincter function after SCI, to give an overview of required clinical and instrumental examination and to discuss treatment modalities. Videourodynamic examination plays a key role in the assessment and follow-up of LUTD in SCI patients, in conjunction with neurophysiological and radiological examinations. The cornerstone of bladder management in SCI is clean intermittent self-catheterization, but often other treatments are needed to achieve full continence, to reduce infections and stone formation, to protect the upper urinary tract from excessive bladder pressure, and to prevent chronic renal failure. Treatments may be pharmacologic (i.e., anticholinergic drugs and botulinum toxin) or surgical (by enterocystoplasty or urinary diversion). In selected cases, neuromodulation and sacral root stimulation can be used to reduce detrusor overactivity and empty the bladder. Management of LUTD in SCI patients requires a deep knowledge of spinal cord medicine and functioning of patients with neurologic disability.

Urinary diversion: long-term functional aspects

Functional aspects and quality of life (QOL) of patients with a urinary diversion (UD) represent important issues in Urology. Any form of UD has its specific problems. In experienced hands and with regular long-term follow-up, serious complications can be avoided and excellent long-term results can be achieved. Thus, the selection of an appropriate UD is critical to patient's long-term satisfaction. Patients must be fully counseled in all types of UD and should have ready access to all options. There are 3 kinds of factors to be considered in the selection of UD: patient, physician, and general factors. In the pre-operative counseling, it is mandatory to explain all factors that over time may contribute to affect the patient's urinary tract function and QOL, mainly linked to long-term complications of UD. One of the most important requirements for any bladder substitution is that it should not jeopardize the renal function. There are many urological and non-urological potential reasons for deterioration in renal function following UD. Continence results after neobladder (NB) are difficult to compare between series published in the literature because of a lack of consensus of definitions, varied follow-up periods, and different mechanisms of data collection. In up to 22% of patients with NB, significant residual urine volumes were observed. The overall patients' QOL reported in most articles was good, irrespective of the type of UD. QOL of patients with a well functioning NB seems to be significantly better than other forms of diversion. Well-designed randomized prospective trials are warranted to render definitive conclusions.

Long-term outcomes of urinary tract reconstruction in patients with neurogenic urinary tract dysfunction

The advent of specialized spinal units and better understanding of the pathophysiology of neurogenic urinary tract dysfunction has made long-term survival of these patients a reality. This has, in turn, led to an increase in quality and choice of management modalities offered to these patients including complex anatomic urinary tract reconstructive procedures tailored to the unique needs of each individual with variable outcomes. We performed a literature review evaluating the long-term outcomes of these reconstructive procedures. To achieve this, we conducted a world-wide electronic literature search of long-term outcomes published in English. As the premise of this review is long-term outcomes, we have focused on pathologies where evidence of long-term outcome is available such as patients with spinal injuries and spina bifida. Therapeutic success following urinary tract reconstruction is usually measured by preservation of renal function, improvement in quality-of-life, the satisfactory achievement of agreed outcomes and the prevention of serious complications. Prognostic factors include neuropathic detrusor overactivity; sphincter dyssynergia; bladder over distension; high pressure storage and high leak point pressures; vesicoureteric reflex, stone formation and urinary tract infections. Although, the past decade has witnessed a reduction in the total number of bladder reconstructive surgeries in the UK, these procedures are essentially safe and effective; but require long-term clinical and functional follow-up/monitoring. Until tissue engineering and gene therapy becomes more mainstream, we feel there is still a place for urinary tract reconstruction in patients with neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction.

Options for independent bladder management in patients with spinal cord injury and hand function prohibiting intermittent catheterization

AIMS

Choosing the appropriate bladder management strategy for the spinal cord injury patient with neurogenic bladder and hand function prohibitive of self catheterization (urethral or stomal) catheterization is complex and based on limited literature. We have catalogued the available data in this review.

METHODS

A literature review was conducted on external sphincterotomy, suprapubic tube, ileal conduit, and ileovesicostomy between 1994 and 2012. Articles on neurogenic bladder focused primarily on spinal cord injury were included. Important aspects of each technique, patient selection, urologic events, and quality of life are described.

