A multi-institutional European comparative study of open versus robotic-assisted laparoscopic ureteral reimplantation in children with high grade (IV-V) vesicoureteral reflux

INTRODUCTION

Traditionally, open ureteral reimplantation (OUR) has been the standard treatment for primary vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) requiring reimplantation. Robotic-assisted laparoscopic ureteral reimplantation (RALUR) is gaining popularity and high success rates have been reported.

OBJECTIVE

In this multi-institutional study, we aimed to compare the perioperative and postoperative outcomes of OUR and RALUR for high-grade (IV + V) VUR in children.

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective evaluation was performed collecting data from 135 children (0-18 years) who underwent high grade VUR surgical correction at nine European institutions between 01/01/2009 and 01/12/2020, involving either open or robotic approaches. Institutional review board approval was obtained. Patients with lower grades of VUR (≤III), previous history of open or endoscopic ureteral surgery, neurogenic bladder, or refluxing megaureter in need of ureteral tapering were excluded. Pre-, peri- and post-operative data were statistically compared.

RESULTS

Overall, 135 children who underwent either OUR (n = 68), or RALUR (n = 67) were included, and their clinic and demographic features were collected. The mean age of the open group was 11 months (interquartile range [IQR] 9.9-16.6 months), in the RALUR group it was 59 months (IQR 29-78mo) (p < 0.01); the open cohort had a weight of 11 kg (IQR 9.9-16.6 kg) while the RALUR group had 19 kg (IQR 13-25 kg) (p < 0.01). No significant differences were found for intraoperative (1.5 % vs 7.5 %, p = 0.09) or for postoperative complication rates (7.4 % vs 9 %, p = 0.15). Favorable outcomes were reported in the RALUR group: shorter time to stooling (1 vs 2 days), fewer indwelling urethral catheter days (1 vs 5 days), perioperative drain insertion time (1 vs 5 days) and a shorter length of hospital stay (2 vs 5 days) (p < 0.01). The success rate was 94.0 % and 98.5 % in the open and RALUR groups, respectively. The long-term clinical success rates from both groups was comparable:42 vs 23 months for open and RALUR, respectively.

DISCUSSION

This study reported a large multicentric experience focusing on high grade VUR. Furthermore, this study compares favorably to OUR in a safety analysis. There was also a trend towards higher success rates with RALUR utilizing an extravesical approach which has not been previously reported.

CONCLUSION

RALUR is an efficacious and safe platform to use during ureteral reimplantation for high grade VUR. The overall peri-operative and post-operative complication rates are at least equivalent to OUR, but it is associated with a faster functional recovery and time to discharge. Medium to long term success rates are also equivalent to OUR.

Undescended testis: A roundtable discussion based on clinical scenarios - Part 1

Undescended testis (UDT, cryptorchidism) is the most common congenital anomaly of the genital tract. Despite its high incidence, the management of UDT varies between specialties (urology, pediatric surgery, pediatric urology, pediatric endocrinology). Therefore, as the European Association of Urology - Young Academic Urologists Pediatric Urology Working Group, we requested experts around the world to express their own personal approaches against various case scenarios of UDT in order to explore their individual reasoning. We intended to broaden the perspectives of our colleagues who deal with the treatment of this frequent genital malformation.

Pathways to paediatric urology subspecialisation: a study of casemix, incumbent attitudes and opinions

OBJECTIVE

To identify any self-reported differences or attitudes towards certification, publication, or practice patterns between adult urology and paediatric general surgery-trained paediatric urology providers. There are no known published differences in clinical/operative/research outcomes in either group.

METHODS

An 18-item cross-sectional survey was compiled through the EAU Young Academic Urologists (YAU) office and disseminated to a trans-Atlantic convenience sample of current practising paediatric urologists. This was created using a mini-Delphi method to provide current semi-quantitative data relating to current opinions and attitudes of this cohort.

RESULTS

A total of 228 respondents completed the survey, with female respondents representing 37% and 34% for urology and paediatric general surgery, respectively. Nearly 90% overall respondents felt that a full 2-year paediatric fellowship program was very important and 94% endorsed a collaborative dedicated paediatric urology on call service, with 92% supporting the joint development of transitional care. Urology managed higher numbers of bedwetting (p = 0.04), bladder bowel dysfunction (p = 0.02), endourological procedures (p = 0.04), and robotics (p = 0.04). Paediatric general surgery managed higher numbers of laparoscopic reconstruction (p = 0.03), and posterior urethral valve ablation (p = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

This study represents the first time that a cross-sectional cohort of paediatric urologists from different training backgrounds were compared to assess their productivity, practice patterns and attitudes. Paediatric urology is in a unique position to have two contributing specialities, with the ability to provide optimal transitional and lifelong care. We believe that there should be a strong emphasis on collaboration and to remove any historically-created barriers under policies of equity, diversity and inclusivity.

Mobility and Sporting Activity After Renal Trauma: A Survey Regarding Best Clinical Practice During the Recovery Stage

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate strategies that are followed after pediatric renal trauma during the recovery stage, with an emphasis on mobility and involvement in subsequent sporting activities. Renal trauma is the most common urogenital trauma in children. The American Association for the Surgery of Trauma (AAST) scale is most commonly used to stratify the severity of injury. There is no consensus in the existing literature with respect to the recovery stage following renal trauma.

METHODS

A survey was constructed by the European Association of Urology (EAU) - Young Academic Urologists (YAU) Pediatric Urology Working Group and then made digitally available on SurveyMonkey. The survey consists of 15 questions exploring relevant factors and timing to start again with mobility and activity.

