Ureteral wall thickness as a predictor for non-invasive treatment success for steinstrasse. Can we save time?

PURPOSE: We aimed to define factors affecting the non-invasive overall treatment success (medical expulsive therapy (MET) ± shock wave lithotripsy (SWL)) for uncomplicated ureteral steinstrasse (SS) clearance. METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated consecutive patients who underwent SWL for renal stones between 2017 and 2021. Patients with uncomplicated SS were included. All patient's demographic and radiological data, e.g., age, gender, pre-SWL stenting, SS site, type, leading stone size in widest diameter (< 10 mm and ≥ 10 mm), ureteral wall thickness (UWT) in mm against the leading stone were collected. If SS was diagnosed, medical treatment was given for 4 weeks. In case of MET failure, either SWL for the leading stones + MET or direct URS was done. Non-invasive treatment success (SFR) was considered if complete clearance of SS occurred with no complications or the need for invasive intervention. RESULTS: A total of 145 patients were included with mean age of 45.9 ± 12.4 years. SFR in case of MET only occurred in 27.9%. Complications happened in 26 patients (17.9%). Non-invasive treatment SFR was achieved in 78 patients (53.8%) totally where SS type I, leading stone size ≤ 10 mm type and decreased UWT around the leading stone increased treatment success. CONCLUSION: Ureteral wall thickness is an important factor predicting SS management success. Besides the decreased UWT, non-invasive management should be offered for type I SS with leading stone ≤ 10 mm.

Optimization of shockwave lithotripsy use for single medium sized hard renal stone with stone density ≥ 1000 HU. A prospective study.

PURPOSE: To identify shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) success predictors in hard renal stones (average stone density ≥ 1000 HU). MATERIALS: We prospectively evaluated patients who underwent SWL for hard renal stones between April 2018 and December 2020. Radiological parameters were identified, e.g., stone site, size, the average density in addition to stone core and shell mean density, and renal cortical thickness (RKT). SWL sessions were performed using Doli-S lithotripter till a maximum of 3-4 sessions with 2-4 weeks interval. Initial response to SWL included stone fragmentation and decreased stone size after the first SWL. Treatment success was considered if complete clearance of renal stones occurred or in case of clinically insignificant residual fragments ≤ 4 mm after 12 weeks follow up by NCCT. RESULTS: Out of 1878 patients who underwent SWL, the study included 157 patients with hard renal stones. Treatment overall success was found in 92 patients (58.6%) where 69 patients (43.9%) had complete stone clearance. On multivariate analysis, stone shell density < 901 HU, maximum stone size < 1 cm, RKT > 1.95 cm and initial treatment response were associated with increased the success rate after SWL for hard renal stones (P = 0.0001, 0.009, < 0.0001 and < 0.0001, respectively). CONCLUSION: In hard renal stones, treatment overall success was found in 58.6% where complete stone clearance was found in 43.9%. Stone outer shell fragility, lower stone size, increased RKT and initial response to SWL were associated with a higher success rate at 12-week follow-up.

Is JJ Ureteral Stenting Inferior to Percutaneous Nephrostomy as a Drainage Method in Emphysematous Pyelonephritis?

INTRODUCTION: The aim of the study was to examine the efficacy of JJ stenting in comparison with percutaneous nephrostomy (PCN) as a drainage method in patients with emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN). METHODS: We retrospectively identified patients with EPN between January 2000 and January 2021. Platelet-to-leukocytic ratio (PLR) at the time of hospital admission and discharge, time taken to clear air locules and to normalize leukocytic count, and air locule volume in mm3 were identified. Renal drainage by either PCN or JJ stent was required if symptoms persist for ≥3 days or in obstructed renal units. Failure of drainage method was defined as conversion to another method of drainage, need for intensive care unit admission, salvage nephrectomy, and mortality. RESULTS: Twenty-nine patients were managed by JJ stent. Treatment success was identified in 20 patients and 19 patients who were managed by PCN and JJ stent, respectively. Higher air locule volume ≥16.7 mm3 and lower PLR ≤18.4 increased the risk of drainage failure (p = 0.009 and 0.001, respectively). CONCLUSION: Ureteral JJ stenting is an effective method for EPN drainage with a comparable overall success to the PCN use. Higher air locule volume and lower PLR increased the risk of drainage failure.

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) following radical cystectomy: is it worth implementing for all patients?

