Which is better to predict erectile dysfunction and male sexual function in the context of metabolic syndrome: triglyceride-glucose index or visceral adiposity index?: a retrospective cross-sectional study.

PURPOSE: Many factors influence male sexual function, including metabolic disorders such as metabolic syndrome (MetS). We aimed to investigate the effects of two metabolic indices, the triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index and the visceral adiposity index (VAI), on male sexual function. METHODS: A total of 400 men having sexual dysfunction were included. Anthropological data, comorbidities were recorded. Serum total testosterone, prolactin, and estradiol levels were recorded. Sex-specific VAI was calculated using the [(WC/39.68) + (1.88xMI)] × (TG/1.03) × (1.31/HDL) formula and using Ln (fasting triglycerides) × (fasting glucose)/2] formula, TyG index was calculated. Turkish-validated 15-item long-form of the International Index of Erectile Dysfunction (IIEF) questionnaire and male sexual health questionnaire (MSHQ) were used for erectile function and ejaculatory function, respectively. The ROC analysis was used to evaluate the predictive abilities of TyG and VAI cut-off values for ED risk. RESULTS: A higher TyG index and VAI were associated with an increased risk of ED. The presence of MetS further worsened sexual function, with lower scores in sexual satisfaction, orgasm, desire, and general satisfaction. The TyG index and VAI showed similar predictive abilities for ED. Patients with MetS had worse ejaculation quality compared to those without MetS. CONCLUSIONS: These findings highlight the potential of the TyG index and VAI as convenient tools for predicting and assessing sexual dysfunction in men, particularly in the context of metabolic disorders. Early detection and intervention for metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance may help to mitigate their negative impact on male sexual function.

Impact of a high visceral adiposity index on female sexual dysfunction in sexually active women? Results of a cross-sectional study.

AIMS: To our knowledge, this is the first study investigating the impact of high visceral adiposity index (VAI) on female sexual dysfunction (FSD). We aimed to show the impact of increased levels of VAI on FSD compared with body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) particularly in those with metabolic syndrome (MeTS). METHODS: We included 158 participants in two groups: Group 1 (n = 68 with normal sexual function) and Group 2 (n = 90 with sexual dysfunction). Demographic, clinic data, presence of MeTS and comorbidities were recorded. The BMI, WC and the VAI were calculated. Sexual function was assessed using the female sexual function index. RESULTS: The mean age and all the anthropometric variables were similar between the groups (P > .05). MeTS was associated with lower arousal and lubrication scores than those without MeTS (P = .023). The higher VAI was associated with lower desire, lubrication and orgasm scores (P < .05). Each integer increase of the VAI weakly predicted decrease of desire (P = .015), arousal (P = .015), lubrication (P = .005) and satisfaction (P = .046). The WC and BMI were not a good predictor for FSD in women (OR=1.019, P = .318). CONCLUSION: The VAI was linked with lower scores in some female sexual function subdomains, but the correlation coefficient was low, indicating a weak association. Further studies with a higher number of participants are needed to conclude that the VAI may increase the risk of FSD, particularly in patients with MeTS.

Endocrine, sexual and reproductive functions in patients with Klinefelter syndrome compared to non-obstructive azoospermic patients.

AIMS: We aimed to investigate fertilisation rates, quality of embryo, pregnancy and live birth rates, endocrine, sexual function, psychological status and quality of life of cases diagnosed with Klinefelter syndrome (KS). METHODS: Clinical findings, hormone values and semen analyses in patients with nonmosaic KS (Group 1, n = 121) and those with non-genetic nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) (Group 2, n = 178) were retrospectively analysed. Sperm retrieval outcomes with microdissection testicular sperm extraction (micro-TESE), fertilisation rates and embryo quality, pregnancy, abortion and live birth rates were compared. Sexual functions were assessed using IIEF-15, quality of life was evaluated and psychological status was assessed. RESULTS: There was no difference in terms of age between groups. Sperm retrieval rates was 38% and 55.6% in Groups 1 and 2, respectively (P = .012). Sperm retrieval rates were higher in Group 1 before 31.5 years than in Group 2 (AUC = 0.620 and 0.578). Compared to Group 2, the fertilisation rate was low in Group 1, whereas embryo quality was similar. Live birth rates were 12.5% and 23% in Groups 1 and 2, respectively (P = .392). The education level, libido, erectile functions and general health satisfaction were lower in Group 1 than in Group 2 (P < .005). Depression and anxiety levels were higher in Group 2 than Group 1 (P < .001). CONCLUSION: Higher sperm retrieval rate has been achieved in Group 1 younger than 31.5 years. Similar embryo quality is provided between groups. Sexual dysfunction and psychiatric problems were higher in Group 1, with lower satisfaction and general health than Group 2. Patients with KS should be monitored not only with their reproductive functions but also with their general health status.

