Post-MRI transrectal micro-ultrasonography of transition zone PI-RADS > 2 lesions for biopsy guidance

OBJECTIVE

To prospectively determine the value of post-MRI micro-ultrasonography (microUS) in the diagnosis of transition zone (TZ) significant prostate cancer (sPCa).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Eighty-four consecutive men (66 ± 6.3 years) with a mean PSA level of 10.2 ± 7.4 ng/mL and at least one TZ-PI-RADS > 2 lesion were included. All patients had MRI-directed microUS and biopsy. Sensitivity and specificity of post-MRI microUS to visualize PI-RADS > 2 TZ lesions, the cancer detection rate of TZ-sPCa, and tumor characteristics according to their visibility on microUS were evaluated. Interreader agreement for detecting microUS+ lesions was evaluated using Cohen's kappa test.

RESULTS

Of the 92 PI-RADS > 2 lesions, 71 (71/92; 77%) were visible on microUS and biopsy was performed without image fusion, which was required for the 21 invisible lesions (21/92; 22.8%). TZ-sPCa detection rate was 51.1% (47/92). Sensitivity and specificity of MRI-directed microUS were 83% (39/47; 95% CI: 69.2-92.4%) and 28.9% (13/45; 95% CI: 16.4-44.3%), on a per-lesion basis and 86.4% (38/45; 95% CI: 72.6-94.8%) and 27.5% (11/40; 95% CI: 14.6-43.9%) on a per-patient basis. Visible tumors on microUS exhibited a larger volume and a lower mean ADC value than non-visible tumors (15.8 ± 5.1 vs. 12.5 ± 3.6 mm and 0.82 ± 1.1 × 10³ vs. 0.9 ± 1.4 × 10^-3 mm²/s) (p = 0.02). Non-visible tumors showed a heterogeneous non-specific echotexture or were masked by the shadowing caused by corpora amylacea. Interreader agreement was almost perfect (kappa = 0.88; 95% CI: 0.79-0.95). The main limitation is the single-center feature of the study.

CONCLUSION

MRI-targeted transrectal microUS is effective to detect TZ-sPCa. TRUS-MRI image fusion helps overcome limitations due to TZ tissue heterogeneity.

KEY POINTS

microUS can visualize the majority of MRI-detected PI-RADS > 2 TZ lesions (sensitivity = 83%). Interreader agreement of MRI-directed microUS in the detection of TZ lesions appears excellent (kappa = 0.88). In 77% of PI-RADS > 2 TZ lesions, biopsy was performed under microUS visual control. MRI fusion system was only used to overcome limitations due to tissue heterogeneity of benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Relationship of preoperative androgen levels and metabolic syndrome with quality of life and erectile function in patients who are to undergo radical prostatectomy

This study aims to investigate whether clinical and biological preoperative characteristics of patients who were to undergo radical prostatectomy were associated with impairment in patient-reported quality of life (QoL) and erectile dysfunction immediately before intervention. We evaluated patient-reported outcomes among 1019 patients (out of 1343) of the AndroCan study, willing to score the Aging Male Symptom (AMS) and the International Index of Erectile Function 5-item (IIEF-5) auto-questionnaires. Univariate linear regression and robust multiple regression were used to ascertain the relationship between demographic, clinical, and hormonal parameters and global AMS or IIEF-5 scores. As a result, most patients (85.1%) of the Androcan cohort agreed to complete questionnaires. Significantly higher IIEF-5 global scores were found in non-Caucasian and obese patients, with larger waist circumference, metabolic syndrome, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, high blood sugar, concomitant medications, and hypogonadism, while the AMS global score was significantly higher in patients with larger waist circumference, metabolic syndrome, high blood pressure, raised glycemia, and concomitant medication. The IIEF-5 global score was correlated to age, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), fat mass percentage, and androstenediol (D5). The AMS global score was significantly correlated to DHEA, D5, and DHEA sulfate. Finally, the multivariate models showed that QoL and erectile function were significantly affected, before surgery, by symptoms and signs that are usually considered as pertaining to the metabolic syndrome, while sexual hormones are essentially correlated to erectile dysfunction.

Metabolic syndrome, levels of androgens, and changes of erectile dysfunction and quality of life impairment 1 year after radical prostatectomy

Robust data evaluating the association of preoperative parameters of the patients with quality of life after radical prostatectomy are lacking. We investigated whether clinical and biological preoperative characteristics of the patients were associated with impaired patient-reported quality of life (QoL) and sexual outcomes 1 year after radical prostatectomy. We evaluated patient-reported outcomes among the 1343 men participating in the AndroCan trial (NCT02235142). QoL and erectile dysfunction (ED) were assessed before and 1 year after radical prostatectomy using validated self-assessment questionnaires (Aging Male's Symptoms [AMS] and the 5-item abridged version of the International Index of Erectile Function [IIEF5]). At baseline, 1194 patients (88.9%) accepted to participate. A total of 750 (55.8%) patients answered the 1-year postoperative questionnaires. Out of them, only 378 (50.4% of responders) provided answers that could be used for calculations. One year after prostatectomy, ED had worsened by 8.0 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 7.3–8.7; P < 0.0001) out of a maximum of 20. The global AMS score has worsened by 2.8 (95% CI: 1.7–3.8; P < 0.0001). ED scores 1 year postsurgery were positively correlated with preoperative age and percentage of fat mass, and negatively correlated with total cholesterol, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), and androstenediol (D5); AMS were poorly correlated with preoperative parameters. QoL and sexual symptoms significantly worsened after radical prostatectomy. Baseline bioavailable testosterone levels were significantly correlated with smaller changes on AMS somatic subscores postprostatectomy. These findings may be used to inform patients with newly diagnosed prostate cancer.

