Passive Elastography for Clinical HIFU Lesion Detection

High-intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) is a promising treatment modality for a wide range of pathologies including prostate cancer. However, the lack of a reliable ultrasound-based monitoring technique limits its clinical use. Ultrasound currently provides real-time HIFU planning, but its use for monitoring is usually limited to detecting the backscatter increase resulting from chaotic bubble appearance. HIFU has been shown to generate stiffening in various tissues, so elastography is an interesting lead for ablation monitoring. However, the standard techniques usually require the generation of a controlled push which can be problematic in deeper organs. Passive elastography offers a potential alternative as it uses the physiological wave field to estimate the elasticity in tissues and not an external perturbation. This technique was adapted to process B-mode images acquired with a clinical system. It was first shown to faithfully assess elasticity in calibrated phantoms. The technique was then implemented on the Focal One® clinical system to evaluate its capacity to detect HIFU lesions in vitro (CNR = 9.2 dB) showing its independence regarding the bubbles resulting from HIFU and in vivo where the physiological wave field was successfully used to detect and delineate lesions of different sizes in porcine liver. Finally, the technique was performed for the very first time in four prostate cancer patients showing strong variation in elasticity before and after HIFU treatment (average variation of 33.0 ± 16.0 % ). Passive elastography has shown evidence of its potential to monitor HIFU treatment and thus help spread its use.

Primary Whole-gland Ablation for the Treatment of Clinically Localized Prostate Cancer: A Focal Therapy Society Best Practice Statement

CONTEXT

Whole-gland ablation is a feasible and effective minimally invasive treatment for localized prostate cancer (PCa). Previous systematic reviews supported evidence for favorable functional outcomes, but oncological outcomes were inconclusive owing to limited follow-up.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the real-world data on the mid- to long-term oncological and functional outcomes of whole-gland cryoablation and high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) in patients with clinically localized PCa, and to provide expert recommendations and commentary on these findings.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

We performed a systematic review of PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library publications through February 2022 according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) statement. As endpoints, baseline clinical characteristics, and oncological and functional outcomes were assessed. To estimate the pooled prevalence of oncological, functional, and toxicity outcomes, and to quantify and explain the heterogeneity, random-effect meta-analyses and meta-regression analyses were performed.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Twenty-nine studies were identified, including 14 on cryoablation and 15 on HIFU with a median follow-up of 72 mo. Most of the studies were retrospective (n = 23), with IDEAL (idea, development, exploration, assessment, and long-term study) stage 2b (n = 20) being most common. Biochemical recurrence-free survival, cancer-specific survival, overall survival, recurrence-free survival, and metastasis-free survival rates at 10 yr were 58%, 96%, 63%, 71-79%, and 84%, respectively. Erectile function was preserved in 37% of cases, and overall pad-free continence was achieved in 96% of cases, with a 1-yr rate of 97.4-98.8%. The rates of stricture, urinary retention, urinary tract infection, rectourethral fistula, and sepsis were observed to be 11%, 9.5%, 8%, 0.7%, and 0.8%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The mid- to long-term real-world data, and the safety profiles of cryoablation and HIFU are sound to support and be offered as primary treatment for appropriate patients with localized PCa. When compared with other existing treatment modalities for PCa, these ablative therapies provide nearly equivalent intermediate- to long-term oncological and toxicity outcomes, as well as excellent pad-free continence rates in the primary setting. This real-world clinical evidence provides long-term oncological and functional outcomes that enhance shared decision-making when balancing risks and expected outcomes that reflect patient preferences and values.

PATIENT SUMMARY

Cryoablation and high-intensity focused ultrasound are minimally invasive treatments available to selectively treat localized prostate cancer, considering their nearly comparable intermediate- to long term cancer control and preservation of urinary continence to other radical treatments in the primary setting. However, a well-informed decision should be made based on one's values and preferences.

