Glycolate oxidase-1 gene variants influence the risk of hyperoxaluria and renal stone development.

PURPOSE: Oxalate is an excellent calcium ion attractor with great abundance in the human body, and the liver is the major source of oxalate. The Glycolate oxidase-1 (GOX1) gene is solely responsible for the glycolate and glyoxylate metabolism and produces oxalate. This study has been designed to comprehend the association of genetic variants of the GOX1 gene with the risk of hyperoxaluria and renal stone disease in the Indian population. METHOD: The present study is a candidate gene approach prospective case-control study carried out on 300 participants (150 cases and 150 controls) at Muljibhai Patel Urological Hospital, Gujarat, India. Biochemical parameters, including serum levels of calcium, creatinine, parathyroid hormone, and 24-h urine metabolites, were performed. The genotyping of GOX1 gene variants rs6086287, rs2235250, rs2255183, and rs2294303 was performed using a customized TaqMan assay probe by RT-PCR. RESULT: Parathyroid hormone, serum creatinine, and urine metabolites were significantly elevated in nephrolithiasis compared to healthy individuals. All mutated homozygous genotypes GG (rs6086287), TT (rs2235250), GG (rs2255183), and CC (rs2294303) were significantly associated with a high risk of renal stone disease. Individuals diagnosed with hyperoxaluria and carrying TG (rs6086287), AG (rs2255183), and TT (rs2294303) genotypes have a significantly high risk of renal stone disease. Moreover, haplotype analysis and correlation analysis also confirmed the strong association between genetic variants and nephrolithiasis. CONCLUSION: Genetic variants of the GOX1 genes were associated with renal stone disease. In the presence of risk genotype and hyperoxaluria, the susceptibility to develop renal stone disease risk gets modulated.

Outcomes and predictors of clinical T1 renal mass (cT1) upstaged to pathological T3a (pT3a) after partial nephrectomy: A single-center experience.

OBJECTIVES: Clinical T1 (cT1) renal mass treated surgically has a good prognosis, but there is an upstaging risk that potentially threatens oncological outcomes after partial nephrectomy (PN). We aim to analyze and study the incidence, predictors, perioperative morbidity, and oncological outcomes of pT3a upstaging. METHODOLOGY: A retrospective study of 313 patients who underwent PN for cT1 renal mass at a single center from a single tertiary referral center between 2000 and 2021 was done. Demographic, perioperative, pathological, and outcome variables were reviewed. We compared these parameters between upstaged and non-upstaged groups. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to study preoperative variables associated with upstaging. RESULTS: Nineteen patients were upstaged to pT3a. Making an incidence of 6.1%. Upstaged tumors were bigger (5.02 cm vs. 4.08 cm, p = 0.004), had higher clinical stage T1b (84.2 vs. 40.5%, p < 0.001), had more tumors which were central location (21 vs. 3.4%, p < 0.001), had more endophytic and mesophytic tumors (15.8 vs. 5.8% and 52.6 vs. 9.5%, p < 0.001), and had higher R.E.N.A.L Nephrometry score (8.05 vs. 6, p < 0.001). Upstaged tumors had more operative times (227 vs. 203 min, p = 0.01), more postoperative complications (68.4 vs. 13.1%, p < 0.001), more major complications of Clavien Dindo Grade 3 and above (15.8 vs. 4.4%, p < 0.001). Age (OR 1.035, p = 0.034), Radiological tumor dimension (OR 1.578, p = 0.003), Radiological or Clinical stage (T1b) (9.19, p = 0.008), Higher Nephrometry score (Intermediate and High) (OR 6.184, p = 0.004) were preoperative predictors of upstaging. Oncological outcomes were comparable. CONCLUSION: Tumor upstaging was uncommon with more perioperative morbidity. Higher age, larger tumor size, higher tumor stage, and higher nephrometry scores were preoperative predictors of upstaging.

Retroperitoneal approach for robot living donor nephrectomy: A step-by-step description of technical nuances.

