The Use of Tissue Adhesive for Tumor Bed Closure during Partial Nephrectomy is Associated with Reduced Devascularized Functional Volume Loss

Objectives

To quantitatively compare the functional renal volume loss, following nephron sparing surgery (NSS) between patients in whom tumor bed closure was done by biological tissue adhesive and those who were managed by standard suture technique.

Methods

From our institutional NSS database we retrospectively collected patients who had two sequential quantitative single-photon emission computed tomography of ^99mTc-dimercaptosuccinic acid uptake studies, the first study immediately before surgery and the second one 3-6 months following surgery. The study group included 69 patients: 26 (37.7%) patients in the sealant group (BioGlue®) and 43 (62.3%) patients in the standard suture group.

Results

No statistically significant differences were noted in the baseline clinical and pathological characteristics of the studied groups. However, there were several statistically significant differences in operative variables: patients in the suture group had larger amount of blood loss (3-fold), longer ischemia time (26.6 vs. 21 minutes,) and slightly longer operation time. Patients in whom tumor bed was closed by sutures had nearly 3-fold higher parenchymal loss compared to patients managed by sealant (26.28 vs. 8.92 ml, p = 0.048).

Conclusions

The use of tissue sealant during tumor bed reconstruction is associated with reduced devascularized parenchymal mass loss and should be considered among modifiable surgical factors during NSS.

Method Used for Tumor Bed Closure (Suture vs. Sealant), Ischemia Time and Duration of Surgery are Independent Predictors of Post-Nephron Sparing Surgery Acute Kidney Injury

INTRODUCTION

The aim of our study was to examine the influence of tumor complexity and operative variables on the degree and rate of post-nephron sparing surgery (NSS) acute kidney injury (AKI).

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the records of 477 patients who underwent NSS for enhancing renal masses in our institution. AKI was determined using the latest definition by AKIN and RIFLE criteria. Serum creatinine was assessed daily starting from day 1 post-surgery and until discharge (usually on postoperative day 3). Estimated glomerular filtration was determined using the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease equation.

RESULTS

Overall, 191 patients (40%) developed postoperative AKI, and most of them (88%) were grade 1. Multivariate analysis revealed that the most significant and independent variables associated with AKI were operation time (p = 0.02), ischemia time (p = 0.02), and the use of tissue adhesive for tumor bed closure (p = 0.02). Other important factors (by univariate analysis) were the need for blood transfusion (p = 0.003) and estimated blood loss (p = 0.007).

CONCLUSIONS

Operative time, ischemia, and tumor bed closure method are independent predictors of post-NSS AKI. Efforts should be made to limit prolonged ischemia and to reduce viable parenchymal loss. Further studies concerning the functional impact of AKI in these patients will be required.

Allium Stents: A Novel Solution for the Management of Upper and Lower Urinary Tract Strictures

Stents are widely use in endoscopic urological procedures. One of the most important indications is the treatment of urinary tract strictures. Allium™ Medical has introduced several types of stents for the treatment of different types of urinary tract strictures, based on anatomic location. All the stents are made of nitinol and coated with a co-polymer that reduces encrustations. These stents are self-expandable and have a large caliber and a high radial force. They have different shapes, designed especially for the treatment of each type of stricture. One of the most important features of Allium-manufactured stents is the ease of removal, due to their special unraveling feature. The company has introduced the Bulbar Urethral Stent (BUS) for treatment of bulbar urethral strictures; a rounded stent available in different lengths. Initial data on 64 patients with bulbar urethral stricture treated with the BUS showed a significant improvement in symptoms, with minimal complications and few adverse events. For treatment of prostate obstruction in patients unfit for surgery or unwilling to undergo a classical prostatic surgery, the Triangular Prostatic Stent (TPS) was introduced, which has a triangular shape that fits in the prostatic urethra. Its body has a high radial force attached to an anchor (which prevents migration) through a trans-sphincteric wire (which reduces incontinence rate). Initial data on 51 patients showed significant improvement in symptoms and in urinary peak flow rate, with a relatively small number of complications. The Round Posterior Stent (RPS) was designed for treatment of post radical prostatectomy bladder neck contracture. This short, round stent has an anchor, which is placed in the bladder neck. This stent being relatively new, the clinical data are still limited. Ureteral strictures can be treated with the Ureteral Stent (URS), which is round-shaped, available in different lengths, and has an anchor option (for very distal or very proximal strictures). We have previously published data on 107 URSs inserted in patients with ureteral stricture due to several etiologies, including patients who failed previous treatment. All patients were asymptomatic for a long period of follow-up after stent removal, with only one case of re-stenosis. In this paper, we review the urological "covered" stents produced by Allium Medical with the relevant clinical data available at the present time.

The use of bovine serum albumin-glutaraldehyde tissue adhesive (BioGlue®) for tumor bed closure following open partial nephrectomy

OBJECTIVES

To report the results of the use of Bovine Serum Albumin-Glutaraldehyde tissue adhesive (BioGlue®) for tumor bed closure in open nephron-sparing surgery (NSS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The cohort included 255 patients with enhancing renal mass who underwent open NSS. We used open flank approach, with in-situ hypothermia and enucleation of the tumor. For tumor bed closure, we used the BioGlue^® sealant for tumor bed filling, without suturing the edges.

RESULTS

Mean patients' age was 65.4 years. 5.1% of patients had pre-operative chronic renal failure. Mean renal mass diameter was 4.2±1.6cm and mean R.E.N.A.L nephrometry score was 8.0±1.6. Mean ischemia time was 21.8±7.6. Mean estimated blood loss was 42±82ml and only two patients required blood transfusion. Urine leak and pseudo-aneurysm were recorded in two and one patient, respectively. None of the operations were converted to radical nephrectomy. The average change between post-operative and pre-operative eGFR (Δ=-1.7ml/min) was insignificant in a mean follow-up of 30.1±29.6 months. The 10-year recurrence-free survival rate was 99% and the 10-year overall survival rate was 85%.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of BioGlue^® alone for hemostasis after NSS is a feasible and safe alternative to classical suturing. Its use enables satisfactory functional outcome and could potentially reduce ischemia time.