CONCLUSION

The available literature consists primarily of level 3 data. Patient reported outcomes were rarely measured. External sphincterotomy is a good option for males who are candidates for an external catheter and who wish to avoid a complicated reconstruction-most will need re-operations for failure. Suprapubic tube is an option in both genders. Complaints usually involve urine leakage and urinary tract infection, which typically resolve with conservative measures. There is some evidence to support patient satisfaction. Ileal conduit is an option for all patients with quadriplegia, offering continuous drainage and absence of foreign material. Many providers and patients will choose more conservative options first. The ileovesicostomy is best applied to small bladders with severe overactivity. The "reversibility" of this procedure makes it attractive to those not interested in an ileal conduit and who have had complications from prolonged suprapubic tube placement. The authors conclude with recommendations for future research, most importantly more standard reporting of objective data.

Urinary diversion in patients with spinal cord injury in the United States

OBJECTIVE

To describe the patterns in the use of bladder augmentation and urinary diversion to manage urologic sequelae among patients with spinal cord injury in the United States.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Discharge estimates were derived from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample. All patients underwent bladder augmentation or ileal conduit diversion from 1998 to 2005 and had a diagnosis of spinal cord injury.

RESULTS

Ileal loop diversion was performed in an estimated 1919 patients and bladder augmentation in 1132 patients with spinal cord injury from 1998 to 2005. Patients undergoing urinary diversion tended to be older (mean age 46 vs 34 years; P <.001) and to have Medicare as the primary payer (55.0% vs 30.8%; P <.001). Patients who underwent urinary diversion appeared to use more healthcare resources, with a longer length of stay (15 vs 9 days), higher hospital charges ($58,626 vs $37,222), and a greater use of home healthcare services after discharge (all P <.001). Patients at teaching institutions were more likely to undergo bladder augmentation (42%) than those at nonteaching institutions (23%; P <.001).

CONCLUSION

Bladder augmentation is used in approximately one-third of cases to manage the urologic complications of spinal cord injury. These patients likely constitute a clinically distinct population that uses fewer healthcare resources. The lower augmentation rates at nonteaching institutions may indicate an opportunity for quality improvement.

[Expert opinion on surgical care pathway management of neurologic patients from Neuro-Urology Committee of the French National Association of Urology (AFU)]

The surgical care pathway of neurologic patients has two aims: preventing urinary morbidity and mortality and improving their quality of life. It requires taking into account the specificities of disabilities in domains of body functions: circulatory, ventilation and digestive physiology, motor functions, sensory functions, mental functions, and skin fragility which are responsible of dependencies in this heterogeneous group of patients. This management is necessarily multidisciplinary to be optimal and through specific clinical care pathway, providing guidance to the surgical procedure: preparation of the surgery, its realization, and post-operative rehabilitation. The indication for surgery must be coordinated and validated in neuro-urology multidisciplinary staff. Preoperative stay in a physical and rehabilitation medicine center may be useful to ensure a complete assessment and anticipate problems related to surgery. The patient will be hospitalized in the urology department in a single room suited to their disabilities and handicaps. The chronic treatments should be not modified if possible. The lack of sensitivity does not dispense anesthesia to prevent autonomic hyperreflexia, the most severe complication after high complete spinal cord injury. The laparoscopy and sub-peritoneal surgery, the early removal nasogastric tube and early refeeding make it possible to early resumption of intestinal transit. In many cases, the patients should be transferred to a physical and rehabilitation medicine during post-operative period where the nursing care will be most suitable. A quickly adapted rehabilitation must be able to reduce loss of function and physical dependence.

Prospective evaluation of laparoscopic assisted cystectomy and ileal conduit in advanced multiple sclerosis

OBJECTIVE

To assess the morbidity, mortality, and impact on quality of life and renal function after laparoscopic cystectomy and ileal conduit in patients with multiple sclerosis with lower urinary tract symptom refractory to conservative management.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A prospective study was conducted between February 2004 and December 2010 on 44 consecutive patients with multiple sclerosis who underwent laparoscopic cystectomy and ileal conduit for lower urinary tract symptom. Median Expanded Disability Status Scale score was 8 (6.5-8.5). Mean duration of multiple sclerosis was 19.3 ± 7.9 years. The quality of life was determined using the validated Qualiveen questionnaire preoperatively and at minimum 6 months after the surgery.

