Urodynamic Parameters and Continence Outcomes in Asymptomatic Patients with Ileal Orthotopic Neobladder: A Systematic Review and Metanalysis.

INTRODUCTION: The orthotopic neobladder is the type of urinary diversion (UD) that most closely resembles the original bladder. However, in the literature the urodynamic aspects are scarcely analysed. OBJECTIVE: To provide the first systematic review (SR) on the urodynamic (UDS) outcomes of the ileal orthotopic neobladders (ONB). Continence outcomes are also presented. METHODS: A PubMed, Embase and Cochrane CENTRAL search for peer-reviewed studies on ONB published between January 2001-December 2022 was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) statement. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Fifty-nine manuscripts were eligible for inclusion in this SR. A great heterogeneity of data was encountered. Concerning UDS parameters, the pooled mean was 406.2 mL (95% CI: 378.9-433.4 mL) for maximal (entero)cystometric capacity (MCC) and 21.4 cmH2O (95% CI: 17.5-25.4 cmH2O) for Pressure ONB at MCC. Postvoid-residual ranged between 4.9 and 101.6 mL. The 12-mo rates of day and night-time continence were 84.2% (95% CI: 78.7-89.1%) and 61.7% (95% CI: 51.9-71.1%), respectively.Despite data heterogeneity, the ileal ONB seems to guarantee UDS parameters that resemble those of the native bladder. Although acceptable rates of daytime continence are reported the issue of high rates of night-time incontinence remains unsolved. Adequately designed prospective trials adopting standardised postoperative care, terminology and methods of outcome evaluation as well as of conduction of the UDS in the setting of ONB are necessary to obtain homogeneous follow-up data and to establish UDS guidelines for this setting.

Outcomes of lateral approach in robot-assisted radical prostatectomy: insights from a single-surgeon experience.

In the era of robotic prostate surgery, various techniques have been developed to improve functional outcomes. Urinary continence has shown satisfactory results, but the preservation of lateral nerves to the periprostatic capsule is only achievable by sparing the pubovesical complex. This study aims to present the first cases of lateral-approach robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (LRRP) performed by a novice surgeon. We conducted a retrospective analysis of 70 prostate cancer patients who underwent LRRP between October 2019 and September 2021, analyzing the perioperative and functional outcomes. The median operative time and intraoperative blood loss were 102 (92-108) minutes and 150 (130-180) mL, respectively. Five minor postoperative complications were reported, and the median hospital stay was 2 (1-2) days. Eleven positive surgical margins occurred. Potency and urinary continence recovery were achieved in 59 (84%) and 66 (94%) patients, respectively, 12 months after surgery. Our analysis shows that LRRP is a safe and effective procedure for prostate cancer surgery. Continence and potency recovery required a short learning curve, with an acceptable recovery rate even in the initial cases.

Not Only Length Matters! Impact of the Ileal Width on the Capacity of the Orthotopic Neobladder: The AADAPT Formula Tested on the Animal Model.

Background: The capacity of a given shape of an orthotopic ileal neobladder (ONB) varies significantly, although the same length of preterminal ileum is utilised. Objective: To investigate the variability of the human ileal width and to create a mathematical formula that calculates its impact on the neobladder capacity. Design setting and participants: During 50 consecutive cases of robotic pelvic surgery, a segment of preterminal ileum was identified and the width was measured. A mathematical formula was created to calculate, for a given ileal length and width, the neobladder capacity and, for a given ileal width and neobladder capacity, the length of the (pre)terminal ileum to harvest. The accuracy of our model was tested on 28 pouches created by swine ileum. Outcome measurements and statistical analysis: The interindividual variability of the ileal width and its impact on the ileal neobladder capacity was investigated. Results and limitations: The mean hemicircumference of the human distal ileum is 2.43 ± 0.39 cm (range 2-3.5 cm). According to our geometric model and as confirmed in the swine model, an increase of 1 cm in ileal width increases the neobladder capacity by 85%. The Pearson correlation coefficient reported a strong positive relationship between the formula-calculated and effective volumes of the pouch (r = 0.97). Moreover, for the same target capacity, 1 cm of difference in the ileal width implies harvesting 20 cm less ileum. A lack of testing on humans and application only to spheroidal neobladders are the main limits. Conclusions: The ileal width impacts the capacity of the ONB. For a given type of ONB, no standard length of ileum should be harvested; instead, the length should be tailored to the width of the ileum for a given patient. Clinical studies are required to confirm our model. Patient summary: We demonstrated the variability of the ileal width among humans, and we provided a mathematical formula tested on swine that evaluates the impact of the ileal width on the capacity of the orthotopic ileal neobladder.