Bovine serum albumin-glutaraldehyde (BioGlue®) tissue adhesive versus standard renorrhaphy following renal mass enucleation: a retrospective comparison

BACKGROUND

To present the operative and post-operative comparison between patients who underwent tumor-bed closure with sutures compared with bovine serum albumin-glutaraldehyde (BioGlue^®) tissue sealant only.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed data from our ongoing database of 507 eligible patients who underwent open NSS nephron-sparing surgery in our department between January 1995 and May 2014. Patients had tumor-bed closure with sealant adhesive (255 patients) or standard suture technique (252 patients). Demographic, clinical and perioperative data were compared between the two groups, by Chi-square test or by Fisher-Irwin exact test for categorical variables, and by t test for differences in means or by Wilcoxon rank sum test for continuous variables. A multivariate analysis was also done.

RESULTS

Patients' baseline characteristics showed similar distribution of the analyzed parameters among both groups, with few differences: younger age in the sealant group (65.4 versus 68.4 years, p = 0.01) and slightly larger mass size in the suture group (4.0 versus 3.9 cm, p = 0.03). Ischemia time was significantly shorter in the sealant group (21.8 versus 27.0 minutes, p = 0001). Blood loss and transfusion rate (0.8% versus 11.9%, p = 0.0001) were significantly less in the sealant group. A multivariate analysis showed date of surgery and blood loss as the major parameters affecting transfusion rate.

CONCLUSIONS

Closing the tumor bed with BioGlue^® tissue adhesive is feasible, safe, can shorten ischemia time and potentially reduce transfusion rate.

Update in urethral stents

Urethral stents were first introduced in 1988, and since then, they have undergone significant improvements. However, they did not gain a wide popularity and their use is limited to a small number of centers around the world. Urethral stents can be used in the entire urethra and for various and diverse indications. In the anterior urethra, it can be used to treat urethral strictures. In the prostatic urethra, they can be used for the treatment of prostatic obstruction, including benign, malignant and iatrogenic prostatic obstruction. Moreover, although not widely used, it can be also applied for the treatment of posterior urethral stricture and bladder neck contracture, usually resulting in urinary incontinence and the need for subsequent procedures. Our main experience are with Allium urethral stents, and as such, we provide the latest updates in urethral stents with special emphasis on the various types of Allium urethral stents: bulbar, prostatic and bladder neck stents.

[KIDNEY DISEASES IN NORTH ISRAEL ACCORDING TO KIDNEY BIOPSIES - BNAI-ZION MEDICAL CENTER 14 YEARS' EXPERIENCE]

INTRODUCTION

Little is known about the prevalence of kidney diseases according to renal biopsy in Israel. Since updated literature worldwide emphasizes changing etiologies of chronic kidney disease, it is crucial to research and define the epidemiology and pathology of kidney disease in Israel. Hereby, we introduce an original review of the prevalence of kidney diseases in our study population, which we believe reflects the prevalence of kidney diseases in the population of Israel.

AIMS

To investigate the prevalence of kidney diseases diagnosed by renal biopsy, according to age, gender, race and clinical symptoms.

METHODS

A total of 155 kidney biopsies were conducted in the years 2000-2014 in Bnai-Zion Medical Center in Haifa, according to formal accepted indications. Most of the biopsies (65%) were needle aspirations in a retroperitoneal approach, in which 90% were ultrasound guided and the rest computed tomography guided, while the other 35% of biopsies involved laparoscopic approaches.

RESULTS

The most common indications for kidney biopsy were nephrotic syndrome, nephritic syndrome and proteinuria (37.4%, 25.8% and 24.5%, respectively). Average glomeruli number per biopsy was 17.5 vs. 82.2 for needle aspiration and laparoscopic approach, respectively (statistically significant). The most common diagnosis was focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), followed by chronic glomerulonephritis, IgA nephropathy, lupus nephritis, minimal change disease (MCD), membranous nephropathy and tubulointerstitial disease (20%, 11.5%, 11.5%, 10.1%, 9.5%, 8.1% and 6.1%, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

FSGS was the most common diagnosis in patients presented with nephrotic syndrome or proteinuria, men, and patients above 60 years of age. Patients below 30 years of age were mainly diagnosed with IgA nephropathy.

DISCUSSION

In recent years, FSGS is becoming more prevalent compared with other chronic kidney disease especially in the older population. IgA nephropathy is still the most common diagnosis in young patients and in patients presented with hematuria. To the best of our knowledge, no data exists on the prevalence of kidney diseases in Israel, and our study is an important contribution to the epidemiological and clinical knowledge on the subject.

[INTERMEDIATE-TERM FOLLOW-UP OF PATIENTS UNDERGOING ACTIVE SURVEILLANCE FOR SMALL RENAL MASS: INDICATIONS FOR SURGICAL INTERVENTION]

INTRODUCTION

The increase in the use of imaging studies led to an increase in the diagnosis of small renal masses. However, most of the small renal masses are asymptomatic, grow slowly, and will not metastasize due to their relative benign biology. We still cannot differentiate malignant from benign masses using imaging studies, hence there is a dilemma between excision and follow-up.

OBJECTIVE

To report our intermediate-term results of active surveillance in patients with small renal masses in our urology department at the Bnai-Zion Medical Center.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Retrospective analysis of 70 patients diagnosed at our department with renal mass < 4cm in its maximal diameter between 2003 and 2012. The maximal diameter of the masses at diagnosis was measured using computed tomography and diameter was recorded during follow-up.

RESULTS

Seventy patients with 78 small renal masses met the inclusion criteria. Mean age at diagnosis was 68 years. The mean folow-up period was 34 months; 54 of 78 masses grew in size, of them 8 were excised. All patients who had surgery had a nephron-sparing procedure. The growth rate and the size at diagnosis were both higher in the group of patients who underwent surgery.

CONCLUSION

Most of the small renal masses can be managed safely by active surveillance.

DISCUSSION

Only 4% of the masses were upstaged, and none to stage > 2. None of the patients developed metastasis or died from renal cancer during the follow-up period.

SUMMARY

Active surveillance is a safe and reliable option for some patients with small renal mass.