RESULTS

No conversion to open surgery was required. Postoperative morbidity rate was 18.2%; minor (Clavien ≤ 2) and major (Clavien ≥ 3) complications occurred in 13.6% and 6.8%, respectively. Mean follow-up was 44.5 ± 20.6 months. Complications noted were asymptomatic ureteroileal stenosis (n = 6) and pyelonephritis (n = 3). Neurological status and Expanded Disability Status Scale score remained stable throughout. Renal function remained unchanged. Limitations, constraints, and specific urinary impact index subscores of the Qualiveen were significantly improved at 6 months time.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic cystectomy and ileal conduit for lower urinary tract symptom in advanced multiple sclerosis is a safe procedure with low complications. Neurological status and renal function remain stable and quality of life improves and continues to remain improved during long-term follow-up, suggesting this to be an attractive option in patients with advanced multiple sclerosis with lower urinary tract symptom refractory to conservative treatment.

Genome-based expression profiling study following spinal cord injury in the rat: An array of 48-gene model

AIM

To explore the potential molecular mechanisms underlying experimental neurogenic bladder dysfunction.

METHODS

With the aid of Affymetrix GeneChip Rat Genome U34A arrays, we examined microarray gene expression profiles in bladder wall tissue from female Sprague-Dawley rats within the first 3 weeks following spinal cord injury. Gene transcripts expressed in rat bladder wall tissue at 3 days, 7 days, and 3 weeks following spinal cord injury were compared to normal rat bladder wall tissue.

RESULTS

The Mahalanobis distance in hierarchical cluster analysis revealed a 48-gene model, which contained high expressions in rat bladder wall tissue at 3 days, 7 days, and 3 weeks following spinal cord injury. According to gene ontology, plausible molecular alterations in rat bladder wall tissue following spinal cord injury include: (1) the release of nerve growth factor (NGF) and transforming growth factor beta 1 (Tgfb1) (2) the secretion of histamine from mast cells, (3) the occurrence of blood coagulation, (4) the occurrence of N-terminal protein myristoylation, and (5) Axon guidance mediated by Ena/Vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein (Ena/VASP) promotes reestablishment of the bladder reflex following spinal cord injury. Such changes, jointly termed "bladder remodeling," can constitute an important long-term consequence of neurogenic bladder dysfunction.

CONCLUSION

The success of this innovation has supported the use of microarray-based expression profiling as a commonplace platform for the pathogenesis and therapeutic interventions of experimental neurogenic bladder dysfunction. dysfunction.

Ileovesicostomy for adults with neurogenic bladders: complications and potential risk factors for adverse outcomes

AIMS

Risk factors for complications following ileovesicostomy have not been well defined. This study's purpose was to examine outcomes following ileovesicostomy in adults and identify possible risk factors that may contribute to post-operative complications.

METHODS

Retrospective database review identified ileovesicostomy procedures from August 1999 to September 2003. Demographic, pre-operative, and post-operative data were extracted. Statistical analysis determined whether risk factors influenced outcomes of urethral continence, re-operation, and post-operative complications. Factors included age, tobacco use, diabetes, neurogenic bladder etiology, body mass index, pre-operative indwelling catheterization, or simultaneous procedures including pubovaginal sling/urethral closure.

RESULTS

50 adults status-post ileovesicostomy were identified. At last follow-up, 36 patients (72%) were continent per urethra. The incidence of complications decreased significantly from 3.38 per patient to 1.16 post-operatively (P < 0.0001). Twenty-seven averaged 1.52 inflammatory or infectious post-operative complications per patient, 19 averaged 1.47 stomal complications, and 11 averaged 2.09 ileovesicostomy mechanical obstructions. Overall, 27 required 2.85 re-operations or additional procedures following ileovesicostomy. Sub-group analysis identified BMI (P = 0.0569) as a possible risk factor. Differences in outcomes based on age, tobacco use, diabetes, neurogenic bladder etiology, pre-operative indwelling catheterization, or urethral closure were not significant.

CONCLUSIONS

Ileovesicostomy is a valuable management option for adults with neurogenic bladder unable to perform intermittent catheterization. The incidence of urinary tract comorbid events significantly decreased following ileovesicostomy though the onset of other complications should be considered. The morbidity associated with ileovesicostomy requires careful patient selection, close long-term follow-up, and potential subsequent interventions to address post-operative complications.

[Specific features of urethral diseases in spinal cord injury patients]

This article discusses all of the urethral diseases observed in patients with neurogenic bladder. The frequency of these disorders has decreased considerably with progress in intermittent catheterization and bladder retraining. However, urologists may occasionally be required to manage an urethral diverticulum, or an ulcer of the urethra over an indwelling catheter and must be familiar with the specific features in this setting.