PURPOSE: To report the overall effect of ERAS protocol implementation in patients undergoing radical cystectomy and its impact on the length of hospital stay (LOS) and surgical outcomes considering their comorbid conditions. METHODS: Retrospective cohort study including 296 patients (146 non-ERAS patients vs. 150 ERAS patients) undergoing radical cystectomy and urinary diversion from 2010 to 2018. Age-adjusted Charlson Comorbidity Index (ACCI) score eight was set as cut off value between low-risk and high-risk patients. The primary outcome was LOS. Secondary outcomes were time to bowel movements, tolerance of regular diet, the incidence of postoperative ileus, postoperative complications, and 30- and 90-day readmission rates. RESULTS: A higher comorbidity burden was identified in the ERAS group compared to non-ERAS patients (p = 0.04). Median (IQR) LOS for non-ERAS was group 8(4) and 8(5) for ERAS group (p = 0.07). ERAS group demonstrated shorter time to resume bowel movements as well as time to tolerance of regular diet (p = 0.007, p = 0.023, respectively). Low-risk patients managed by the ERAS protocol demonstrated a significantly shortened gastrointestinal (GIT) recovery time (p = 0.001) as well as a reduction of LOS (p = 0.04). No significant reduction of LOS was identified for patients with higher comorbidity when placed on the ERAS protocol (p = 0.65). There were no significant differences in postoperative complications or readmission rates between groups. CONCLUSION: ERAS protocol implementation following radical cystectomy showed significant improvements in GIT recovery, nevertheless, it did not result in a decrease in LOS or readmission rates. Low-risk patients appeared to derive more benefit from ERAS protocol implementation than high-risk patients.

Iatrogenic ureteral injuries: a case series analysis with an emphasis on the predictors of late ureteral strictures and unfavorable outcome in different surgical specialties.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: We aimed to report the demographics and management of iatrogenic ureteral injuries (IUIs) with different surgical specialties. Moreover, our goal was to analyze the predictors of late ureteral strictures and secondary intervention after primary surgical management, and the final effect on the kidney. METHODS: A retrospective study, between 2006 and 2019, enrolled all patients undergoing urological, abdominal, and pelvic surgeries performed through open, laparoscopic, or endoscopic means. If IUIs were discovered intraoperatively, they were managed either by internal stent or surgical intervention following the standard procedure. For IUIs discovered postoperatively, either percutaneous nephrostomy (PCN) or double J (DJ) ureteral stents were inserted for later endoscopic or surgical management. The final outcomes were divided into two groups: patients with successful primary outcomes and those who required secondary intervention later. All predictors were compared between the two groups. RESULTS: Forty-eight patients were reviewed: 23 out of 48 (48%) from obstetrics and gynecology (ob/gyn) involving the lower ureter primarily with overall favorable outcomes (82%), 15 (31%) colorectal, and 10 (21%) urology with serious injuries affecting men in the upper ureter. The primary management included open surgery in 12 patients, and drainage (PCN or DJ) in 36 patients. Restoration of ureteral anatomy and kidney function was achieved in all, but 18 cases required a secondary correction, either endoscopically or surgically. Both early and late discovery resulted in the same outcome. On bivariate analysis, only the side of the injury (left side, p = 0.03), and the specialty (colorectal cancer surgeries, p = 0.01) were predictors for late ureteral strictures, and both sustained their significance in multivariate regression analysis. CONCLUSION: Iatrogenic ureteral injuries associated with ob/gyn surgeries involve the lower ureter, primarily with overall favorable outcomes (82%). Serious ureteroscopic IUIs affect men in the upper ureter with greater frequency. IUIs on the left side and colorectal cancer surgeries are the predictors for late strictures and secondary interventions.