The role of hyperthermia as a treatment for non-muscle invasive bladder cancer

Non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) has a high tendency for recurrence and progression. Currently, all known intravesical agents are associated with adverse effects (AEs) and limited efficacy. The combination of hyperthermia (HT) with intravesical Mitomycin C (MMC) chemotherapy has been shown to improve outcomes. The added efficacy of HT to MMC was first shown in preclinical studies. The reports on patients with NMIBC have indicated that the treatment is safe and well tolerated. Several clinical studies reported the efficacy of radiofrequency-induced chemotherapy effect (RITE) in the treatment of patients with NMIBC. This modality was shown to be superior to MMC alone. RITE was effective also in patients with high-risk NMIBC, including those who failed Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG). This study provides an updated review of literature regarding the use of RITE in patients with NMIBC.

Allium™ TPS--A New Prostatic Stent for the Treatment of Patients with Benign Prostatic Obstruction: The First Report

INTRODUCTION

Several prostatic stents were developed in the last three decades, none of which were able to provide a real alternative in patients unfit or unwilling to undergo classical prostatic surgeries. In this study, we report the results of the use of a newly developed prostatic stent--the Allium™ Triangular Prostatic Stent (TPS).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The Allium TPS is a highly flexible, nitinol-built polymer-covered stent, which prevents tissue ingrowth and reduces encrustations. Between 2008 and 2014, at two centers (Israel and Turkey), the stent was inserted under local or regional anesthesia in 51 patients with benign prostatic obstruction (BPO) who are unwilling or unfit for surgery. Patients were followed for 12 months from surgery. The primary outcome was symptom improvement as measured by the international prostate symptom score (IPSS) and improvement in peak urinary flow.

RESULTS

Stent insertion was successful in all patients. The mean IPSS decreased from 26.4 to 7.7 on the last follow-up. The mean peak flow increased from 5.5 mL/second before stent insertion to 16.0 mL/second 1 year thereafter. The main adverse effect was transient pain in nine patients. No stent migration or obstruction was seen. Patients reported satisfaction and improvement in quality of life.

CONCLUSION

Our short-term results show that Allium TPS is safe and effective for the treatment of patients with BPO.

A new self-expanding, large-caliber ureteral stent: results of a multicenter experience

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Ureteral strictures (US) can be a recurrent chronic illness that leads to severe side effects and poor quality of life. Several options to treat US exist, including repeated dilations, stents, minimally invasive reconstructive surgeries, and urinary diversion or nephrectomy. Placement of an ureteral stent is a good minimally invasive option but has major limitations, such as stent migration, mucosal in-growth, incrustations, and stent obstruction. Our study aim was to evaluate the safety and the efficacy of a new self-expanding, large caliber ureteral stent (Allium(®)).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

During 2005 to 2011, 49 stents were inserted in 49 renal units (40 patients) for a mean indwelling time of 17 months (range 1-63 mos).

RESULTS

Migration was observed in seven (14.2%) patients, mandating stent removal. Only one stent was occluded. In eight renal units, the stents were removed as scheduled, and no reobstruction was detected during follow-up. Twenty-eight patients currently have a patent stent.

CONCLUSIONS

The Allium stent provides an attractive solution for long-term internal ureteral drainage. Its design allows good anchoring, prevents intraluminal ingrowth, and has the ability of rapid disintegration for extremely easy removal.

Enzyme-linked-immunosorbent-assay for the detection of a novel 21-kda protein associated with the clinical course of patients with urogenital tumors

A novel 21 kDa protein (p21) was detected in sera of patients with urogenital tumors by ELISA, using rabbit polyclonal antibodies generated against the p21 polypeptide. Eight out of 11 patients (72%) exhibited a 2-5 fold increase in pre-treatment p21 serum levels as compared with 20 healthy individuals. A decrease of p21 levels was observed in 6 out of 8 patients in which a regression of the disease was shown post-treatment. An increase or no change in p21 levels was observed in 3 patients with no change or progression of the disease. The ELISA described herein may be useful for clinical monitoring of patients with urogenital tumors, some of which have no available tumor marker.

10-year single-center experience of combined intravesical chemohyperthermia for nonmuscle invasive bladder cancer

Aim: Owing to the limited efficacy and significant toxicity of most topical intravesical agents for the management of nonmuscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC), a search for new therapeutic modalities continues. This study evaluates the safety and efficacy of a relatively new modality, combined intravesical chemotherapy and hyperthermia, using the intravesical chemohyperthermia system. Methods: The data summarize our 10 years of experience in the Department of Urology at Bnai Zion Medical Center, Israel. Ninety two patients with NMIBC (88 evaluable) were treated according to the adjuvant (66 patients) and the neoadjuvant (26 patients) protocols, with up to 7 years follow-up. Results: Over the follow-up period, 56 out of 64 patients (72%) treated according to the adjuvant protocol remained free from recurrences. The progression rate was 4.7% (three out of 64 patients). An initial complete response was documented in 19 out of 24 patients (79%) treated according to the neoadjuvant protocol. During the follow-up period, 16 out of these 19 patients (84%) remained free from recurrences. All of the recurrences in this group had stage Ta grade 1 tumors. Conclusion: Microwave-induced chemohyperthermia is a safe and effective treatment option for patients with NMIBC, both in the adjuvant and neoadjuvant settings. The use of this treatment modality did not expose the patients to an increased risk of progression.

Predictors and mechanisms of oncological failure following nephron-sparing surgery for renal cancer

BACKGROUND

One of the major concerns in performing nephron-sparing surgery (NSS) for renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the risk of tumor recurrence.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the rate, predictors and mechanisms of oncological failure in patients after NSS for renal cancer.

METHODS

Between 1993 and 2008 NSS was performed in 229 patients via flank incision. Only patients without metastases at diagnosis and minimal 12 months follow-up were included in the outcome analysis.

RESULTS

During a mean follow-up of 45 +/- 34 months (range 6-168 months) tumor recurrence was observed in 13 patients (5.6%). Mean follow-up time for detection of oncological failure was 51 months (range 6-132 months). All patients with oncological failure were males, with a mean age of 61 years (median 58, range 51-74 years). The average size of the enucleated lesion was 5 cm (range 4-7 cm). Intraoperative frozen sections as well as postoperative final pathological examination of the surgical margins were negative in all recurrent cases. Mechanisms of recurrence were distant metastases (n=4), surgical scar implantation (n=2), perirenal fat recurrence (n=2), local renal recurrence at the surgical site (n=1), and new renal lesions (n=4). Predictors of oncological failure included warm ischemia time (P = 0.058), tumor size (P = 0.001), tumor location (central versus peripheral) (P = 0.015), and multifocality (P = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Distant dissemination, seeding during surgery, residual disease and new growth are the mechanisms responsible for cancer relapse. Large central lesions, long warm ischemia time and multifocality were significant predictors of oncological failure.

