Three-dimensional Augmented Reality Robot-assisted Partial Nephrectomy in Case of Complex Tumours (PADUA ≥10): A New Intraoperative Tool Overcoming the Ultrasound Guidance

BACKGROUND

Despite technical improvements introduced with robotic surgery, management of complex tumours (PADUA score ≥10) is still a matter of debate within the field of transperitoneal robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN).

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the accuracy of our three-dimensional (3D) static and elastic augmented reality (AR) systems based on hyperaccuracy models (HA3D) in identifying tumours and intrarenal structures during transperitoneal RAPN (AR-RAPN), compared with standard ultrasound (US).

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

A retrospective study was conducted, including 91 patients who underwent RAPN for complex renal tumours, 48 with 3D AR guidance and 43 with 2D US guidance, from July 2017 to May 2019.

SURGICAL PROCEDURE

In patients who underwent 3D AR-RAPN, virtual image overlapping guided the surgeon during resection and suture phases. In the 2D US group, interventions were driven by US only.

MEASUREMENTS

Patient characteristics were tested using the Fisher's exact test for categorical variables and the Mann-Whitney test for continuous ones. Intraoperative, postoperative, and surgical outcomes were collected. All results for continuous variables were expressed as medians (range), and frequencies and proportions were reported as percentages.

RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS

The use of 3D AR guidance makes it possible to correctly identify the lesion and intraparenchymal structures with a more accurate 3D perception of the location and the nature of the different structures relative to the standard 2D US guidance. This translates to a lower rate of global ischaemia (45.8% in the 3D group vs 69.7% in the US group; p = 0.03), higher rate of enucleation (62.5% vs 37.5% in the 3D and US groups, respectively; p = 0.02), and lower rate of collecting system violation (10.4% vs 45.5%; p = 0.003). Postoperatively, 3D AR guidance use correlates to a low risk of surgery-related complications in 3D AR groups and a lower drop in estimated renal plasma flow at renal scan at 3 mo of follow-up (-12.38 in the 3D group vs -18.14 in the US group; p = 0.01). The main limitations of this study are short follow-up time and small sample size.

CONCLUSIONS

HA3D models that overlap in vivo anatomy during AR-RAPN for complex tumours can be useful for identifying the lesion and intraparenchymal structures that are difficult to visualise with US only. This translates to a potential improvement in the quality of the resection phase and a reduction in postoperative complications, with better functional recovery.

PATIENT SUMMARY

Based on our findings, three-dimensional augmented reality robot-assisted partial nephrectomy seems to help surgeons in the management of complex renal tumours, with potential early postoperative benefits.

Strategies and advantages of early diagnosis in Klinefelter's syndrome

Nearly 70 years after its description, Klinefelter's syndrome (KS) remains a largely undiagnosed condition. In addition to its typical characteristics of increased follicle-stimulating hormone secretion and small and firm testes, the syndrome presents an extremely wide spectrum of phenotypes. This could be explained by the possible presence of chromosomal mosaicism, androgen receptor polymorphisms and related heterogeneous endocrine abnormalities. The varied but relatively mild physical abnormalities also explain why many patients do not receive clinical attention until adulthood, when they seek medical advice on small testes or infertility. Diagnosis is also hindered by the low awareness of the disease among health professionals. This paper aims to review the possible signs of KS at different stages of life that could help achieve an early (or at least earlier) diagnosis. It has been demonstrated that the early diagnosis of KS improves patients' quality of life and enables better medical treatment. To achieve this, it is crucial to increase both medical and general awareness of the disease, including through use of the media and patients' associations.

3D imaging technologies in minimally-invasive kidney and prostate cancer surgery: which is the urologists' perception?

BACKGROUND

Many specific 3D imaging technologies are currently available for the practising urologists. Aim of the study was to assess their perception about different 3D imaging tools in the field of prostate and kidney cancer surgery.

METHODS

All the attendees of the 8th Techno-Urology-Meeting were asked to fill a questionnaire regarding the role of 3D virtual reconstruction PDFs, 3D printing models, Augmented-Reality (AR) and mixed reality technology in the setting of surgical planning, patient counselling, intraoperative guidance and training for kidney and prostate cancer surgery; Moreover the different materials used for 3D printing were compared to assess the most suitable in reproducing the organ and tumor features, as well as their estimated cost and production time.

