Intra-individual comparison of prostate-specific membrane antigen positron emission tomography/computed tomography versus bone scan in detecting skeletal metastasis at prostate cancer diagnosis.

OBJECTIVES: To compare the diagnostic performance and radiological staging impact of 68 Ga-prostate-specific membrane antigen positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PSMA PET/CT) compared to 99 Tc whole-body bone scan (WBBS) for the detection of skeletal metastasis in the primary staging of prostate cancer (PCa). PATIENTS AND METHODS: A prospective institutional database was retrospectively examined for patients who underwent both PSMA PET and WBBS within a 1 week interval for PCa primary staging. Lesions were categorised as 'negative', 'equivocal', or 'definite' based on nuclear medicine physician interpretation. Metastatic burden was characterised for each imaging modality according to three groups: (i) local disease (no skeletal metastases), (ii) oligometastatic disease (three or fewer skeletal metastases), or (iii) polymetastatic disease (more than three skeletal metastases). RESULTS: There were 667 patients included. The median (interquartile range) prostate-specific antigen level was 9.2 (6.2-16) ng/mL and 60% of patients were high risk according to a modified D'Amico risk classification. The overall distribution of skeletal metastasis detection changed across the two scans overall (P = 0.003), being maintained within high-risk (P = 0.030) and low-risk (P = 0.018) groups. PSMA PET/CT identified more definite skeletal metastases compared to WBBS overall (10.3% vs 7.3%), and according to risk grouping (high: 12% vs 9%, intermediate: 4% vs 1%). Upstaging was more common with PSMA PET/CT than WBBS (P = 0.001). The maximum standardised uptake value (SUVmax ) of the primary tumour was associated with upstaging of skeletal metastases on PSMA PET/CT (P = 0.025), while age was associated with upstaging on WBBS (P = 0.021). The SUVmax of the primary tumour and metastases were both higher according to extent of metastatic disease (P = 0.001 and P < 0.001, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: More skeletal metastases were detected with PSMA PET/CT than WBBS, resulting in a higher upstaging rate mostly in high-risk patients. The SUVmax of the primary tumour and metastases was associated with upstaging.

Bladder infusion versus standard catheter removal for trial of void: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: To compare the efficacy and time-to-discharge of two methods of trial of void (TOV): bladder infusion versus standard catheter removal. METHODS: Electronic searches for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing bladder infusion versus standard catheter removal were performed using multiple electronic databases from dates of inception to June 2020. Participants underwent TOV after acute urinary retention or postoperatively after intraoperative indwelling catheter (IDC) placement. Quality assessment and meta-analyses were performed, with odds ratio and mean time difference used as the outcome measures. RESULTS: Eight studies, comprising 977 patients, were included in the final analysis. Pooled meta-analysis demonstrated that successful TOV was significantly higher in the bladder infusion group compared to standard TOV (OR 2.41, 95% CI 1.53-3.8, p = 0.0005), without significant heterogeneity (I2=19%). The bladder infusion group had a significantly shorter time-to-decision in comparison to standard TOV (weighted mean difference (WMD)-148.96 min, 95% CI - 242.29, - 55.63, p = 0.002) and shorter time-to-discharge (WMD - 89.68 min, 95% CI - 160.55, - 18.88, p = 0.01). There was no significant difference in complication rates between the two groups. CONCLUSION: The bladder infusion technique of TOV may be associated with a significantly increased likelihood of successful TOV and reduced time to discharge compared to standard TOV practices.

A prospective, matched comparison of ultra-low and standard-dose computed tomography for assessment of renal colic.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the diagnostic accuracy of ultra-low-dose computed tomography (ULDCT) compared with standard-dose CT (SDCT) in the evaluation of patients with clinically suspected renal colic, in addition to secondary features (hydroureteronephrosis, perinephric stranding) and additional pathological entities (renal masses). PATIENTS AND METHODS: A prospective, comparative cohort study was conducted amongst patients presenting to the emergency department with signs and symptoms suggestive of renal or ureteric colic. Patients underwent both SDCT and ULDCT. Single-blinded review of the image sets was performed independently by three board-certified radiologists. RESULTS: Among 21 patients, the effective radiation dose was lower for ULDCT [mean (SD) 1.02 (0.16) mSv] than SDCT [mean (SD) 4.97 (2.02) mSv]. Renal and/or ureteric calculi were detected in 57.1% (12/21) of patients. There were no significant differences in calculus detection and size estimation between ULDCT and SDCT. A higher concordance was observed for ureteric calculi (75%) than renal calculi (38%), mostly due to greater detection of calculi of <3 mm by SDCT. Clinically significant calculi (≥3 mm) were detected by ULDCT with high specificity (97.6%) and sensitivity (100%) compared to overall detection (specificity 91.2%, sensitivity 58.8%). ULDCT and SDCT were highly concordant for detection of secondary features, while ULDCT detected less renal cysts of <2 cm. Inter-observer agreement for the ureteric calculi detection was 93.9% for SDCT and 87.8% for ULDCT. CONCLUSION: ULDCT performed similarly to SDCT for calculus detection and size estimation with reduced radiation exposure. Based on this and other studies, ULDCT should be considered as the first-line modality for evaluation of renal colic in routine practice.