Intravesical mitomycin C combined with hyperthermia for patients with T1G3 transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder

OBJECTIVES

Non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) classified as T1G3 represents one of the most challenging issues in urologic oncology. Although it is still considered a lesion amenable for conservative management, the risk for recurrence and progression remains high. The aim of this study was to define both recurrence and progression rate in patients with T1G3 UCC treated by complete transurethral resection (TURT) and adjuvant thermochemotherapy approach.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated the clinical data of patients with T1G3 NMIBC who underwent TURT followed by thermochemotherapy (TCT) treatment. Data recorded included age, gender, previous resections, previous intravesical treatment, time to tumor recurrence, and progression. TCT was given once weekly for 6 consecutive weeks, followed by 6 maintenance sessions at 4 to 6 weeks intervals. During each treatment session, 40 mg of mitomycin C (MMC) was instilled into the bladder in combination with bladder wall hyperthermia of 42 ± 2 °C for 60 minutes. Follow-up cystoscopy and urinary cytology were performed every 3 months for the first 2 years and than biannually.

RESULTS

A total of 56 T1G3 patients were treated with adjuvant TCT treatment at 7 urologic centers. Mean age was 68 years (range 35-91), 10 were females and 46 were males. Twenty-six patients failed on at least 1 previous intravesical treatment. Five patients who dropped out due to adverse events before reaching the first outcome evaluation cystoscopy were referred to another intravesical therapy, and were therefore excluded from the current analysis. A total 51 patients were available for analysis. Median follow-up time of tumor-free patients was 18 months (average 20, range 2-49 months). Seventeen patients (33.3%) had tumor recurrence and 4 of them progressed to muscle invasive disease. The median time to recurrence was 9 months (average 11, range 2-31 months). The Kaplan-Meier estimated recurrence rate for this group is: 42.9% at 2 years, 51.0% at 4 years.

CONCLUSIONS

TCT can be an effective adjuvant treatment option after TURT to prevent recurrence in patients with T1G3 NMIBC. Progression rate after this treatment was low (7.9%). TCT treatment was documented to be effective also in those who failed previous intravesical BCG. Treatment was confirmed to be safe and well tolerated.

Diagnostic potential of virtual pneumoendoscopy of the urinary tract

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the diagnostic possibilities of CT virtual pneumoendoscopy, in various vesical and extra-vesical urinary tract abnormalities and suggest possible indications for this examination.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Thirty-three patients (26 men and 7 women, aged 30-91, mean-61 years) were referred by the urologists for specific further evaluation of the urinary tract with virtual pneumoendoscopy for various indications. All patients except three underwent conventional endoscopy within a week either before or after the virtual examination, but the endoscopy was either equivocal or limited. The urinary tract was insufflated with room air.

RESULTS

Successful CT pneumoendoscopy was achieved in 31 of the 33 patients. The indications for the virtual study included obstructive uropathy (22), hematuria (15), and suspected fistula (2). The virtual examination findings included urethral stricture, recto-urethral fistula, multiple bladder tumors, bladder tumor invading the distal ureter or urethra, bladder diverticula containing a tumor, ureteral stricture, renal transitional cell carcinoma, and renal calculi with inflammation. Virtual CT endoscopy had added value to the diagnostic process in all our patients.

CONCLUSION

In selected cases virtual CT pneumoendoscopy may serve as an important adjunctive diagnostic aid for urologic pathologies.

Functional Significance of Using Tissue Adhesive Substance in Nephron-Sparing Surgery: Assessment by Quantitative SPECT of 99m Tc-Dimercaptosuccinic Acid Scintigraphy

OBJECTIVES

To compare changes in renal function following nephron-sparing surgery (NSS) using tissue adhesive only versus NSS using standard suturing technique, as measured by quantitative SPECT of 99m Tc-dimercaptosuccinic acid uptake by the kidney (QDMSA).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

QDMSA was done before and 3-6 mo after the operation in 32 patients who underwent standard suturing technique and in 24 patients in whom tissue adhesive sealant (19 with albumin glutaraldehyde tissue adhesive [BioGlue]; 5 with CoSeal) was used to close the parenchymal defect. Individual kidney uptake was measured and retrospectively compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

Average tumor diameter was 3.4cm (range: 2.2-6) in the suture group and 3.56 (range: 1.7-6) in the tissue sealant group. In the tissue sealant group following surgery, we observed an average individual renal function loss of 11.49% compared with the suture group in whom an average individual renal function loss of 20.36% (p = 0.02) was measured by 99m Tc-DMSA.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of tissue sealant to close the parenchymal defect during NSS demonstrated a statistically significant advantage in reducing functioning renal loss as measured by the absolute uptake of QDMSA. Further clinical studies are required to establish the role of tissue sealants in NSS.

Effect of percutaneous nephrolithotripsy on renal function: assessment with quantitative SPECT of (99m)Tc-DMSA renal scintigraphy

PURPOSE

To measure the effect of PCNL on global and regional renal function using quantitative single-photon emission CT (SPECT) measurement of Tc-dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) uptake by the kidneys (QDMSA).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A series of 47 male and 41 female patients with a mean age of 47 +/- 16 years were studied by sequential QDMSA examinations before and 1.5 to 24 months after PCNL. Among the 67 patients (76%) in whom PCNL was performed using upper- or lower-pole access, the function of the affected and nonaffected poles of the treated kidney was calculated separately.