Open, pure or hand-assisted laparoscopic, natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgical (NOTES) and robotic approaches (Transperitoneal or retroperitoneal) are the described approaches for living donor nephrectomy. We describe the procedural steps of a robotic living donor nephrectomy (RLDN) retroperitoneal (RRLDN) technique using a da Vinci X surgical system and three robotic arms. This is the first reported case with the retroperitoneal robotic approach. The procedure in brief is as follows. First, with the patient placed in full flank position, the camera port is placed at the level of the Petit's triangle apex. Retroperitoneal space is created by turning the index finger in a 180° movement through this port and a gloves balloon. The second 8mm port was inserted, 8 cm far from the first port, The peritoneum is reflected medially and downward off of the transversus abdominis muscle laparoscopically, respectively along the anterior and posterior axillary line; 3-5 cm caudally to the last one, a 12 mm AirSeal® assistant port is placed in the same manner. Only then, the port is placed under direct vision. The robotic ports placement will result in a caudally convex arc. This technique, due to the extensive use of the surgeon index, implies fast access to the retroperitoneum, protects the underlying anatomical structures from damage, and, due to the trocar positioning along an arc, lowers the arm conflict risk.

Perioperative and functional outcomes following robot-assisted partial nephrectomy: Descriptive analysis of Indian study group on partial nephrectomy database.

Introduction: There is an unmet need for high-quality data for Robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) in the Indian population. Indian study group on partial nephrectomy (ISGPN) is a consortium of Indian centers contributing to the partial nephrectomy (PN) database. The current study is a descriptive analysis of perioperative and functional outcomes following RAPN. Methods: For this study, the retrospective ISGPN database was reviewed, which included patients who underwent RAPN for renal masses at 14 centers across India from September 2010 to September 2022. Demographic, clinical, radiological, perioperative, and functional data were collected and analyzed. Ethics approval was obtained from each of the participating centers. Results: In this study, 782 patients were included, and 69.7% were male. The median age was 53 years (interquartile range [IQR 44-62]), median operative time was 180 min (IQR 133-240), median estimated blood loss was 100 mL (IQR 50-200), mean warm ischemia time was 22.7 min and positive surgical margin rates were 2.5%. The complication rate was 16.2%, and most of them were of minor grade. Trifecta and pentafecta outcomes were attained in 61.4% and 60% of patients, respectively. Conclusions: This is the largest Indian multi-centric study using the Indian Robotic PN Collaborative database to evaluate the outcomes of robot-assisted PN, and has proven its safety and efficacy in the management of renal masses.

Initial experience of comparison between two slimmest single-use flexible ureteroscopes: Indoscope Sleek (Bioradmedisys™) Versus Uscope PU3033A (Pusen™): A single-center prospective study.

PURPOSE: A single-use digital flexible ureteroscope (fURS) has become a cost-effective alternative option to reusable fURS. The requirement of large-diameter access sheath for passage of 9.5 Fr single-use fURS has not always achieved in the first attempt in all cases leading to stage stone clearance. Recently, two slimmest single-use digital disposable fURSs have been introduced by Bioradmedisys™ and Pusen™ to mitigate the accessibility problem, without or with small size access sheath. Primary objective was to compare in vivo performance and surgical outcomes with two single-use fURS: 7.5Fr Indoscope (Bioradmedisys™, Pune, India) and 7.5Fr Uscope PU3033A (Pusen, Zhuhai, China). METHODS: 60 patients undergoing Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS) with < 2 cm renal stones were prospectively randomized into: Group A (30 patients) for Indoscope and Group B (30 patients) for Uscope PU3033A. Pre-operative, intra-operative, and post-operative parameters were evaluated. In vivo visibility and maneuverability were rated on 5-point Likert scale by the operating surgeon. At one-month stone clearance was assessed with ultrasound and X-ray KUB. Data were analyzed using SPSS 23.0. RESULTS: Patient demographics and stone characteristics were comparable in both groups. Indoscope had significantly higher visibility (p < 0.05) than Uscope; however, the maneuverability scores were comparable between both the groups (p > 0.05). 28 patients in group A and 26 patients in group B achieved complete stone clearance (p = 0.38). Scope failure was observed in 1 case of group B (p = 0.31). CONCLUSION: We conclude that 7.5Fr Indoscope has better vision than 7.5Fr Uscope and the rest of in vivo performances were comparable with similar outcomes and complications among both scopes.