RESULTS

In total 153 people responded, of whom 107 completed the entire survey. The presence of pain and severity of trauma were acknowledged as most important factors to commence mobilization, whereas presence of hematuria was identified as an additional factor for sporting activity. Regardless of severity of trauma a minimum of 90% of respondents recommend return to noncontact sports within 12weeks. For contact sports, a minimum of 33% of respondents advised >12weeks minimum before starting again. A small number of respondents would never allow sporting activities again.

CONCLUSION

The time to allow sporting activity shows high variation among the respondents, some even restricting sporting activities completely. This survey highlights the need for a standardized protocol based on multicenter follow-up data.

Neuropsychiatric Developmental Disorders in Children Are Associated With an Impaired Response to Treatment in Bladder Bowel Dysfunction: A Prospective Multi-Institutional European Observational Study

PURPOSE

Bladder and bowel dysfunction is a common but underdiagnosed pediatric entity which may represent up to 47% of pediatric urology consults. The objectives of this observational study were to determine functional 1-year outcomes following standard treatment of bladder and bowel dysfunction in both control and neuropsychiatric developmental disorder groups using validated questionnaires, and to perform an initial cost analysis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a prospective observational study conducted across a number of academic European centers (July 2020-November 2022) for new bladder and bowel dysfunction patients. Parents completed a sociodemographic survey, information pertaining to prior neuropsychiatric developmental disorder diagnoses, as well as a number of validated functional scores.

RESULTS

A total of 240 patients were recruited. In the control bladder and bowel dysfunction group, the baseline Dysfunctional Voiding Scoring System and Childhood Bladder and Bowel Dysfunction Questionnaire scores were 20% and 17.% lower, respectively, after 1 year compared to the neuropsychiatric developmental disorder group. The change in improvement was diminished for the neuropsychiatric developmental disorder cohort in both Dysfunctional Voiding Scoring System and Childhood Bladder and Bowel Dysfunction Questionnaire scores. The odds ratio of full symptom resolution was 5.7 in the control cohort compared to the neuropsychiatric developmental disorder cohort. A cost analysis on prescribed medications at referral led to a total cost of €32,603.76 (US $35,381.00) in the control group and €37,625.36 (US $40,830.00) in the neuropsychiatric developmental disorder group.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that pediatric patients with a neuropsychiatric developmental disorder exhibit more severe bladder and bowel dysfunction at baseline and throughout treatment with a lower overall quality of life, as well as 15.4% higher medication costs at referral. It is also important that parents' and caregivers' expectations are managed regarding higher levels of treatment resistance for functional bladder and bowel issues.

Primum Non Discernere: Glass Ceilings and Female Representation at the European Association of Urology and European Society for Paediatric Urology Annual Meetings, 2012-2022

Background

The term glass ceiling coined by Loden in 1978 is commonly used to describe difficulties faced by minorities and women when trying to move into senior roles.

Objective

To analyse trends and patterns for female representation at the European Association of Urology (EAU) and European Society for Paediatric Urology (ESPU) annual general meetings over the past decade.

Design setting and participants

We used objective data on female representation in the roles of chairs, moderators, and lecture speakers at the EAU and ESPU meetings from 2012 to 2022.

Outcome measurements and statistical analysis

We evaluated gender based representation in paediatric urology sessions at the EAU and ESPU meetings, collecting data on the overall number of sessions, lectures, symposiums, abstract/poster sessions, and courses, and analysed the male/female ratio. Data were derived from printed and digital programmes for the relevant meetings.

Results and limitations

During the period from 2012 to 2022, the percentage female representation varied from 0% (2012) to a maximum of 35% (2022) at EUA paediatric urology sessions, and from 13.5% (2014) to a maximum of 32% (2022) at ESPU meetings. Both associations show clear progression towards equality.

Conclusions

Female representation at EAU and ESPU meetings has risen over the years, reaching 35% and 32%, respectively, in 2022, which is in line with the number of female members. We hope that this motivates a move towards the equality objectives for 2030. A clear and fundamental societal change is needed, with fair and more consistent institutional policies and framework commitments in the areas of science, medicine, and global health. Gender equality and diversity taskforces are essential to achieve these goals.

Patient summary

We analysed the male/female ratio for participants in annual meetings held by the European Association of Urology and the European Society for Paediatric Urology. From a low level in 2012, the ratio increased to over 30% in 2022, in line with the female membership of the societies. Focus on fair and consistent policies is needed to ensure that women are well represented in medicine.

A cross-sectional analysis of paediatric urologists' current practices, opinions and areas of perceived importance in the delivery of adolescent & transitional care

INTRODUCTION

Complex urological anomalies often require continued care as patients reach adulthood. Adequate transition for adolescents with ongoing urological care needs is critical to allow for seamless care in adult hospitals. Studies have shown that this can lead to improved patient and parental satisfaction, and lower utilisation of unplanned inpatient beds and emergency department visits. There is currently no ESPU-EAU consensus on the adequate mechanism and very few individual papers examining the role of urological transition for these patients in a European setting. This study aimed to identify current practice patterns in paediatric urologists providing adolescent/transitional care, to assess their opinions towards formal transition and to look for variations in care. This has implications for long-term patient health and specialist care.

METHODS

An 18-item cross-sectional survey was compiled and pre-approved through the EAU-EWPU and ESPU board offices prior to dissemination to all registered ordinary members affiliated with the ESPU. This was created using a mini-Delphi method through the EWPU research meetings to provide current semi-quantitative data relating to current opinions and attitudes of this cohort.

RESULTS

A total of 172 respondents (55% paediatric general surgery; 45% urology) across 28 countries completed the survey. The majority of respondents were in practice >10 years and spent >80% time in paediatric urology. There was no formal transition process according to 50% respondents and over half of those that did have less than 1/month, with <10% using validated questionnaires. More than two-thirds respondents continued to provide care after transition, as >70% units had no designated corresponding adult service. Furthermore, 93% paediatric believe a formal transition service to be very important, using a multidisciplinary framework. A pareto chart demonstrated 10 specific conditions to be of most interest in transition to adulthood.