Continence-Sparing Techniques in Radical Prostatectomy: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Background: Numerous continence-sparing radical prostatectomy techniques have been developed to enhance postoperative early continence (EC) recovery; however, evidence regarding the best approach remains controversial. The objectives are to provide a critical appraisal of various prostatectomy techniques, based on the evidence of quality-assessed randomized control trials (RCTs); to summarize the immediate continence and the EC reported; and to propose a new standardization for continence outcomes reporting. Methods: Data acquired from five medical registries were reported to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) standards. Evidence from published, English, full-text RCTs reporting postoperative urinary continence outcomes within 6 months from surgery was included. The heterogeneity of surgical techniques and continence definitions did not allow a meta-analysis. All RCTs were critically appraised, and quality assessed. Results: In total, 39 RCTs were included: 19 of 39 studies were low-quality RCTs, presenting small cohort, monocentric, or single-surgeon data. The best RCT-supported evidence is in favor of robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) compared with laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP) and of the Retzius-sparing (RS) technique over the traditional prostatectomy. Other techniques such as bladder neck and puboprostatic ligament (PPL) preservation, posterior reconstruction with or without combination of anterior suspension technique, and nerve-sparing (NS) approach seem to enhance EC. Oppositely, the endopelvic fascia preservation, bladder neck mucosa eversion/plication/slings, and the selective ligature of dorsal venous complex (DVC) were not significantly associated with EC improvements. RCTs are lacking on pubovesical complex-sparing, seminal vesicle preservation, anterior reconstruction of the puboprostatic collar, musculofascial reconstruction, and DVC suspension to the periosteum of the pubic bone techniques. Conclusions: RARP and RS have high-quality evidence supporting their ability to enhance postoperative EC recovery. NS, bladder neck, and PPL preservation may contribute to better EC recovery, although the evidence level is low. Further multicenter RCTs are needed to establish the optimal combination of standard surgical techniques. A new continence outcome-reporting standardization was proposed.

First case-series of robot-assisted pudendal nerve release: technique and outcomes.

OBJECTIVE: Pudendal Nerve Entrapment (PNE) may determine chronic pelvic pain associated with symptoms related to its innervation area. This study aimed to present the technique and report the outcomes of the first series of robot-assisted pudendal nerve release (RPNR). PATIENTS AND METHODS: 32 patients, who were treated with RPNR in our centre between January 2016 and July 2021, were recruited. Following the medial umbilical ligament identification, the space between this ligament and the ipsilateral external iliac pedicle is progressively dissected to identify the obturator nerve. The dissection medial to this nerve identifies the obturator vein and the arcus tendinous of the levator ani, which is cranially inserted into the ischial spine. Following the cold incision of the coccygeous muscle at the level of the spine, the sacrospinous ligament is identified and incised. The pudendal trunk (vessels and nerve) is visualized, freed from the ischial spine and medially transposed. RESULTS: The Median duration of symptoms was 7 (5, 5-9) years. The median operative time was 74 (65-83) minutes. The median length of stay was 1 (1-2) days. There was only a minor complication. At 3 and 6 months after surgery, a statistically significant pain reduction has been encountered. Furthermore, the Pearson correlation coefficient reported a negative relationship between the duration of pain and the improvement in NPRS score, - 0.81 (p = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: RPNR is a safe and effective approach for the pain resolution caused by PNE. Timely nerve decompression is suggested to enhance outcomes.

"Urethral-Sparing" Robotic Radical Prostatectomy: Critical Appraisal of the Safety of the Technique Based on the Histologic Characteristics of the Prostatic Urethra.