A multicentric non-randomized prospective observational study on the clinical efficiency of thulium fibre laser in large volume stones (> 1000 mm3).

PURPOSE: Our objective was to analyse the clinical efficiency of TFL in large volume stones during retrograde intrarenal surgery. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients with large volume renal stones (> 1000 mm3) operated at two different centres, from May 2020 to April 2021, were enrolled in this study. Retrograde intrarenal surgery was performed using 60W Superpulse thulium fibre laser™ (IPG Photonics, Russia). Demographic data, stone parameters, laser time, and total operating time were recorded, and laser efficacy (J/mm3) and ablation speed (mm3/s) were calculated. NCCT KUB was done at 3 months postoperatively to calculate stone-free rate. RESULTS: A total of 76 patients were included and analysed in the study. Mean stone volume was 1753.12 ± 1245.81 (1169.27-2193.25) mm3, mean stone density was 1104.46 ± 313.09 (875.00-1317.00) HU, mean laser time was 537.79 ± 689.89 (21.00-1080.00) sec, mean operating time was 43.38 ± 12.96 (35.00-51.25) min, mean laser efficacy was 20.30 ± 15.5 (8.88-25.57) J/mm3, and mean ablation speed was 1.32 ± 0.7 (0.82-1.64) mm3/sec. A strong positive correlation was found between the stone volume and ablation speed (r = 0.659, p = 0.000), and a moderate negative correlation was found between the stone volume and laser efficacy (J/mm3) (r = - 0.392, p = 0.000). With increasing volume of the stone, J/mm3 decreased significantly and ablation speed increased significantly (p < 0.001). Complications occurred in 21.05% (16/76) patients, most of which were Clavien grades 1-2. Overall SFR is 96.05%. CONCLUSION: Laser efficiency increases at higher stone volumes (> 1000 mm3), as less energy is required to ablate every mm3 of stone.

Perioperative outcomes and risk factors for major complications associated with nephrectomy for Xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis: a multicenter study.

PURPOSE: To determine the risk factors associated with major complications in patients with histologically confirmed Xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis (XGP) who underwent nephrectomy. METHODS: A multicenter retrospective study was performed including patients who underwent nephrectomy between 2018 and 2022 with histopathological diagnosis of XGP. Clinical and laboratory parameters at the initial presentation were evaluated. Data on extension of XGP was recorded as per the Malek clinical-radiological classification. Characteristics of nephrectomy and perioperative outcomes were obtained. The primary outcome was major complications, defined as a CD ≥ grade 3 and the need for intensive care unit (ICU) admission. Secondary outcomes included the comparison of complications evaluating the nephrectomy approach (transperitoneal, retroperitoneal, and laparoscopic). A sub-analysis stratifying patients who needed ICU admission and Malek classification was performed. RESULTS: A total of 403 patients from 10 centers were included. Major complications were reported in 98 cases (24.3%), and organ injuries were reported in 58 patients (14.4%), being vascular injuries the most frequent (6.2%). Mortality was reported in 5 cases (1.2%). A quick Sepsis-related Organ Failure Assessment (qSOFA) score ≥ 2, increased creatinine, paranephric extension of disease (Malek stage 3), a positive urine culture, and retroperitoneal approach were independent factors associated with major complications. CONCLUSION: Counseling patients on factors associated with higher surgical complications is quintessential when managing this disease. Clinical-radiological staging, such as the Malek classification may predict the risk of major complications in patients with XGP who will undergo nephrectomy. A transperitoneal open approach may be the next best option when laparoscopic approach is not feasible.

A prospective comparative study of mini-PCNL using Trilogy™ or thulium fibre laser with suction.