Impact of high visceral adiposity index associated with metabolic syndrome on erectile function in sexually active men: Results of a cross-sectional study.

AIMS: Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition affected by many factors. We aimed to show the impact of the metabolic syndrome (MeTS) on male sexual function based on visceral adiposity index (VAI). METHODS: Participants who met MeTS criteria (Group 1, n = 96) and did not meet MeTS criteria (Group 2, n = 189) were included in this cross-sectional study. The MeTS diagnosis was made in the presence of at least 3 of the following criteria: fasting serum glucose level higher than 100 mg/dL, HDL cholesterol level below 40 mg/dL, triglyceride level higher than 150 mg/dL, waist circumference higher than 102 cm and blood pressure higher than 130/85 mmHg. Demographic data were recorded; biochemical and hormonal tests were measured. Erectile and other sexual function scores were recorded. The VAI was calculated using the [(Waist Circumference/39.68) + (1.88 × body mass index)] × triglyceride/1.03 × 1.31/HDL formula. RESULTS: Mean age, smoking volume, testosterone (T) and testosterone/estradiol (T/E2 ) ratios of the groups were similar (P > .05). The mean VAI was two-fold higher in patients in Group 1 (P < .001) and erectile function score was lower in Group 1 than Group 2 (P = .001). Other sexual function scores were similar (P > .05). The METS was associated with an increased risk of ED (P = .001). Logistic regression analysis showed that each integer increase in the VAI was associated with a 1.4-fold increased risk of ED (P < .001). Higher T values were associated with a better erectile function (P = .03). For the VAI = 4.33, receiver-operating characteristic analysis showed a sensitivity of 89.6% and specificity of 57.7%. CONCLUSION: Compared with non-MeTS, the presence of MeTS has emerged as a risk factor for patients with ED with high VAI levels while the other sexual functions are preserved. Management of ED patients with MeTS should cover a comprehensive metabolic and endocrinological evaluation in addition to andrological work up.

Can High Visceral Adiposity Index Be a Risk Factor for Sexual Dysfunction in Sexually Active Men?