RESULTS

The population consisted of 180 attendees. Overall, AR was the preferred option for intraoperative guidance and training, in both prostate (55% and 38.3%) and kidney cancer surgery (58.3% and 40%). HoloLens was perceived as the best imaging technology for the surgical planning (50% for prostate and 60% for kidney), whereas printed models for patients counselling (66.7% for prostate and 61.7% for kidney). Fused deposition models were deemed as the best printing technology in representing kidney anatomy and renal tumor location (40%), while silicon (46.7%) and Polyjet (36.7%) models for prostate anatomy and cancer location. Finally, attendees demonstrated poor knowledge of 3D printing costs and production times.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study shows the perceptions of a heterogeneous surrogate of practising urologists about the role and potential applications of 3D imaging technologies in daily surgical practice.

The importance of anatomical reconstruction for continence recovery after robot assisted radical prostatectomy: a systematic review and pooled analysis from referral centers

INTRODUCTION

Urinary incontinence is one of the most scared sequelae of robot assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP). Therefore, different surgical modifications, aimed to restore the original anatomy, were proposed to overcome this issue. The purpose of this study is to assess which is the best reconstruction technique (posterior only: PR; anterior only: AR; total: TR) compared to the standard approach for continence recovery after RARP in a tertiary care center.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

After establishing an a priori protocol, a systematic electronic literature search was conducted in May 2019. The article selection proceeded in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and was registered (PROSPERO registry number 131667). The risk of bias and the quality assessment of the included studies were performed. Simple pooled analysis was performed for continence rates according to the definition of continence (0 pad vs. 0-1 pad) and the different types of reconstruction at 1, 4, 12, 24, 52 weeks after RARP. Complication rate, operative and console time and estimated blood loss were pooled. Two-side test of proportion and T-test were used to compare rates and mean, respectively.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Six studies meeting the inclusion criteria were found and included in the analysis. All the included studies were of "poor" or "good" quality. A high or moderate risk of bias was recorded. TR showed higher continence recovery rates, compared to their anterior reconstruction counterpart at 1, 4, 12, 24, 52 weeks (P<0.001 at all time-points). At 12 weeks TR showed the highest continence rates (P<0.001), followed by AR and PR. No statistically significant differences were recorded regarding anastomosis-related complication rates (anastomosis stricture P=0.08; urine leakage P=0.1).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients undergoing RARP, TR facilitates a faster and higher continence recovery compared to standard approach or PR or AR only.

Comparison between minimally-invasive partial and radical nephrectomy for the treatment of clinical T2 renal masses: results of a 10-year study in a tertiary care center

BACKGROUND

Even if partial nephrectomy (PN) is nowadays considered the standard for managing cT1 renal masses, its role in the management of cT2 kidney tumors is controversial. We aimed to compare oncologic and functional outcomes of minimally invasive radical nephrectomy (RN) and PN in cT2 renal masses.

METHODS

Patients with cT2 renal masses underwent minimally-invasive PN or RN performed by a highly experienced single surgeon from 2009 to 2019 were considered. Demographic, perioperative and functional variables were compared. Cumulative incidence plot and competing risks regression (CRR) models were used to test differences in 5-year cancer-specific mortality (CSM) and 5-year other-cause mortality (OCM) rates. Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression model was used to test differences in 5-year progression free survival (PFS) rates.

RESULTS

Overall, 52 PN vs. 64 RN patients were identified. Relative to RN, PN patients recorded higher rates of complications (25% vs. 7.8%, P=0.02) but lower upstaging rate (≥pT3a 64.1% vs. 19.2%, P<0.0001). Functional outcomes were in favor of PN (all P<0.001). No differences were recorded between 5-year CSM and OCM according to nephrectomy type. At CRR models, older age and upstaging were independent predictors of 5-year OCM and CSM, respectively (all P<0.01). Finally, only upstaging, high grade tumors and presence of positive surgical margins were identified as independent predictors of 5-year PFS (all P<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

In experienced hands the treatment of cT2 renal neoplasms with minimally-invasive PN is feasible, providing perioperative and oncological safety profiles comparable to RN, with advantages in terms of functional outcomes.

Long-term effect of testosterone replacement therapy on bone in hypogonadal men with Klinefelter Syndrome

PURPOSE

To assess different aspects of bone damage in untreated adult patients with Klinefelter Syndrome (KS) before and during testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).