Effect of losartan on the recoverability of renal function in anuric and oliguric patients with a solitary obstructed kidney: a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the role of the angiotensin receptor blocker losartan on the recoverability of renal function after de-obstruction in patients with anuria and oliguria. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial in anuric or oliguric patients with calcular obstruction of solitary kidney. Patients with an anomalous kidney or those with an American Society of Anesthesiology score of >3 were excluded. After relief of obstruction, patients were allocated to receive either losartan potassium 25 mg or placebo for 3 months. Serum creatinine (sCr) and renographic glomerular filtration rate (GFR) were measured at nadir and after 3 months. Changes in sCr and renographic GFR were calculated by subtracting the values at nadir from those at 3 months. Improvement, stabilization or deterioration of sCr and renographic GFR were defined as percentage increase or decrease from nadir ≥10%, while changes <10% were considered as stabilization. RESULTS: A total of 76 patients completed 3 months of follow-up. Demographics and peri-operative data were comparable in the two groups. The median (range) sCr change was -1.05 (-1.8, 0.4) and -0.5 (-1.3, 0.1) mg/dL in the losartan and placebo, groups, respectively (P = 0.07). In the losartan group, renographic GFR had improved in 26 (59.1%) and deteriorated in six (13.6%) patients, while, in the placebo group, it had improved in eight (25%) and deteriorated in 10 patients (31.3%; P = 0.01). Losartan also enhanced renographic GFR improvement vs placebo by a median (range) of 6.9 (-9, 44) vs 1.4 (-10, 32) mL/min (P = 0.004). CONCLUSIONS: In patients with anuria and oliguria, losartan treatment contributes to renal function recoverability after relief of calcular obstruction of the solitary kidney.

Functional outcomes after pyeloplasty in solitary kidneys: structured analysis with the implication of Acute Kidney Injury Network (AKIN) staging criteria to predict long-term renal function recoverability.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the long-term functional outcomes after pyeloplasty in solitary kidney (SK) models and to define factors affecting postoperative renal function recoverability in adults. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated all adult patients who underwent pyeloplasty for pelvi-ureteric junction obstruction (PUJO) in SK. Long-term renal function was assessed by diuretic scintigraphy and morphological changes were also determined, e.g. renal parenchymal volume (RPV) and parenchymal thickness (PT). We considered a >20% increase in glomerular filtration rate (GFR) as improvement, >20% decrease as deterioration, and changes within 20% as stationary renal function. Univariate and multivariate analysis for factors affecting renal function recoverability, including the Acute Kidney Injury Network (AKIN) Staging System postoperatively, were performed. RESULTS: The study included 62 patients with a mean (SD) age of 29 (10.5) years. At a median of 48 months, the mean (SD) GFR increased from 41.3 (17) to 48.5 (20.1) mL/min (P < 0.001), with a significant increase in RPV and PT (P = 0.02 and P = 0.001, respectively). Follow-up renal function was static, improved and decreased in 39 (63.4%), 17 (27%) and six (9.6%) patients, respectively. Functional success was achieved in 90.4%. Patient's age ≥39 years, PT ≤0.75 cm and higher early postoperative AKIN staging were predictors associated with a 4.8-, 3.2- and 2.7-fold deterioration in renal function. CONCLUSION: Pyeloplasty in SK preserved renal function in 90.4% of the present patients. Pyeloplasty in SK when associated with older age, decreased PT preoperatively, and early higher AKIN staging postoperatively was associated with poor renal function recoverability.

Supranormal differential renal function in adults with ureteropelvic junction obstruction: Does it really exist?

INTRODUCTION: Some patients with ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) have supranormal differential renal function (snDRF). We aimed to study the outcomes of pyeloplasty in adult patients with UPJO and either snDRF or normal differential renal function (nDRF) and to identify preoperative factors responsible for the snDRF phenomenon. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively retrieved data for all patients who underwent pyeloplasty and had snDRF (differential renal function [DRF] ≥55%) and nDRF (DRF between 45 and 55%) preoperatively. Preoperative radiological data using computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging were correlated with the presence of snDRF phenomenon. In addition, scintigraphic findings pre- and post-operatively were also assessed to evaluate the functional outcomes. RESULTS: Of a total of 856 patients, 31 had snDRF (group 1) and 42 had nDRF (group 2). After a mean of 37 months' follow-up in Group 1, 22 patients developed DRF reduction with non-obstructive pattern. Mean DRF % decreased from 59 ± 2.8 to 48 ± 13 (P < 0.0001). However, in Group 2, five patients had DRF decrease. Four patients developed snDRF phenomenon postoperatively. Increased renal pelvis volume ≥50 mm3 and increased anteroposterior pelvic diameter (APD) ≥37 mm were found to predict snDRF phenomenon. The same findings, in addition to preoperative snDRF, correlated with postoperative DRF decrease. CONCLUSION: SnDRF function could be expected in patients with increased renal pelvis volume and APD. The absolute value or changes in DRF are not reliable to judge treatment failure.

Prophylaxis against renal ischemia-reperfusion injury in canine model: Stem cell approach.