BACKGROUND: To our knowledge, there is no study in the literature that has investigated a cutoff value of the visceral adiposity index (VAI) for erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. AIM: To show a possible relationship between ED and VAI levels representing adipose tissue dysfunction and to identify a cutoff value of the VAI for ED. METHODS: This prospective cross-sectional study included 276 participants in 5 groups: non-ED, mild ED, mild-moderate ED, moderate ED, and severe ED. The VAI was calculated. Fasting glucose, triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein, testosterone (T), prolactin, and estradiol were measured. Erectile function, sexual satisfaction, orgasm, desire, and general satisfaction scores were recorded using the International Index of Erectile Dysfunction 1-15 questionnaire. The participants were divided into BMI1 (<25.0), BMI2 (25-29.9), and BMI3 (>30.0) categories based on body mass index (BMI) and WC1 (<94 cm), WC2 (94-102 cm), and WC3 (>102 cm) categories based on waist circumference (WC). OUTCOMES: The VAI was investigated as an independent risk factor for ED, compared with BMI and WC. RESULTS: The median VAI progressively increased, but a marked increase was recorded in groups 4 and 5 (P = .001). A significant increase in ED was observed for a VAI score higher than 4.33 (P = .001). Each integer increase of the VAI was associated with a 1.3-fold increased risk of ED. The odds ratio of ED for the VAI = 4.33 was 4.4 (P < .001). The WC and BMI significantly increased as the degree of ED increased (P = .001), but statistical analysis showed a significant decrease only in moderate and severe ED groups (P < .05). Starting from non-ED patients, serum triglyceride increased and high-density lipoprotein decreased progressively in all ED groups (P = .001). T/E2 slightly reduced as the severity of ED increased (P > .05). T decreased in ED groups (P = .022). Regardless of the ED level, other sexual subdomains decreased in ED patients (P = .001). The ED rates in 3 increasing BMI and WC categories were similar (P > .05). For VAI = 4.33, BMI ≥ 30.0 kg/m2, and WC > 102 cm, sensitivity and specificity were 61.2% and 73.8%, 31.6% and 90.5%, and 54.3% and 69.0%, respectively. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: The VAI should be considered as a reliable independent risk factor for ED as a predictor of visceral adipose dysfunction. STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS: The main strength is that this is the first study to investigate the association between the VAI and sexual dysfunction in men. The low number of participants is the limiting factor. CONCLUSION: The findings suggest that the VAI can be used as a reliable independent risk factor marker for ED as a predictor of visceral adipose dysfunction. Bolat MS, Kocamanoglu F, Ozbek ML, et al. Can High Visceral Adiposity Index Be a Risk Factor for Sexual Dysfunction in Sexually Active Men? J Sex Med 2020;17:1926-1933.

A novel method for pain control: infiltration free local anesthesia technique (INFLATE) for transrectal prostatic biopsy using transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS).

PURPOSE: To describe a novel method for the control of pain during prostate biopsies, infiltration free local anesthesia technique (INFLATE) for transrectal prostatic biopsies with no further needle insertions for local anesthetic infiltration. METHODS: A total of 138 men with elevated prostate-specific antigen levels and/or abnormal digital rectal examination findings were included in the study. Of the patients, 73 were assigned to the INFLATE group and 65 to the TRUS-PNB group. Demographic data, PSA levels, findings of digital rectal examinations, and multiparametric prostatic magnetic resonance imaging were recorded. In the INFLATE group, a two-channel TENStem eco basic device with two electrodes was used for pain control during the biopsy. For the TRUS-PNB group, 60 mg lidocaine gel was given intrarectally in addition to infiltration of a prilocaine and bupivacaine mixture (5 mL of 2% prilocaine + 5 mL of 0.25% bupivacaine). Pain perception was assessed using a linear numeric rating scale. RESULTS: The mean ages, BMIs, prostate volumes, and PSA levels were similar between the two groups (p > 0.05). Of the 56 participants with prostate adenocarcinoma, 28 were in the INFLATE group, and 28 were in the TRUS-PNB group with a 40.6% overall cancer detection rate. The mean preoperative and post-operative pain scores during probe insertion, biopsy and post-biopsy were similar between the groups (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: The results of the study confirmed that INFLATE for transrectal prostate biopsy using a TENS device could safely and effectively be used for pain control with the advantage of two fewer needle attempts with no increase in significant complications.

Comparison of Long-Term Results and Couples' Satisfaction with Penile Implant Types and Brands: Lessons Learned From 883 Patients With Erectile Dysfunction Who Underwent Penile Prosthesis Implantation.