Robot Partial Prostatectomy for Anterior Cancer: Long-term Functional and Oncological Outcomes at 7 Years

Partial prostatectomy has been described as an alternative to focal ablation therapy for the management of localized low- to intermediate-risk prostate cancer. This report aims to describe the long-term outcomes in a series of 28 men (2000-2022) who underwent robotic-assisted anterior partial prostatectomy (APP) for anteriorly located tumors entirely or partially within the anterior fibromuscular stroma. The median follow-up is 7 yr (interquartile range [IQR]: 4.2-8). The median prostate-specific antigen (PSA) before APP was 9.6 (6-11). Continence remained uninterrupted in 92% of patients. Erectile function without drug remained uninterrupted in 69%. The median nadir PSA after APP was 0.36 ng/ml (IQR: 0.25-0.60). Cancer recurrence at biopsies at the margins of the primary cancer resected area in case of a PSA elevation was observed in eight patients and led to salvage completion robotic radical prostatectomy at a median time of 3.25 yr (IQR: 2.4-6). Freedom from post-APP cancer recurrence at 7 yr was 62.7% (35.0-81.3%). Pre-APP tumor volume at magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and volume of grade 4/5 were predictive of recurrence. Freedom from biochemical recurrence after completion radical prostatectomy at 7 yr was 94.7% (68.1-99.3%). All 28 patients are alive. No one had systemic treatment or metastases. These results confirm our initial report of robotic APP with good functional results and acceptable oncological results. The use of the inclusion criteria of pre-APP tumor volume at MRI <3 cc may decrease the risk of recurrence.

Patient summary

In this report, we looked at outcomes for infrequent cases of anterior prostate cancer treated with anterior partial prostatectomy, an uncommon surgical procedure as an alternative to in situ focal ablation therapy, to better preserve functional outcomes as compared with whole gland therapy. We found that functional outcomes of uninterrupted continence and erectile function were good. Out of 28 patients, eight had recurrence in the remaining prostate and were treated with a second surgical procedure, radical prostatectomy, which was feasible. We conclude that this new technique is feasible with good functional results and acceptable oncological results, which can be shared with the patients.

Safety and quality of life analyses of apalutamide plus active surveillance vs active surveillance alone for low, intermediate risk prostate cancer

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Background: Active surveillance (AS) is a standard of care for low-risk prostate cancer (PC). However, 20 to 50% of patients (pts) will ultimately require a local treatment following AS. The aim of this study is to assess whether apalutamide could decrease the proportion of pts requiring local treatment within 3 years. We report the 1-year safety and quality of life analyses. Methods: multicentric phase II study conducted in patients with low to intermediate risk PC randomized between apalutamide 6 months (240 mg/d) with AS vs AS alone. Toxicity was evaluated each month during treatment and every 3 months thereafter for both arms. Quality of life (SF12) was assessed at baseline, 6 and 12 months post enrollment. Results: Patients were randomized: 51 in apalutamide and 40 in AS arm. Only 50 pts received apalutamide (one refusal). Median age was 64 yrs (47-76), median PSA 5.9 (1.5-21.5), only 2 pts had Gleason ISUP 2, 14% had >T2, the median cancer positive cores was 14.3%. The median testosterone level was 4.7 mg/l. Only 88 were available for safety analyses (48 in apalutamide arm). Maximal grades of reported adverse events during the first year were for the experimental arm: 25%, 56%, 19% and control arm: 20%, 15% 12.5% for G1, G2, G3 respectively. In the experimental arm, grade 1/2 related adverse events (AE) were cutaneous (25%) and HTA (15%), nausea 15%, diarrhea 10%, arthralgia or musculoskeletal event 17% and anemia 6%. Attention disorders were observed in 6% and hypothyroidism in 8%. The most frequent sexual dysfunctions were erectile dysfunction observed in 29% (7.5% in AS arm), gynecomastia in 60%, loss of libido in 21%, and nipple pain in 33%. One-year post enrollment, the testosterone level was 4.86 mg/l (1.5-9.8) vs 4.6 (2-7.7) in apalutamide and AS arm, respectively. Digestive symptoms were Grade 3. Related AEs were an HTA for 2 pts, rash for 1 pt, asthenia for 1 pt, erectile dysfunction for 1 pt, and decreased libido for 1 pt. One serious related AE was reported: grade 2 cerebral ischemic attack. A reduced dose was required for 16.67% of pts and 33.3% had transient discontinuation. The treatment was stopped for toxicity in 3 pts; 94% completed the 6 months of treatment. No differences were observed in physical component summary (PCS) and mental component summary (MCS) of SF12 for treatment vs AS at 6 mo (PCS: 55.1 vs 56.4; MCS 43.4 vs 41.4) and 12 mo (PCS: 53.6 vs 54.1; MCS 44.1 vs 42.9). Conclusions: This is a large randomized study evaluating apalutamide with active surveillance vs active surveillance. No new safety issues were observed and the safety profile was consistent relative to those previously described with apalutamide and castration, no falls or fracture were observed. No detrimental effect of apalutamide on QOL was observed during and after treatment. AEs are important for pts candidates for active surveillance. Clinical trial information: NCT03088124 .