INTRODUCTION: Stem cell therapy at the time of ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury has been hypothesized to attenuate the severity of acute kidney injury and to accelerate the regeneration process in lower animal models. Data in higher animal models is limited and discordant. We aimed to explore the reno-protective effects of stem cells on I/R related renal injury in a canine model. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-seven dogs that were treated with bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) were compared with another 27 dogs treated with adipose tissue-derived MSCs (AT-MSCs) following 90 min of warm ischemia to assess IR injury. Each group was divided into three subgroups (nine dogs each), according to the stem cell dose (5, 10, 15 × 106 in 500 µl volume) injected directly into the renal cortex after reperfusion. All dogs were re-evaluated by renogram, histopathology, and pro-inflammatory markers at 2 weeks, 2, and 3 months. RESULTS: In Group I, there was a mean reduction of creatinine clearance by 78%, 64%, and 74% at the three used doses, respectively, at 2 weeks. At 3 months, these kidneys regained a mean of 84%, 92%, and 72%, respectively, of its basal function. In Group II, the reduction of clearance was much more modest with mean of 14%, 6%, and 24% respectively at 2 weeks with more intense recovery of renal function by mean of 90%, 100%, and 76%, respectively, at 3 months. Group I had significantly more tubular necrosis and delayed regeneration compared with the Group II. Expressions of pro-inflammatory markers were upregulated in both the groups with a higher and more sustained expression in Group I. CONCLUSION: Stem cells protected against ischemic reperfusion injury in a canine model. AT-MSCs provided better protection than BM-MSCs.

Acute kidney injury following radical cystectomy and urinary diversion: predictors and associated morbidity.

INTRODUCTION: Acute kidney injury (AKI) after major surgeries is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. We aim to report incidence, predictors and associated comorbidities of AKI after radical cystectomy in a large cohort of patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 1000 patients who underwent open radical cystectomy in a tertiary referral center. Perioperative serum creatinine measurements were used to define AKI according to the RIFLE criteria (as Risk, Injury and Failure). The predictors of AKI after surgery were determined using univariate and multivariate analyses. RESULTS: Out of 988 evaluable patients, AKI developed in 46 (4.7%). According to RIFLE criteria; AKI-Risk, AKI-Injury and AKI-Failure occurred in 26 (2.6%), 9 (0.9%) and 11 (1.1%) patients, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that performing nephroureterectomy with cystectomy (Odds ratio [OR]: 4.3; 95% Confidence interval [CI]: 1.3-13.6; p=0.01) and the development of high grade complications (OR: 3.8; 95% CI 1.9-7.2; p<0.0001) were independently associated with AKI. CONCLUSIONS: AKI is a significant morbidity after radical cystectomy and the term should be included during routine cystectomy morbidity assessment.

Residual stones after percutaneous nephrolithotomy: comparison of intraoperative assessment and postoperative non-contrast computerized tomography.

OBJECTIVES: To compare the intraoperative surgeon perspective for detection of residual fragments (RFs) after percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL) with postoperative NCCT. METHODS: A prospective study of adult patients who underwent PNL between March and September 2014 was conducted. Stone complexity was evaluated using the Guy's stone score (GSS). All patients were evaluated by pre- and postoperative NCCT. After the procedure, the surgeon had been asked whether there were residual stones or not. The sensitivity, specificity and predictive values were tested against postoperative NCCT. Predictors of accurate intraoperative assessment were determined using univariate and multivariate statistical analyses. RESULTS: The study included 306 consecutive patients. The surgeons reported no residual stones in 236 procedures; of whom 170 (72%) were reported stone-free by NCCT. On the other hand, 65 out of 70 procedures (93%) reported with residual stones by the surgeons were true by NCCT. The sensitivity was 50% and the NPV was 72%, while the specificity was 97% and the PPV was 93%. On multivariate analysis, only lower GSS (p < 0.001) was independently associated with true negative surgeon opinion. CONCLUSIONS: Although there was a high surgeon ability to detect post-PNL residual stones, postoperative imaging is mandatory because of the high false negative rates and low NPV. The surgeon opinions can be judged only in stones with lower GSS. The NPV could be enhanced if a consistent definition of clinically significant RFs is introduced.

A Review Comparing Experience and Results with Bipolar Versus Monopolar Resection for Treatment of Bladder Tumors.