INTRODUCTION: No study has compared surgical outcomes and couples' satisfaction among the 3 types of implants, with all brands available on the markets. AIMS: To compare long-term complications, mechanical reliability, and couples' satisfaction with penile implant types and brands in patients who underwent penile prosthesis implantation. We also investigated whether there are risk factors that might predict couples' dissatisfaction. METHODS: This retrospective study included 883 patients with erectile dysfunction who underwent penile prosthesis implantation. Of the patients, 349 had malleable penile implant, 26 had 2-piece implants, and 508 had 3-piece implants. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Couples' satisfaction after surgery was evaluated with the modified Erectile Dysfunction Inventory of Treatment Satisfaction questionnaire. Surgical outcomes, mechanical reliability, and couples' satisfaction were compared according to type and brand of the penile implants in all patients. RESULTS: The mean age and follow-up period of the patients were 57.74 ± 9.59 years and 67.81 ± 49.11 months, respectively. The couples' satisfaction rates were significantly higher in the 3-piece implant group than in the malleable group (P < .001), but there was no significant difference between the 2-piece and 3-piece implant groups. There was no difference in terms of couples' satisfaction according to the brand of the implants. Of the patients who had malleable implants, 27 (7.7%) underwent 3-piece penile prosthesis implantation due to dissatisfaction; however, only 1 (0.2%) of the patients with a 3-piece implant was switched to a malleable implant (P < .001). The highest rate of revision surgery due to penile corporal perforation was in the malleable group (2.6%), whereas the highest rate of revision surgery due to penile implant malfunction occurred in the 3-piece implant group (5.5%) (P = .021 and .001, respectively). To analyze risk factors, using multivariate analysis, presence of complication was the only predictor that might cause couples' dissatisfaction (P = .003). CONCLUSIONS: 3-piece and 2-piece implants have higher couples' satisfaction rates than the malleable implant. Brands of implants did not have any effect on the couples' satisfaction. Regarding detail of the complications, the 3-piece implant has a lower rate of penile corporal perforation and a higher rate of penile implant malfunction than the malleable implant. Patients with erectile dysfunction who need a penile implant should be informed about surgical outcomes, brands, and types of penile implants. Prosthesis choice should be customized to individual patient's expectations/conditions and tailored accordingly. Çayan S, Asci R, Efesoy O, et al. Comparison of Long-Term Results and Couples' Satisfaction with Penile Implant Types and Brands: Lessons Learned From 883 Patients With Erectile Dysfunction Who Underwent Penile Prosthesis Implantation. J Sex Med 2019;16:1092-1099.

The impact of age on fertility rate in patients who underwent microsurgical varicocelectomy.

Impacts of a subinguinal microsurgical varicocelectomy on the sperm parameters and fertility rates were investigated in three different ages according to their age at the time of the varicocelectomy: Group 1 was ≤20 years old, Group 2 was 21-30 years old, and Group 3 was ≥31 years old. The patients were also classified both preoperatively and post-operatively according to the total motile sperm count (TMSC) into the following categories: invitro fertilisation, intrauterine insemination and naturally fertile. The proportion of patients who upgraded to a higher TMSC category level was calculated, and natural fertility rates were recorded. The mean infertility duration was statistically longer in Group 3, compared to Group 1 and 2. The mean TMSCs and normal sperm morphology rates increased in all groups. The mean post-operative natural fertility rates were similar. The highest rate of TMSC upgrade was observed in Grade 3 varicocele patients under 20 years of age, compared to other grades of varicocele in patients older than 20 years. A microsurgical subinguinal varicocele repair, which is an effective treatment modality reduces the need for any type of ART, has an important impact on the TMSC increase in patients, particularly in the younger population.

The prevalence of Burnout Syndrome among Turkish Urologists: Results of a Nationwide Survey.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the prevalence of Burnout syndrome (BS) with its emotional exhausting (EE), depersonalization (DP), and personal accomplishment (PA) dimensions among Turkish urologists. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 2,259 certified Turkish urologists were invited by e-mail to participate in this cross-sectional survey-based study. An online survey was conducted to evaluate three dimensions of BS ie: -EE, DP and PA-and their association with socio-demographic variables of Turkish urologists using the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI). RESULTS: Of the 2259 urologists contacted, 362 (with a mean age of 44±9.9 years) completed the survey. The mean EE, DP and PA scores were 16.8±8.7, 6.6±4.6 and 8.2±5.6, respectively. Cronbach's α reliability co-efficiencies were 0.920 for EE, 0.819 for DP and 0.803 for PA. Antidepressant drug usage was quite prevalent among participants (21.9%), and the most common comorbidity was hypertension (13%). The academic title, age, smoking status, monthly income and relationships between colleagues and employers were associated with BS (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: The prevalence of BS among Turkish urologists is quite prevalent in terms of EE and DP subscales and may negatively affect the psychosocial status and well-being of the urologists. In this study, a high prevalence of BS has been reported among Turkish urologists. In conclusion the BS could become an important occupational and health problem, if it is not properly managed.