INTRODUCTION: There has been recent introduction of novel lithotripters and high-power lasers for stone disintegration. With miniaturization of PCNL, there is need of effective disintegration and faster stone-clearance. This study aimed to evaluate efficiency of Trilogy™ and Thulium fibre laser (TFL) in mini-percutaneous nephrolithotomy (mini-PCNL). METHODS: This is prospective study comparing efficiency and outcomes of Trilogy™ and TFL in mini-PCNL between January 2019 and February 2020. Primary objective was to compare stone fragmentation rates, with secondary objectives beings stone-free rates and complications. RESULTS: There were 60 mini-PCNL with suction using either Trilogy™ or TFL energy source. Mean stone size and density were 27.60 ± 10.17 mm, 22.04 ± 9.69 mm (p = 0.05) and 1172.9 ± 313.5HU, 1308.9 ± 333.9HU (p = 0.10) for Trilogy™ and TFL, respectively. Using 3D doctor imaging software from CT images, mean stone volumes were 3718.9 ± 3038.7mm3 for Trilogy™ and 3425.9 ± 3096.1mm3 for TFL(p = 0.77). Using probe-activation time or lasing time, stone-fragmentation rate was 5.98 ± 4.25mm3/sec for Trilogy™ and 3.95 ± 1.00mm3/sec for TFL(p = 0.015). Treatment time (puncture to complete clearance) was 32.48 ± 15.39 min for Trilogy™ and 28.63 ± 18.56 min for TFL(p = 0.38). Haemoglobin drop was 1.19 ± 0.76gm/dl for Trilogy™ and 0.99 ± 0.74gm/dl for TFL (p = 0.30). Trilogy™ arm had 96.6% complete clearance and TFL had 76.6% in TFL at 48 h. One patient in Trilogy™ arm required auxiliary RIRS for residual stone. Both arms had complete stone clearance at 1 month follow-up. Trilogy™ arm had 3 Clavien-Dindo grade-II complications while TFL had 2 Clavien-Dindo grade-II complications (UTI requiring antibiotics). There was no blood transfusion in either of arm. CONCLUSION: Trilogy™ had significantly better stone fragmentation rate than TFL in managing renal stones. However, stone-free rates and complications were comparable for Trilogy™ and TFL.

Super-mini percutaneous nephrolithotomy (SMP) vs retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) in the management of renal calculi ≤ 2 cm: a propensity matched study.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the effectiveness and safety of Super-Mini PCNL (SMP) and Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS) in the management of renal calculi ≤ 2 cm. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A prospective, inter-institutional, observational study of patients presenting with renal calculi ≤ 2 cm. Patients underwent either SMP (Group 1) or RIRS (Group 2) and were performed by 2 experienced high-volume surgeons. RESULTS: Between September 2018 and April 2019, 593 patients underwent PCNL and 239 patients had RIRS in two tertiary centers. Among them, 149 patients were included for the final analysis after propensity-score matching out of which 75 patients underwent SMP in one center and 74 patients underwent RIRS in the other. The stone-free rate (SFR) was statistically significantly higher in Group 1 on POD-1 (98.66% vs. 89.19%; p = 0.015), and was still higher in Group 1 on POD-30 (98.66% vs. 93.24%, p = 0.092) SFR on both POD-1 and POD-30 for lower pole calculi was higher in Group 1 (100 vs. 82.61%, p = 0.047 and 100 vs 92.61% p = 0.171). The mean (SD) operative time was significantly shorter in Group 1 at 36.43 min (14.07) vs 51.15 (17.95) mins (p < 0.0001). The mean hemoglobin drop was significantly less in Group 1 (0.31 vs 0.53 gm%; p = 0.020). There were more Clavien-Dindo complications in Group 2 (p = 0.021). The mean VAS pain score was significantly less in Group 2 at 6 and 12 h postoperatively (2.52 vs 3.67, 1.85 vs 2.40, respectively: p < 0.0001), whereas the mean VAS pain score was significantly less in Group 1 at 24 h postoperatively (0.31 vs 1.01, p < 0.0001). The mean hospital stay was significantly shorter in Group 1 (28.37 vs 45.70 h; p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION: SMP has significantly lower operative times, complication rates, shorter hospital stay, with higher stone-free rates compared to RIRS. SMP is associated with more early post-operative pain though.

Laparoscopic ureteric reimplantation versus robotic-assisted laparoscopic ureteric reimplantation for lower ureter pathology: Single-institutional comparative study.