CONCLUSION

This is the first study to assess the requirements of paediatric urologists for adequate transitional care, however due to the nature of the survey's distribution, this was a non-scientific poll based on a convenience sample of respondents. It is critical that dual-trained or adult-trained urologists with a specific interest in paediatric urology work with current paediatric urologists in a multidisciplinary fashion to facilitate early transition based on the adolescent's developmental and biopsychosocial requirements. National urological and paediatric surgical societies need to make transitional urology a priority. The ESPU and EAU should collaboratively consider developing transitional urology guidelines to allow a framework by which this can occur.

Robotic approach with neoadjuvant chemotherapy in adult Wilms' tumor: A feasibility study report and a systematic review of the literature

Objective

The incidence of Wilms' tumor (WT) among adult individuals accounts for less than 1% of kidney cancer cases, with a prognosis usually less favorable when compared to younger individuals and an overall survival rate of 70% for the adult patients versus 90% for the pediatric cases. The diagnosis and treatment of WT are complex in the preoperative setting; neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) or robotic surgery has rarely been described. This study aimed to review the literature of robotic surgery in WT and report the first adult WT management using both NAC and robotic strategy.

Methods

We reported a case of WT managed in a multidisciplinary setting. Furthermore, according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses recommendations, a systematic review of the literature until August 2020 of WT treated with a robotic approach was carried out.

Results

A 33-year-old female had a diagnosis of WT. She was scheduled to NAC, and according to the clinical and radiological response to a robotic radical nephrectomy with aortic lymph nodes dissection, she was managed with no intraoperative rupture, a favorable surgical outcome, and a follow-up of 25 months, which did not show any recurrence. The systematic review identified a total number of 230 cases of minimally invasive surgery reported in the literature for WT. Of these, approximately 15 patients were carried out using robotic surgery in adolescents while none in adults. Moreover, NAC has not been administered before minimally invasive surgery in adults up until now.

Conclusion

WT is a rare condition in adults with only a few cases treated with either NAC or minimally invasive approach so far. The advantage of NAC followed by the robotic approach could lead to favorable outcomes in this complex scenario. Notwithstanding, additional cases of adult WT need to be identified and investigated to improve the oncological outcome.

Robotic Partial Nephrectomy for Bilateral Renal Masses

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

There are very few data on patients undergoing robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) for bilateral renal masses. The aim of this review is to update the literature and discuss the controversial points on this topic.

RECENT FINDINGS

Nine papers have been published regarding RAPN for bilateral renal masses. In particular, five papers were case reports while the remaining four reported patient series. Concerning the outcomes, all these papers highlighted the safety, feasibility, and efficacy of bilateral RAPN for bilateral renal masses. The literature confirmed RAPN as an optimal procedure for the treatment of bilateral renal masses. However, these outcomes mainly derived from selected group of patients who underwent complex surgical procedures by expert robotic surgeons at high volume centers and cannot be generalizable to all categories of patients or centers. The simultaneous bilateral approach resulted feasible showing some advantages and without higher complications than a staged procedure in particular when clampless or selective clamping techniques were performed.

Being born small for gestational age (SGA) might be associated with a higher reoperation rate in proximal hypospadias

PURPOSE

Being born small for gestational age (SGA) is associated with a higher frequency and more severe forms of hypospadias as well as with potential developmental differences. This study aims to characterize operative outcomes in SGA boys compared to boys born with normal weight and length for gestational age (appropriate/large for gestational age, AGA/LGA).

METHODS

Demographic data, hypospadias characteristics, associated pathologies and operative outcomes of boys who underwent hypospadias repair at a single center (10/2012-10/2019) were evaluated. Boys were categorized into SGA and non-SGA, which were then compared using unpaired t-tests and chi square tests. To examine the effect of SGA on reoperative risk, a logistic regression model was applied integrating surgical technique, meatal localization and complex hypospadias (narrow glans/plate, curvature, micropenis, bilateral cryptorchidism).

RESULTS

SGA boys accounted for 13.7% (n = 80) of the total cohort (n = 584) and 33% of all proximal hypospadias (n = 99, SGA vs. non-SGA 41.3% vs. 13%, p < 0.001). After a mean follow-up of 18.6 months the reoperation rate for all hypospadias was 17.9% (n = 105). In distal hypospadias there was no difference in reoperation rate between SGA and AGA/LGA boys (p = 0.548, multivariate regression model). For each meatal localization in proximal hypospadias SGA was a significant, independent factor predicting higher reoperation rates (p = 0.019, OR 3.21) in a logistic regression model (Figure ROC).

DISCUSSION

Hypospadias surgery carries a substantial risk for unplanned reinterventions. Apart from meatal localization, there are only a few factors (urethral plate quality, glandular diameter, curvature) reported in literature to be associated with reoperative risk. Intrauterine growth retardation associated with SGA might lead to not only a higher probability of proximal hypospadias but also contribute to a higher risk for complications mediated by developmental differences. Whether these findings could help to tailor surgical strategies or adjuvant measures, as for example the application of preoperative hormonal stimulation remains to be determined in future studies. This study is limited by being a single-center series with limited follow-up resulting in some complications probably not yet detected - however, in the same extent in both groups.

CONCLUSION

Based on this study, 33% of all proximal hypospadias cases occur in boys born SGA. While the reoperation rate in boys with distal hypospadias was not influenced by SGA status, SGA proved to be an independent predictor of a higher risk of reoperation in those with proximal hypospadias. After validation of these findings in other centers, this could be integrated into counseling and risk-stratification.

Core urological surgical training: The pivotal role of feminizing genital reconstruction for gender dysphoria

Not available.