BACKGROUND: The prostatic urethra (PU) is conventionally resected during robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RALP). Recent studies demonstrated the feasibility of the extended PU preservation (EPUP). AIMS: To describe the histologic features of the PU. METHODS: The PU was evaluated using cystoprostatectomy and RALP specimens. Cases of PU infiltration by prostate cancer or distortion by benign hyperplastic nodules were excluded. The thickness of the chorion and distance between the urothelium and prostate glands were measured. Prostate-specific antigen expression in the PU epithelium was evaluated with immunohistochemistry. Descriptive statistics were used. RESULTS: Six specimens of PU were examined. Histologically, the following layers of the PU were observed: (1) urothelium with basal membrane, (2) chorion, and (3) prostatic peri-urethral fibromuscular tissue. The chorion measures between 0.2 and 0.4 mm. There is not a distinct urethral muscle layer, but rather muscular fibers that originate near the prostatic stroma and are distributed around the PU. This muscular tissue appears to be mainly represented in the basal and apical urethra, but not in the middle urethra. The mean distance between the chorion and prostatic glands is 1.74 mm, with significant differences between base of the prostate, middle urethral portion, and apex (2.5 vs. 1.49 vs. 1.23 mm, respectively). PSA-expressing cells are abundant in the PU epithelium, coexisting with urothelial cells. CONCLUSIONS: The exiguity of thickness of the PU chorion, short distance from glandular tissue, and coexistence of PSA-expressing cells in the epithelium raise important concerns about the oncologic safety of EPUP.

"Bordeaux Neobladder": First Evaluation of the Urodynamic Outcomes.

Background: The intracorporeal orthotopic modified-Y "Bordeaux" neobladder (iYNB) was first described in 2016. No urodynamic evaluation of this neobladder has yet been performed. Objective: To present the urodynamic features of the iYNB and incontinence-specific health-related quality of life (HRQoL) outcomes. Design setting and participants: We prospectively assessed 26 patients operated between September 2018 and November 2020. Surgical procedure: Robotic radical cystectomy for malignant disease of the bladder and iYNB, performed by a single surgeon, were used. Measurements: Three months after surgery and in November 2021, consenting patients underwent clinical evaluation and multichannel urodynamic study (UDS). The incontinence quality of life (I-QoL) questionnaire was used to evaluate HRQoL. Continence was classified into day- and nighttime, and clinically defined as the use of zero pads. A descriptive statistical analysis was performed. Results and limitations: The mean age at surgery was 65.4 yr. The mean follow-up period was 27 mo (12-38). The mean time for the neobladder reconstruction was 192 min (110-340). The mean maximum capacity was 431 cm3 (range 200-553). The mean postvoid residual was 101.6 ml (0-310), and the rate of clean intermittent catheterization was 17.6%. With the exception of a significant reduction in the volume of the first sensation of bladder fullness, no other statistically significant changes in the UDS parameters of both the storage and the voiding phase were observed over time. Day- and nighttime continence rates were 58.8% and 23.5%, respectively. The mean postoperative I-QoL score was 103.3 (89-110). Limitations include the small number of patients and short follow-up. Conclusions: The UDS evaluation of iYNB demonstrates that both the volumetric and the pressure characteristics are acceptable and may enhance quality of life. Prospective studies with larger numbers of patients and longer follow-up are needed to further evaluate the iYNB. Patient summary: The "Bordeaux" neobladder provides acceptable urodynamic outcomes. It is associated with high levels of health-related quality of life and good rates of continence in patients.

Definition of a Structured Training Curriculum for Robot-assisted Radical Cystectomy with Intracorporeal Ileal Conduit in Male Patients: A Delphi Consensus Study Led by the ERUS Educational Board.

Robot-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) continues to expand, and several surgeons start training for this complex procedure. This calls for the development of a structured training program, with the aim to improve patient safety during RARC learning curve. A modified Delphi consensus process was started to develop the curriculum structure. An online survey based on the available evidence was delivered to a panel of 28 experts in the field of RARC, selected according to surgical and research experience, and expertise in running training courses. Consensus was defined as ≥80% agreement between the responders. Overall, 96.4% experts completed the survey. The structure of the RARC curriculum was defined as follows: (1) theoretical training; (2) preclinical simulation-based training: 5-d simulation-based activity, using models with increasing complexity (ie, virtual reality, and dry- and wet-laboratory exercises), and nontechnical skills training session; (3) clinical training: modular console activity of at least 6 mo at the host center (a RARC case was divided into 11 steps and steps of similar complexity were grouped into five modules); and (4) final evaluation: blind review of a video-recorded RARC case. This structured training pathway will guide a starting surgeon from the first steps of RARC toward independent completion of a full procedure. Clinical implementation is urgently needed. PATIENT SUMMARY: Robot-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) is a complex procedure. The first structured training program for RARC was developed with the goal of aiding surgeons to overcome the learning curve of this procedure, improving patients' safety at the same time.