Benign Conditions That Mimic Prostate Carcinoma: MR Imaging Features with Histopathologic Correlation.

Multiparametric magnetic resonance (MR) imaging combines anatomic and functional imaging techniques for evaluating the prostate and is increasingly being used in diagnosis and management of prostate cancer. A wide spectrum of anatomic and pathologic processes in the prostate may masquerade as prostate cancer, complicating the imaging interpretation. The histopathologic and imaging findings of these potential mimics are reviewed. These entities include the anterior fibromuscular stroma, surgical capsule, central zone, periprostatic vein, periprostatic lymph nodes, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), atrophy, necrosis, calcification, hemorrhage, and prostatitis. An understanding of the prostate zonal anatomy is helpful in distinguishing the anatomic entities from prostate cancer. The anterior fibromuscular stroma, surgical capsule, and central zone are characteristic anatomic features of the prostate with associated low T2 signal intensity due to dense fibromuscular tissue or complex crowded glandular tissue. BPH, atrophy, necrosis, calcification, and hemorrhage all have characteristic features with one or more individual multiparametric MR imaging modalities. Prostatitis constitutes a heterogeneous group of infective and inflammatory conditions including acute and chronic bacterial prostatitis, infective and noninfective granulomatous prostatitis, and malacoplakia. These entities are associated with variable clinical manifestations and are characterized by the histologic hallmark of marked inflammatory cellular infiltration. In some cases, these entities are indistinguishable from prostate cancer at multiparametric MR imaging and may even exhibit extraprostatic extension and lymphadenopathy, mimicking locally advanced prostate cancer. It is important for the radiologists interpreting prostate MR images to be aware of these pitfalls for accurate interpretation. Online supplemental material is available for this article.

The effect of the modified Z trendelenburg position on intraocular pressure during robotic assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy: a randomized, controlled study.

PURPOSE: The Trendelenburg position has a dramatic effect on circulation, consequently increasing cerebral and intraocular pressure. We evaluated whether modifying the Trendelenburg position would minimize the increase in intraocular pressure. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this prospective, randomized, controlled study we compared intraocular pressure in patients undergoing robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy while in the Trendelenburg position or the modified Z Trendelenburg position. In group 1 intraocular pressure, blood pressure and endotracheal CO2 were measured in the patient at anesthesia induction (time 1), before positioning (time 2), and while in the Trendelenburg position (time 3) and in the modified Z Trendelenburg position (time 4). They were also measured after pneumoperitoneum (time 5), every 30 minutes (times 6 to 16), while supine at the end of pneumoperitoneum (time 17) and before awakening (time 18). We modified the Trendelenburg position by placing the head and shoulders horizontally. RESULTS: Group 1 included 29 patients in the modified Z Trendelenburg position. Group 2 included 21 patients in the Trendelenburg position. No difference was found in patient demographics or surgical outcomes. Median intraocular pressure was in the low normal range at times 1 and 2, and increased in time 3 in each group. From time 4 intraocular pressure decreased and at all time points it was significantly lower in group 1 by a mean of 4.61 mm Hg (95% CI -6.90-2.30, p <0.001). At time 17 mean intraocular pressure decreased to normal (19.6 mm Hg) in group 1 but remained in the hypertensive range (24.9 mm Hg) in group 2. At time 18 mean intraocular pressure was 17 mm Hg in each group. Blood pressure was significantly lower in group 1 with a mean reduction in systolic and diastolic pressure of 6.3 and 4.3 mm Hg, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that modifying the Trendelenburg position during robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy has a significant positive effect on patient neuro-ocular safety by lowering intraocular pressure and accelerating its recovery to the normal range without affecting the operation.