RESULTS

There was no statistically significant difference in the uptake by the treated kidneys before versus after PCNL (11.9% +/- 5% v 11.6% +/- 5%; t = 0.9; P = 0.368). The total functional volume of the treated kidney was slightly decreased, from 235 cc +/- 62 cc to 224 cc +/- 59 cc (t = 2.7; P = 0.011). The percent of the injected isotope dose per cubic centimeter of tissue of the treated kidney was not affected (0.051 +/- 0.02 v 0.053 +/- 0.02; t = 0.86; P = 0.296). Regional assessment revealed a statistically significant decrease in the functional volume at the PCNL port of entry (91 cc +/- 30 cc v 82 cc +/- 27 cc; t = 2.64; P = 0.013). Regarding the percent of the injected dose per cubic centimeter of renal tissue, no statistically significant difference was found between the area of the kidney that underwent PCNL and the untreated area of the same kidney (0.049 +/- 0.02 v 0.05 +/- 0.02; t = 0.693; P = 0.494). The function of the contralateral kidneys remained unchanged (13.4% +/- 5.2% v 13.6% +/- 4.8%; t = 0.68; P = 0.5).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the statistically significant decrease in the functional volume of the surgically treated region, neither total percent uptake nor percent of injected dose were reduced significantly. Further studies with long-term follow-up of treated kidneys are required.

Sutureless nephron-sparing surgery: Use of albumin glutaraldehyde tissue adhesive (BioGlue)

OBJECTIVES

To determine the feasibility of using serum albumin glutaraldehyde tissue adhesive (BioGlue) to achieve hemostasis and prevent urine leakage during nephron-sparing surgery (NSS).

METHODS

From February 1993 to April 2005, 174 NSS operations were performed for renal cell carcinoma at our institute. A total of 143 patients underwent NSS with the traditional suturing technique (suture group) and 31 patients underwent a sutureless BioGlue sealing-only procedure (BioGlue group). We compared the two groups for clinical and tumor characteristics and surgical outcome.

RESULTS

The patient and tumor characteristics were similar in both groups. The average maximal tumor diameter was 4.21 cm (range 2.2 to 7) for the suture group and 3.67 cm (range 2 to 6.8) for the BioGlue group. The use of BioGlue reduced the mean warm ischemic time by 8.8 minutes (17.2 versus 26 minutes, P = 0.002). The mean estimated blood loss was 45.1 mL in the BioGlue group and 111.7 mL in the suture group (P = 0.001). Blood transfusion was required in 1 patient (3.2%) of the BioGlue group and 24 (17%) in the suture group (P = 0.014). None of the patients treated with BioGlue developed urinary fistula compared with three (2%) in the suture group.

CONCLUSIONS

Albumin glutaraldehyde tissue adhesive (BioGlue) alone provided adequate hemostasis during NSS, significantly decreasing the blood loss and transfusion rate, as well as the renal ischemic and operative times. BioGlue was easy to use and safe for sealing the kidney during partial nephrectomy. Future prospective clinical trials are necessary to validate its role during renal surgery.

Comparison of nephron-sparing surgery in central versus peripheral renal tumors

OBJECTIVES

To determine the feasibility of nephron-sparing surgery (NSS) in patients with centrally located tumors.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study of 118 patients who underwent NSS between 1993 and 2002 (35 patients with centrally located tumors and 83 with peripherally located tumors) was performed. Kaplan-Meier curves were constructed to evaluate freedom from local recurrence and disease-specific survival in patients with conventional histologic subtype tumors. The Wilcoxon test was used to compare the curves (two-tailed P < or =0.05 was considered to be statistically significant).

RESULTS

Intraoperatively, in patients with centrally located tumors, the need to close the collecting system (P = 0.035) and for blood transfusions (P = 0.033) was greater. Two perioperative deaths occurred in patients with peripherally located tumors. Two patients with centrally located tumors subsequently underwent nephrectomy. Of the patients with centrally located tumors, 1 patient had a positive margin, 2 patients had local recurrence, and 1 patient developed metastasis. No positive surgical margins or local recurrence was found in patients with peripherally located tumors, although 4 patients developed distant metastasis. Kaplan-Meier curves for patients with conventional histologic subtype tumors demonstrated a statistically significant difference for local recurrence (P = 0.04), but not for survival (P = 0.71). The mean follow-up time was 38.8 and 43.8 months for patients with centrally located and peripherally located tumors, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

NSS can be used to postpone, or eliminate the need for, nephrectomy in 94.3% of patients with centrally located tumors and can achieve oncologic disease control similar to that for exophytic lesions. These data indicate that NSS should be considered even for patients with centrally located tumors, taking into account that performing such surgery is a challenging task.

[Does percutaneous nephrolithotripsy (PCNL) affect renal function: assessment with quantitative spect of Tc 99M-DMSA (QDMSA) renal scintigraphy]

PURPOSE

The study aimed to quantitatively investigate the effect of PCNL on global and regional function using quantitative single photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT) measurement of Tc-dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) uptake by the kidneys (QDMSA).

METHODS

Seventy nine patients with nephrolithiasis undergoing PCNL were studied by sequential QDMSA examination. There were 42 (53%) males and 37 (47%) females with mean age of 47 +/- 16 years. The initial study was conducted before PCNL procedure and the follow-up studies were performed 1.5-24 months after PCNL. Among 60 of the 79 (76%) patients, in whom PCNL was performed using upper or lower pole access, regional renal function of affected and non-affected pole of operated kidney was calculated separately.

RESULTS

There was no statistically significant difference between the uptake of treated kidney before and after PCNL procedure (11.9% +/- 5% vs 11.6% +/- 5%; t = 0.9, p = 0.368). The total renal functional volume of treated kidney was to be slightly decreased from 235cc +/- 62cc to 224cc +/- 59cc (t = 2.7; p = 0.011). The percent of injected dose per ml.. of renal tissue of treated kidney was not affected statistically (0.051 +/- 0.02 vs 0.053 +/- 0.02; t = 0.86, p = 0.296). In the assessment of the regional renal function of treated kidney, a statistically significant decrease in the functional renal volume was revealed at the part which underwent PCNL procedure (91cc +/- 30cc vs 82cc +/- 27cc; t = 2.64, p = 0.013). Regarding percent of injected dose per ml. of renal tissue, no statistically significant difference was found between the part of treated kidney, which underwent PCNL and non-affected area of the same kidney (0.049 +/- 0.02 vs 0.05 +/- 0.02; t = 0.693, p = 0.494). The function of contralateral kidney remained unchanged (13.4% +/- 5.2% vs 13.6% +/- 4.8%; t = 0.68, p = 0.5). Function volume, neither total percent uptake, nor percent of injected dose per ml. of renal tissue were reduced significantly. Further studies with long term follow-up of treated kidney are required.