Simultaneous robotic partial nephrectomy for bilateral renal masses

PURPOSE

There is currently no consensus regarding the optimal treatment strategy for patients presenting with synchronous bilateral renal masses. The decision to perform bilateral procedures on the same intervention or in staged procedures is debated. The aim of this manuscript is to analyse the outcomes of simultaneous robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) in a series of patients with bilateral renal masses treated at five Italian robotic institutions.

METHODS

Data from a prospectively maintained multi-institutional database on patients subjected to simultaneous RAPN between November 2011 and July 2019 were reviewed. RAPNs were performed with da Vinci Si or Xi surgical system by expert robotic surgeons. Baseline demographics and clinical features, peri- and post-operative data were collected.

RESULTS

Overall, 27 patients underwent simultaneous bilateral RAPN, and 54 RAPNs were performed without need of conversion; median operative time was 250 minutes, median estimated blood loss was 200 mL. Renal artery clamping was needed for 27 (50%) RAPNs with a median warm ischemia time of 15 minutes and no case of acute kidney injury. Complications were reported in 7 (25.9%) patients, mainly represented by Clavien 2 events (6 blood transfusions). Positive surgical margins were assessed in 2 (3.7%) of the renal cell carcinoma. At the median follow-up of 30 months, recurrence-free survival was 100%.

CONCLUSION

Our data showed that, in selected patients and expert hands, simultaneous bilateral RAPNs could be a safe and feasible procedure with promising results for the treatment of bilateral synchronous renal masses.

Ureteral Reimplantation for Primary Obstructive Megaureter in Pediatric Patients: Is It Time for Robot-Assisted Approach?

Objective: To compare open and robotic approach for treatment of Primary Obstructive Megaureter (POM) in a series of pediatric patients. Materials and Methods: Medical records of all patients who had undergone ureteral reimplantation for POM at our institution, between January 2016 and December 2019, were retrospectively collected and analyzed. Open (Group B) and robotic (Group A) approach were compared. Success was defined as reduction of anteroposterior diameter of pelvis and ureter on postoperative ultrasound scan. Surgical complications were reported according to the Clavien-Dindo Classification. Esthetic results were compared through the Vancouver Scar Scale. Results: Out of 23 patients, 11 belonged to Group A (5M and 6F) and 12 to Group B (9M and 3F). Median age at diagnosis was 38 months in Group A and 46 months in Group B (P = .69). Operative times were comparable (150' Group A and 140' Group B; P = .35), but the hospital stay was significantly shorter in the robotic group (P < .01). Success rate was comparable: 90.9% in Group A and 91.7% in Group B, respectively (P = .95). Incidence of early complications was 9.1% in Group A (grade IIIB) and 8.3% in Group B (grade II) (P = .95). Esthetic evaluation obtained a median score of 1 in Group A and 3 in Group B (P < .01). Conclusions: Our preliminary experience shows that robotic reimplantation can be a safe option in the treatment of POM in pediatric patients with clinical outcomes comparable to the open technique.

A comparative study of anticoagulant/antiplatelet therapy among men undergoing robot-assisted radical prostatectomy: a prospective single institution study

The present study aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) in patients with prostate cancer (PCa) under anticoagulant (AC) and/or antiplatelet (AP) therapy, as compared to a control group, and to establish possible differences in postoperative-related morbidity. Data of all consecutive patients submitted to elective RARP for PCa from June 2017 to May 2020 at our institution were prospectively collected. Patients were divided according to the use of AC/AP therapy at surgery. The primary endpoint was to determine differences in 90-day postoperative complication rate, while secondary endpoints included differences in transfusion rate, readmission rate and postoperative oncological outcomes between the two groups. Sub-groups analysis was separately performed for patients undergoing pelvic lymphadenectomy and nerve-sparing procedures. Overall, 822 patients were included in the study and divided in 704 control-group patients (group A) and 118 patients under AC/AP therapy at surgery (group B). Despite the higher estimated blood loss between AC/AP takers and the control group, we did not find a significant difference in terms of 90-day postoperative complication rate, transfusion rate, readmission rate and postoperative oncological outcomes (all p > 0.05). In the cohort of patients undergoing nerve-sparing prostatectomy, a higher rate of complications and transfusions were found. At multivariate analysis, ASA score and ongoing medications were independently associated with complication in this sub-group. RARP can be safely and effectively performed in patients with PCa and ongoing AC/AP agents. Attention has to be paid in candidates for nerve-sparing procedures.

Treatment of ureteropelvic junction obstruction and urolithiasis in children with minimally invasive surgery

BACKGROUND

Ureteropelvic Junction Obstruction (UPJO) is the most common congenital ureteral anomaly. Nowadays, according to the increasing incidence of urolithiasis, 20% of children with UPJO presents urolithiasis. Open pyeloplasty was the standard treatment before the introduction of minimally invasive surgery (MIS). Nevertheless, only scattered experiences on MIS were previously described and universal agreement on the treatment of UPJO plus urolithiasis is still missing.

OBJECTIVE

The study aim was to describe our experience with a series of pediatric patients affected by UPJO and urolithiasis treated with robot-assisted pyeloplasty (RAP) and endoscopic removal of stones using a flexible cystoscope and a stones basket in a singular tertiary referral center.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed our data from pediatric patients affected by UPJO and urolithiasis undergoing RAP between April 2013 and December 2019. The analysis was conducted on seven patients. All procedures were performed by one expert robotic surgeon and one endoscopic surgeon skilled in the management of urolithiasis.

RESULTS

The mean age was 7 years (IQR 4-16). The median stone area was 77.7 mm two (IQR 50.2-148.4). Most of them (71.4%) presented preoperative symptoms. The median operative time was 110 min (IQR 104-125) with a console time of 90 (IQR 90-105). The median length of stay was 5 days (IQR 4-5). Median follow-up was 16 months (IQR 10-25).