En Bloc Kidney Transplantation: A Retrospective Study of an 18-year Experience in a Single Institution

Background

Renal transplantation is facing a shortage of grafts. En bloc kidney transplantation (EBKT) from pediatric donors could increase the number of available grafts.

Objective

To describe the surgical technique as well as the long-term functional and morphological results of EBKT.

Design setting and participants

We performed a retrospective study of all the EBKT procedures performed in Lyon between 2002 and 2020. Electronic medical records were checked with an analysis of demographics, and peri- and postoperative results.

Outcome measurements and statistical analysis

A descriptive analysis of donor and recipient characteristics, perioperative data, complications, and renal function was performed.

Results and limitations

Between 2002 and 2020, 21 EBKT procedures were performed. Donors had a mean weight of 8.6 kg and a mean age of 12 mo, with a mean cold ischemia time of 11 h and 30 min. Receivers had a mean age of 30 yr and a body mass index of 20. The mean follow-up time was 62 mo, with patient survival of 100% and graft survival of 95%. There were 13 reinterventions comprising one early unilateral transplantectomy for thrombosis. Renal function was excellent, and the morphological findings described an important growth in size in the first 2 yr before attaining the adult size. This study's limitations include its retrospective nature and a small number of participants.

Conclusions

The present study reports excellent results with EBKT and supports the pursuit and spread of this technique.

Patient summary

In this report, we describe the technique and results of en bloc kidney transplantation. We found that results are excellent for renal function and patient survival. We conclude that en bloc kidney transplantation should be considered to increase the number of grafts.

One-year Functional Outcomes after Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP): Introduction of a Composite Score (Hexafecta)

OBJECTIVE

To compare the efficiency (micturition symptoms, continence, erection) and safety of Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP) with a single composite score (the Hexafecta score) one year postprocedure.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We conducted a single-center retrospective study including all patients who had undergone HoLEP for the treatment of benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) between May 2013 and August 2017. Data were obtained preoperatively and at the 6- and 12-month visits. We also reported all 90-day complications. The Hexafecta score included 6 criteria: peak urine flow of at least 15ml/s, 30% reduction in International Prostate Symptoms Score (IPSS) score, quality of life via the IPSS less than 2, no incontinence (International Consultation Incontinence Questionnaire), no significant change in erectile function (International Index of Erectile Function), and no grade III or more complications according to the Clavien-Dindo classification.

RESULTS

Two hundred thirty-five patients were included, of whom 197 (83.8%) completed the 12-month visit. Complete data were available to assess the Hexafecta score for 178 of them (75.7%). Most of the missing data were for uroflowmetry and the erectile function assessment. Hundred three patients (58%) met all 6 criteria, while 45 (25%) met 5 of them. None were retreated for BPH in the follow-up period. The de novo incontinence rate was 4.1%.

CONCLUSION

The Hexafecta score is a simple, transversal method for comprehensively evaluating functional outcomes after HoLEP surgery. Such an evaluation could be used to compare other types of procedures for BPH treatment.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3.

International Multi-Site Initiative to Develop an MRI-Inclusive Nomogram for Side-Specific Prediction of Extraprostatic Extension of Prostate Cancer

BACKGROUND

To develop an international, multi-site nomogram for side-specific prediction of extraprostatic extension (EPE) of prostate cancer based on clinical, biopsy, and magnetic resonance imaging- (MRI) derived data.

METHODS

Ten institutions from the USA and Europe contributed clinical and side-specific biopsy and MRI variables of consecutive patients who underwent prostatectomy. A logistic regression model was used to develop a nomogram for predicting side-specific EPE on prostatectomy specimens. The performance of the statistical model was evaluated by bootstrap resampling and cross validation and compared with the performance of benchmark models that do not incorporate MRI findings.

RESULTS

Data from 840 patients were analyzed; pathologic EPE was found in 320/840 (31.8%). The nomogram model included patient age, prostate-specific antigen density, side-specific biopsy data (i.e., Gleason grade group, percent positive cores, tumor extent), and side-specific MRI features (i.e., presence of a PI-RADSv2 4 or 5 lesion, level of suspicion for EPE, length of capsular contact). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the new, MRI-inclusive model (0.828, 95% confidence limits: 0.805, 0.852) was significantly higher than that of any of the benchmark models (p < 0.001 for all).