Oncological outcomes of salvage radical prostatectomy for recurrent prostate cancer in the contemporary era: A multicenter retrospective study.

BACKGROUND: Salvage radical prostatectomy (sRP) historically yields poor functional outcomes and high complication rates. However, recent reports on robotic sRP show improved results. Our objectives were to evaluate sRP oncological outcomes and predictors of positive margins and biochemical recurrence (BCR). METHODS: We retrospectively collected data of sRP for recurrent prostate cancer after local nonsurgical treatment at 18 tertiary referral centers in United States, Australia and Europe, from 2000 to 2016. SM and BCR were evaluated in a univariate and multivariable analysis. Overall and cancer-specific survival were also assessed. RESULTS: We included 414 cases, 63.5% of them performed after radiotherapy. Before sRP the majority of patients had biopsy Gleason score (GS) ≤7 (55.5%) and imaging negative or with prostatic bed involvement only (93.3%). Final pathology showed aggressive histology in 39.7% (GS ≥9 27.6%), with 52.9% having ≥pT3 disease and 16% pN+. SM was positive in 29.7%. Five years BCR-Free, cancer-specific survival and OS were 56.7%, 97.7% and 92.1%, respectively. On multivariable analysis pathological T (pT3a odds ratio [OR] 2.939, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.469-5.879; ≥pT3b OR 2.428-95% CI 1.333-4.423) and N stage (pN1 OR 2.871, 95% CI 1.503-5.897) were independent predictors of positive margins. Pathological T stage ≥T3b (OR 2.348 95% CI 1.338-4.117) and GS (up to OR 7.183, 95% CI 1.906-27.068 for GS >8) were independent predictors for BCR. Limitations include the retrospective nature of the study and limited follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: In a contemporary series, sRP showed promising oncological control in the medium term despite aggressive pathological features. BCR risk increased in case of locally advanced disease and higher GS. Future studies are needed to confirm our findings.

Outcomes of Salvage Radical Prostatectomy for M0 Castration-resistant Recurrent Prostate Cancer: A Reasonable Option in the Era of New Antiandrogen Therapies?

There is little evidence regarding salvage radical prostatectomy (sRP) for M0 castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). We reviewed oncological results and complications for 23 men with radiographically recurrent M0 CRPC undergoing sRP at six institutions. Sixteen and ten men experienced at least one and one major (Clavien >2) complication, respectively. After sRP, nine men became incontinent, including two with severe incontinence. The majority of men had aggressive extraprostatic disease (≥pT3b 56.5%; pN1 30.4%; Gleason ≥8 65.2%). Postoperatively 69.6% reached undetectable prostate-specific antigen (PSA) without androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). Seven men had postoperative PSA persistence and six had CRPC persistence. Among the others, biochemical recurrence (BCR) occurred in 68.7% and CRPC in 58.8% at a median of 11 and 31 mo from sRP, respectively. At median follow-up of 4 yr, 17.4% were disease-free, 34.4% had died from PC, and 4.3% had died from other causes. sRP for M0 CRPC is feasible although the risk of complications is significant. A minority of patients can be cured and a significant proportion experience prolonged BCR- and CRPC-free status, thus delaying the need for systemic treatments. Further studies are needed to clarify the role of sRP for M0 CRPC in the era of new antiandrogen therapies. PATIENT SUMMARY: Salvage radical prostatectomy for radiorecurrent M0 castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) is feasible, although continence outcomes are suboptimal and the risk of complications is significant. Survival is promising: some men can be cured and others experience a period without evidence of PC or CRPC. More research is needed to confirm our findings and demonstrate survival benefits.

Robotic radical prostatectomy: analysis of midterm pathologic and oncologic outcomes: A historical series from a high-volume center.