CONCLUSION

RAP with concomitant flexible ureteroscope is a safe and effective option for the simultaneous management of UPJO with urolithiasis with excellent outcomes in children.

Robot-assisted partial nephrectomy with 3D preoperative surgical planning: video presentation of the florentine experience

Purpose:

Three-dimensional (3D) virtual models have recently gained consideration in the partial nephrectomy (PN) field as useful tools since they may potentially improve preoperative surgical planning and thus contributing to maximizing postoperative outcomes (1-5).

The aim of the present study was to describe our first experience with 3D virtual models as preoperative guidance for robot-assisted PN.

Materials and methods:

Data of patients with renal mass amenable to robotic PN were prospectively collected at our Institution from January to April 2020. Using a dedicated web-based platform, abdominal CT-scan images were processed by M3DICS (Turin, Italy) and used to obtain 3D virtual models. 2D CT images and 3D models were separately assessed by two different highly experienced urologists to assess the PADUA score and risk category and to forecast the surgical strategy of the single cases, accordingly.

Results:

Overall, 30 patients were included in the study. Median tumor size was 4.3cm (range 1.3-11). Interestingly, 8 (26.4%) cases had their PADUA score downgraded when switching from 2D CT-scan to 3D virtual model assessment and 4 (13.4%) cases had also lowered their PADUA risk category. Moreover, preoperative off-clamp, selective clamping strategy and enucleation resection strategy increased from CT-scan to 3D evaluation.

Conclusion:

3D virtual models are promising tools as they showed to offer a reliable assessment of surgical planning. However, the advantages offered by the 3D reconstruction appeared to be more evident as the complexity of the mass raises. These tools may ultimately increase tumor's selection for PN, particularly in highly complex renal masses.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest: The authors declare they do not have conflict of interests.

Informed consent: Informed consent was obtained from all individual participants included in the study. All the procedures were in accordance with the ethical standards of the institutional and national research Committee and with the 1964 Helsinki declaration and its later amendments or comparable ethical standards.

Urological management and surgical procedures in migrants from Sub-Saharan Africa with urogenital schistosomiasis

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

An increasing number of urogenital schistosomiasis (UGS) is being diagnosed in Europe following the unprecedented migratory flux from Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). This phenomenon represent a challenge for urologists working in a non-endemic area. The aim of this study is to describe the urological management and the surgical procedures of patients with UGS in a tertiary referral centre.

PATIENTS

All subjects from SAA diagnosed with UGS from January 2011 to November 2018 were enrolled retrospectively. Detailed data of patients with UGS undergoing to urological procedures were collected and analysed.

RESULTS

Thirty patients were diagnosed with UGS, among them 12 (42.8%) were submitted to surgery. The most common surgical procedure was trans urethral resection of bladder (TURB) for suspected lesions persisted after praziquantel treatment performed in 7cases (58%). Other surgical procedure were TURB and concomitant ureteroscopy with laser fragmentation for suspected bladder neoplasm with renal stone, endoscopic lithotripsy and percutaneous nephrolithotomy for bladder and renal stones, laparoscopic nephrectomy for end-stage kidney disease, placement of bilateral nephrostomy for hydroureteronephrosis, explorative testicular surgery for a suspected testicular torsion in one case each. Four patients (33%) were lost at the follow up.

CONCLUSION

An increasing number of migrants from SSA diagnosed with UGS has been observed. Some patients required a surgical intervention for suspected neoplastic lesions or end-stage organ damage. It was particularly difficult to perform a regular follow-up in several patients. Further multicentric studies are needed to reach a proper standard in diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of subjects with UGS.

Check cystoscopy in the management of anterior urethral valves in a cohort of pediatric patients

INTRODUCTION

Anterior urethral valves (AUV) are a rare cause of lower urinary tract obstruction which could progress to renal damage, Clinical presentation varies according with patient's age and severity of obstruction, but, in most cases, diagnosis is based on voiding cysto-urethrogram (VCUG). To date, the treatment of choice is endoscopic ablation even if approved guidelines about the overall management of AUVs, including the recognition and treatment of residual valves, are not available.

OBJECTIVE

We describe our protocol for AUV treatment based on primary endoscopic valve ablation followed by check cystoscopy 15 days later.

STUDY DESIGN

Medical records of 5 patients with AUVs admitted from 2008 to 2018 to our Pediatric Urology Unit were retrospectively reviewed. Blood tests, urinalysis, renal US and VCUG were performed in all children, while urodynamic evaluation was performed in the 3/5 patients who could void spontaneously. All patients underwent endoscopic valves ablation and after 15 days after a second look cystoscopy was performed. Follow up was based on clinical and radiological evaluation with US, urinalysis and blood tests. Postoperative non-invasive urodynamic studies were performed in the 3/5 patient toilet-trained patients and VCUG was performed in 1/5 patient.

RESULTS

and Discussion: At primary endoscopic ablation cystoscopy revealed AUVs in the penile urethra in three patients, in the penoscrotal urethra in one case, in the bulbar urethra in another case. In 3/5 patients check cystoscopy found residual valves and a second endoscopic ablation was performed. All patients achieved symptoms release and improved urodynamic parameters. No intra or post-operative complication were reported. The assessment of residual valves is variable in literature and it is usually described for posterior urethral valves (PUVs). Few series report the use of VCUG within the first week after valve ablation, our experience instead suggests that performing a second look cystoscopy, is very effective to evaluate the presence of residual AUVs and eventually proceed with further ablation.

CONCLUSION

Endoscopic ablation is the gold standard treatment for AUV, but residual valves management is not clearly defined. According to our experience, a check cystoscopy 15 days after primary ablation allows to identify and treat possible residual valves showing good results in terms of safety and efficacy.