The impact of thoracotomy on psychological and sexual function in men with lung cancer.

OBJECTIVE: We aimed to investigate the effect of major thoracic surgery on sexual functions and psychogenic aspects of men who underwent surgery for lung cancer. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This study was conducted to assess depression and erectile function in patients who underwent surgical treatment for lung cancer. The data of 50 patients in the study group, and 39 participants in the control group who met the criteria were analyzed. Erectile dysfunction (ED) and symptoms of depression were assessed in patients before and three months after surgery. RESULTS: The mean ages were 58.4±11.6 and 61.3±6.9 years; the mean BMIs were 25.6±4.3kg/m2 and 24.8±5.7kg/m2; the mean forced vital capacities (FVC) were 3.1±0.6L and 3.4±1.4L; the mean FEV1/FVC were 86.1±10.3 and 80.3±4.1; the mean Beck Depression Inventory scores were 9.3±6.9 and 6.0±6.2, and the mean FVC% were 82.9±14.9 and 82.0±26.2 for the study and control groups, respectively. The mean preoperative International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) scores were 14.1±4.1 and 10.8±4.7 postoperative in the study group, and 17.4±8.6 in the control group. The logistic regression analysis showed that postoperative complications resulted in a 3.95-times higher risk of suffering from ED. CONCLUSION: Our study supported that surgical treatment of lung cancer adversely affected psychogenic status and sexual function due to its stringent nature. The fear of death affects the quality of life and the psychogenic aspect of the patients with lung cancer. Clinicians should thoroughly inform the patients about sexual dysfunction and psychogenic disorders, and when needed providing an appropriate sexual counseling and treatment is necessary. Good communication contributes to a better quality of life.

The effect of atorvastatin on penile intracavernosal pressure and cavernosal morphology in normocholesterolemic rats.

OBJECTIVE: A debate is open on the effects of lipid-lowering drugs on sexual function. We aimed to investigate the effect of atorvastatin use on penile intracavernosal pressure (ICP) and cavernosal morphology. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Fourteen mature male Sprague-Dawley-rats were randomly assigned to either the control group (which received standard food and water ad libitum) or the atorvastatin group (which received standard food, water, and statin) for twelwe weeks. At the end of the study, ICPs were measured with cavernosometry. Penectomy specimens were histologically examined. RESULTS: The following mean values were obtained for the control and atorvastatin groups, respectively: pre-study body weights (350±16.9 g and 331.4±24.9 g); post-study body weights (356±18 g and 368±22.5 g (p>0.05); ICPs at 5 V (5.96±5.16 mmHg and 2.11±1.22 mmHg (p=0.07)); ICPs at 10 V (18.28±14.1 mmHg and 5.56±5.58 mmHg) (p=0.09); testosterone (1.23±0.78 and 0.78±0.58 mmol/dL) (p=0.39); blood glucose (151±22 mg/dL and 168.6±16.2 mg/dL) (p=0.12); triglyceride (93.4±19.8 mg/dL and 52.1±18.6 mg/dL) (p=0.01); total cholesterol (50.2±7.2 mg/dL and 47.7±6.6 mg/dL) (p=0.51); and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (10.0±4.4 mg/dL and 3.5±2.1 mg/dL) (p=0.01). The mean collagen thickness was similar (p=0.09); but the mean elastin thickness increased in the atorvastatin group (p=0.01). CONCLUSION: The present study showed that the use of atorvastatin reduced the intracavernosal pressure in 10 V stimulation, and minimally decreased testosterone levels in rats, within a short period of time. When statin treatment is considered for its protective properties on cardiovascular system or for its lipid-lowering effect. It should be kept in mind that atorvastatin may also adversely contribute to erectile dysfunction.

Pure large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of the bladder without urological symptoms.