[Laparoscopic cystectomy and transileal ureterostomy for neurogenic vesicosphincteric disorders. Evaluation of morbidity]

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the morbidity and mortality of laparoscopic cystectomy combined with transileal ureterostomy to treat neurogenic vesicosphincteric disorders.

MATERIAL

Prospective study performed between february 2004 and april 2006 on 26 consecutive patients with a mean age of 55.0 +/- 12.7 years treated by laparoscopic cystectomy for neurogenic vesicosphincteric disorders. The underlying neurological disease was multiple sclerosis (MS) in 20 cases, spinal cord injury in 4 cases and transverse myelitis in 2 cases. The median preoperative ASA score was 3 (range: 2-3).

RESULTS

No open conversion was necessary. One intraoperative complication was observed (vascular injury). No perioperative death was observed. The nasogastric tube was maintained postoperatively for an average of 8.69 +/- 5.9 hours. The mean time to resumption of oral fluids was 1.4 +/- 0.7 days and mean time to resumption of solids was 2.6 +/- 1.0 days. The mean time to resumption of bowel movements was 3.8 +/- 3.2 days. The mean intensive care stay was 3.9 +/- 1.1 days. Two postoperative complications were observed in the same patient (ileus and bronchial congestion). Postoperative narcotic analgesics were necessary in 60% of cases. The mean hospital stay was 10.3 +/- 4.1 days. Two late postoperative complications were observed in the same patient (two episodes of pyelonephritis).

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic cystectomy has a low morbidity in neurological patients, allowing early return of feeding and a moderate length of hospital stay.

Chapitre A - Lithiase et vessie neurogène

Stones of the upper and lower urinary tract are frequently observed in spinal cord injury patients. In this article, the authors reviewed the literature to identify the most reliable tools for diagnosis and follow-up. A review of recently published series demonstrated an excess risk of kidney and bladder stones in this population. The authors discuss the possible measures of prevention and identification of high-risk groups likely to benefit from more intensive follow-up.

Chapitre B-5 B - Dérivation cutanée non continente en neuro-urologie

Non-continent urinary diversions can be proposed temporarily in neurological patients or at end-stage. They are especially proposed in patients in chronic retention in whom intermittent catheterization cannot be performed for anatomical or practical reasons (severity of neurological handicap). In this study, the authors present the various non-continent urinary diversions reported in the literature, describing the technical modalities of each diversion, their main complications and their short-term, medium-term and long-term results.

Chapitre B - Insuffisance rénale et vessie neurologique

Historically, impaired renal function was the leading cause of death in spinal cord injury patients. Although the management of these patients has considerably improved due to progress in functional rehabilitation and neurourology, renal failure remains a significant cause of morbidity in this population. In this article, the authors review and classify the diagnostic tools able to detect urological changes likely to induce irreversible impairment of renal function. Based on a review of the recent literature, they define the incidence of renal impairment (morphological or function) in spinal cord injury patients and describe the main risk factors for deterioration of renal function in these patients.

Successful Treatment with Intradetrusor Botulinum-A Toxin for Urethral Urinary Leakage (Catheter Bypassing) in Patients with End-Staged Multiple Sclerosis and Indwelling Suprapubic Catheters

OBJECTIVE

To present the initial results of Botulinum-A toxin (BTA) injection in patients with long-standing multiple sclerosis (MS) and urethral leakage of urine in spite of indwelling suprapubic catheters (catheter bypassing).

METHODS

Study of three patients treated with cystoscopic injection of BTA IU (Allergan). Telephone interviews were made at four- to six-week intervals. Continence status and patient satisfaction were recorded before and after treatment.

RESULTS

Patient 1 remained dry at 48 weeks post injection. Patient 2 became incontinent again after 40 weeks. The third patient was continent when interviewed at 27 weeks following injection, but died two weeks later. The patients were very satisfied with the procedure and there were no complications related to BTA.

CONCLUSIONS

Intradetrusor BTA injection is a very effective and safe treatment for intractable catheter bypassing in patients with neurogenic detrusor overactivity.

Initial Experience with Successful Totally Robotic Laparoscopic Cystoprostatectomy and Ileal Conduit Construction in Tetraplegic Patients: Report of Two Cases

PURPOSE

To evaluate the feasibility and safety of totally robotic laparoscopic cystoprostatectomy for neurogenic bladder, with intracorporeal ileal-conduit urinary diversion in tetraplegic patients with severe neurogenic bladder complications.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Two men, 41 and 38 years old, with complete post-traumatic C7-C8 quadriplegia and poor lower urinary-tract condition underwent totally transperitoneally performed cystoprostatectomy and ileal-conduit urinary diversion with robotic assistance (Da Vinci).