The current status of MRI in prostate cancer.

BACKGROUND: The diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer is a controversial topic. Until recently there has not been a reliable imaging mo-dality for identification of cancer within the prostate. New evidence suggests that multiparametric magngenetic resonance im-aging (MRI) has the potential to improve the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer. OBJECTIVE: This article explains the potential roles for multiparametric MRI in the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer. DISCUSSION: Multiparametric MRI can help identify regions which may represent clinically significant prostate cancer. MRI may also be used to guide varying prostate cancer treatment modalities. An experienced radiologist and adequately powered MRI scanner are es-sential. Multiparametric MRI in the hands of an experienced uroradiology team is emerging as a useful tool in the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer however this technology is still in its infancy and requires further evaluation. At this time prostate MRI should only be ordered by the treating urologist.

68Ga-PSMA PET/CT versus CT and bone scan for investigation of PSA failure post radical prostatectomy.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the use of Gallium-68 prostate-specific membrane antigen positron emission tomography/computed tomography (68Ga-PSMA PET/CT), compared with conventional CT abdomen/pelvis (CTAP) and whole body single photon emission CT bone scan (BS), for detection of local or distant metastasis following biochemical failure/recurrence in post-prostatectomy patients. METHODS: We conducted a review of our prospectively maintained, institutional database to identify 384 patients with post-prostatectomy biochemical failure/recurrence who underwent PSMA PET/CT, CTAP and BS from February 2015 to August 2017 in Nepean Hospital, tertiary referral centre. The results of the three imaging modalities were analysed for their ability to detect local recurrence and distant metastases. PSMA PET/CT and CTAP imaging were separately performed on the same day and the BS was performed within several days (mostly in 24 h). Difference in detection rates was determined between the modalities and the Chi square test was used to determine significance. RESULTS: A total of 384 patients were identified with a median prostate-specific antigen (PSA) of 0.465 ng/mL (interquartile range =0.19-2.00 ng/mL). Overall, PSMA PET/CT was positive for 245 (63.8%) patients whereas CTAP and BS were positive in 174 patients (45.3%). A total of 98 patients (25.5%) had local or distant metastasis detected on PSMA only, while 20 patients (5.2%) had recurrences detected on CTAP but not on PSMA PET/CT. CONCLUSION: The use of PSMA PET/CT has a higher detection rate of predicted local or distant metastasis compared to CTAP and BS in the staging of patients with biochemical recurrences after radical prostatectomy.

A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Pelvic Drain Insertion After Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy.

Purpose: To perform a systematic review and meta-analysis and to assess the clinical benefit of prophylactic pelvic drain (PD) placement after robot-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP) with pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND) in patients with localized prostate cancer. Materials and Methods: An electronic search of databases, including Scopus, Medline, and EMbase, was conducted for articles that considered postoperative outcomes with PD placement and without PD (no drain) placement after RALP. The primary outcome was rate of symptomatic lymphocele (requiring intervention) and secondary outcomes were complications as described by the Clavien-Dindo classification system. Quality assessment was performed using the Modified Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool for Quality Assessment. Results: Six relevant articles comprising 1783 patients (PD = 1253; ND = 530) were included. Use of PD conferred no difference in symptomatic lymphocoele rate (risk difference 0.01; 95% confidence interval [CI] -0.007 to 0.027), with an overall incidence of 2.2% (95% CI 0.013-0.032). No difference in low-grade (I-II; risk difference 0.035, 95% CI -0.065 to 0.148) or high-grade (III-V; risk difference -0.003, 95% CI -0.05 to 0.044) complications was observed between PD and ND groups. Low-grade (I-II) complications were 11.8% (95% CI 0-0.42) and 7.3% (95% CI 0-0.26), with similar rates of high-grade (III-V) complications, being 4.1% (95% CI 0.008-0.084) and 4.3% (95% CI 0.007-0.067) for PD and ND groups, respectively. Conclusion: PD insertion after RALP with extended PLND did not confer significant benefits in prevention of symptomatic lymphocoele or postoperative complications. Based on these results, PD insertion may be safely omitted in uncomplicated cases after consideration of clinical factors.

Magnetic resonance image-guided focal laser ablation in clinically localized prostate cancer: safety and efficacy.