CONCLUSIONS

In an international, multi-site study, we developed an MRI-inclusive nomogram for the side-specific prediction of EPE of prostate cancer that demonstrated significantly greater accuracy than clinical benchmark models.

The Mayo Adhesive Probability score can help predict intra- and postoperative complications in patients undergoing laparoscopic donor nephrectomy

PURPOSE

Living donor nephrectomy is a high-stake procedure involving healthy individuals, therefore every effort should be made to define each patient's individualized risk and improve potential donors' information. The aim of this study was to evaluate the interest of the Mayo adhesive probability (MAP) score, an imaging-based score initially designed to estimate the risk of adherent perinephric fat in partial nephrectomy, to predict intra- and postoperative complications of living donor nephrectomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the imaging, clinical, and follow-up data of 452 kidney donors who underwent laparoscopic donor nephrectomy in two academic centers.

RESULTS

Imaging and follow-up data were available for 307 kidney donors, among which 44 (14%) had a high MAP score (≥ 3). Intraoperative difficulties were encountered in 50 patients (16%), including difficult dissection (n = 35) and bleeding (n = 17). Conversion to open surgery was required for 13 patients (4.2%). On multivariate analysis, a MAP score ≥ 3 was significantly associated with the risk of intraoperative difficulty [OR 14.12 (5.58-35.7), p < 0.001] or conversion to open surgery [OR 18.96 (3.42-105.14), p = 0.0042]. Postoperative complications were noted in 99 patients (32%), including 12 patients (3.9%) with Clavien-Dindo grade III-IV complications. On multivariate analysis, a high MAP score was also associated with the risk of postoperative complications [OR 2.55 (1.20-5.40), p = 0.01].

CONCLUSIONS

In this retrospective bicentric study, a high MAP score was associated with the risk of intra- and postoperative complications of laparoscopic donor nephrectomy. The MAP score appears of interest in the living donor evaluation process to help improve donors' information and outcomes.

Prognostic Impact of pT3 Subclassification in a Multicentre Cohort of Patients with Urothelial Carcinoma of the Renal Pelvicalyceal System Undergoing Radical Nephroureterectomy: A Propensity Score-weighted Analysis After Central Pathology Review

BACKGROUND

The current pathological tumour-node-metastasis (pTNM) classification for upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) does not include any risk stratification of pT3 renal pelvicalyceal tumours.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the prognostic impact of pT3 subclassification in a multicentre cohort of patients with UTUC of the renal pelvicalyceal system undergoing radical nephroureterectomy (RNU).

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

Data from all consecutive patients treated with RNU for pT3 renal pelvicalyceal UTUC at 14 French centres from 1995 to 2013 were reviewed retrospectively.

INTERVENTION

A central pathology review (CPR) was used to stratify pT3 patients into those with infiltration of the renal parenchyma on a microscopic level (pT3a) versus those with infiltration of the renal parenchyma visible on gross inspection of the resection specimen and/or invasion of peripelvic fat (pT3b).

OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

Inverse probability weighting (IPW)-adjusted Cox regression analyses were used to compare recurrence-free survival (RFS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) between pT3a and pT3b patients.

RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS

Overall, 202 patients were included and further stratified into pT3a (n = 98; 48.5%) and pT3b (n = 104; 51.5%) subgroups. Median time to follow-up in the weighted population was 68 (interquartile range, 50-95) mo. In IPW-adjusted Cox regression analyses, pT3b versus pT3a substage was associated with a significant adverse effect on RFS (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.02; 95% confidence interval [CI] = [1.36-3.01]; p < 0.001) and CSS (HR = 1.84; 95% CI = [1.20-2.82]; p = 0.005). The study is limited by its retrospective design.

CONCLUSIONS

Using IPW-adjusted analyses after the CPR, we observed that RNU patients with pT3b renal pelvicalyceal UTUC had adverse prognosis as compared with those with pT3a disease. As such, this subclassification could help refine the current pTNM system for UTUC.

PATIENT SUMMARY

In this report, we looked at the prognostic interest of stratifying patients with pT3 renal pelvicalyceal upper tract urothelial carcinoma based on the extent of local invasion. We found that those with extensive infiltration (pT3b) had adverse prognosis as compared with those with limited infiltration (pT3a). This information could be provided on pathology reports to further guide clinical decision making.