Neuroendocrine carcinoma is one of the uncommonly seen pathologies of the urinary bladder. Macroscopic hematuria is frequently encountered symptom in patients with neuroendocrine carcinoma. We report a 45-year-old man with left solitary kidney and oliguria for five days the development of acute renal failure (ARF) with the impaired general condition. The underlying cause being identified as pure type large-cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of the bladder. Large-cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of the bladder is an uncommon fatal tumor. No macroscopic hematuria or urological symptom was observed in our case. Advanced ectasia was not observed in the kidney, and the patient's clinical status was complicated with ARF. It must not be forgotten that in some bladder tumors, the patient's general condition may be impaired without urological symptoms.

Low dose daily versus on-demand high dose tadalafil in diabetic patients with erectile and ejaculatory dysfunction.

The aim was to compare the differences between daily 5 mg and on-demand 20 mg tadalafil use in diabetic patients with erectile dysfunction (ED), and the effects of two different tadalafil protocols on ejaculatory and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). Of the 63 diabetic patients with ED, 31 were given 5 mg tadalafil once a day, and 32 were given 20 mg tadalafil on-demand four times a month over three months. Erectile function, erectile hardness, ejaculatory function, and LUTS were assessed at pretreatment, first- and third-month controls. Both tadalafil protocols increased International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) scores in all patients under 65 years, whereas patients older than 65 years did not benefit. Ejaculatory function, the quality of the hardness of an erection, and LUTS improved in both groups in the study. Tadalafil improved sexual function with acceptable side effects in diabetic men with ED. Both protocols equally improved LUTS and the quality of the erection. Daily use of 5 mg of tadalafil significantly improved the quality of ejaculation and LUTS more than the on-demand use of 20 mg of tadalafil. It may be beneficial to give 5 mg tadalafil daily to patients over 65 years old who do not benefit from treatment with 20 mg of tadalafil or in patients who have LUTS over 65 years old.

A Comparison of Prilocaine vs Prilocaine + Bupivacaine in Periprostatic Block in Ambulatory Prostate Biopsies: A Single-Blind Randomized Controlled Study.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the analgesic effect of a prilocaine + bupivacaine combination in patients undergoing periprostatic nerve block (PNB) by comparing its effects with those of prilocaine alone. Design: Single center, single-blind, prospective descriptive study. Subjects: Four hundred patients with transrectal prostate biopsy pain. Methods: The patients in this prospective, randomized controlled study were divided into two groups. The first group received prilocaine during PNB (Group 1), whereas the second received a prilocaine + bupivacaine combination (Group 2). Results: The mean visual analog scale (VAS) scores immediately after biopsy were 2.52 ± 0.7 and 2.53 ± 0.9, respectively (P = 0.35). VAS values were significantly lower in Group 2 at one and six hours following the procedure. The most painful part of the biopsy according to many patients was the probe insertion. Conclusions: The prilocaine + bupivacaine combination is an effective analgesic method during prostate biopsies and for one and six hours after prostate biopsy.

Does antegrade JJ stenting affect the total operative time during laparoscopic pyeloplasty?

OBJECTIVE: We aimed to show the effect of retrograde JJ stenting and intraoperative antegrade JJ stenting techniques on operative time in patients who underwent laparoscopic pyeloplasty. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 34 patients were retrospectively investigated (15 male and 19 female) with ureteropelvic junction obstruction. Of the patients stentized under local anesthesia preoperatively, as a part of surgery, 15 were retrogradely stentized at the beginning of the procedure (Group 1), and 19 were antegradely stentized during the procedure (Group 2). A transperitoneal dismembered pyeloplasty technique was performed in all patients. The two groups were retrospectively compared in terms of complications, the mean total operative time, and the mean stenting times. RESULTS: The mean ages of the patients were 31.5±15.5 and 33.2±15.5 years (p=0.09), and the mean body mass indexes were 25.8±5.6 and 26.2.3±8.4 kg/m2 in Group 1 and Group 2, respectively. The mean total operative times were 128.9±38.9 min and 112.7±21.9 min (p=0.04); the mean stenting times were 12.6±5.4 min and 3.5±2.4 min (p=0.02); and the mean rates of catheterization-to-total surgery times were 0.1 and 0.03 (p=0.01) in Group 1 and 2, respectively. The mean hospital stays and the mean anastomosis times were similar between the two groups (p>0.05). CONCLUSION: Antegrade JJ stenting during laparoscopic pyeloplasty significantly decreased the total operative time.