MRI-directed high-frequency (29MhZ) TRUS-guided biopsies: initial results of a single-center study

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the ability of high-frequency (29 MHz) transrectal micro-ultrasound (microUS) as a second-look examination after biparametric MRI (bp-MRI) and to reidentify focal lesions seen on diagnostic MRI and to detect new ones METHODS: A total of 118 consecutive men (mean age, 66 ± 13 [SD] years; range, 49-93 years) with a mean prostate-specific antigen level of 11 ± 19 (SD) ng/mL (range, 2-200 ng/mL) and at least one focal lesion (MRI+) with a score > 2 on bp-MRI were included. Of these, 79/118 (66.9%) were biopsy-naïve and 102/118 (86.5%) had non-suspicious rectal examination. All patients had MRI-directed microUS-guided biopsy using a 29-MHz transducer. All lesions visible on micro-ultrasound (microUS+) were targeted without image fusion, which was only used for MRI+/microUS- lesions. Significant prostate cancer (sPCa) was defined by a Gleason score ≥ 7 or a maximum cancer core length > 3 mm.

RESULTS

A total of 144 focal prostatic lesions were analyzed, including 114 (114/144, 79.2%) MRI+/microUS+ lesions, 13 MRI+/microUS- lesions (13/144, 9%), and 17 MRI-/microUS+ lesions (17/144, 11.8%). Significant PCa was detected in 70 MRI+/microUS+ lesions (70/114, 61.4%), in no MRI+/microUS- lesion (0/13, 0%), and in 4 MRI-/microUS+ lesions (4/17, 23.5%). The sensitivity and specificity of microUS on a per-patient and a per-lesion basis were 100% (95% CI, 84.9-100%) and 22.8% (95% CI, 12.5-35.8%) and 100% (95% CI, 85.1-100%) and 22.6% (95% CI, 12.3-36.2%), respectively.

CONCLUSION

MicroUS, as a second-look examination, may show promise to localize targets detected on bp-MRI.

KEY POINTS

• Used as a second-look examination, microUS-guided biopsies have a 100% detection rate of sCa originating in the PZ or lower third of the TZ, without microUS-MRI image fusion. • MicroUS results may provide additional information about lesions visible on MRI. • MicroUS may provide the ability to detect small PZ lesions undetected by bp-MRI.

A29 Genetic heterogeneity of influenza A (H3N2) viruses in the United Kingdom, 2016–8

For the last four influenza seasons in the UK, genetic characterization of seasonal influenza viruses has shifted from single hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA) genes to whole genome (WG) analysis, allowing for better insight into the evolutionary dynamics of this virus. Sequences (WG or HA/NA) were obtained from >900A (H3N2) viruses sampled in the UK during influenza seasons 2016/7 and 2017/8 and the inter-seasonal period. Viral RNA was extracted from clinical samples and amplified using a multi-segment RT-PCR. Amplicons were sequenced using Nextera library preparation for Illumina MiSeq sequencing. Sequence data ????were processed using BAM-SAM tools and PHE in-house scripts. Phylogenetic analysis of the HA gene indicates that they belong to genetic group 3C.2a, which has circulated since 2014. Season 2016/7 was characterized by the emergence of cluster 3C.2a.1; further genetic heterogeneity was seen with 6 new subclusters within 3C.2a and 3C.2a.1, with predominance of those characterized by amino acid changes N121K and S144K (3C.2a) and N121K, N171K, I406K, G484E (3C.2a.1). The NA genes clustered with a similar topology to the HA. Season 2017/8 was characterized by persistence of some clades from previous season with further diversification. Three of the 3C.2a clusters continued to circulate, with predominance of clade showing T131K, R142K, and R261Q (clade 3C.2a.2). The majority of HA sequences in 3C.2a1 fall into a new subcluster which has become predominant within this subgroup, with amino acid changes E62G, K92R, and T135K (3C.2a.1b). The topology of NA and internal gene trees showed evidence of reassortment events occurring at some point between the two seasons, with group 3C.2a2 acquiring NA and some internal genes from 3C.2a1 lineage viruses. The predominance of this group during 2017–8 might be due to fitness advantage related to the new genetic constellation. Emerging viruses from group 3C.3a also have acquired genes from lineage 3C.2a1, which could be the reason for their increased frequency to 20 per cent by the end of season 2017–8. Molecular epidemiology indicates emerging genetic diversity in A(H3N2) viruses during the period of study, leading to co-circulation of variants. The frequency of circulating HA genetic groups was quite variable, with rapidly changing patterns of predominance. Evidence of reassortment events was observed which could be responsible for the rise and predominance of some clades, and might predict the emergence of other variants.

Oncological outcomes and pathological characteristics of cT1 upstaging to pT3a renal cell carcinoma compared with de novo pT3a tumors

INTRODUCTION

The significance of upstaging of cT1 renal tumors to pT3a is not clear. We evaluate the incidence of upstaging, identify predictors and analyze oncological outcomes of these patients versus those who did not upstage. We also compared the oncological outcomes of cT1 upstaging to pT3a with de novo pT3a renal tumors.

METHODS

From a database of 1021 renal tumors with complete available follow-up data, 517 patients had cT1. Patients upstaging to pT3a were compared to those who did not. Baseline clinical, perioperative, histopathologic features and oncological outcomes were analysed.

RESULTS

Out of 517 cT1 patients, 105 (20.3%) upstaged to pT3a and 412 (79.7%) did not. Proportion of patients in each group undergoing partial and radical nephrectomy, postoperative tumor size, histology, margin status and lymph node involvement were similar. Among upstaged, 9 patients (8.6%) developed first recurrence as compared to only 3 (0.7%) in those not upstaging (P <0.001). The median time to recurrence (57 vs. 107 months; P <0.001) was lesser in de novo pT3a renal tumors.

CONCLUSIONS

Pathological upstaging from cT1 to pT3a and necrosis on histopathology were associated with recurrence. Advanced age, smoking, necrosis on histopathology, clear cell histology and higher Fuhrman grades contributed to pathological upstaging of cT1 tumors. De novo pT3a RCC had worse survival when compared to cT1 patients upstaging to pT3a RCC.