OBJECTIVE: To compare and analyze the results of laparoscopic ureteric reimplantation and robotic-assisted ureteric reimplantation at our tertiary institute. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed data of adult patients who underwent laparoscopic ureteric reimplantation and robotic-assisted ureteric reimplantation between January 2000 and December 2020. Data were analyzed for 19 patients in the laparoscopic group and 47 patients in the robotic group. The data were compared in both the groups. RESULTS: The most common presentation was flank pain (67.89%) followed by recurrent UTI (21.05%) in both the groups. The baseline characteristics and demographic data including age, gender, laterality, Charlson comorbidity index, and BMI were comparable in both the groups. The time range from previous surgeries to presentation varied from 7 days to 5 years. There is statistically significant difference between the operative time in the laparoscopic (224.23 ± 76.61 min) and robotic groups (187.06 ± 52.81 min) (p = 0.027). There is statistically significant difference between the hospital stay also between the two groups (9.07 ± 2.75 vs. 6 ± 1.65 days p-0.001). There were no differences in the complication rate and postoperative outcomes in both the groups. Mean length of follow-up was 28 ± 25.5 (2-108) months and 20.57 ± 19.91 (2-96) months in both the groups, respectively. The success rates in terms of symptomatic improvement, decrease in hydronephrosis, and improved drainage in the laparoscopic and robotic groups were 94.73% and 95.45%, respectively, which were statistically not significant. CONCLUSIONS: Robotic ureteric reimplantation and laparoscopic ureteric reimplantation are comparable in clinical outcomes. Robotic-assisted laparoscopic ureteric reimplantation is feasible, safe, and faster with excellent outcomes, decreased hospital stay, and minimal complications.

Superselective angioembolization in posttraumatic pseudoaneurysm of corpora cavernosa presenting as acute urinary retention.

Pseudoaneurysm of corpora cavernosa is rare and its presentation as acute urinary retention has not been reported in the literature so far. We report a 47-year-old gentleman who presented with acute urinary retention. Doppler ultrasound revealed pseudoaneurysm of corpora cavernosa at bulbar urethra region with 2 feeder vessels with turbulent flow inside. Selective internal pudendal artery angiogram was done and two feeder arteries from bilateral pudendal arteries were confirmed. Trans perineal thrombin & fibrinogen instillation and selective coil embolization of left internal pudendal artery were done, leading to complete obliteration of pseudoaneurysm and alleviation of patient's symptoms.

Outcome of post-COVID-19 fungal pyelonephritis: A single Indian tertiary center experience.

Introduction: COVID-19 pandemic is associated with secondary opportunistic fungal infections. These have an aggressive course with a high mortality rate. We present our experience of seven cases of post-COVID-19 fungal pyelonephritis. Methods: An observational study over a period of 8 months of May to December 2021 was carried out at our tertiary care hospital, including all patients with features of fungal pyelonephritis in post-COVID-19 setting. The patient demographics, details of previous COVID-19 infection, details of present admission and management were collected. The endpoints were either discharge from the hospital or death. Results: Seven patients were included. Mean age of presentation was 42 years (range: 20-63 years, standard deviation ± 14.2). Male-to-female ratio was 6:1. One patient was diabetic. Two patients were asymptomatic, one had mild infection, and four patients had severe COVID-19 infection as per National Institute of Health criteria. In the present admission, all patients had symptomatic pyelonephritis with laboratory parameters showing elevated D dimer, C reactive protein, and total leukocyte counts. In all seven patients, ultrasound of kidney ureter bladder region showed bulky kidney, color Doppler showed main renal arterial thrombosis in two patients, segmental arterial thrombosis in another patient. Computed tomography scan was suggestive of changes of pyelonephritis in all patients with multiple renal hypodense areas. All patients required nephrectomy with biopsy suggestive of changes of necrotizing fungal inflammation. Three patients expired. Conclusion: Management of post-COVID-19 fungal pyelonephritis should be aggressive and suspicious laboratory and imaging findings should be treated by early nephrectomy.

A clinical experience of thulium fibre laser in miniperc to dust with suction: a new horizon.