METHODS

Fifteen untreated hypogonadal men with KS and 26 control subjects (C) matched for age and BMI were recruited. Sex hormone levels were measured in all subjects. Lumbar spine (LS) and femoral (neck: FN and total hip: TH) bone mineral density (BMD), trabecular bone score (TBS), hip structure analysis (HSA) and fat measures (percentage of fat mass, android/gynoid ratio and visceral adipose tissue) were evaluated by DEXA. In KS patients, blood analysis and DEXA measurements were assessed at baseline and repeated yearly for three years during TRT.

RESULTS

Fat measures were significantly higher in KS than C (p < 0.01). In contrast, mean LS, FN and TH BMD were significantly reduced in KS compared to C (p < 0.01), while there was no difference in TBS. HSA revealed a significantly lower cortical thickness and significantly higher buckling ratio in KS compared to C at all femoral sites (p < 0.01). In KS patients, TRT significantly increased BMD at LS only, but did not improve TBS and HSA parameters. Fat measures were inversely associated with TBS values, and TRT did not influence this relationship.

CONCLUSIONS

In untreated hypogonadal men with KS, lumbar and femoral BMD was reduced, and femoral bone quality was impaired. Adiposity seemed to have a detrimental effect on lumbar bone microarchitecture, as indirectly evaluated by TBS. However, TRT failed to remedy these negative effects on bone.

Implementing telemedicine for the management of benign urologic conditions: a single centre experience in Italy

PURPOSE

To assess the use of telemedicine with phone-call visits as a practical tool to follow-up with patients affected by urological benign diseases, whose clinic visits had been cancelled during the acute phase of the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

Patients were contacted via phone-call and a specific questionnaire was administered to evaluate the health status of these patients and to identify those who needed an "in-person" ambulatory visit due to the worsening of their condition. Secondarily, the patients' perception of a potential shift towards a "telemedicine" approach to the management of their condition and to indirectly evaluate their desire to return to "in-person" clinic visits.

RESULTS

607 were contacted by phone-call. 87.5% (531/607) of the cases showed stability of the symptoms so no clinic in-person or emergency visits were needed. 81.5% (495/607) of patients were more concerned about the risk of contagion than their urological condition. The median score for phone visit comprehensibility and ease of communication of exams was 5/5; whilst patients' perception of phone visits' usefulness was scored 4/5. 53% (322/607) of the interviewees didn't own the basic supports required to be able to perform a real telemedicine consult according to the required standards.

CONCLUSION

Telemedicine approach limits the number of unnecessary accesses to medical facilities and represents an important tool for the limitation of the risk of transmission of infectious diseases, such as COVID-19. However, infrastructures, health workers and patients should reach out to a computerization process to allow a wider diffusion of more advanced forms of telemedicine, such as televisit.

From mini-puberty to pre-puberty: early impairment of the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis with normal testicular function in children with non-mosaic Klinefelter syndrome

PURPOSE

Klinefelter syndrome (KS) is a genetic disorder caused by the presence of an extra X chromosome in males. The aim of this study was to evaluate the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis and the clinical profile of KS boys from mini-puberty to early childhood.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In this retrospective, cross-sectional, population study, 145 KS boys and 97 controls aged 0-11.9 years were recruited. Serum FSH, LH, testosterone (T), Inhibin B (INHB), sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) were determined. Auxological parameters were assessed. To better represent the hormonal and clinical changes that appear in childhood, the entire population was divided into 3 groups: ≤ 6 months (group 1; mini-puberty); > 6 months and ≤ 8 years (group 2; early childhood); > 8 and ≤ 12 years (group 3; mid childhood).

RESULTS

During mini-puberty (group 1), FSH and LH were significantly higher in KS infants than controls (p < 0.05), as were INHB and T (respectively p < 0.0001 and p < 0.005). INHB was also significantly higher in KS than controls in group 2 (p < 0.05). AMH appeared higher in KS than in controls in all groups, but the difference was only statistically significant in group 2 (p < 0.05). No significant differences were found in height, weight, testicular volume, and penile length.

CONCLUSIONS

No hormonal signs of tubular or interstitial damage were found in KS infants. The presence of higher levels of gonadotropins, INHB and testosterone during mini-puberty and pre-puberty may be interpreted as an alteration of the HPG axis in KS infants.