Aggressiveness of Localized Prostate Cancer: the Key Value of Testosterone Deficiency Evaluated by Both Total and Bioavailable Testosterone: AndroCan Study Results

Failure rates after first-line treatment of localized prostate cancer (PCa) treatment remain high. Improvements to patient selection and identification of at-risk patients are central to reducing mortality. We aimed to determine if cancer aggressiveness correlates with androgen levels in patients undergoing radical prostatectomy for localized PCa. We performed a prospective, multicenter cohort study between June 2013 and June 2016, involving men with localized PCa scheduled to undergo radical prostatectomy. Clinical and hormonal patient data (testosterone deficiency, defined by total testosterone (TT) levels < 300 ng/dL and/or bioavailable testosterone (BT) levels < 80 ng/dL) were prospectively collected, along with pathological assessment of preoperative biopsy and subsequent radical prostatectomy specimens, using predominant Gleason pattern (prdGP) 3/4 grading. Of 1343 patients analyzed, 912 (68%) had prdGP3 PCa and 431 (32%) had high-grade (prdGP4, i.e., ISUP ≥ 3) disease on prostatectomy specimens. Only moderate concordance in prdGP scores between prostate biopsies and prostatectomy specimens was found. Compared with patients with prdGP3 tumors (i.e., ISUP ≤ 2), significantly more patients with prdGP4 cancers had demonstrable hypogonadism, characterized either by BT levels (17.4% vs. 10.7%, p < 0.001) or TT levels (14.2% vs. 9.7%, p = 0.020). BT levels were also lower in patients with prdGP4 tumors compared to those with prdGP3 disease. Testosterone deficiency (defined by TT and/or BT levels) was independently associated with higher PCa aggressiveness. BT is a predictive factor for prdGP4 disease, and evaluating both TT and BT to define hypogonadism is valuable in preoperative assessment of PCa (AndroCan Trial: NCT02235142).

Biochemical recurrence after radical prostatectomy: what does it mean?

Background

Radical prostatectomy (RP) has been used as the main primary treatment for prostate cancer (PCa) for many years with excellent oncologic results. However, approximately 20-40% of those patients has failed to RP and presented biochemical recurrence (BCR). Prostatic specific antigen (PSA) has been the pivotal tool for recurrence diagnosis, but there is no consensus about the best PSA threshold to define BCR until this moment. The natural history of BCR after surgical procedure is highly variable, but it is important to distinguish biochemical and clinical recurrence and to find the correct timing to start multimodal treatment strategy. Also, it is important to understand the role of each clinical and pathological feature of prostate cancer in BCR, progression to metastatic disease and cancer specific mortality (CSM).

Review design

A simple review was made in Medline for articles written in English language about biochemical recurrence after radical prostatectomy.

Objective

To provide an updated assessment of BCR definition, its meaning, PCa natural history after BCR and the weight of each clinical/pathological feature and risk group classifications in BCR, metastatic disease and CSM.

Oncological and functional outcomes of elderly men treated with HIFU vs. minimally invasive radical prostatectomy: A propensity score analysis

AIM

To assess outcomes of whole gland high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) as compared with minimally-invasive radical prostatectomy (MIRP) in elderly patients.

MATERIALS & METHODS

Patients aged ≥70 years with, cT1-cT2 disease, biopsy Gleason score (GS) 3 + 3 or 3 + 4 and preoperative PSA ≤10 ng/mL were submitted to either whole-gland HIFU or MIRP. Propensity-score matching analysis was performed to ensure the baseline equivalence of groups. Follow-up visits were routinely performed assessing PSA and urinary function according to the International Continence Score (ICS) and the International Prostatic Symptoms Score (IPSS) questionnaires. Estimated rates of salvage-treatment free survival (SFS) overall-survival (OS), cancer-specific survival (CSS) and metastasis-free survival (MTS) were assessed and compared.

RESULTS

Overall, 84 (33.3%) and 168 (66.7%) patients were treated with HIFU and MIRP, respectively. MIRP was associated with a 5-yrs SFS of 93.4% compared to 74.8% for HIFU (p < 0.01). The two groups did not differ in terms of OS and MTS. No cancer-related deaths were registered. Patients treated with HIFU showed better short-term (6-mos) continence outcomes [mean-ICS: 1.7 vs. 4.8; p = 0.005] but higher IPSS mean scores at 12-mos assessment. A comparable rate of patients experiencing post-treatment Clavien-Dindo grade ≥III complications was observed within the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Whole-gland HIFU is a feasible treatment in elderly men with low-to intermediate-risk PCa and could be considered for patients either unfit for surgery, or willing a non-invasive treatment with a low morbidity burden, although a non-negligible risk of requiring subsequent treatment for recurrence should be expected.

Focal cryotherapy: step by step technique description

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE

Focal cryotherapy emerged as an efficient option to treat favorable and localized prostate cancer (PCa). The purpose of this video is to describe the procedure step by step.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We present the case of a 68 year-old man with localized PCa in the anterior aspect of the prostate.

RESULTS

The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, with the patient in lithotomy position. Briefly, the equipament utilized includes the cryotherapy console coupled with an ultrasound system, argon and helium gas bottles, cryoprobes, temperature probes and an urethral warming catheter. The procedure starts with a real-time trans-rectal prostate ultrasound, which is used to outline the prostate, the urethra and the rectal wall. The cryoprobes are pretested and placed in to the prostate through the perineum, following a grid template, along with the temperature sensors under ultrasound guidance. A cystoscopy confirms the right positioning of the needles and the urethral warming catheter is installed. Thereafter, the freeze sequence with argon gas is started, achieving extremely low temperatures (-40ºC) to induce tumor cell lysis. Sequentially, the thawing cycle is performed using helium gas. This process is repeated one time. Results among several series showed a biochemical disease-free survival between 71-93% at 9-70 month- follow-up, incontinence rates between 0-3.6% and erectile dysfunction between 0-42% (1-5).

CONCLUSIONS

Focal cryotherapy is a feasible procedure to treat anterior PCa that may offer minimal morbidity, allowing good cancer control and better functional outcomes when compared to whole-gland treatment.