RESULTS

The procedures were completed without open conversion. The total surgical time was 9.25 and 6.75 hours, respectively. There were no intraoperative complications. In the postoperative period, both patients had mild complications (pulmonary and urinary infections) that were treated successfully medically. The postoperative hospital stay was 13 days in both cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results demonstrate the safety and feasibility of robot-assisted laparoscopic cystoprostatectomy with ileal-conduit urinary diversion in two tetraplegic patients.

Outcome of urethral closure in patients with neurologic impairment and complete urethral destruction

AIMS

The purpose of this study is to describe the problems associated with prolonged urethral catheterization in 12 patients with neurological problems and to report the results of surgical treatment.

METHODS

A retrospective study of patients with neurogenic bladder and urethral dysfunction treated with prolonged catheterization resulting in incontinence associated with loss of urethral tissue and or function selected 12 patients. All had video urodynamics. Twelve were continuously incontinent despite a catheter. Bladder compliance, where that could be measured, was low is 10, and there were multiple and serious co-morbidities including sepsis, hypoalbuminemia, skin breakdown, osteomyelitis, respiratory insuffiency, etc. There were 4 males and 8 females, 9 had a spinal cord injury and 3 progressive multiple sclerosis.

RESULTS

Male patients underwent transperineal closure of the membranous urethra; females transvaginal closure of the urethra. All patients had a urinary diversion, either an ileovesicostomy, or an augmentation cystoplasty and construction of a neourethra. Continence was ultimately achieved in 11 of 12 patients at a median 20 months. Four patients had one additional procedure to gain continence, but five patients required 3.8 procedures/patient to achieve continence. Closure of the male urethra was more easily accomplished than closure of an extensively damaged eroded female urethra.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with urethral damage and erosion related to prolonged catheter present a formidable challenge in surgical reconstruction. Most have serious co-mobidities and a single operation does not usually solve all the problems. Persistence does almost always result in continence.

Urinary bladder volumetry by means of a single retrosymphysically implantable ultrasound unit

AIMS

Optimal voiding is a crucial issue for patients with neurogenic bladder dysfunctions to prevent long-term damage to the urinary tract. In prior studies, implantable ultrasound (US) sensors have proved an appropriate method of measuring the urinary bladder volume. Their disadvantage is that they tend to dislocate in chronic applications as they are fixed directly onto the bladder wall. In the present study, we describe an implantable US volumetry unit that does not require fixing to the bladder wall and consists of a single receiver-transmitter unit.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Six Göttinger minipigs were anesthetized in ITN; a sensor was stitched behind the symphysis into the periosteum and aligned to the bladder so that an US measurement could take place in ventro-dorsal direction. In steps of 50 ml, the bladder was filled up to 250 ml via a transurethral catheter; after each filling step the volume was measured three times and compared to the instilled volume.

RESULTS

On average the measurements with implanted US differed from the actual bladder filling by 77.4% at a bladder filling of 50 ml ("error" messages were included as 0 ml), 3.8% at 100 ml, 3.8% at 150 ml, and 0.3% at 200 ml, and 3.6% at 250 ml. When the empty bladder (= 0 ml) was measured, the US sensor detected no volume in 73% of the cases.

CONCLUSIONS

In our animal model, the above-described US system proved tantamount with other external US measuring units and presented a precise and low-artefact system, allowing reliable measuring of the urinary volume with good chances of preserving these positive qualities over time. We expect that clinical application of this system may help to determine the optimal voiding time and thus to avoid bladder over-extension and damage to the urinary tract over time.

Laparoscopic robotic-assisted ileal conduit urinary diversion in a quadriplegic woman

Urinary diversion is a therapeutic option in quadriplegic patients with poor lower urinary tract conditions, but it is an invasive procedure. Laparoscopic techniques are less invasive, but are technically demanding, and only a few surgical teams are able to complete such a complex procedure endoscopically. Robotics bring an unprecedented control of surgical instruments, shorten the learning curve, and allow open surgeons to apply more easily their technical skill to the laparoscopic approach. This complex case of laparoscopic ileal conduit in a quadriplegic woman was completed by our team with the Da Vinci system after 6 months of clinical experience in robotic surgery.