Beyond the Learning Curve of Prostate MRI/TRUS Target Fusion Biopsy after More than 1000 Procedures

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the learning curve (LC) of two urology residents in the execution of fusion biopsy (FB) in terms of overall prostate cancer (PCa) and clinically significant (cs) PCa detection rate (DR) and according to different characteristics of the lesions on MRI MATERIAL AND METHODS: We analyzed data from our prospective maintained FB database between January 2015 and December 2019. FB was performed using the BioJet fusion system (D&K Technologies, Barum, Germany) with a transrectal or transperineal approach. An ANOVA test was used to evaluate the homogeneity of our cohort. Multivariable linear and logistic regression analysis were used to evaluate the relationship between operator experience and DR for PCa and csPCa. Then, the postprocedural complication rate trend was evaluated.

RESULTS

1005 patients were included. The overall DR of PCa was 61.2% (615/1005) [IC 0.58 - 0.64]; whilst DR for csPCA was 54.6% (549/1005) [IC 0.51 - 0.57]. Operator experience does not seem to influence the DR of overall PCa and csPCa; whilst for lesions <8 mm in diameter, PCa and csPCa DR increased significantly with operator experience (P = 0.048 and P = 0.038, respectively). Postprocedural complications remained stable during the whole study period (P = 0.75).

CONCLUSION

A standardized FB approach turned out to be feasible, safe, and effective since the beginning of the residents' LC. PCa and csPCa DR remained stable, at 60% and 55% respectively, after more than 1,000 biopsies. However, for lesions smaller than 8 mm, at least 100 FB of experience is needed to correctly sample the area.

Fluid intelligence, traits of personality and personality disorders in a cohort of adult KS patients with the classic 47, XXY karyotype

PURPOSE

Klinefelter's syndrome (KS) is associated with specific neurobehavioral features and personality traits. The aim of our study was to investigate fluid intelligence, personality traits and personality disorders (PD) and possible correlations with testosterone in a cohort of adult KS patients.

METHODS

We analyzed 58 adult KS patients with the classic 47, XXY karyotype. The Structured Clinical Interview for axis II disorders was used to assess DSM IV personality disorders. Personality traits were assessed using MMPI-2. Fluid intelligence was tested by using Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices (SPM) Test. Testosterone blood concentration was measured by CMIA.

RESULTS

PD prevalence was 31%. Four altered MMPI scales (Social Responsibility, Dominance, Ego Strength and Repression) were found in more than 40% of patients. Overcontrolled hostility and MacAndrew Alcoholism Scale-Revised scales were altered in the PD- group only. Biz-Odd Thinking and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder scale were associated with the presence of personality disorder. The raw SPM score was 44 ± 10.8 without any significant correlation with testosterone. No significant difference in mean age, SPM raw score and MMPI score was observed between eugonadal, hypogonadal and treated patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Most KS patients had average fluid intelligence. PD prevalence was higher than in the general population. Testosterone was not correlated with fluid intelligence, personality traits or PD, but a reduction in marital distress was observed in treated patients. This could suggest that testosterone therapy can improve physical symptoms and this effect could also improve relationship abilities and wellness awareness.

Epicardial fat: the role of testosterone and lipid metabolism in a cohort of patients with Klinefelter syndrome

CONTEXT

Klinefelter syndrome (KS), in which subjects have additional copies of X chromosomes, is the most common male sex chromosome abnormality, with a prevalence of 1 in 660 and an incidence of about 1 in 500-700 newborns. Its sign and symptoms include infertility, generally low testosterone levels, and an increased prevalence of obesity and metabolic syndrome. Epicardial fat thickness (EFT) reflects visceral adiposity rather than general obesity.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to analyze echocardiographic EFT in a cohort of patients with KS in comparison with non-obese and obese euploid controls, and to evaluate its correlation with biochemical parameters.

DESIGN, SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

Two hundred and twenty-one KS patients referred to our Rare Endocrine Diseases clinic and 77 age-matched controls underwent Doppler echocardiography and a full investigation of anthropometric and body composition, Serum levels of total testosterone (T), estradiol (E2), sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), fasting plasma glucose, insulin, cholesterol and triglycerides were obtained. All participants underwent dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan to assess truncal body fat (TrBF).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

EFT, body composition and metabolic parameters in KS patients and how they are affected by genotype.