[Nephron sparing surgery as a treatment modality for renal angiomyolipoma]

OBJECTIVE

There is no consensus concerning the indications for active treatment (selective angioembolization (SAE) or surgery) versus observation alone, and the treatment modality for patients with renal angiomyolipoma (AML). Our study aimed to analyze the results of long-term follow-up of patients with renal AML treated by nephron-sparing surgery (NSS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The medical records of thirteen patients with renal AML were retrospectively reviewed for clinical and histopathologic features. There were twelve women and one man (mean age 55 years) who were treated by NSS in our medical center between the years 1993-2001.

RESULTS

One patient with tuberous sclerosis had bilateral multifocal tumors, another patient that presented with shock and retroperitoneal bleeding underwent an urgent NSS. Overall, eight patients were symptomatic at diagnosis. The mean tumor diameter was 5.5 cm (range 2.5-13 cm). There was no need to perform nephrectomy in any of the patients. Two patients had enucleation of more than one tumor in the same session. In one case the adrenal gland was surrounded by the AML and was removed with the specimen. No other serious complications were recorded. Four patients required blood transfusions. The mean follow-up period was 26 months (range: 6-62 months) and during that time there was no evidence of recurrence or decreased renal function. Only one patient developed AML in the contralateral kidney, there was one case of incisional hernia and another patient continued to suffer from flank pain.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the present study suggest that NSS is a safe and effective treatment modality for renal AML.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for radiation-induced haemorrhagic cystitis

OBJECTIVE

To assess the efficacy of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) for treating haemorrhagic cystitis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From February 1997 to April 2004, seven patients with radiation-induced haemorrhagic cystitis were treated with HBO; they received a mean (range) of 30 (18-57) HBO treatments and the follow-up was 24 (3-53) months.

RESULTS

The haematuria resolved completely in all seven patients shortly after treatment; one had an improvement but died from complications relating to cancer shortly after completing treatment, and two had recurrence of gross haematuria. They were re-treated with HBO until the haematuria resolved.

CONCLUSIONS

Radiation-induced haemorrhagic cystitis can be treated successfully with HBO primarily or after failure of standard regimens. This method was well tolerated even in patients debilitated by advanced cancer and blood loss. Long-term remission is possible in most patients, and re-treatment effectively manages recurrent bleeding.

Thermo-chemotherapy for intermediate or high-risk recurrent superficial bladder cancer patients

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of combined local hyperthermia and intravesical mitomycin-C (MMC) in a selected group of patients with intermediate or high-risk recurrent transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) of bladder.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Forty-seven patients with multiple or recurrent Ta or T1 TCC of the bladder were treated with intravesical MMC and local hyperthermia of the bladder wall. Patients were treated with either a prophylactic protocol (40 mg MMC) after complete transurethral resection of all tumours or with an ablative protocol (80 mg MMC) in patients with viable tumours.

RESULTS

Thirty-two patients were eligible for analysis. The prophylactic protocol was administered to 22 patients. After a mean follow-up of 289 days, 20 patients (91%) were recurrence free. Two patients (9%) had tumour recurrence after a mean period of 431 days. The ablative protocol was administered to 10 patients. Complete tumour ablation was achieved in eight patients (80%) after a mean follow up of 104.5 days.

CONCLUSIONS

Our efficacy and safety results confirm those reported in previously published studies, suggesting the promising value of this combined treatment modality for both prophylactic and ablative patients. The ablative protocol offers an alternative therapy for a selected patient population for whom no other treatment option exists.

Complications of laparoscopic urologic surgery

Laparoscopic techniques performed in the urologic setting have received great attention in the past decade. With the development of improved laparoscopic instrumentation, approaches to gonadal, renal, prostate, and bladder diseases have been successfully performed. A discussion of urologic laparoscopy (UL) with particular attention to potential complications and limitations is presented. Awareness of these evolving technologies remains critical to all surgeons with an interest in laparoscopy.

Febrile Complications Following Insertion of 100 Double-J Ureteral Stents

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Implanted foreign bodies are associated with a higher risk of infection. Little has been published on infectious complications associated with ureteral double-J stents. The aim of this study was to define risk factors and characterize the febrile complications of the insertion of double-J stents.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

One hundred consecutive cases of retrograde stent insertion (55 men and 45 women) were evaluated retrospectively. Eighty-one patients had an obstructing stone, either in the ureter or at the ureteropelvic junction; 10 had an obstructing tumor; and 9 had hydronephrosis and pain without calculi. Risk assessment was calculated for two major categories: urgent (N = 47) and elective (N = 53) insertion. Potentially confounding factors such as age, sex, accompanying medical problems, and types of prophylaxis were assessed. All but six patients received prophylactic antibiotics prior to stent insertion.

RESULTS

All thirteen patients who had fever at the initial evaluation underwent urgent stent insertion. Of the 87 afebrile patients (53 elective and 34 urgent insertions), 22 (25%) developed fever (> or = 38 degrees C) after the procedure. Fever developed in 19 (56%) of the 34 urgent-insertion group who were not originally febrile as opposed to 3 (6%) of the elective-insertion group (P < 0.001). Six of these 22 patients (27%) had a positive urine culture after insertion. None had a positive blood culture, including the 13 patients who underwent the procedure while febrile.

CONCLUSIONS

Urgent insertion of a double-J stent is associated with a high risk of fever but a favorable outcome.