[Management of ablative therapies in prostate cancer]

OBJECTIVES

To describe the specific modalities of ablative therapies management in prostate cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A review of the scientific literature was performed in Medline database (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov) and Embase (http://www.embase.com) using different associations of keywords. Publications obtained were selected based on methodology, language and relevance. After selection, 61 articles were analysed.

RESULTS

Development of innovations such as ablative therapies in prostate cancer induces specific modalities in their management, during pre-, per- and post-procedure. More than for classical and well-known treatments, the decision to propose an ablative therapy requires analysis and consensus of medical staff and patient's agreement. Patient's specificities and economical aspects must also be considered. Procedures and follow-up must be realized by referents actors.

CONCLUSION

Indication, procedure and follow-up of ablative therapies in prostate cancer require specific modalities. They must be respected in order to optimize the results and to obtain a precise and objective evaluation for defining future indications.

[Frosted branch angiitis : Clinical findings and Spectralis OCT follow-up]

Frosted branch angiitis is a special form of retinal vasculitis, which has only rarely been reported in the literature. Although the majority of cases of frosted branch angiitis are idiopathic, a systematic clinical work-up should be done in order to exclude other causes, such as infectious and autoimmune diseases. The aim of this study was to correlate the clinical findings with the images obtained during follow-up by spectral domain optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Systematic review of perioperative outcomes and complications after open, laparoscopic and robot-assisted radical cystectomy

Radical cystectomy and regional lymph node dissection is the standard treatment for localized muscle-invasive and for high-risk non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer, and represents one of the main surgical urologic procedures. The open surgical approach is still widely adopted, even if in the last two decades efforts have been made in order to evaluate if minimally invasive procedures, either laparoscopic or robot-assisted, might show a benefit compared to the standard technique. Open radical cystectomy is associated with a high complication rate, but data from the laparoscopic and robotic surgical series failed to demonstrate a clear reduction in post-operative complication rates compared to the open surgical series. Laparoscopic and robotic radical cystectomy show a reduction in blood loss, in-hospital stay and transfusion rates but a longer operative time, while open radical cystectomy is typically associated with a shorter operative time but with a longer in-hospital admission and possibly a higher rate of high grade complications.

Grade Group Underestimation in Prostate Biopsy: Predictive Factors and Outcomes in Candidates for Active Surveillance

OBJECTIVE

We intended to analyze the outcomes and predictive factors for underestimating the prostate cancer (PCa) grade group (GG) from prostate biopsies in a large monocentric cohort of patients treated by minimally invasive radical prostatectomy (RP).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Using a monocentric prospectively maintained database, we included 3062 patients who underwent minimally invasive RP between 2006 and 2013. We explored clinicopathologic features and outcomes associated with a GG upgrade from biopsy to RP. Multivariate logistic regression was used to develop and validate a nomogram to predict upgrading for GG1.

RESULTS

Biopsy GG was upgraded after RP in 51.5% of cases. Patients upgraded from GG1 to GG2 or GG3 after RP had a longer time to biochemical recurrence than those with GG2 or GG3 respectively, on both biopsy and RP, but a shorter time to biochemical recurrence than those who remained GG1 after RP (P < .0001). In multivariate analyses, variables predicting upgrading for GG1 PCa were age (P = .0014), abnormal digital rectal examination (P < .0001), prostate-specific antigen density (P < .0001), percentage of positive cores (P < .0001), and body mass index (P = .037). A nomogram was generated and validated internally.

CONCLUSIONS

Biopsy grading system is misleading in approximately 50% of cases. Upgrading GG from biopsy to RP may have consequences on clinical outcomes. A nomogram using clinicopathologic features could aid the probability of needing to upgrade GG1 patients at their initial evaluation.

Higher number of transrectal ultrasound guided prostate biopsy cores is associated with higher blood loss and perioperative complications in robot assisted radical prostatectomy

INTRODUCTION

The local inflammatory process after prostate biopsies can have a negative impact on functional outcomes of radical prostatectomy. There is no evidence in literature demonstrating its impact on radical prostatectomy.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the impact of the number of TRUS core biopsies in the surgical morbidity and rate of positive margin on robot assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A prospectively maintained database of 2,054 RARPs in a single institution. Patients were further grouped into 2 groups based on the number of TRUS biopsy cores (G1≤12 cores; G2>12 cores). Multivariable logistic regression model was applied to analyze the impact of number of cores on complications.

RESULTS

A total number of 1,042 patients in the group 1 (≤12 cores) and 1,012 patients in the group 2 (>12 cores) were included. The rate of perioperative complications increased with higher number of biopsies (G1 6.4 vs. G2 8.5%; P=.03), but high grade complication (Clavien 3-4) were similar (G1 1.4 vs. G2 2.2%; P=.16). Positive surgical margin rates were similar in both groups (G1 11.8 vs. 9.98%; P=.2). At the multivariable logistic regression analysis shown that G2 had a 39% (OR 0.645) higher rate to experience perioperative complications during RARP.

CONCLUSION

Higher number of TRUS biopsy cores (>12) is associated to higher blood loss and perioperative complications during RARP. Careful preoperative evaluation for those patients underwent multiple biopsies or saturation protocols is mandatory. Application of longer intervals (>6 weeks) between biopsy and surgery may be advisable to minimize potential risks of surgical complications in patients may benefit from RARP. Further studies are still necessary to confirm these results.

Impact of neoadjuvant chemotherapy on complications of minimally invasive radical cystectomy

BACKGROUND

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NC) before minimally invasive radical cystectomy (MIRC) is considered a standard of care in muscle-invasive bladder cancer or recurrent high-risk non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the impact of NC on morbidity and mortality after MIRC.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

We prospectively evaluated 135 patients who underwent MIRC (laparoscopic: n=100; robotic: n=35) between 2007 and 2013 with ≥90 days of follow-up (median age: 66 year). Complications were analyzed and graded according to the Clavien Dindo classification system.

OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

Logistic regression models were used to evaluate the impact of NC on postoperative complications. Kaplan-Meier methods with the log-rank test were used for cancer-specific survival probabilities and differences between the 2groups (MIRC with and without NC).

RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS

Sixty-two of 135 patients received NC. A total of 118 patients (87.4%) developed 179 complications, chiefly infectious (48.0%) or gastrointestinal (21.2%), ≤90 days after surgery; 3 patients died <90 days after cystectomy (none had NC). NC had no impact on the incidence of postoperative complications but was associated with fewer positive nodes (P=.004) compared with patients without NC. The median duration of follow-up was 17.2 months. Overall survival rates were 83% and 79% at 2 year in patients with NC and without NC, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

NC does not affect postoperative morbidity or postoperative mortality. Longer follow-up is needed to evaluate the impact of NC on oncologic outcomes.

PATIENT SUMMARY

Perioperative complications of radical cystectomy were compared for patients with bladder cancer who had NC versus no NC. We did not find any significant differences in terms of early or late complications, length of stay, or reintervention. The oncologic outcomes regarding NC were encouraging.

Conditional biochemical recurrence-free survival and cancer-specific mortality after radical prostatectomy at long term follow-up

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Background: To estimate the conditional biochemical recurrence-free survival (BCR) rates and cancer-specific mortality (CSM) for men with clinically localized prostate cancer (PCa) treated with radical prostatectomy (RP) at our institution. Methods: A total of 3576 patients underwent laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LARP) and 2619 men were treated with robotic radical prostatectomy (RARP) in the last 15 years. BCR of primary treatment was defined as PSA > 0.2 ng/dl. PCa death was defined as patients who died with metastasis in an androgen independent setting. Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression methods were used to estimate the conditional survival probabilities and CSM. Results: The median follow-up was 8.49 years (IQR 4.01-12.97). A total of 92 (1.48%) patients (80 LARP and 12 RARP) died of disease. Positive surgical margins (PSM) were identified in 1202 patients (19.4%); of these, 664 (55.24%) had organ confined disease and 523 (43.51%) had extraprostatic extension (EPE). BCR-free survival rate was found significantly higher with RARP (83% vs 77% for LARP at 10 years; p < 0.001). For patients with PSA < 10 ng/dl BCR-free survival at 10 years was 80% vs 64% for PSA 10-20 ng/dl, and 59% for PSA > 20ng/dl; p > 0.001. Conditional probability of BCR after surgery 1st year was 6.7%. Those who reach the 2nd year of surgery without recurrence had a relapse probability of 4%, (cumulative probability 9.8%) That probability falls to 3.5% after the 3rd year (cumulative probability 13%), 2% after the 4th year (cumulative probability 15%) and is 2.1% after the 5th year (cumulative probability 17%). After 10 years of follow-up without recurrence, the possibility of relapse was 0.8%, (cumulative probability 21%). Men without BCR had a clinical trend of higher CSM at 10 years (7% vs 2% no BCR; p 0.06). Within the patients who develop BCR, those with BCR in the first three years of follow-up had higher CSM (9% vs 4% for BCR after 3 years; p 0.04). Conclusions: BRC free survival outcomes are affected by risk factors associated with type of surgery and prognosis in PCa. The period elapsed from RP is associated with BCR-free survival and the risk of recurrence decrease with increasing survival.

Defining predictors of early, intermediate, and late biochemical recurrence in men with clinically localized prostate cancer treated with minimally invasive radical prostatectomy

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Background: Follow up after radical prostatectomy should be tailored to clinical and pathologic characteristics. To determine predictive factors for early, intermediate and late biochemical recurrence (BCR) after minimally invasive radical prostatectomy (MIRP: lap and robot) in patients with localized prostate cancer (PCa). Methods: Prospective clinical, pathologic, and outcome data were collected for 6195 patients with cT1-3N0M0 PCa treated with MIRP at our institution from 2000 to 2016. None of them received neoadjuvant therapy. BCR was defined as PSA level greater than 0.2 ng/ml. Time to BCR was divided in terciles to identify variables associated with early ( < 12 months), intermediate (12-36 months) and late BCR ( > 36 months). Comparisons among groups were performed using ANOVA or Chi square test. Logistic regression models were built to determine risk factors associated with BCR at each time interval. Results: We identified 1148 (19%) patients with BCR. Median time to BCR was 24 months. Statistically significant differences were found between the groups concerning PSA preoperative, D’Amico risk, type of surgery, pT stage, pathological Gleason, positive margins and extracapsular extension. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed preoperative PSA, positive nodes, positive surgical margins and laparoscopic surgery were associated with early BCR. Laparoscopic surgery was the only risk factor associated with intermediate term BCR. Significant predictors of late BCR included Gleason ≥ 7, ≥ pT3, positive surgical margins, lymph node dissection performance and laparoscopic surgery. Conclusions: Patients with high risk features like Gleason ≥ 7, ≥ pT3 and or positive surgical margins may develop late recurrence and deserve long term follow up. Identify patients with higher PSA and lymph node invasion has an important predictive role due to the risk of BCR within the first year. The association between laparoscopic technique and late BCR deserves further evaluation.