BACKGROUND: Identifying predictors of positive surgical margins (PSM) and biochemical recurrence (BCR) after radical prostatectomy (RP) may assist clinicians in formulating prognosis. Aim of the study was to report the midterm oncologic outcomes, to identify the risk factors for PSM and BCR and assess the impact of the PSM on BCR-free survival following robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RALP). METHODS: From 2005 to 2010, 1679 consecutive patients underwent transperitoneal RALP. Data was retrospectively collected by an independent statistical company and analyzed in 2014. Median postoperative follow-up was 33.5 mo. BCR was defined as any detectable serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) ≥ 0.2 ng/mL in two consecutive measurements. BCR-free survival was estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Univariate and multivariate analysis were applied to identify risk factors for PSM and BCR. RESULTS: In pN0/pNx cancers, pathologic stage was pT2 in 1186 patients (71.8%), pT3 in 455 patients (27.6%), and pT4 in 11 patients (0.6%). PSM rate was 17.4% and 36.9% of pT2 and pT3 cancers, respectively. Pathologic Gleason score was < 7, = 7 and > 7 in 42.1%, 53% and 4.9% of the patients, respectively. Overall BCR-free survival was 73.1% at 5 years; the 5-year BCR-free survival was 87.9% for pT2 with negative surgical margins. PSA, Gleason score (both bioptic and pathologic), pathologic stage (pT) and surgeon's volume were significant independent predictors of PSM. PSA, pathologic Gleason score, pT and PSM were significant independent predictors of BCR-free survival. Seminal vesicle-sparing, nerve-sparing approach and the extent of nerve-sparing (intra vs interfascial dissection) did not negatively affect margin status or BCR rates. CONCLUSIONS: PSMs are a predictor of BCR. Being the only modifiable factor influencing the PSM rate, surgical experience is confirmed as a key factor for high-quality oncologic outcomes.

A Novel Simulated Training Platform and Study of Performance Among Different Levels of Learners in Flexible Cystoscopy.

INTRODUCTION: The aims of this study were to test a novel simulation platform suitable for flexible cystoscopy using a standard scope, to assess the platform's proposed use as a training tool for flexible cystoscopy, and to assess the user experience through surveyed response. METHODS: Thirty-one urologists (11 novices, 20 experts) were evaluated using a novel light-based bladder model and standard flexible cystoscope. Time to complete full inspection of the simulated bladder was measured, and the scope trajectory was recorded. Participants also completed a survey of the training platform. RESULTS: Thirty participants completed a simulated inspection of a portable bladder model with a mean ± SD time for 153.1 ± 76.1 seconds. One participant failed to complete. Novice urologists (defined as those having completed less than 50 flexible cystoscopies in clinic) had a mean ± SD time of 176.9 ± 95.8 seconds, whereas with experts, this decreased to 139.3 ± 60.7 seconds. Dynamic trajectory maps identified "blind spots" within each user's cystoscopy performance. In a poststudy follow-up, 27 participants considered the tool valuable or extremely valuable for training, whereas 19 participants considered that the tool either very well or excellently replicated the clinical setting. All participants ranked the tool as very good or excellent for overall quality of training. DISCUSSION: Advances in electronic technology make portable low-cost models a potential low-cost alternative to endourology training platforms. In providing a quantifiable measure of user performance, the tool may shorten the learning curve in flexible cystoscopy and, potentially, reduce clinical errors and provide quantifiable measures for further clinical training.

Salvage Radical Prostatectomy for Recurrent Prostate Cancer: Morbidity and Functional Outcomes from a Large Multicenter Series of Open versus Robotic Approaches.

PURPOSE: Salvage radical prostatectomy has historically yielded a poor functional outcome and a high complication rate. However, recent reports of robotic salvage radical prostatectomy have demonstrated improved results. In this study we assessed salvage radical prostatectomy functional outcomes and complications when comparing robotic and open approaches. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively collected data on salvage radical prostatectomy for recurrent prostate cancer after local nonsurgical treatment at 18 tertiary referral centers from 2000 to 2016. The Clavien-Dindo classification was applied to classify complications. Complications and functional outcomes were evaluated by univariable and multivariable analysis. RESULTS: We included 395 salvage radical prostatectomies, of which 186 were open and 209 were robotic. Robotic salvage radical prostatectomy yielded lower blood loss and a shorter hospital stay (each p <0.0001). No significant difference emerged in the incidence of major and overall complications (10.1%, p=0.16, and 34.9%, p=0.67), including an overall low risk of rectal injury and fistula (1.58% and 2.02%, respectively). However, anastomotic stricture was more frequent for open salvage radical prostatectomy (16.57% vs 7.66%, p <0.01). Overall 24.6% of patients had had severe incontinence, defined as 3 or more pads per day, for 12 or 6 months. On multivariable analysis robotic salvage radical prostatectomy was an independent predictor of continence preservation (OR 0.411, 95% CI 0.232-0.727, p=0.022). Limitations include the retrospective nature of the study and the absence of a standardized surgical technique. CONCLUSIONS: In this contemporary series to our knowledge salvage radical prostatectomy showed a low risk of major complications and better functional outcomes than previously reported. Robotic salvage radical prostatectomy may reduce anastomotic stricture, blood loss and hospital stay, and improve continence outcomes.