Combined intravesical hyperthermia and mitomycin chemotherapy: a preliminary in vivo study

Previous clinical studies of the combination of local intravesical hyperthermia with cytostatic drugs for the treatment of Superficial Transitional Cell Carcinoma of the urinary bladder (STCCB) showed encouraging results both in reducing recurrence rate to 20-30% within 2 years and in ablative success rate of 79%. Our objectives were to evaluate bladder tissue and adjacent organs during and following hyperthermia treatment. An intravesical catheter equipped with a radio-frequency antenna (Synergo SB-TS 101.1 System) was used for hyperthermia and intravesical chemotherapy (mitomycin C) was instilled in vivo for 60 min in two anaesthetized sheep. Thirteen to fifteen thermocouples were sewn surgically on the internal and external surfaces of the bladder wall and on adjacent organs to monitor the temperature during the treatment. We expected the intravesical temperature to be under 46 degrees C and the external layers below 45 degrees C. The bladder was filled with 50 mL of chemotherapeutic solution (400 micro g/mL of mitomycin C in distilled water). The sheep were sacrificed at the end of the treatment. Three other sheep, which underwent thoracic surgery, served as control group. Histological changes in both groups showed foci of oedema and haemorrhage with inflammation in the lamina propria and serosa. Foci of desquamation of the epithelium were noticed in the treated sheep. Histological analysis of the treated group showed no significant differences from the control group. The control group showed similar changes, some less pronounced. The combined treatment of hyperthermia with mitomycin C did not cause major damage to the urinary bladder or adjacent organs. All changes were superficial and reversible, and the control group showed similar changes, some less pronounced. Although this is an experimental model based on one single session treatment, rather than repeated treatments, it suggests that the approach may be useful in future studies both in models and man.

The value of quantitative 99M technetium dimercaptosuccinic acid renal scintigraphy for predicting postoperative renal insufficiency in patients undergoing nephrectomy

PURPOSE

Radical nephrectomy is a routine urological practice. However, little is known about the use of dimercapto-succinic acid (DMSA) scan to evaluate compensatory changes after surgery and its ability to identify patient at risk for postoperative chronic renal failure or insufficiency. We predicted remaining kidney function using DMSA scan and serum creatinine.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 42 patients were enrolled in the study. All underwent DMSA scan before surgery and in 38 DMSA scan was done after unilateral nephrectomy. Serum creatinine was determined before and 1 year after surgery. The Student t test was used to determine statistical significance. Spearman rank core analysis was used to evaluate the association of calculated creatinine clearance time after surgery and renal absolute uptake before surgery. We performed 1-way ANOVA comparison of the means to determine the influence of age distribution on kidney hypertrophy and the increase in kidney uptake.

RESULTS

Average patient age was 61.5 years. Baseline mean creatinine clearance time was 71.5 ml. per minute, which decreased to 58.6 ml. per minute after nephrectomy (p <0.0001). Before surgery DMSA scan of the remaining kidney demonstrated an absolute uptake of 4.2% higher than that in the resected kidney (13.5% versus 9.35%, p = 0.0008). After nephrectomy the remaining kidney had an average increase of 3.9% of mean absolute uptake (17.7% versus 13.8%, p = 0.0001). Spearman rank core analysis demonstrated an association of higher preoperative absolute uptake in the remaining kidney with postoperatively high creatinine clearance time (r = 0.458, p = 0.003). Furthermore, 75% of patients with postoperative creatinine clearance time less than 40 ml. per minute presented with a preoperative absolute uptake of lower than 11% in the remaining kidney. In contrast, 75% of those with a postoperative creatinine clearance time of higher than 40 ml. per minute had a preoperative absolute uptake of higher than 11%.

CONCLUSIONS

A preoperative absolute uptake of lower than 11% in the remaining kidney was a significant risk factor for postoperative chronic renal insufficiency.

The value of quantitative 99M technetium dimercaptosuccinic acid renal scintigraphy for predicting postoperative renal insufficiency in patients undergoing nephrectomy

PURPOSE

Radical nephrectomy is a routine urological practice. However, little is known about the use of dimercapto-succinic acid (DMSA) scan to evaluate compensatory changes after surgery and its ability to identify patient at risk for postoperative chronic renal failure or insufficiency. We predicted remaining kidney function using DMSA scan and serum creatinine.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 42 patients were enrolled in the study. All underwent DMSA scan before surgery and in 38 DMSA scan was done after unilateral nephrectomy. Serum creatinine was determined before and 1 year after surgery. The Student t test was used to determine statistical significance. Spearman rank core analysis was used to evaluate the association of calculated creatinine clearance time after surgery and renal absolute uptake before surgery. We performed 1-way ANOVA comparison of the means to determine the influence of age distribution on kidney hypertrophy and the increase in kidney uptake.

RESULTS

Average patient age was 61.5 years. Baseline mean creatinine clearance time was 71.5 ml. per minute, which decreased to 58.6 ml. per minute after nephrectomy (p <0.0001). Before surgery DMSA scan of the remaining kidney demonstrated an absolute uptake of 4.2% higher than that in the resected kidney (13.5% versus 9.35%, p = 0.0008). After nephrectomy the remaining kidney had an average increase of 3.9% of mean absolute uptake (17.7% versus 13.8%, p = 0.0001). Spearman rank core analysis demonstrated an association of higher preoperative absolute uptake in the remaining kidney with postoperatively high creatinine clearance time (r = 0.458, p = 0.003). Furthermore, 75% of patients with postoperative creatinine clearance time less than 40 ml. per minute presented with a preoperative absolute uptake of lower than 11% in the remaining kidney. In contrast, 75% of those with a postoperative creatinine clearance time of higher than 40 ml. per minute had a preoperative absolute uptake of higher than 11%.

CONCLUSIONS

A preoperative absolute uptake of lower than 11% in the remaining kidney was a significant risk factor for postoperative chronic renal insufficiency.

Bladder tumor antigen stat test in non-urothelial malignant urologic conditions

BACKGROUND

The bladder tumor antigen stat is a simple and fast one-step immunochromatographic assay for the detection of bladder tumor-associated antigen in urine.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the BTA stat in non-bladder cancer patients in order to identify the categories contributing to its low specificity.

METHODS

A single voided urine sample was collected from 45 patients treated in the urology clinic for conditions not related to bladder cancer. Each urine sample was examined by the BTA stat test and cytology.

RESULTS

The overall specificity of the BTA stat test was 44%, which was significantly lower than that of urine cytology, 90%. The false positive rates for the BTA stat test varied among the different clinical categories, being highest in cases of urinary tract calculi (90%), and benign prostatic hypertrophy (73%). Exclusion of these categories from data analysis improved BTA stat specificity to 66%.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinical categories contributing to low BTA stat specificity can be identified, and their exclusion improves the specificity of this test.

How accurate is helical CT volumetric assessment in renal tumors?