Can focal therapy impact perioperative, oncological, and functional outcomes in men who underwent focal therapy salvage robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy? A retrospective matched-pair comparative study

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Background: Salvage surgery is an option for recurrent prostate cancer(PCa) after focal therapy(FT). This is the first study to assess the impact of FT on surgical outcomes comparing salvage robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy(S-RARP) versus primary-RARP(P-RARP). We aimed to compare the impact of FT on perioperative, oncological and functional outcomes in men underwent S-RARP versus P-RARP. Methods: Prospective data of 2775 men underwent RARP for localized PCa from 2000 to 2016 were reviewed. Twenty-five men underwent S-RARP after FT failure(S-RARP group). Total 2750 underwent RARP as primary treatment. Matched-pair 1:2 selection of 44 out of 2750 patients by age, IPSS and IIEF5 defined P-RARP group. Primary endpoint was between-groups differences on functional outcomes. Secondary endpoint was oncological data. p < 0.05 was significant. Results: Surgical time, transfusion and complication rates were comparable(p > 0.05). Rates of continence probability[49.5%(SE 0.13) versus 62.4%(SE 0.08), p = 0.8 and 73%(SE 0.14) versus 76.5%(SE 0.07), p = 0.8, at 1 and 2 years, respectively] and the chance for achieving continence[HR 1.062, 95%CI 0.54-2.08, p = 0.861] were comparable between-groups. Potency recovery was significant lower on S-RARP[3±2 versus 9.22±6.55, p = 0.008]. S-RARP showed significant lower rates of cumulative BCR-free survival probability[67.6%(SE 0.12) versus 95.1%(SE 0.03), p = 0.001 and 56.3%(SE 0.15) versus 92.4%(SE 0.04), p = 0.001, at 1 and 2 years, respectively]. S-RARP presented significant increased risk of BCR[HR 4.8, 95%CI 1.67-13.76, p = 0.004]. Upstaging was an independent predictor factor for BCR on S-RARP[HR 14.65, 95%CI 1.46-146.37, p = 0.022] (Table 1). Conclusions: Salvage-RARP following FT failure is feasible and safe with acceptable complications rates. Patients assigned to FT should be previously advised about lower erectile recovery rates in case of a salvage surgery. Urologists may be warned about the risk of undertreatment in patients presenting failure along FT follow-up.

Prospective comparative analysis of oncologic and functional outcomes between focal therapy and robotic radical prostatectomy

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Background: Focal therapy (FT) is an emerging treatment alternative for organ-confined Prostate cancer (PCa). The aim is to perform a non-randomized prospective analysis to compare oncological, functional and morbidity outcomes after FT and robotic radical prostatectomy (RARP). Methods: From July 2009 to September 2015, 1883 patients underwent RARP and 373 FT. Of those, we selected 1410 men (1222 RARP and 236 FT) according to the NCCN PCa risk classification: 402(27.5%),388(26.6%) and 668(45.8%) patients were very low risk, low risk and intermediate risk, respectively. Within FT, 188 men underwent focal high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) and 48 cryotherapy. Oncologic outcomes were analyzed in terms of biochemical recurrence (BCR) free survival (Phoenix definition for FT, and PSA >0.2 ng/dl in RARP), and the need for further treatment. FT failure was defined as any positive control biopsy after treatment. Overall suvival and metastasis free survival were estimated using Cox regression and Kaplan-Meier methods. Complications were graded as Clavien-Dindo classification. Functional outcomes were assessed with validated questionnaries for genitourinary symptoms and sexual function. Results: Median follow-up was 45.4 mo (IQR: 25.3-65.5). BCR-free survival was comparable among RARP and FT ( 10.6% RARP vs 9% FT, p 0.69). Patients with intermediate risk PCa were significantly associated with BCR in both groups (HR 8.47;95% CI 4.57-15.71; p< 0.001). In FT group positive biopsy in the treated lobe was seen in 42(17.7%) men. No differences were found in overall survival, neither mestastases free survival between treatments; (p 0.85 and p 0.142 respectively). FT was associated with higher risk of further treatments (HR 5.21; 95% CI 3.7-7.35; p <0.001). FT had higher rates of complications (15.3% vs 9% for RARP, p 0.004). RARP was associated with less continence recovery vs FT at 3, 6 and 12 mo (p <0.001). Potency is higher between FT men at 3,6 and 12 mo (<p 0.001). Conclusions: For selected patients with organ confined PCa, RARP and FT offered comparable oncological control with FT requiring higher additional treatments. Potency and continency appears to be better preserved in FT patients.

Focal cryo-hemiablation to treat unilateral localized prostate cancer: A prospective midterm oncologic and functional outcomes

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Background: We report our mid-term oncologic and functional outcomes of focal cryo-hemiablation (FC-HA) for unilateral localized low-risk prostate cancer (PCa). Methods: Prospective single-arm interventional study analyzing mid-term data of PCa patients treated at our institution with FC-HA of diseased lobe. Inclusion criteria‎ were men with unilateral localized cancer, PSA < 15 ng/ml, clinical stage T1c-T2a, Gleason score ≤ 7 (3+4), maximum number of cancer-cores < 33%, maximum cancer involvement in a single core < 50%, no extra prostatic extension in mp-MRI, no previous PCa-related treatment and life expectancy ≥10 yr. PSA was measured every 3 mo during 1st yr post treatment, and biannually thereafter. mp-MRI and biopsy of both lobes were routinely done at 12 mo, while repeat biopsies were driven by PSA elevations. Continence, urinary and erectile functions were assessed using ICS, IPSS and IIEF-5 questionnaires, respectively. Treatment failure (primary outcome) was defined as residual cancer in treated lobe at follow up. Results: We studied 52 men with mean (SD) age of 65.8 (7.2) yrs and median (IQR) follow-up of 31 (21-44) mo. Baseline criteria were: median (IQR) of PSA of 6.8 (5.4–8.0) ng/ml, total number of cancer-cores of 2 (1-3) and percentage cancer-cores of 17% (8-25), and total cancer-core length of 7 (3-12) mm. Gleason score was 6 (3+3) in 33 (63.5%) and 7 (3+4) in 19 (36.5%) patients. Follow-up biopsies were done in 1st, 2nd and 3rd yrs for 52 (100%), 28 (53.8%) and 15 (28.8%) patients, respectively, revealing cancer-cores in 13/52 (25%) patients. 6 (11.5%), 5 (9.6%) and 2 (3.8%) patients showed cancer in ipsilateral lobe, contralateral lobe and bilaterally, respectively. Treatment failure was observed in the treated lobe in 8 (15.4%) patients. Median (IQR) PSA significantly (p < 0.0001) declined to nadir PSA of 2.9 (1.5-4.2) ng/ml (57.4% reduction) at 3 mo. None of patients demonstrated undetectable PSA. All patients maintained continence with insignificant worsening of IPSS (p <0.92) and IIEF-5 (p <0.07) and low toxicity. Conclusions: FC-HA appears to maintain acceptable oncologic control in mid-term follow-up with preserved genitourinary functions and low toxicity.