Effect of a Carbohydrate-Rich Diet on Rat Detrusor Smooth Muscle Contractility: An Experimental Study.

OBJECTIVES: We aimed to investigate the effect of a carbohydrate-rich diet on detrusor contractility in rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized into two groups. The control group received regular food and water. The study group received carbohydrate-rich diet for six weeks. The rats' detrusor muscle was isolated for pharmacological and histopathological examinations. RESULTS: In the control and study groups, mean body weights were 431.5 ± 27.6 g and 528.0 ± 36.2 g, respectively (p < 0.001). Electrical stimulation of the detrusor strips of the control group resulted in gradual contraction. A decreased contractile response was shown in the study group. Acetylcholine in 10-7-10-3 molar concentration produced a decreased contractile response in the study group, compared to the control group (p < 0.01). The study group showed marked subepithelial and intermuscular fibrosis in the bladder. CONCLUSION: Carbohydrate-rich diet causes marked subepithelial and extracellular fibrosis and changes in contractility in the detrusor within a six-week period. Changes have higher costs in therapeutic choices and correction of these changes remains difficult. Putting an end to carbohydrate-rich diet would seem to be more cost-effective than dealing with the effects of consuming it in high proportions which should be the national policy worldwide.

Retrospective evaluation of the effects of periprostatic local anesthesia on recurrent prostate biopsy.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was investigate the pain palliation effect of 2% dose of lidocaine on the periprostatic nerve block in prostate biopsy patients. METHODS: Extended (12 cores) and saturation (22 cores) biopsy patients were included. The patients were separated into three groups: extended biopsy patients (Group I), saturation biopsy patients (Group II), and control group patients undergoing a biopsy procedure for the first time (Group III). All patients received 2% lidocaine (10 mL) on both the seminal vesicular junction and apex of the prostate with transrectal ultrasonography guidance. Following the procedure, the pain levels of patients were assessed using a 10-cm linear Visual Analog Scale (VAS). RESULTS: Following the procedure, the VAS values of each group were 2.96±1.06, 3.2±1.47, and 2.93±0.94, respectively (p>0.05). While the highest pain score was seen in the saturation group patients (II), the lowest pain level was seen in the control biopsy group (III). However, no statistical di erence was observed among the groups. CONCLUSION: Herein, we observed that a local injection using 2% lidocaine was effective as local anesthetic in recurrent prostate biopsies. In addition, it was found that the pain level increases as the number of cores taken in recurrent prostate biopsies increases; however, this has not been established statistically.

The efficacy of low-dose tadalafil in patients undergoing hemodialysis with end-stage renal disease.

BACKGROUND: Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a disorder that is frequently observed in people with chronic kidney disease who undergo hemodialysis (HD). In the context of evidence-based medicine, we aimed to investigate the effect of low-dose tadalafil on sexual function in patients undergoing HD. METHODS: The medical records of 30 males (aged 29-65 years) with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) on a HD program, and who had received 5 mg tadalafil twice weekly, were retrospectively evaluated. Changes in erectile and ejaculatory function were evaluated using the International Erectile Function Index questionnaire, the Erection Hardness Scale (EHS), and the Male Sexual Health Questionnaire (MSHQ). RESULTS: The mean age of the patients was 47.6 ± 10.1 years, their mean body mass index was 24.3 ± 4.2 kg/m2, their mean hemoglobin was 11.9 ± 0.9 g/dL, and their mean creatinine clearance was 5.8 ± 1.1 mL/min. At the third month of treatment, 36.6% of the patients had no ED, 40% had mild ED, 10% had mild-to-moderate ED, and 13.3% had moderate ED. The mean MSHQ scores (p < .05) and the mean EHS scores (p = .001) were significantly improved. There was no significant difference between Beck's Depression Inventory scores (p > .05), but Hamilton anxiety rate scores decreased significantly (p = .001). The quality-of-life score improved throughout the study period (p < .05). CONCLUSIONS: Tadalafil therapy is an effective therapeutic option in patients with ESRD who undergo HD, not only for the treatment of ED, but also for ejaculatory function, with acceptable adverse effects.