RESULTS

EFT was greater in KS patients than in healthy non-obese (NOb) controls, but lower than in obese (OB) controls. When KS patients were divided into groups (hypogonadal; eugonadal; receiving testosterone replacement therapy [TRT]), EFT was greater in hypogonadal patients than in NOb controls and eugonadal patients, but showed no difference from the OB controls or TRT patients. Hypogonadal patients showed increased TrBF in comparison with NOb controls and eugonadal and TRT patients, and similar TrBF to OB controls. As expected, there was a strong correlation between BMI and EFT in both KS patients and controls (P < 0.0001). In contrast, there was a strong inverse correlation between testosterone and EFT in the control group, but not in KS patients. EFT was significantly correlated with TrBF in both populations (P < 0.0001). Multivariate analyses showed that the major determinants of both EFT and TrBF were BMI and the presence of KS itself. Testosterone and triglycerides were not included as variables in the models.

CONCLUSION

EFT in hypogonadal KS subjects was similar to that of the obese eugonadal controls. Even though there was a direct correlation between BMI and EFT in both populations, the influence of TrBF on EFT was stronger. The presence of the supernumerary X chromosome appeared to be one of the strongest determinants of EFT and TrBF, independent of testosterone levels.

Development of a novel nomogram to identify the candidate to extended pelvic lymph node dissection in patients who underwent mpMRI and target biopsy only

BACKGROUND

Nowadays a tool able to predict the risk of lymph-node invasion (LNI) in patients underwent target biopsy (TB) only before radical prostatectomy (RP) is still lacking. Our aim is to develop a model based on mp-MRI and target biopsy (TB) alone able to predict the risk of LNI.

METHODS

We retrospectively extracted data of patients with preoperative positive mp-MRI and TB only who underwent RARP with ePLND from April 2014 to March 2020. A logistic regression model was performed to evaluate the impact of pre- and intra-operative factors on the risk of LNI. Model discrimination was assessed using an area under (AUC) the ROC curve. A nomogram, and its calibration plot, to predict the risk of LNI were generated based on the logistic model. A validation of the model was done using a similar cohort.

RESULTS

461 patients were included, of which 52 (11.27) had LNI. After logistic regression analysis and multivariable model DRE, PI-RADS, seminal vesicle invasion, PSA and worst GS at I and II target lesions were significant predictors of LNI. The AUC was 0.74 [0.67-0.81] 95% CI. The calibration plot shows that our model is very close to the ideal one which is in the 95% CI. After the creation of a visual nomogram, the cut-off to discriminate between the risk or not of LNI was set with Youden index at 60 points that correspond to a risk of LNI of 7%. The model applied on a similar cohort shown a LH+ of 2.58 [2.17-2.98] 95% CI.

CONCLUSIONS

Our nomogram for patients undergoing MRI-TB only takes into account clinical stage, SVI at MRI, biopsy Gleason pattern and PSA and it is able to identify patients with risk of LNI when a score higher than 7% is achieved.

Three-dimensional virtual models assistance predicts higher rates of "successful" minimally invasive partial nephrectomy: an Institutional analysis across the available trifecta definitions

PURPOSE

3D virtual models (3DVMs) are nowadays under scrutiny to improve partial nephrectomy (PN) outcomes. Five different Trifecta definitions have been proposed to optimize the framing of "success" in the PN field. Our aim is to analyze if the use of 3DVMs could impact the success rate of minimally invasive PN (mi-PN), according to the currently available definitions of Trifecta.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

At our Institution 250 cT1-2N0M0 renal masses patients treated with mi-PN were prospectively enrolled. Inclusion criteria were the availability of contrast-enhanced CT, baseline and postoperative serum creatinine, and eGFR. These patients were then compared with a control group of 710 patients who underwent mi-PN with the same renal function assessments, but without 3DVMs. Multivariable logistic regression (MLR) models were used to predict the trifecta achievement according to the different trifecta definitions.

RESULTS

Among the definitions, Trifecta rates ranged between 70.8% to 97.4% in the 3DVM group vs. 56.8% to 92.8% in the control group (all p values < 0.05). 3DVMs showed better postoperative outcomes in terms of ΔeGFR, ( - 16.6% vs.  - 2.7%, p = 0.03), postoperative complications (15%, vs 22.9%, p = 0.002) and major complications (Clavien Dindo > 3, 2.8% vs 5.6%, p = 0.03). At MLR 3DVMs assistance independently predicted higher rates of successful PN across all the available definitions of Trifecta (OR: 2.7 p < 0.001, OR:2.0 p = 0.0008, OR:2.8 p = 0.02, OR 2.0 p = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

The 3DVMs availability was found to be the constant predictive factor of successful PN, with a twofold higher probability of achieving Trifecta regardless of the different definitions available in Literature.