The importance of surgical margins for biochemical recurrence in high-risk prostate cancer patients

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Background: High-risk prostate cancer (PCa) is associated with greater risk of biochemical recurrence and cancer specific lethality. A multi-modal treatment is required for this group of patients, comprising surgery as part of it. However, the role of surgery as monotherapy is still under investigation. The purpose of this study is to analyze the influence of surgical margins on biochemical recurrence (BCR) among patients with high-risk prostate cancer (PCa) treated with robot assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) since the start of our robotic program. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed our prospectively collected database of 5695 minimally invasive prostatectomies performed between 2000 and 2015. Clinical, pathological and oncological outcomes were evaluated in patients fulfilling Damico´s high risk characteristics. Primary endpoint was BCR, defined as post-operative PSA ≥ 0,2. Patients with neoadjuvant or adjuvant therapy were excluded. BCR was estimated with Kaplan-Meier curves. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to estimate variables associated with BCR. Results: We identified 199 high-risk PCa patients treated with RARP during the study period. Gleason score ≥ 8, PSA ≥ 20 and clinical stage ≥ T2c were present in 44%, 35% and 11% of the patients, respectively. The rate of positive surgical margins was 25%. With a median follow-up of 23 months (interquartile 12 – 34 months), 31% of the patients had BCR. Five-year BCR-free survival was 34,5%. Gleason score ≥ 8, PSA ≥ 20 and positive surgical margins were not predictors of BCR. A positive correlation of pathological stage ≥ T3 and BCR was found with (HR = 2.9; 95% CI = 1.2-6.9). Conclusions: The 5-years BCR-free survival was poor despite a low rate of positive surgical margins, when compared to historical series. We found that pathological stage ≥ T3 has a significant correlation with the BCR and that negative surgical margins do not assure good prognosis for high-risk patients.

New frontiers ahead focal therapy postoperative follow-up: What is the real role of MRI in this setting?

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Background: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) plays an important role as a treatment-monitoring tool along focal therapy (FT) follow-up. This is the first study to assess MRI ability to correctly predict prostate cancer (PCa) local T-stage in the FT postoperative scenario. We aimed to describe MRI effectiveness in predicting upstaging in two groups of men: 1) men who failure after primary FT and then underwent salvage robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy (S-RARP) and 2) men who underwent RARP as primary treatment (P-RARP). Methods: Prospective data of 2775 men underwent RARP for localized PCa from 2000 to 2016 were reviewed. Twenty-two men underwent S-RARP after FT failure (S-RARP group). Total 2750 underwent RARP as first treatment. Matched-pair 1:2 selection of 44 out of 2750 patients by age defined primary RARP group (P-RARP). All patients underwent MRI immediately before RARP. MRI findings were confronted with final surgical pathology. Primary endpoint: sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values; positive (+LR) and negative (-LR) likelihood ratio regarding upstaging analysis on S-RARP. Secondary endpoint: same effectiveness analysis on P-RARP. Results: Preoperative MRI failed in predicting upstaging in 80% versus 91.7% of patients (p = 0.515) that presented final pathological status ≥ pT3a on S-RARP and P-RARP groups, respectively. On the other hand, when final pathology described a localized disease T2a-T2c, MRI correctly predicted the final pathological status in 81.8% versus 95.2% of patients (p = 0.27) on S-RARP and P-RARP groups, respectively. Between-group analysis, showed sensitivity and specificity rates of 20% versus 8.33% and 81.8% versus 95.23%, respectively; Positive and negative predictive values of 33.33% versus 50% and 69.23% versus 64.51%, respectively; Positive (+LR) and negative (-LR) likelihood ratio of 1.1 versus 1.74 and 0.98 versus 0.96, respectively. Conclusions: MRI has shown to be a weak diagnostic tool for predicting extra-prostatic disease along FT follow-up. Urologists may be warned about the risk of underdiagnosis and undertreatment in patients presenting failure after FT.

Predictive factors and the important role of detectable prostatic specific antigen for the detection of clinical recurrence following robot-assisted radical prostatectomy

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Background: To evaluate predictive factors associated with detectable prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and clinical recurrence (CR) after robot assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP). Methods: The study included 2500 patients who were treated with RARP between 2000 and 2016. Patients were divided into two groups according to PSA value at 6 weeks after surgery: undetectable PSA (PSA < 0.1 ng/dl) and PSA persistently elevated (PSA ≥ 0.1 ng/dl). Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate association between covariates and: (1) detectable PSA, (2) CR (positive imaging during follow up) in persistently elevated PSA group. Kaplan-Meier analyses were used to assess CR and cancer-specific mortality (CSM) rates according to PSA persistence after surgery. Results: Overall, 229 patients (9.16%) experienced PSA persistence and from them, 38 (16.5%) had CR. Inside the group of detectable PSA ,146 men (63.75%) received adjuvant treatments and 44 (19.21%) salvage therapies. Gleason ≥ 7, ≥ pT3a, PSA > 10 ng/dl and positive margins were found as significant predictive factors of detectable PSA after surgery (all p < 0.001). Within patients with detectable PSA, stage ≥ pT3a (HR: 2.71; 95% CI, 1.10-6.67; p < 0.029) and to received adjuvant ADT (HR: 13.36; 95% CI, 5.18-34.48; p < 0.001) were associated with CR. CR-free survival in Gleason ≤ 6 at 3-year was 100% vs 60% for Gleason 7(4+3) and 20% for Gleason ≥ 8, (p 0.02). Men aged < 65 years had higher 3-year CR-free survival than older (35% vs 20%, p 0.05). 10-year CSM rates were higher for patients with CR (25% vs 0% no CR; p < 0.001), for men with Gleason ≥ 8 (10% at 10-y; p 0.003) and pathological stage ≥ pT3a (9% at 10-y; p 0.05). CSM rate for patients who received adjuvant ADT+ RT was 20%, 10% for men with ADT and 0% for patients without adjuvant treatment at 10-year (p 0,03). Conclusions: A detectable PSA is clearly affected by factors associated with high risk prostate cancer. Stage pT3 and adjuvant ADT have an important prognostic value in the prediction of CR. Patients with CR , Gleason ≥ 8, pathologic stage ≥ pT3 and those who are treated with adjuvant ADT+ RT must have a close monitoring due to the high rate of mortality.

A systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the influence of surgical method on specimen margins and biochemical recurrence after radical prostatectomy for high-risk prostate cancer

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Background: To date there is no robust evidence comparing the outcomes of robotic and open radical prostatectomies in patients with high-risk prostate cancer. The purpose of this study is to perform a meta-analysis comparing the rates of positive surgical margins (PSM) and biochemical recurrence (BCR) between open radical prostatectomy (ORP) and robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) in patients with high-risk prostate cancer. Methods: A systematic review was performed on Pubmed, Embase and Scopus databases in August 2016, according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) statement. References retrieved were evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale and the Black and Down’s tool for quality assessment. Nine retrospective cohorts comparing ORP and RARP were selected and included in the meta-analysis. Results: Nine studies reported the PSMs. Patients treated with RARP presented less risk of PSMs (risk difference -0.04, p 0.02) than those treated with ORP. Five articles reported hazard ratios for BCR-free survival. Patients treated with RARP had less risk of BCR (HR 0.72, 95% CI 0.58-0.89) than those treated with ORP. Reports for PSM assessment were considered of adequate quality, while the studies retrieved for BCR assessment were considered limited because of the heterogeneity of their results. Conclusions: Patients with high-risk prostate cancer treated with RARP have less risk of having PSM and BCR when compared to those treated with ORP. A strong conclusion is precluded due to the observational nature of the studies retrieved for our analysis.

High intensity focused ultrasound with Focal-One® device: Prostate-specific antigen impact and morbidity evaluation during the initial experience

OBJECTIVE

We report our initial experience in the treatment of prostate cancer (PCa) with high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) using the Focal-One^® device.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Retrospective review of the prospectively populated database. Between June 2014 to October 2015, 85 patients underwent HIFU (focal/whole-gland) treatment for localized PCa. Preoperative cancer localization was done with multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) and transperineal mapping biopsies. Treatment was carried out using the Focal-One^® device under general anesthesia. Oncological follow-up: PSA measurement and control biopsy with mpMRI according to protocol. Questionnaire-based functional outcome assessment was done. Complications were reported using Clavien classification.

RESULTS

The median PSA was 7.79ng/ml (IQR 6.32-9.16), with a median prostate volume of 38cc (IQR: 33-49.75). Focal and whole-gland therapy was performed in 64 and 21 patients respectively. Ten patients received salvage HIFU. Complications were encountered in 15% of cases, all Clavien 2 graded. Mean hospital stay was 1.8 days (0-7) and bladder catheter was removed on day 2 (1-6). Mean percentage reduction of PSA was 54%. Median follow-up was 3 months (IQR: 2-8). Functional outcomes: All patients were continents at 3 months and potency was maintained in 83% of the preoperatively potent.

CONCLUSIONS

Focal-One^® HIFU treatment appears to be a safe procedure with few complications. Functional outcomes proved no urinary incontinence and sexual function were maintained in 83%.

Clinical performance of transperineal template guided mapping biopsy for therapeutic decision making in low risk prostate cancer

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the role of Transperineal Template guided Mapping Biopsy (TTMB) in determining the management strategy in patients with low risk prostate cancer (PCa).

METHODS

We retroscpectively evaluated 169 patients who underwent TTMB at our institution from February 2008 to June 2011. Ninety eight of them harbored indolent PCa defined as: Prostate Specific Antigen<10ng/ml, Gleason score 6 or less, clinical stage T2a or less, unilateral disease and a maximum of one third positive cores at first biopsy and<50% of the core involved. TTMB results were analyzed for Gleason score upgrading and upstaging as compared to initial TransRectal UltraSound (TRUS) biopsies and its influence on the change in the treatment decisions.

RESULTS

TTMB detected cancer in 64 (65%) patients. The upgrade, upstage and both were noted in 33% (n=21), 12% (n=8) and 7% (n=5) respectively of the detected cancers. The disease characteristics was similar to initial TRUS in 30 (48%) patients and TTMB was negative in 34 (35%) patients. Prostate volume was significantly smaller in patients with upgrade and/or upstage noted at TTMB (45.4 vs 37.9; P=.03). TTMB results influenced 73.5% of upgraded and/or upstaged patients to receive radical treatment while 81% of the patients with unmodified stage and/or grade continued active surveillance or focal therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with low risk PCa diagnosed by TRUS, subsequent TTMB demonstrated cancer upgrade and/or upstage in about one-third of the patients and resulted in eventual change in treatment decision.

[Localized prostate cancer Focal Therapy: "A la carte" Model]

Focal therapy has settled as an alternative to radical treatment in selected cases of localized prostate cancer. The selection of patients who are candidates for focal therapy is based on imaging diagnosis relying on multiparametric MRI and image fusion techniques. Thanks to the oncological results and safety profiles of initial series, various energy sources have been developed over the last years. The availability of multiple types of energy sources for focal therapy, commits us to evaluate what type of energy would be the optimal depending on patient's profile and type of lesion. A unique energy for focal therapy would be ideal, but facing the research of the various types of energy we must identify which one is recommended for each lesion. With the experience of our center in different approaches of focal therapy we propose the "A LA CARTE" MODEL based on localization of the lesion. We present the criteria the "a la carte" model is based on, supported by the published evidence on the use of different ablative therapies for the treatment of localized prostate cancer. Lesion localization, technical characteristics of each type of energy, patient's profile and secondary effects must be considered in every choice of focal therapy.