The impact of warmed and humidified CO2 insufflation during robotic radical prostatectomy: Results of a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Cool and dry gas insufflation during laparoscopy induces hypothermia and cytokine increase, with significant perioperative morbidity. Our aim was to assess if warmed and humidified CO2 insufflation with HumiGard™ device can achieve significant benefits over standard insufflation in terms of risk of hypothermia, cytokine response, blood gases, and intra- and postoperative parameters, in the setting of robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP). METHODS: This was a prospective, randomized controlled clinical trial. Sixty-four patients with prostate cancer undergoing RARP were randomized to receive warmed and humidified CO2 insufflation with HumiGard device, plus hot air warming blanket (treatment group, H + WB), or standard CO2 insufflation, plus hot air warming blanket (control group, WB). Body core temperature (BCT), plasma levels of IL-6 and TNF-α, pain scores, and intraoperative parameters were recorded. The data were analyzed according to the Bayesian paradigm. RESULTS: Intraoperative BCT increased in both groups during surgery, with a statistically significant difference favoring group H + WB, ending at 0.2°C higher on average than group WB. No difference across groups was shown for cytokine levels. Blood gas parameters were not affected by warmed CO2 insufflation. No statistical differences were noted for pain scores and the other intra- and postoperative parameters. CONCLUSIONS: During RARP, warm and humidified CO2 insufflation with the HumiGard device was more effective than the standard CO2 insufflation in maintaining the patient's heat homeostasis, even if the difference was minimal. No imbalances were detected on blood gas analyses. No benefit could be shown in terms of cytokine levels and pain scores.

Accuracy of elastic fusion biopsy in daily practice: Results of a multicenter study of 2115 patients.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the accuracy of Koelis fusion biopsy for the detection of prostate cancer and clinically significant prostate cancer in the everyday practice. METHODS: We retrospectively enrolled 2115 patients from 15 institutions in four European countries undergoing transrectal Koelis fusion biopsy from 2010 to 2017. A variable number of target (usually 2-4) and random cores (usually 10-14) were carried out, depending on the clinical case and institution habits. The overall and clinically significant prostate cancer detection rates were assessed, evaluating the diagnostic role of additional random biopsies. The cancer detection rate was correlated to multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging features and clinical variables. RESULTS: The mean number of targeted and random cores taken were 3.9 (standard deviation 2.1) and 10.5 (standard deviation 5.0), respectively. The cancer detection rate of Koelis biopsies was 58% for all cancers and 43% for clinically significant prostate cancer. The performance of additional, random cores improved the cancer detection rate of 13% for all cancers (P < 0.001) and 9% for clinically significant prostate cancer (P < 0.001). Prostate cancer was detected in 31%, 66% and 89% of patients with lesions scored as Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System 3, 4 and 5, respectively. Clinical stage and Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System score were predictors of prostate cancer detection in multivariate analyses. Prostate-specific antigen was associated with prostate cancer detection only for clinically significant prostate cancer. CONCLUSIONS: Koelis fusion biopsy offers a good cancer detection rate, which is increased in patients with a high Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System score and clinical stage. The performance of additional, random cores seems unavoidable for correct sampling. In our experience, the Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System score and clinical stage are predictors of prostate cancer and clinically significant prostate cancer detection; prostate-specific antigen is associated only with clinically significant prostate cancer detection, and a higher number of biopsy cores are not associated with a higher cancer detection rate.

Adjuvant radiotherapy after radical cystectomy for muscle-invasive bladder cancer: A retrospective multicenter study.