Candidates to salvage therapy after external-beam radiotherapy of prostate cancer: Predictors of local recurrence volume and metastasis-free survival

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to assess the predictors of metastasis-free survival (MFS) and of the volume of the local recurrence in patients with rising prostate-specific antigen (PSA) serum level after radiotherapy for prostate cancer and referred for prostate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and biopsy in view of salvage treatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 132 consecutive men (median age, 70 years; IQR, 66-77 years) with rising PSA after prostate radiotherapy who underwent prostate MRI and biopsy in view of salvage treatment between January 2010 and July 2017 were retrospectively evaluated at a single center. MFS predictors were assessed with Cox models. Predictors of the volume of the local recurrence (number of invaded prostate sectors at biopsy) were assessed using Poisson regression among variables available at PSA relapse.

RESULTS

At multivariate analysis, an initial Gleason score≥8 (OR=7 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.2-40]; P=0.03), a recent radiotherapy (OR=17 [95% CI: 3.9-72]; P<0.0001), the use of androgen deprivation therapy at PSA relapse (OR=12.5 [95% CI: 2.8-57]; P=0.001) and the number of invaded prostate sectors (OR=1.5 [95% CI: 1.1-2]; P=0.007) and maximum cancer core length (OR=0.7 [95%CI: 0.6-0.9]; P=0.002) at biopsy performed at PSA relapse were significant MFS predictors. The PSA level at relapse was significant independent predictor of the volume of local recurrence only when used as a continuous variable (P=0.0002) but not when dichotomized using the nadir+2 threshold (P=0.41).

CONCLUSION

Pathological and clinical factors can help predict MFS in patients with rising PSA after prostate radiotherapy and candidates to salvage treatment. The PSA level at relapse has strong influence on the local recurrence volume when used as a continuous variable.

[Evolution of the number of incident cases, stage and first treatments for prostate cancer in France between 2001 and 2016]

INTRODUCTION

No studies of French hospital registries for prostate cancer (PCa) have been published since the 2012 USPSTF recommendations.

MATERIAL

This is a multicenter cohort study based on hospital data of prostate biopsies (PB) in 3 health centers between 2001 and 2016. The main objective is to describe the evolution of incident cases of PCa. The secondary objectives are to describe the number of cases per stage of PCa and the distribution of the first treatments.

RESULTS

In total, 11,491 PB series diagnosed 5927 cases of PCa. The median age was 67 [61-73] years and the median PSA was 7.8 [5.5-13] ng/mL. The number of cases increased until 2006 before decreasing from 2006 to 2013 and then stabilizing from 2013 to 2016. The proportion of incident cases was: (1) for the stable metastatic stage around 8 [7-10]%, (2) for cases with PSA<10 ng/mL increasing from 46% to 75% in 2010 down to 64% in 2016, (3) for the grade 1 group decreasing from 59% to 33 % between 2011 and 2016. The proportion of active surveillance treatment for low-risk cancers increased from 5 to 60% and surgery decreased from 73 to 33%.

CONCLUSION

The evolution of the incident cases showed a decrease from 2006 to 2013 and a stability until 2016. The number of cases with PSA<10 ng/mL decreased since 2010 and the proportion of the options of treatment by surveillance increased strongly to the detriment of the surgery for low risks.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3.

[Focal HIFU vs robot-assisted total prostatectomy: Functionnal and oncologic outcomes at one year]

OBJECTIVE

To analyse the functional and oncologic outcomes at one year of focal therapy with HIFU compared with total prostatectomy in patients with localised prostate cancer (PCa).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Retrospective and monocentric study from 2008 to 2014 comparing 2 cohorts of patients with localised PCa (T1/T2 clinical stage, Gleason score≤3+4=7 and PSA<15ng/mL), one treated by focal therapy (HIFU-F group), one by robot-assisted total prostatectomy (RATP group). Primary outcome was a trifecta defined as: absence of urinary incontinence, erectile function with sexual relations without treatment, negative PSA with negative surgical margins (RATP group) or negative biopsy cores (HIFU-F group).

RESULTS

The 53 patients included in the "HIFU-F" group and the 66 patients in the "RATP" group were similar in terms of preoperative PSA, D'Amico risk group, erectile function but were different in terms of age, prostatic volume, length of cancer, Gleason score. Complication rate was not different. In multivariate analyse with propensity score, "HIFU-F" group achieved a better trifecta score than "RATP" group (OR=8,3, p=0,005).

CONCLUSION

In case of low or intermediate risk localised PCa, "HIFU-F" group had better functional outcomes than initial learning curse "RATP" group, at one year. A long-term evaluation by a common endpoint is necessary to judge the oncological equivalence of both techniques.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3.

Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate versus Laparoscopic Transcapsular Prostatectomy: Perioperative Results and Three-Month Follow-Up

PURPOSE

Symptomatic benign prostatic hypertrophy greater than 70 cc used to be treated by invasive procedures. Holmium laser enucleation of prostate (HoLEP) and laparoscopic transcapsular prostatectomy (LTP) are two techniques whose efficacy has been demonstrated compared to standard onesmore invasive standard procedures. The objective was to evaluate and compare perioperative results from these two techniques for the treatment of benign prostatic hypertrophy greater than 70 cc.

METHODS

This was a non-randomized retrospective study comparing the HoLEP technique with LTP. From January 2012 to January 2015, 39 patients had HoLEP and 28 had LTP. Perioperative outcomes, complications, and functional results at 3 months were compared. A chi-2 squared test and Student's t test were used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

In multivariate analysis, there was a statistically significant difference in favor of HoLEP for the duration of catheterization (1.9 vs. 3.7 days; p = 0.004) and the average length of stay (2.8 vs. 4.0 days, p = 0.010). There was a trend towards a greater decrease in postoperative hemoglobin levels in LTP (138 vs. 218 g/l; p = 0.082), which was statistically significant in univariate analysis (p = 0.033). Other endpoints were not significant, particularly the enucleated prostate volume compared to the total prostate volume (61.8 vs. 68.4%; p = 0.319) and postoperative complications.

CONCLUSION

There was no increased morbidity for LTP compared to the HoLEP technique. However, the HoLEP technique appeared to be a less invasive technique, reducing the duration of catheterization, blood loss, and the average length of stay while maintaining good efficacy for the enucleated prostate volume.

Salvage high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) for locally recurrent prostate cancer after failed radiation therapy: Multi-institutional analysis of 418 patients

OBJECTIVE

To report the oncological outcome of salvage high-intensity focused ultrasound (S-HIFU) for locally recurrent prostate cancer after external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) from a multicentre database.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This retrospective study comprises patients from nine centres with local recurrent disease after EBRT treated with S-HIFU from 1995 to 2009. The biochemical failure-free survival (bFFS) rate was based on the 'Phoenix' definition (PSA nadir + 2 ng/mL). Secondary endpoints included progression to metastasis and cancer-specific death. Kaplan-Meier analysis was performed examining overall (OS), cancer-specific (CSS) and metastasis-free survival (MFS). Adverse events and quality of life status are reported.

RESULTS

In all, 418 patients with a mean (SD) follow-up of 3.5 (2.5) years were included. The mean (SD) age was 68.6 (5.8) years and the PSA level before S-HIFU was 6.8 (7.8) ng/mL. The median PSA nadir after S-HIFU was 0.19 ng/mL. The OS, CSS and MFS rates at 7 years were 72%, 82% and 81%, respectively. At 5 years the bFFS rate was 58%, 51% and 36% for pre-EBRT low-, intermediate- and high-risk patients, respectively. The 5-year bFFS rate was 67%, 42% and 22% for pre-S-HIFU PSA level ≤4, 4-10 and ≥10 ng/mL, respectively. Complication rates decreased after the introduction of specific post-RT parameters: incontinence (grade II or III) from 32% to 19% (P = 0.002); bladder outlet obstruction or stenosis from 30% to 15% (P = 0.003); recto-urethral fistula decreased from 9% to 0.6% (P < 0.001). Study limitations include being a retrospective analysis from a registry with no control group.

CONCLUSION

S-HIFU for locally recurrent prostate cancer after failed EBRT is associated with 7-year CSS and MFS rates of >80% at a price of significant morbidity. S-HIFU should be initiated early following EBRT failure.

Localized prostate cancer and salvage treatment: EBRT first + salvage HIFU or HIFU first + salvage EBRT? A single-institution matched pair analysis over a 20-year period