The standard treatment of non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) is transurethral resection (TUR) commonly using a monopolar electrocautery system. This system requires high energy and voltage to allow an electric current to run from the loop to the patient's skin. The heat generated leads to desiccation of small cells and difficulty to perform adequate histological analysis for severely cauterized pieces of tissues. On contrary, the electric current in bipolar systems does not traverse the patient and hence lower energy and voltage are used and minimal tissue damage is anticipated. In addition, the use of saline as an irrigant fluid eliminates the potential TUR syndrome from excess hypotonic fluid reabsorption. Furthermore, the lower energy dissipates as heat in tissues contributing to adequate hemostasis. This review presents the most recent studies and evidence on the differences between monopolar and bipolar systems for TUR of NMIBC as regards the perioperative and long-term outcomes.

External stent versus double J drainage in patients with radical cystectomy and orthotopic urinary diversion: A randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVES: To compare treatment-related outcomes of ureteral stenting with an external versus double J stent in patients with orthotopic reservoirs after radical cystectomy. METHODS: Patients undergoing radical cystectomy and orthotopic neobladder were randomized into two groups; group I patients received external stents, whereas group II received double J stents. In both groups, preoperative parameters were recorded, and patients were assessed regarding urinary tract infection, urinary leakage, upper tract deterioration, readmission and hospital stay. RESULTS: A total of 48 and 45 patients were randomized in the external stent group and double J group, respectively. Both groups were comparable in terms of age, sex, associated comorbidity and oncological status. Early urinary leak was observed in two patients (4.2%) in the external stent group, and in two patients (4.4%) in the double J group (P = 0.95). None of our patients developed ureteral strictures in the external stent group, and one patient did in the double J group (P = 0.3). Positive urine culture (58.3%, 51.1%) as well as febrile urinary tract infections (2.1%, 6.7%) were comparable between both groups, respectively (P = 0.43, 0.28). Wound complications (12.5%, 8.9%) and stent-related complications (2.1%, 0%) were comparable between both groups, respectively (P = 0.57, 0.33). The mean hospital stay was 17.5 days (range 14-32 days) and 14.6 days (range 10-42 days) in both groups, respectively (P = 0.001), with comparable re-admission rates (P = 0.95). CONCLUSIONS: Incorporation of double J stents in orthotopic urinary diversion is a safe alternative to the routinely used external stenting.

Risk factors of hospital readmission after radical cystectomy and urinary diversion: analysis of a large contemporary series.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the incidence, risk factors and causes of hospital readmission in a large series of patients who underwent radical cystectomy (RC) and urinary diversion. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We retrospectively analysed the data of 1000 patients who underwent RC and urinary diversion between January 2004 and September 2009 in our tertiary referral centre. Patients stayed in hospital for 21 and 11 days for orthotopic and ileal conduit diversions, respectively. The primary outcome was the development of a complication requiring hospital readmission at ≤3 months (early) and >3 months (late). Causes of hospital readmissions were categorised according to frequency of readmissions. Predictors were determined using univariate and multivariate logistic regression models. RESULTS: In all, 895 patients were analysed excluding 105 patients because of perioperative mortality and loss to follow-up. Early and late readmissions occurred in 8.6% and 11% patients, respectively. The commonest causes of first readmission were upper urinary tract obstruction (UUO, 13%) and pyelonephritis (12.4%) followed by intestinal obstruction (11.9%) and metabolic acidosis (11.3%). The development of postoperative high-grade complications (odds ratio [OR] 1.955; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.254-3.046; P = 0.003) and orthotopic bladder substitution (OR 1.585; 95% CI 1.095-2.295; P = 0.015) were independent predictors for overall hospital readmission after RC. Postoperative high-grade complications (OR 2.488; 95% CI 1.391-4.450; P = 0.002), orthotopic bladder substitution (OR 2.492; 95% CI 1.423-4.364; P = 0.001) and prolonged hospital stay (OR 1.964; 95% CI:1.166-3.308; P = 0.011) were independent predictors for early readmission while hypertension (OR 1.670; 95% CI 1.007-2.769; P = 0.047) was an independent predictor for late readmission. CONCLUSION: Hospital readmissions are a significant problem after RC. In the present study, UUO, pyelonephritis, metabolic acidosis and intestinal obstruction were the main causes of readmission. Orthotopic bladder substitution and development of postoperative high-grade complications were significant predictors for overall readmission.

Salvage of grafts with vascular thrombosis during live donor renal allotransplantation: a critical analysis of successful outcome.