A prospective randomized controlled trial comparing target prostate biopsy alone approach vs. target plus standard in naïve patients with positive mpMRI

BACKGROUND

In the era of mpMRI guided target fusion biopsy (FB), the role of concomitant standard biopsy (SB) in naïve patients still remains under scrutiny. The aim of this study was to compare the detection rate (DR) of clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa) in biopsy naïve patients with positive mpMRI who underwent FB alone (Arm A) vs FB+SB (Arm B). Secondary objectives were to compare the incidence of complications, the overall PCa DR and the biopsy results with final pathological findings after robotic prostatectomy (RARP).

METHODS

This is a single center prospective non-inferiority parallel two arms (1:1) randomized control trial (ISRCTN registry number ISRCTN60263108) which took place at San Luigi Gonzaga University Hospital, Orbassano (Turin, Italy) from 4/2019 to 10/2021. Eligible participants were all adults aged<75 years old, biopsy naïve, with serum PSA<15 ng/mL and positive mpMRI (Pi-Rads V.2>3). FB was performed under ultrasound guidance using the BioJet fusion system; four to six target samples were obtained for each index lesion. SB was performed in accordance with the protocol by Rodríguez-Covarrubias. RARP with total anatomical reconstruction was carried out when indicated. DR of PCa and csPCA (Gleason Score >7) were evaluated. Post-biopsy complications according to Clavien-Dindo were recorded. Concordance between biopsy and RARP pathological findings was evaluated. Fisher's Exact test and Mann-Whitney test were applied; furthermore, Logistic Principal Component Analysis (LogPCA) and Pearson's correlation method, in terms of correlation funnel plots, were performed to explore data in a multivariate way.

RESULTS

201 and 193 patients were enrolled in Arm A and B, respectively. csPCa DR was 60.2% vs. 60.6% in Arm A and B respectively (Δ 0.4%; P=0.93); whilst overall PCa DR was 63.7% vs. 71.0% (Δ 7.3%; P=0.12). However, in a target only setting, the addition of SB homolaterally to the index lesion reaching a non-inferior performance compared to the combined sampling (Δ PCa DR 3%). Although the differences of 7.3% in PCa DR, during RARP were registered similar nerve sparing rate (P=0.89), positive surgical margins (P=0.67) and rate of significant upgrading (P=0.12). LogPCA model showed no distinction between the two cohorts; and Pearson's correlation values turned to be between -0.5 and +0.5. In Arm B, the lesion diameter <10 mm is the only predictive variable of positive SB only for PCa (P=0.04), with an additional value +3% for PCa DR.

CONCLUSIONS

In biopsy naïve patients, FB alone is not inferior to FB+SB in detecting csPCa (Δ csPCa DR 0.4%). Δ 7.3% in overall PCa DR was registered between the two Arms, however the addition of further standard samples homolaterally to mp-MRI index lesion improved the overall PCa DR of FB only sampling (Δ PCa DR 3%). The omission of SB did not influence the post-surgical outcomes in terms of NS approach, PSMr and upgrading/downgrading.

Robot-assisted-radical-cystectomy with total intracorporeal Y neobladder: Analysis of postoperative complications and functional outcomes with urodynamics findings

OBJECTIVES

To describe our robotic Y intracorporeal neobladder (ICNB) technique and to report its post-operative complications and urodynamics (UD) findings.

SUBJECTS

and Methods: In this prospective study we enrolled patients affected by MIBC (T1-T4N0-N1M0) from 01/2017 to 06/2021 at our Centers. All the patients underwent robotic radical cystectomy (RARC) with Y-ICNB reconfiguration. Early and late complications were collected and classified according to Clavien-Dindo. Continence and potency at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months were evaluated. At the 3rd month of follow-up patients underwent UD. Finally, in a retrospective match paired analysis the functional outcomes of Y RARC patients were compared with a cohort of open Y radical cystectomy.

RESULTS

45 patients were enrolled. Overall 30-day complications were observed in 25 (55,5%) patients and 30 to 90-days complications in 4 (8,9%). 9 patients (20%) had Clavien ≥3 complications. UDs revealed median neobladder capacity of 268 cc, with a median compliance of 13 ml/cm H20; the voiding phase showed a voiding volume and a post void residual (PVR) of 154 cc and 105 cc respectively. At 12 months of follow-up 4.4%, 15.5% and 4.4% of the patients experienced urge, stress and mix urinary incontinence respectively. The comparison between Y RARC and Y open RC revealed a higher neobladder capacity with open approach (p = 0.049) with subsequent better findings during the voiding phase in terms of maximum flow (p = 0.002), voiding volume (p = 0.001) and PVR (p = 0.01). Focusing on continence recovery, a slight trend in favor of RARC was shown without reaching the statistical significance.