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Background: In the field of curative treatment for localized prostate cancer, HIFU (High Intensity Focused ultrasound) is one of salvage option after EBRT(external beam radiation therapy) failure and EBRT is the standard salvage option for local relapse after HIFU.Our aim was to compare and evaluate the oncologic outcomes between HIFU first + salvage EBRT versus EBRT first +salvage HIFU. Methods: Using a matched pair analysis, 342 Patients (171 in each group) treated between 1994 and 2014 in the same institution were prospectively followed and matched to a 1:1 basis. Outcome measurements: Overall Survival Rate(OSR), cancer specific(CSSR) and metastasis free (MFSR) survival rates were the primary endpoints. Secondary endpoints were survival rate free of hormone therapy (HTFR) and the rate of side effects Clavien score ≥ 3. Results: Mean follow-up were 114 and 124 months for HIFU+ S-EBRT and EBRT + S-HIFU respectively. At 7 years from the primary treatment , the MFSR were significantly better after HIFU first +S- EBRT than after EBRT first+S- HIFU: 96% vs 91%% (p:0.011). The OSR and the CSSR were not significantly different in the two arms (97% and 99% after HIFU+S- EBRT versus 96% and 98% after EBRT+S- HIFU). The HTFR at 7 years was significantly different (p <0.001) after HIFU+ S-EBRT than after EBRT+ S-HIFU 90% versus 69%. In multivariable Cox regression, the initial Gleason sum ≥ 8 and the treatment strategy were predictors of MFSR (risk ratio 3.2 for treatment modality). The rate of side effect Clavien score≥ 3 was significantly higher (p:0.01) in the EBRT+ S-HIFU arm than in the HIFU+ S-EBRT arm. The rate of urinary toxicity (severe incontinence and bladder outlet obstruction) were worse in the EBRT+ S-HIFU arm than in HIFU+S-EBRT arm: 9.4% and 15.2% vs 1.2% and 7.6% (p:0.01 and 0.078). Conclusions: In this single-institution Matched Pair comparison, the MFSR and HTFR were significantly better in the HIFU+S-EBRT arm than in the EBRT+S-HIFU arm. The rate of urinairy toxicity and Clavien≥3 side-effects were Higher in the EBRT + S-HIFU arm than in the HIFU + S-EBRT arm.

Partial Prostatectomy for Anterior Cancer: Short-term Oncologic and Functional Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Focal ablative therapy may be a suboptimal option for anterior prostate cancers (APCs) reaching the prostate apex due to concerns for thermal injury to the external sphincter.

OBJECTIVE

To explore the technical feasibility of anterior partial prostatectomy (APP) for isolated APCs detected by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and to report short-term oncologic and functional outcomes.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

Following institutional review board approval, over an 8-yr period (2008-2015) 17 consenting patients were enrolled in a prospective single-arm single-center Innovation, Development, Exploration, Assessment, Long-term (IDEAL) phase 2a study. Inclusion criteria comprised preurethral, low- to intermediate-risk APC diagnosed by MRI, and targeted biopsies. Robotic template APP was performed; posterolateral aspect of the submontanal urethra, peripheral zone, and periprostatic tissues were preserved intact. Median follow-up was 30 mo (interquartile range [IQR]: 25-70).

OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

We noted the incidence of perioperative complications and examined reports of pathology, prostate-specific antigen (PSA), imaging, biopsies, and questionnaires.

RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS

Preoperatively, median PSA was 9.8 ng/ml, Gleason score was 6-7 (3 + 4), and cancer volume was 3.7cm³ (IQR: 1.7-4.6). The technique was feasible in all cases. Perioperative complications included anastomotic leak (12%; G2), urinary tract infection (6%; G2), and transient intestinal ileus in one case (6%; G2). At 3 mo, continence and potency rates were 100% and 83%, respectively. Median nadir PSA was 0.4 ng/ml (IQR: 0.3-0.7). All margins and posterolateral margins rates were 55% and 35%, respectively. APC recurrence-free survival at 2 yr was 0.86 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.55-0.96). Four patients (24%) who recurred underwent an uncomplicated completion of robot-assisted prostatectomy. Regarding limitations, CIs are quite wide for reported outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Robotic partial prostatectomy for isolated APC is feasible with good functional results. While promising, much more research is needed to verify our initial outcomes and appropriately position APP in the treatment paradigms for APC.

PATIENT SUMMARY

We explored a novel approach for partial prostatic surgical ablation for prostate cancer located in the anterior part of the prostate as an alternative to other focal ablative techniques.

[The W-shaped ileal neobladder: Long term functional outcomes and health-related quality of life]

PURPOSE

To evaluate functional outcomes and patients' health-related quality of life over ten years after a W-shaped ileal neobladder urinary diversion.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From 1994 to 2004, 87 patients with bladder cancer underwent a cystoprostatectomy with a W-shaped ileal neobladder. Among them, 31 patients (35.6%) were evaluated. The average follow-up was 158months, average age was 72years. We assessed functional outcomes (use of protections, USP score, uroflowmetry, postvoid residual volume), overall health-related quality of life (SF-36 score), and specific urinary-related quality of life (Ditrovie scale).