The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of tumor size measurement on CT studies of renal tumors. Sixteen patients with tumors of the kidneys were imaged by helical CT prior to surgery. Assessment of tumor volume was made by two radiologists on the CT images with the summation of area method, then compared with the resected specimen water displacement volume. Intra- and interobserver agreement for CT measurements were also assessed. There were substantial differences between the CT volume measurement compared with the tumor post-operative volume (mean of differences 30.05+/-91.6, 95%CI: 31.45-91.55). The inter- and intraobservation agreements for tumor measurement by CT was found to be satisfactory (ANOVA: p < 0.0001; t-test: p < 0.05). The CT volumetric measurement by area summation is a method with good inter- and intraexamination reproducibility but not an accurate technique for tumor volume assessment.

Prognostic score for patients with localized renal cell carcinoma treated by nephrectomy

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the feasibility of using combined clinical and histomorphometric features to construct a prognostic score for the individual patient with localized renal cell carcinoma.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We studied 39 patients with pT1 and pT2 RCC who underwent radical nephrectomy between 1974 and 1983. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to determine the association between various prognostic features and patient survival.

RESULTS

The most important and independent predictors of survival were tumor angiogenesis (P = 0.009), nuclear DNA ploidy (P = 0.0071), mean nuclear area (P = 0.013), and mean elongation factor (P = 0.0346). Combination of these variables enabled prediction of outcome for the individual patient at a sensitivity and specificity of 78% and 89%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that no single parameter can accurately predict the outcome for patients with localized RCC. Combination of neovascularity, DNA content and morphometric shape descriptors enabled a more precise stratification of the patients into different risk categories.

Bone anchored sling for the treatment of post-prostatectomy incontinence

PURPOSE

This ongoing study evaluates the safety and efficacy of a new minimally invasive sling procedure for treating post-prostatectomy incontinence.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 16 men 56 to 74 years old (mean age 67) underwent the procedure using the Straight-In bone anchoring system. Time after prostatectomy was 1.5 to 5 years (mean 2.5). Of the 16 patients 14 had urodynamically confirmed stress urinary incontinence, while 2 had mixed incontinence with stress incontinence and detrusor instability. The procedure is performed with the patient in the lithotomy position using a perineal approach. Four miniature bone screws with pre-attached pairs of No. 1 polypropylene sutures are placed directly into the medial aspect of the inferior rami of the pubic bone. A pair of bone anchors is placed just below the symphysis on each side, and the second pair is inserted 3 to 4 cm. lower. To support the bulbar urethra a gelatin coated polyethylene terephthalate trapezoid shaped sling or cadaveric fascia lata is tied to the pubic bone using the 4 pairs of sutures attached to the bone anchors. Urethral resistance is increased to 30 to 50 cm. water above baseline pressure.

RESULTS

Followup was 4 to 20 months (mean 12.2). Of the 14 men with the preoperative urodynamic diagnosis of genuine stress incontinence 12 were cured of incontinence, defined as subjectively dry with no or only 1 pad used daily for security without any episode of leakage, while 2 were improved subjectively with a decrease of 50% or more in pads daily. Two other patients with the preoperative diagnosis of mixed urinary incontinence were improved. Postoperatively urodynamic study in these patients revealed resolved stress incontinence but persistent urge urinary incontinence. They responded to anticholinergics and are completely dry. Intraoperative and postoperative complications were minimal with no erosion, infection or osseous complications.

CONCLUSIONS

This new minimally invasive male sling procedure is safe and efficacious. Adjusting sling tension by measuring urethral resistance results in a low rate of over correction and failure. Further experience is needed to establish this procedure as treatment for post-prostatectomy incontinence.

Bladder cancer--genetic overview

BACKGROUND

This article review the serial genetic changes which are responsible to the initiation and progression of bladder cancer. Knowledge of the exact genetic alteration has a direct implication on the development of knew more sensitive and specific tool for an early diagnosis and better prognosis calculations.

CONCLUSION

Bladder cancer develop and progress through a series of genetic alterations. Understanding of the genetic mechanisms which lead to malignant transformation gave rise to the development of various genetic mechanisms which lead to malignant transformation gave rise to the development of various genetic tools providing better ability of early detection and more accurate prognosis prediction.

Relationship between prostate size and percent free prostate-specific antigen in patients with operable prostate cancer

BACKGROUND

The free-to-total prostate-specific antigen ratio is the best marker for optimizing prostate cancer detection. The main problem with studies of percent free PSA is the variability of reported cutoff values.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the influence of prostate size on the ratio of free to total PSA.

METHODS

The study group included 58 patients (mean age 66.4 years) with clinically localized prostate cancer treated surgically at our institution. Total PSA and free PSA levels were measured by a solid phase enzyme immunoassay test (Hoffman-La Roche, Basel, Switzerland). The percent free PSA was compared with prostate size as determined from the surgical specimen.

RESULTS

A direct relation was noted between prostate size and the percent free PSA value (r = 0.49, P = 0.0001). Mean percentage free PSA was 9% +/- 0.004 in men with normal-sized gland while in men with large prostate (> 60 g) the average percent free PSA was 15.9 +/- 0.09 (P = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with prostate cancer the percent free PSA level is influenced by the gland size. The larger the prostate the higher the proportion of the free PSA. Such information may have influence on the recommendation for prostate biopsy in screening programs for early detection of prostate cancer.

Value of nuclear morphometry for differentiating localized from metastatic renal cell carcinoma

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the feasibility of using nuclear morphometry of primary renal cell carcinoma to differentiate cases with localized tumors from those with metastases.

METHODS

Using an interactive image analysis system, nuclear morphometry was performed on hematoxylin- and eosin-stained slides of 40 primary renal tumors. There were 18 cases with organ-confined disease and 22 with advanced stage.

RESULTS

The most significant shape descriptor to differentiate between the two groups was mean nuclear regularity factor (889.5 +/- 24.4 vs. 701.1 +/- 157.3, p = 0.00015). The combination of mean nuclear area and mean nuclear regularity factor enabled accurate prediction of metastatic potential in 36 (85%) cases.

CONCLUSION

Nuclear morphometry measured by image analysis provides prognostic information on patients with renal cell carcinoma.