BACKGROUND: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of focal laser ablation (FLA) in low-intermediate risk prostate cancer. METHODS: Inclusion criteria were men aged 50-75 years, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) ≤15 ng/mL, clinical stage T1c-T2a, one or two lesions (PI-RADS ≥3) on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and Gleason score 6 (>3 mm) or Gleason 7 on targeted biopsy. Treatment success was defined as no clinically significant cancer in ablated areas. The study is prospective. Under MRI guidance, laser ablation was applied to the visible lesion(s). International Prostate Symptoms Score, Sexual Health Inventory in Men score and PSA levels were assessed at baseline and repeated at 1, 3, 6, 12 and 18 months. MRI was repeated at 3 and 12 months. Cancer control was assessed at 6 months using targeted and systematic biopsies. RESULTS: FLA was performed in 49 patients. Gleason scores were 3 + 3 in 13 patients (26.5%), 3 + 4 in 29 (59.2%) and 4 + 3 in 7 (14.3%). No significant complications were noticed. International Prostate Symptoms Score measurements up to 18 months were not different from baseline (all P > 0.05). Sexual Health Inventory in Men scores dropped in the first year (all P < 0.05), but were not different from baseline levels at 18 months (P = 0.097). PSA levels dropped significantly at 3-18 months (all P < 0.05). Treatment was successful in 39 patients (79.6%). Persistent cancer in treated areas was found in 10 patients (20.4%). CONCLUSIONS: FLA is safe with no impact on urinary and sexual functions at 18 months follow-up. Oncologic control is encouraging. Larger scale studies and longer follow-up are required.

A Case of Retroperitoneal Metastases That Occur 14 Years After Surgery.

Endometrial Stromal Sarcomas are rare malignant tumours of the uterus. We report the case of incidental finding of Low-Grade Endometrial Stromal Sarcoma (LGESS) that metastasized to the retroperitoneum 14 years after the original surgery in a 72-year-old woman. The patient underwent a laparotomy and excision of all tumour nodules. Considering the common recurrence of and slow growing nature of LGESS, appropriate treatment options like surgical excision and life-long follow up should be considered.

Priapism and penile gangrene due to thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura.

A 51-year-old man presented with 4 days of idiopathic ischemic priapism. Partial detumescence was achieved with aspiration and injection with intracorporeal adrenaline. On further evaluation, the patient was diagnosed with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura. This was treated with plasma exchange and steroids. The penis was initially observed for 3 weeks, which subsequently became necrotic and infected, requiring debridement. After debridement of penile shaft skin, it became apparent that the entire penis was necrotic, necessitating total penectomy. The wound was closed secondarily 2 weeks later. Gangrene of the penis after priapism is very rare. Priapism associated with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura has not been reported previously in published data.

Treatment of urethral recurrence following radical cystectomy and ileal bladder substitution.

PURPOSE: With the introduction of orthotopic bladder substitution after radical cystectomy in patients with invasive bladder cancer urethral recurrences have become a therapeutic challenge. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated our patients with urethral recurrences treated with a urethra sparing approach after orthotopic bladder substitution. Depending on the extension of recurrence and eventual concomitant metastases patients were treated with urethrectomy, no treatment, systemic chemotherapy or intraurethral bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG). Three times the common dose of BCG (ImmuCyst, Aventis, Paris, France or OncoTICE, Organon, West Orange, New Jersey) in 150 ml NaCl 0.9% was used for intraurethral BCG perfusion therapy according to an institutional protocol using a modified Foley catheter. This regimen was repeated weekly for 6 weeks and patients were followed prospectively. RESULTS: Between 1985 and 2001, 15 of 371 patients (4%) who received an orthotopic bladder substitute had urethral recurrence. Two patients were treated with systemic chemotherapy (methotrexate, vinblastine, doxorubicin and cisplatin) alone due to metastatic disease and 10 received intraurethral BCG therapy. Five of 6 patients (83%) with carcinoma in situ remained free of recurrence following treatment with BCG, while in 4 with papillary or invasive disease treatment failed. Three patients underwent urethrectomy, including 2 following failed BCG therapy for papillary disease. CONCLUSIONS: Carcinoma in situ urethral recurrence following orthotopic bladder substitution can be treated successfully with intraurethral BCG perfusion therapy in approximately 80% of patients. However, papillary and invasive transitional cell urethral recurrence should be treated with urethrectomy.