OBJECTIVES: To report a high-volume institution experience with salvage techniques for vascular accidents during live donor renal allotransplantation. METHODS: Between March 1976 and January 2011, 2208 recipients underwent live donor renal allotransplantation. A retrospective review of recipients with vascular accidents - renal artery thrombosis and renal vein thrombosis - was carried out. Salvage procedures were recorded and their outcomes were assessed. RESULTS: A total of 23 (1%) vascular accidents occurred, including renal artery thrombosis and renal vein thrombosis in 19 (0.8%) and four (0.18%) recipients, respectively. All renal artery thrombosis patients were treated by open revascularization and the graft was salvaged in 12 patients (63%). Two renal vein thrombosis events were resolved by percutaneous catheter-directed thrombolytic therapy. Of the other two allografts, one was salvaged by thrombectomy and revascularization, and the other was lost. On univariable analysis, older recipients (P = 0.003), pretransplant hypertension (P = 0.001), more human leukocyte antigen mismatches (≥3; P = 0.036), shorter ischemia time (≤45 min; P = 0.004) and longer time to diagnosis (>3.5 days; P = 0.013) were significantly associated with non-salvage of the graft after vascular accidents. Nevertheless, none of these variables were significant on the multivariable analysis. Over a median follow up of 35 months, the median (range) serum creatinine was 2 mg/dL (range 0.8-8.8 mg/dL), and 11 (79%) recipients were living with functioning grafts. CONCLUSIONS: Despite the devastating complications, vascular accidents are salvageable and revascularization is crucial for graft salvage. Angiographic percutaneous techniques are viable alternatives for renal vein thrombosis.

Randomized trial to assess the potential role of ascorbic acid and statin for post-contrast acute kidney injury prevention.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of using statins and ascorbic acid for the prevention of post-contrast acute kidney injury (PC-AKI) in patients undergoing urologic diagnostic elective contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT). METHODS: This registered trial (NCT03391830) was for statin naïve patients underwent elective CECT. Patients were randomized allocated to two groups: the first group received atorvastatin 80-mg the day before the study and atorvastatin 40-mg two hours before the CECT and for continue on atorvastatin 40-mg two days after CECT; plus ascorbic acid 500 mg with atorvastatin. The other group received two tablets of placebo once/daily before the procedure and for another 3 days. The primary outcome was to assess the incidence PC-AKI. RESULTS: The baseline parameters were comparable between both groups. The final median (interquartile range "IQR") serum creatinine were 0.80 (0.60, 1.00) and 0.80 (0.60, 1.00), respectively, with insignificant p-value (p = 0.8). The median (IQR) final estimated GFR were 95.2 (72.8, 108.1) and 88.6 (71.9, 111.0) mL/min in placebo and statin plus ascorbic acid groups, respectively (p = 0.48). The eGFR difference median (IQR) were - 6.46 (- 11.72, - 4.18) and - 6.57 (- 13.38, - 3.82) ml/min in placebo and statin plus ascorbic acid groups, respectively (p = 0.58). PC-AKI occurred in 11 patients (9.8%) in placebo group and in 3 patients (3%) in statin plus ascorbic acid group (p = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS: Statin and ascorbic acid did not statistically improve neither serum creatinine nor eGFR values in patient underwent CECT. However, it can decrease the incidence of the clinically insignificant PC-AKI.

The Headache of Post-Transurethral Prostate Surgery Pyuria: Pursuit for Evidence.