OBJECTIVES: Radical cystectomy (RC) and pelvic lymph-node dissection (LND) is standard treatment for non-metastatic muscle-invasive urothelial bladder cancer (MIBC). However, loco-regional recurrence (LRR) is a common early event associated with poor prognosis. We evaluate 3-year LRR-free (LRRFS), metastasis-free (MFS) and overall survivals (OS) after adjuvant radiotherapy (RT) for pathological high-risk MIBC. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed data from patients in 3 institutions. Inclusion criteria were MIBC, histologically-proven urothelial carcinoma treated by RC and adjuvant RT. Patients with conservative surgery were excluded. Outcomes were evaluated by Kaplan-Meier method. Acute toxicities were recorded according to CTCAE V4.0 scale. RESULTS: Between 2000 and 2013, 57 patients [median age 66.3 years (45-84)] were included. Post-operative pathological staging was ≤pT2, pT3 and pT4 in 16%, 44%, and 39%, respectively. PLND revealed 28% pN0, 26% pN1 and 42% pN2. Median number of lymph-nodes retrieved was 10 (2-33). Forty-eight patients (84%) received platin-based chemotherapy. For RT, clinical target volume 1 (CTV 1) encompassed pelvic lymph nodes for all patients. CTV 1 also included cystectomy bed for 37 patients (65%). CTV 1 median dose was 45 Gy (4-50). A boost of 16 Gy (5-22), corresponding to CTV 2, was administered for 30 patients, depending on pathological features. One third of patients received intensity-modulated RT. With median follow-up of 40.4 months, 8 patients (14%) had LRR. Three-year LRRFS, MFS and OS were 45% (95%CI 30-60), 37% (95%CI 24-51) and 49% (95%CI 33-63), respectively. Five (9%) patients had acute grade ≥3 toxicities (gastro-intestinal, genito-urinary and biological parameters). One patient died with intestinal fistula in a septic context. CONCLUSIONS: Because of poor prognosis, an effective post-operative standard of care is needed for pathological high-risk MIBC. Adjuvant RT is feasible and may have oncological benefits. Prospective trials evaluating this approach with current RT techniques should be undertaken.

Robotic and Open Radical Prostatectomy: The First Prospective Randomised Controlled Trial Fuels Debate Rather than Closing the Question.

Despite the finally acquired level 1 evidence, the urologic debate on open versus robotic prostatectomy still persists. This trial from Brisbane will encourage future studies that will better inform this debate and define what robotic surgery offers.

Robust augmented reality registration method for localization of solid organs' tumors using CT-derived virtual biomechanical model and fluorescent fiducials.

BACKGROUND: Augmented reality (AR) is the fusion of computer-generated and real-time images. AR can be used in surgery as a navigation tool, by creating a patient-specific virtual model through 3D software manipulation of DICOM imaging (e.g., CT scan). The virtual model can be superimposed to real-time images enabling transparency visualization of internal anatomy and accurate localization of tumors. However, the 3D model is rigid and does not take into account inner structures' deformations. We present a concept of automated AR registration, while the organs undergo deformation during surgical manipulation, based on finite element modeling (FEM) coupled with optical imaging of fluorescent surface fiducials. METHODS: Two 10 × 1 mm wires (pseudo-tumors) and six 10 × 0.9 mm fluorescent fiducials were placed in ex vivo porcine kidneys (n = 10). Biomechanical FEM-based models were generated from CT scan. Kidneys were deformed and the shape changes were identified by tracking the fiducials, using a near-infrared optical system. The changes were registered automatically with the virtual model, which was deformed accordingly. Accuracy of prediction of pseudo-tumors' location was evaluated with a CT scan in the deformed status (ground truth). In vivo: fluorescent fiducials were inserted under ultrasound guidance in the kidney of one pig, followed by a CT scan. The FEM-based virtual model was superimposed on laparoscopic images by automatic registration of the fiducials. RESULTS: Biomechanical models were successfully generated and accurately superimposed on optical images. The mean measured distance between the estimated tumor by biomechanical propagation and the scanned tumor (ground truth) was 0.84 ± 0.42 mm. All fiducials were successfully placed in in vivo kidney and well visualized in near-infrared mode enabling accurate automatic registration of the virtual model on the laparoscopic images. CONCLUSIONS: Our preliminary experiments showed the potential of a biomechanical model with fluorescent fiducials to propagate the deformation of solid organs' surface to their inner structures including tumors with good accuracy and automatized robust tracking.