Remote consultations in paediatric urology-Not just for pandemics?

Although some centres have successfully integrated remote clinics into their paediatric urological practice, for many, remote clinics have developed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. One UK-based institution has integrated remote clinics in their practice for over two years and has developed guidelines considering which conditions may be suitable for remote consultations. These guidelines have been appraised by the European Association of Urology Young Academic Urologists paediatric working group. Through practical experience and anticipated difficulties, we have discussed considerations that paediatric urology departments should ponder when integrating remote clinics into their practice as we move forward from the pandemic.

Sperm retrieval by conventional testicular sperm extraction for assisted reproduction in patients with Zinner syndrome

We present data from three Caucasian men with Zinner syndrome who attended our center for the treatment of primary couple’s infertility. Each patient was scheduled for conventional testicular sperm extraction (cTESE) and cryopreservation. Sperm analysis confirmed absolute azoospermia. Patient 1 had right and left testis volumes of 24 mL and 23 mL, respectively; left seminal vesicle (SV) agenesis, severe right SV hypotrophy with right renal agenesis. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) was 3.2 IU/L. Patient 2 exhibited right and left testis volumes of 18 mL and 16 mL, respectively; a left SV cyst of 32 × 28 mm, ipsilateral kidney absence, and right SV agenesis. FSH was 2.8 IU/L. Patient 3 showed a testicular volume of 10 mL bilaterally, a 65 × 46 mm left SV cyst, right SV enlargement, and left kidney agenesis. FSH was 32.0 IU/L. Sperm retrieval was successful in all patients. Nevertheless, cTESE should be performed on the day of oocyte retrieval.

Can we predict the development of symptomatic lymphocele following robot-assisted radical prostatectomy and lymph node dissection? Results from a tertiary referral Centre

Objectives: Robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) has been established as first-line surgical therapy for organ-confined prostate cancer (PCa). Pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND) is recommended in case of intermediate and high-risk localized PCa however symptomatic lymphocele (SL) formation is a common complication. Still no certain clinical and surgical predictors of SL have been found in the robotic era. Aim of this study was to identify clinical and surgical predictors of SL after RARP and PLND.Methods: We retrospectively evaluated all consecutive patients undergone RARP and PLND from 01/2017 to 06/2019, at our institution. All procedures were performed by experienced robotic surgeons. Baseline patients' characteristics, as well as peri- and post-operative features, were recorded and compared among those patients experiencing SL after surgery and those who did not.Results: Overall, 282 patients were included. Of these, 21 (7.5%) developed SL after surgery. Patients with SL showed higher median BMI (30.4 vs 25.8) and a more frequent history of vascular surgery or lymph-vascular disease (23.8% vs 8.4%) compared to patients without SL (p < 0.05). The lymphadenectomy technique adopted during the surgery was also found different in patients diagnosed with SL. At the multivariable analysis (MVA), only the increase of BMI (OR 1.72; CI: 1.47 - 2.81) was found predictor of developing SL.Conclusion: In our experience, the increase of BMI was a significant predictor of SL development in pCa patients submitted to RARP and PLND. This further evidence may be of great help for clinicians in daily clinical practice, in particular during preoperative counseling.

Perioperative outcomes of robotic and laparoscopic adrenalectomy: a large international multicenter experience

BACKGROUND

The aim of the study was to describe the surgical outcomes of a retrospective series of consecutive patients treated with laparoscopic and robotic approach for adrenal masses in two tertiary referral centers.

METHODS

We retrospectively gathered data of 477 patients submitted to adrenalectomy performed at two Institutions from March 2008 to February 2018 by six highly experienced surgeons. We excluded from the analysis 43 patients that had an open approach for tumors or for anesthetic contraindications to minimally invasive surgery (MIS). Patients were selected for surgery after a radiologic and an endocrinology work up. Preoperative, perioperative and postoperative data were recorded.

RESULTS

Overall, 477 patients were included in the study. The robotic and the laparoscopic group included 110 and 367 patients, respectively. The preoperative characteristics were similar in both groups except for ASA score with a median (IQR) of 3 and 2 in the robotic and in the laparoscopic group, respectively (p = 0.03). Tumor size of adrenal tumors treated robotically (4, IQR 2.6-6 cm) was significantly larger than those treated laparoscopically (3, IQR 2.3-4.1 cm) (p = 0.01). The intraoperative complication rates were similar between robotic and laparoscopic groups (6.3% and 6%, respectively). The postoperative complication rate was 5.4% for robotic group and similarly 3.5% for laparoscopic adrenalectomy strategy. We analyzed the tumor ≥ 6 cm, with 29 patients in the robotic group and 43 in the laparoscopic one, with an overall complication rate of 19.5%. At multivariable analyses tumor size (OR 1.287; CI 1.128-1.468; p < 0.001) was the only independent predictor of overall complication.

CONCLUSION

Adrenal tumors can be safely treated either by robotic or laparoscopic strategy. MIS seems to be feasible also in larger adrenal masses (≥ 6 cm). Tumor size represents the only predictive factors for overall complication.

Robotic treatment for urinary tract endometriosis: preliminary results and surgical details in a high-volume single-Institutional cohort study

BACKGROUND

Aim of the study was to present the surgical techniques and the postoperative outcomes in women treated with robotic excision for deep endometriosis involving the urinary tract.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the prospectively recorded clinical data of women consecutively undergoing minimally invasive treatment for complex endometriosis involving urinary tract in our center between January 2012 and June 2018. All the patients received a preoperative multidisciplinary evaluation with the general surgeon, the gynecologist and the urologist due to the frequent concomitant involvement of bowel and genital system. Patients undergoing robotic surgery were treated with the Si or Xi da Vinci surgical system.