Objective: To prospectively assess early post-transurethral prostate surgery (TUPS) urinalysis changes and bacteriuria with its clinical relevance. Methods: Patients with benign prostate obstruction enrolled for TUPS were prospectively assessed. Patients were assessed at 2, 4, 8, 12, and 24 weeks postoperatively by the dysuria-visual-analogue-scale (DVAS), international prostate symptom scores (IPSS)-quality of life, uroflow, and postvoid residual. Routine urinalysis was performed before discharge and at all visits. Midstream urine culture (MSUC) was performed before discharge, and 4 and 12 weeks postoperatively. Results: At final analysis, 152 patients were evaluable. Significant pyuria was reported in 52%, 96.1%, 94.1%, 71.7%, 78.9%, and 52.5% in, before discharge, 2-, 4-, 8-, 12-, and 24-week urinalysis postoperative, respectively. The mean time to nonsignificant pyuria (95% confidence interval [CI]) was 19.1 (17.5-20.7), 20.1 (17.3-22.9), 15.8 (12.8-18.8), and 14 (10.3-17.8) weeks after prostate resection, vaporization, enucleation, and incision, respectively (p = 0.03). Regardless the TUPS technique, half of patients had significant pyuria at 24 weeks postoperative. MSUC was positive in 37/152 (24.3%), 3/152 (2%), 23/152 (15.1%), and 5/152 (3.3%) preoperatively, before discharge, and 4 and 12 weeks postoperative, respectively. Only positive preoperative urine leukocyte esterase independently predicted positive 4-week MSUC (odds ratio 3.8, 95% CI 1.3-11.1, p = 0.013). No significant correlation was found between IPSS or DVAS and positive MSUC, nor between IPSS and postoperative pyuria at different follow-up points (p > 0.05). However, the degree of postoperative dysuria was significantly correlated with postoperative pyuria count by urinalysis at 2 weeks (r = 0.69, p = 0.03), 8 weeks (r = 0.26, p = 0.001), and 12 weeks (r = 0.23, p = 0.004). Conclusion: There is a persistent but gradually declining pyuria and microhematuria following TUPS up to 6 months postoperative. An earlier resolution was noted following prostate incision and enucleation. While routine urine analysis screening in these months would be of no clear clinical value, a routine urine culture would be of a reasonable significance at 1 month postoperatively.

Is solitary kidney really more resistant to ischemia? An experimental canine study.

PURPOSE: To our knowledge there are no evidence-based medicine data to date to critically judge the vulnerability of a solitary kidney to warm ischemia compared to paired kidneys. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ten dogs were exposed to open right nephrectomy to create a solitary kidney model (group 1). Ten dogs with both kidneys were considered group 2. All dogs underwent warm ischemia by open occlusion of the left renal artery for 90 minutes. Dogs were sacrificed at different intervals (3 days to 4 weeks). All dogs were reevaluated by renogram before sacrifice and histopathology of the investigated kidney. The proinflammatory markers CD95 and tumor necrosis factor-α were assessed using real-time polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS: In group 1 clearance decreased by 20% at 1 week but basal function was regained starting at week 2. In group 2 clearance decreased more than 90% up to week 2. Recovery started at week 3 and by 4 weeks there was a 23% clearance reduction. Histopathological examination in group 1 revealed significant tubular necrosis (60%) at 3 days with regeneration starting at 1 week. In group 2 there was more pronounced tubular necrosis (90%) with regeneration starting at 2 weeks. The expression of proinflammatory markers was up-regulated in each group with higher, more sustained expression in group 2. CONCLUSIONS: Solitary kidney in a canine model is more resistant to ischemia than paired kidneys based on radiological, pathological and genetic evidence.

Utility of Pre-Transplant Bladder Cycling for Patients With a Defunctionalized Bladder. A Randomized Controlled Trial.

OBJECTIVE: To study the necessity of pre-transplant programmed bladder cycling (PBC) in patients with defunctionalized bladder (DB). METHOD: This RCT included renal transplant (RT) candidates with DB. Eligible patients were assigned to 2 groups, group I underwent PBC before RT and group II underwent direct RT into the DB. The primary outcome was to assess the efficacy of PBC in improving post- RT bladder capacity. Secondly, to compare its impact on early urological complications and 3-month voiding function and 1-year graft function and survival. Graft function was evaluated using serum creatinine and eGFR using MDRD equation. RESULTS: Groups I included 23 patients and group II included 20 patients. The mean ±SD of bladder capacity was 88.7±11.7mL and 90.6 ±9.8mL in both groups, respectively (P = .5). In group I, PBC increased bladder capacity to 194.7 ±21.2 mL (P < .001). Targeted bladder capacity was achieved in 19 (82.6 %) patients and 2 patients developed UTI. At 3-months, bladder capacity, compliance and bladder contractility index improved significantly in both groups with a significant reduction in maximum detrusor pressure with no significant difference between both groups (P = .3,0.4, 0.2 and 0.8, respectively). Urinary leakage occurred in one (4.3%) and 3 patients (15%) in group 1 and 2, respectively (P = .2). At 1-year, no statistically significant differences in the median (IQR) serum creatinine (P = .05) and eGFR (P = .07) between both groups were noted. CONCLUSION: Pre-transplant PBC for DB-patients provided no clinical advantage concerning post-operative urological complication, urodynamic criteria and graft function and survival.