RESULTS

Daytime continence was satisfactory in 29 patients (96.8%). Night-time continence was satisfactory in 27 patients (87.1%). Mean daytime continence, hyperactivity and dysuria scores of the USP were respectively 1.5/9, 3.2/21 and 2/9. Mean value of the maximum flow rate was 18mL/s for an average voiding volume of 324mL and an average postvoid residual volume of 70mL. The 8 dimensions of the SF-36 were all comparable with the French population's values. According to the Ditrovie scale whose average value was 1.83, the health-related quality of life was unchanged or little changed by urinary disorders in 28 patients (90.3%).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that voiding status and health-related quality of life remain satisfactory over ten years after an orthotopic ileal neobladder derivation.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

5.

Standardization of definitions in focal therapy of prostate cancer: report from a Delphi consensus project

PURPOSE

To reach standardized terminology in focal therapy (FT) for prostate cancer (PCa).

METHODS

A four-stage modified Delphi consensus project was undertaken among a panel of international experts in the field of FT for PCa. Data on terminology in FT was collected from the panel by three rounds of online questionnaires. During a face-to-face meeting on June 21, 2015, attended by 38 experts, all data from the online rounds were reviewed and recommendations for definitions were formulated.

RESULTS

Consensus was attained on 23 of 27 topics; Targeted FT was defined as a lesion-based treatment strategy, treating all identified significant cancer foci; FT was generically defined as an anatomy-based (zonal) treatment strategy. Treatment failure due to the ablative energy inadequately destroying treated tissue is defined as ablation failure. In targeting failure the energy is not adequately applied to the tumor spatially and selection failure occurs when a patient was wrongfully selected for FT. No definition of biochemical recurrence can be recommended based on the current data. Important definitions for outcome measures are potency (minimum IIEF-5 score of 21), incontinence (new need for pads or leakage) and deterioration in urinary function (increase in IPSS >5 points). No agreement on the best quality of life tool was established, but UCLA-EPIC and EORTC-QLQ-30 were most commonly supported by the experts. A complete overview of statements is presented in the text.

CONCLUSION

Focal therapy is an emerging field of PCa therapeutics. Standardization of definitions helps to create comparable research results and facilitate clear communication in clinical practice.

Focal HIFU (high intensity focused ultrasound) treatment of unilateral localized prostate cancer: Hemiablation strategy—A prospective French multicentric study with 111 patients

102

Background: Up to a third of patients with localized prostate cancer (LPCa) have unilateral disease that may be suitable for a treatment of one lobe. Our aim was to evaluate the ability of HIFU to achieve a local control of the tumor in patients with unilateral LPCa. Methods: The French Urological Association (AFU) conducted a multi-institutional study, to evaluate hemi-ablation with HIFU as a primary treatment for patients >50 years, T1C or T2A, PSA<10ng/ml, Gleason ≤7 (3+4), and unilateral disease. 111 patients were treated: mean age 64.8 ±6.18 years, mean PSA 6.23±2.5 ng/ml. Gleason sum was ≤6 in 73.9% and 7 in 26.1%.primary outcome was the negative biopsy rate. Secondary outcomes were genitourinary side effects measured using validated questionnaires. The tumor was localized using MRI followed by random and targeted transrectal biopsies. Only the pathological prostate lobe was treated using HIFU. Results: The PSA nadir value was 1.87±1.49 ng/ml and the PSA at 12 months was 2.49±2.1 ng/ml (median 1.89). Ninety patients out of 101 (89%) in whom control biopsies were performed, had histological absence of significant disease (Gleason 7 or presence of cancer core length >3mm): treated side 5%, untreated side 5.9%. However 32.6% of men had persistent cancer of any threshold. Additional therapies were proposed in 33 patients (29,7%): active surveillance (16 patients), Redo-HIFU (8 patients), external beam radiation therapy (3 patients), radical surgery (6 patients). The RTFS (radical treatment free survival rate defined as absence of whole gland therapy) at 2 Years was 89%. At 12 months pad free continence was preserved in 103/106 (97%) and erectile function (IIEF5 score ≥16) was preserved in 40 patients out of 51 patients (78%). Conclusions: HIFU hemi ablation strategy allows an encouraging local control of the cancer has minimal side effects compared with standard whole gland treatments and allows additional therapies if necessary. Clinical trial information: HIFU/AFU/08.06.