RESULTS

A total of 74 consecutive patients were enrolled. Twenty-eight (37.8%) patients underwent conventional laparoscopy and 46 (62.2%) robotic surgery. Only patients treated with robotic approach were considered for the final analyses. Overall, 17 (36.9%) patients were treated with partial cystectomy, 13 (28.3%) with ureteral reimplantation, 10 (21.7%) patients were treated with ureteral lysis, 4 (8.7%) with removal of bladder endometrial node without opening the mucosa layer and 2 (4.3%) with ureteral end-to-end anastomosis. Concomitant involvement of bowel and genital system was registered in 14 (30.4%) and 32 (69.5%) patients, respectively. No conversions to laparotomy were recorded. Overall, 5 (10.9%) patients experienced postoperative complications, of which only one was a major complication (Clavien 3b). At a median follow-up of 31.3 (IQR 17.6-43.3) months, 4 (8.7%) patients experienced disease recurrence at the level of urinary tract.

CONCLUSIONS

Robotic excision of urological endometriosis represents a safe and effective treatment option, since a limited rate of surgical complications was recorded even in cases of multi-organ disease.

Clinical predictors and significance of adherent perinephric fat assessed with Mayo Adhesive Probability (MAP) score and perinephric fat surface density (PnFSD) at the time of partial nephrectomy for localized renal mass. A single high-volume referral center experience

BACKGROUND

Adherent perinephric fat (APF) could negatively influence surgical outcomes of partial nephrectomy (PN). Novel radiological scores have been introduced to preoperatively detect APF, i.e. Mayo Adhesive Probability (MAP) score and perinephric fat surface density (PnFSD). We aimed to evaluate clinical predictors of APF and the association of MAP and PnFSD with perioperative outcomes after PN.

METHODS

Clinical and radiological data of patients undergoing open or robotic PN were prospectively gathered. Perinephric fat was retrospectively measured by a single expert uro-radiologist. Patients were divided into MAP 0-3 vs. MAP 4-5 and high vs. low PnFSD. Multivariable analysis was performed to seek for clinical predictors of APF.

RESULTS

Overall, 175 patients were entered. Patients with vs. without APF were significantly different regarding age, gender, ASA score, Charlson Comorbidity Index, Body Mass Index, waist circumference, HDL status and metabolic syndrome. Conversely, tumor-related characteristics were not significantly different between the groups. At multivariable analysis, metabolic syndrome was confirmed as the only independent predictor of APF (OR: 24.9; P<0.001). Notably, APF assessed by MAP score or PnFSD was not associated with perioperative outcomes after PN.

CONCLUSIONS

In experienced hands, APF did not impact on intra- or perioperative outcomes after PN. Metabolic syndrome was the only significant predictor of APF in our series.

Does the body weight influence the outcome in children treated with robotic pyeloplasty?

INTRODUCTION

To investigate the influence of the body weight on peri- and postoperative outcome in a series of pediatric patients with a diagnosis of uretero-pelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) treated with robot-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty (RALP) at a single tertiary referral center.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, outcomes of RALP in children divided according to the weight are evaluated.

STUDY DESIGN

Sixty-one consecutive patients treated with RALP from January 2016 to May 2019 were recorded retrospectively and divided according to their weight: group A < 15 kg, group B ≥ 15 kg and were included in this study. Eligible criteria for surgery were symptomatic UPJO, worsening of hydronephrosis, or obstructive pattern at renogram. Success criteria were the reduction of the hydronephrosis at imaging and the absence of flank pain. All procedures were performed by one expert robotic surgeon.

RESULTS

18 patients were included in group A (median weight 12 kg) and 43 patients in group B (median weight 33 kg). The median (IQR) operative was 95 (90-120) for group A compared to 90 (85-110) of control group. No significant difference has been found (P = 0.93). We registered one (5.6%) Clavien 3b complication (omental hernia after removal of the drainage requiring surgical correction) and two (4.7%) Clavien 2 complication in group B (urinary infections). No difference has been found in the length of hospital stay, length of catheterization, and duration of procedure between the groups (P > 0.05). At a median follow-up of 23 months (IQR 9-27 vs 9-33), the success rate was comparable between the two groups (94.4% vs 97.7%; P = 0.51). Relapse was recorded in one child per group and both required nephrostomy placement.

DISCUSSION

Our study tried to fill the gaps in the evidence on the feasibility of RALP in low-weight children reporting favorable peri-operative and long-term outcomes; however, this study shows some intrinsic limitations. The relatively small numbers of patients in the <15 kg may have underpowered the comparison with heavier patients. Moreover, only two patients were <10 kg so that no definitive conclusions on the safety and feasibility of RALP in this cohort of patients can be drawn.

CONCLUSION

RALP in children <15 kg was feasible and effective to treat UPJO with superimposable results to heavier counterparts. In our experience, the need for a different trocar placement and limited space in patients <15 kg did not affect peri-operative and functional outcomes.

Clinical predictors and significance of adherent perinephric fat assessed with Mayo Adhesive Probability (MAP) score and perinephric fat surface density (PnFSD) at the time of partial nephrectomy for localized renal mass. A single high-volume referral center experience

BACKGROUND

Adherent perinephric fat (APF) could negatively influence surgical outcomes of partial nephrectomy (PN). Novel radiological scores have been introduced to preoperatively detect APF, i.e. Mayo Adhesive Probability (MAP) score and perinephric fat surface density (PnFSD). We aimed to evaluate clinical predictors of APF and the association of MAP and PnFSD with perioperative outcomes after PN.

METHODS

Clinical and radiological data of patients undergoing open or robotic PN were prospectively gathered. Perinephric fat was retrospectively measured by a single expert uro-radiologist. Patients were divided into MAP 0-3 vs. MAP 4-5 and high vs. low PnFSD. Multivariable analysis was performed to seek for clinical predictors of APF.