CONCLUSIONS

Robotic Y-ICNB is feasible and safe as shown by the low rate of postoperative complications. Satisfying UD functional outcomes are achievable, both during filling and voiding phase.

The importance of anatomical reconstruction for continence recovery after robot assisted radical prostatectomy: a systematic review and pooled analysis from referral centers

INTRODUCTION

Urinary incontinence is one of the most scared sequelae of robot assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP). Therefore, different surgical modifications, aimed to restore the original anatomy, were proposed to overcome this issue. The purpose of this study is to assess which is the best reconstruction technique (posterior only: PR; anterior only: AR; total: TR) compared to the standard approach for continence recovery after RARP in a tertiary care center.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

After establishing an a priori protocol, a systematic electronic literature search was conducted in May 2019. The article selection proceeded in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and was registered (PROSPERO registry number 131667). The risk of bias and the quality assessment of the included studies were performed. Simple pooled analysis was performed for continence rates according to the definition of continence (0 pad vs. 0-1 pad) and the different types of reconstruction at 1, 4, 12, 24, 52 weeks after RARP. Complication rate, operative and console time and estimated blood loss were pooled. Two-side test of proportion and T-test were used to compare rates and mean, respectively.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Six studies meeting the inclusion criteria were found and included in the analysis. All the included studies were of "poor" or "good" quality. A high or moderate risk of bias was recorded. TR showed higher continence recovery rates, compared to their anterior reconstruction counterpart at 1, 4, 12, 24, 52 weeks (P<0.001 at all time-points). At 12 weeks TR showed the highest continence rates (P<0.001), followed by AR and PR. No statistically significant differences were recorded regarding anastomosis-related complication rates (anastomosis stricture P=0.08; urine leakage P=0.1).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients undergoing RARP, TR facilitates a faster and higher continence recovery compared to standard approach or PR or AR only.

Treatment of Ureteral Stent-Related Symptoms

BACKGROUND

The aim of the study was to assess the effectiveness of the main classes of drugs used at reducing morbidity related to ureteric stents.

SUMMARY

After establishing a priori protocol, a systematic electronic literature search was conducted in July 2019. The randomized clinical trials (RCTs) selection proceeded in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and was registered (PROSPERO ID 178130). The risk of bias and the quality assessment of the included RCTs were performed. Ureteral Stent Symptom Questionnaire (USSQ), International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), and quality of life (QoL) were pooled for meta-analysis. Mean difference and risk difference were calculated as appropriate for each outcome to determine the cumulative effect size. Fourteen RCTs were included in the analysis accounting for 2,842 patients. Alpha antagonist, antimuscarinic, and phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors significatively reduced all indexes of the USSQ, the IPSS and QoL scores relative to placebo. Conversely, combination therapy (alpha antagonist plus antimuscarinic) showed in all indexes of the USSQ, IPSS, and QoL over alpha antagonist or antimuscarinic alone. On comparison with alpha blockers, PDE inhibitors were found to be equally effective for urinary symptoms, general health, and body pain parameters, but sexual health parameters improved significantly with PDE inhibitors. Finally, antimuscarinic resulted in higher decrease in all indexes of the USSQ, the IPSS, and QoL relative to alpha antagonist.

KEY MESSAGE

Relative to placebo, alpha antagonist alone, antimuscarinics alone, and PDE inhibitors alone have beneficial effect in reducing stent-related symptoms. Furthermore, there are significant advantages of combination therapy compared with monotherapy. Finally, PDE inhibitors are comparable to alpha antagonist, and antimuscarinic seems to be more effective than alpha antagonist alone.

Naive patients with suspicious prostate cancer and positive multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mp-MRI): is it time for fusion target biopsy alone?

Objectives:

To determine if standard biopsy still has a role in the detection of prostate cancer or clinically significant prostate cancer in biopsy-naive patients with positive multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging.