RESULTS

Overall, 175 patients were entered. Patients with vs. without APF were significantly different regarding age, gender, ASA score, Charlson Comorbidity Index, Body Mass Index, waist circumference, HDL status and metabolic syndrome. Conversely, tumor-related characteristics were not significantly different between the groups. At multivariable analysis, metabolic syndrome was confirmed as the only independent predictor of APF (OR: 24.9; P<0.001). Notably, APF assessed by MAP score or PnFSD was not associated with perioperative outcomes after PN.

CONCLUSIONS

In experienced hands, APF did not impact on intra- or perioperative outcomes after PN. Metabolic syndrome was the only significant predictor of APF in our series.

Renal pseudoaneurysm after blunt trauma in a 10-year-old girl: A case report

INTRODUCTION

Renal trauma is a relevant cause of morbidity in children older than 1 year. Most patients are currently managed conservatively, even in case of high-grade traumas; nevertheless, harmful complications may occur even in hemodynamically stable patients. We present a case of grade IV blunt renal trauma complicated by post-traumatic pseudoaneurysm.

CASE DESCRIPTION

A 10-year-old girl was referred to our institution for grade IV trauma of the right kidney. During observation she had persistent hematuria that caused anemia. A second contrast-enhanced computed tomography scan revealed a posttraumatic pseudoaneurysm that was successfully treated by angiographic embolization.

CONCLUSIONS

Although extremely rare after blunt renal trauma, post-traumatic renal pseudoaneurysm may cause severe blood loss and anemia, and angioembolization is therefore indicated. This condition should be suspected and move physicians to investigate further.

Predictors of early postoperative and mid-term functional outcomes in patients treated with Endoscopic Robot-Assisted Simple Enucleation (ERASE): results from a tertiary referral center

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to assess the early and mid-term functional outcomes of Endoscopic Robot Assisted Simple Enucleation (ERASE) verified through a standardized tumor-resection reporting system (Surface Intermediate Base [SIB] score) and to investigate for predictors of renal function (RF) loss in patients with T1 renal tumors treated in a tertiary referral institution.

METHODS

Data of 553 patients treated with ERASE were analyzed. Only patients with SIB score of 0-1 and negative oncological follow-up were included. A ≥25% drop from baseline of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was considered as a clinically meaningful functional loss. Multivariable regression models tested the relation between clinical features and RF loss at postoperative day (POD) 3 and at last follow-up.

RESULTS

Overall, 347 patients with SIB 0-1 entered the study. A RF drop ≥25% was observed in 178 (37%) patients in POD 3 and in 91 (18.9%) patients at a median follow-up of 36 months, respectively. At multivariable analysis, age at surgery and PADUA score were significant predictive factors of clinically significant RF loss at POD 3, while age at surgery, female gender, higher BMI, Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) and preoperative eGFR were significant predictors of RF loss at last follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Age at surgery and higher PADUA score are significant predictors of early postoperative RF loss after ERASE for T1 renal tumors, while age at surgery, female gender, higher BMI, CCI and baseline RF significantly affect mid-term RF. Larger studies and a longer follow-up are needed to confirm these results.

Robot-assisted vs laparoscopic pyeloplasty in children with uretero-pelvic junction obstruction (UPJO): technical considerations and results

BACKGROUND

Although both laparoscopic pyeloplasty (LP) and robot-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty (RALP) have reported excellent clinical outcomes, no evidence is currently available about the best surgical approach for surgical treatment of children with uretero-pelvic junction obstruction (UPJO).

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to compare the outcomes of LP and RALP in children with UPJO.

STUDY DESIGN

The medical records of all patients with UPJO, who underwent LP or RALP in three pediatric urology units over a 2-year period, were retrospectively reviewed. The authors excluded open pyeloplasty and cases with complex anatomy such as horseshoe kidney. A dismembered Anderson-Hynes pyeloplasty was performed in all cases.

RESULTS

Sixty-seven patients (39 boys and 28 girls) with a median age of 4 years (range 8 months-14 years) were included. Thirty-seven patients (55.2%) underwent RALP, and 30 patients (44.8%) underwent LP. Three patients of RALP group presented a recurrent UPJO. No significant difference was found in the median total operative time between RALP (133 min) and LP (139 min) (P = 0.33). The median anastomotic time was significantly shorter in RALP (79 min) compared with LP (105.5 min) (P = 0.001). Overall surgical success rate was 96.7% for LP and 100% for RALP (P = 0.78). As for postoperative complications, the authors recorded re-stenosis of UPJO in one LP patient (3.3%), who underwent redo-RALP.

DISCUSSION

According to the authors experience, robotic surgery should be indicated in patients older than 18-24 months with a body weight > 10-15 Kgs. Laparoscopic pyeloplasty requires advanced laparoscopic skills related to intracorporeal suturing. However, the learning curve of suturing in robotics is much shorter compared with laparoscopy. In fact, during LP, the authors have to place 2-3 transabdominal stay sutures to stabilize the uretero-pelvic junction, before performing the anastomosis. Conversely, the authors never needed to place stay sutures in RALP.

CONCLUSIONS

The study experience suggested that RALP and LP give excellent results in children with UPJO. Laparoscopic pyeloplasty can be considered more minimally invasive than RALP because 3-mm trocars are adopted instead of 8-mm robotic ports. However, LP is technically challenging and has a bad ergonomics for the surgeon. Conversely, RALP is technically easier compared with LP, especially in redo procedures, with an excellent ergonomics. The main disadvantages of RALP remain high costs and size of robotic instruments. The choice to perform LP or RALP should be tailored to the individual case, considering patient's age and surgeon's experience.