Materials and methods:

We extracted, from our prospective maintained fusion biopsy database, patients from March 2014 to December 2018. The detection rate of prostate cancer and clinically significant prostate cancer and complication rate were analysed in a cohort of patients who underwent fusion biopsy alone (group A) or fusion biopsy plus standard biopsy (group B). The International Society of Urological Pathology grade group determined on prostate biopsy with the grade group determined on final pathology among patients who underwent radical prostatectomy were compared.

Results:

Prostate cancer was found in 249/389 (64.01%) and 215/337 (63.8%) patients in groups A and B, respectively ( P=0.98), while the clinically significant prostate cancer detection rate was 57.8% and 55.1% ( P=0.52). No significant differences in complications were found. No differences in the upgrading rate between biopsy and final pathology finding after radical prostatectomy were recorded.

Conclusions:

In biopsy-naive patients, with suspected prostate cancer and positive multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging the addition of standard biopsy to fusion biopsy did not increase significantly the detection rate of prostate cancer or clinically significant prostate cancer. Moreover, the rate of upgrading of the cancer grade group between biopsy and final pathology was not affected by the addition of standard biopsy.

Level of evidence:

Not applicable for this multicentre audit.

Quality of life in children and adolescents with growth hormone deficiency and their caregivers: an Italian survey

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to produce evidence on quality of life (QoL) among Italian growth hormone deficiency (GHD) children and adolescents treated with growth hormone (GH) and their parents.

METHODS

A survey was conducted among Italian children and adolescents aged 4-18 with a confirmed diagnosis of GHD and treated with GH therapy and their parents. The European Quality of Life 5 Dimensions 3 Level Version (EQ-5D-3L) and the Quality of Life in Short Stature Youth (QoLISSY) questionnaires were administered between May and October 2021 through the Computer-Assisted Personal Interview (CAPI) method. Results were compared with national and international reference values.

RESULTS

The survey included 142 GHD children/adolescents and their parents. The mean EQ-5D-3L score was 0.95 [standard deviation (SD) 0.09], while the mean visual analogue scale (VAS) score was 86.2 (SD 14.2); the scores are similar to those of a reference Italian population aged 18-24 of healthy subjects. As for the QoLISSY child-version, compared to the international reference values for GHD/ idiopathic short stature (ISS) patients, we found a significantly higher score for the physical domain, and lower scores for coping and treatment; compared to the specific reference values for GHD patients, our mean scores were significantly lower for all domains except the physical one. As for the parents, we found a significantly higher score for the physical domain, and a lower score for treatment; compared to reference values GHD-specific, we found lower score in the social, emotional, treatment, parental effects, and total score domains.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that the generic health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in treated GHD patients is high, comparable to that of healthy people. The QoL elicited by a disease specific questionnaire is also good, and comparable with that of international reference values of GHD/ISS patients.

Are there country-specific differences in the use of pegvisomant for acromegaly in clinical practice? An analysis from ACROSTUDY

OBJECTIVE

A comprehensive picture of pegvisomant use for treating acromegaly in routine clinical practice in different countries is lacking. We aimed, therefore, to document country-specific behaviors in real-life pegvisomant use, and the main safety and effectiveness outcomes in the ACROSTUDY.

DESIGN

ACROSTUDY is an open-label, non-interventional, post-marketing safety surveillance study.

METHODS

A descriptive analysis was performed using data from the six top-recruiter ACROSTUDY countries, i.e., Germany (n = 548 patients), Italy (n = 466), France (n = 312), USA (n = 207), Spain (n = 200) and the Netherlands (n = 175). These nations accounted for > 85% of the ACROSTUDY cases.

RESULTS

The mean pegvisomant dose at treatment start was lowest in the Netherlands (9.4 mg/day), whereas it ranged between 10.9 and 12.6 mg/day in the other countries. At year 5, the mean pegvisomant dose was around 15 mg/day in all countries, except France (18.1 mg/day). At starting pegvisomant, patients treated with monotherapy ranged between 15% in the Netherlands and 72% in Spain. Monotherapy remained lowest over time in the Netherlands. In all countries, the percentage of patients with normal IGF-1 increased steeply from < 20% at baseline to 43-58% at month 6 and 51-67% at year 1. After that, we observed minor changes in the rate of acromegaly control in all countries. The Netherlands peaked in disease control at year 2 (72%). The proportion of patients reporting changes in pituitary tumor size was generally low. Serious treatment-related adverse events were < 5% in all countries.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study provided a detailed summary of real-life use of pegvisomant in the six top-recruiter ACROSTUDY nations.