PURPOSE: To report safety and efficacy of mini-PCNL with suction attached to sheath combined with high-power Thulium Fibre laser (TFL). The secondary aim was to evaluate optimal laser settings for maximum stone dusting. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Prospective, single arm study was conducted from June 2019-December 2019 using miniPCNL with suction and TFL in 54 patients with renal stones < 3 cm. Stone fragments for each laser setting were independently retrieved and segregated according to size(< 1 mm,1-3 mm, > 3 mm) and weighed. Xray/CT scan imaging was performed in all patients within 48 h and 30 days to assess stone clearance. Optimal laser settings were evaluated for maximum dusting. RESULTS: Mean stone size was 18.32 ± 6.37 mm, volume was 2337.75 ± 1996.84mm3 and stone density was 1300.55 ± 435.32 HU. Total operative time was 39.85 ± 20.52 min, laser time was 10.08 ± 7.41 min and stone fragmentation rate was 5.02 ± 3.93 mm3/s. The procedure was completely tubeless in 37.04%, nephrostomy tube in 37.04% and DJ stent placed in 25.92%. Postoperatively, three patients had urinary infection (Clavien 2). Complete stone clearance at 48 h was achieved in 35 (64.8%) cases. 19 patients (35.2%) who had residual fragments at 48 h, had 100% clearance at one month on CT/Xray KUB. CONCLUSIONS: MiniPCNL using a nephrostomy sheath with suction along with high power Thulium Fibre Laser is safe and effective modality for lithotripsy. An initial laser setting of 0.2 J and 125-200 Hz was optimal for maximum dusting and simultaneous aspiration. Randomized comparative studies with other energy sources are being considered.

Initial experience with slimmest single-use flexible ureteroscope Uscope PU3033A (PUSEN™) in retrograde intrarenal surgery and its comparison with Uscope PU3022a: a single-center prospective study.

PURPOSE: Single-use disposable digital flexible ureterorenoscope has become an attractive option to reusable scope with many advantages. Currently available single-use digital fURS have outer shaft diameter above 9 Fr which requires large access sheath insertion and sometimes double J stent placement. Recently, 7.5 Fr single-use digital fURS is introduced in market by Pusen. Objective of this study is to compare two Pusen single-use scopes in the clinical setting: 7.5 Fr Uscope PU3033A and 9.5 Fr Uscope PU3022A. METHODS: 30 patients, having renal stones < 2 cm, planned for RIRS were prospectively randomized to two groups: group 1 had 15 patients in which 7.5 Fr Uscope PU3033A and group 2 had 15 patients in which 9.5 Fr Uscope PU3022A was used. The various pre-operative, intra-operative, and post-operative parameters at 1 month along with complications were evaluated for both the scopes by a single surgical team. RESULTS: Pre-operative parameters including stone characteristics were comparable in both the groups. Three patients in group 2 needed ureteric dilatation prior to 11/13 access sheath insertion, while 10/12 Fr access sheath was placed in all patients in group 1 without manipulation (p = 0.06). Intra-operative vision was comparable in both scopes with an empty working channel and with laser. Hazy vision while lasing in two and one patient in group 1 and group 2, respectively (p = 0.54). In group 1, one had fever and UTI, while in group 2, one had fever post-operatively. CONCLUSION: 7.5 Fr Uscope PU3033A could be introduced with smaller access sheath. The vision, deflection, maneuverability is comparable to 9.5 Fr Uscope PU3022a.

Size Distribution of Fragments by High-power Holmium Laser Lithotripsy in MiniPCNL with Suction.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Data are lacking on distribution of size of fragments created with the laser lithotripsy, stone density, and composition. Dust (< 1 mm) and small fragments (1-3 mm) may be too small to be efficiently removed with forceps compared to larger fragments (> 3 mm). We aim to report the size distribution of fragments formed during holmium laser lithotripsy. RECENT FINDINGS: One hundred ten patients with renal calculi < 3 cm underwent miniPCNL using ClearPetra sheath (Well Lead Medical Co., China) with controllable irrigation and suction system that minimizes fragment dispersion and maximizes fragment aspiration. Moses holmium laser (Lumenis INC, Israel) was used with predefined laser energy settings for lithotripsy. Proportion of fragment size < 1 mm was 46.36 ± 16.68%, 1-3 mm was 28.18 ± 10.01%, and > 3 mm was 25.19 ± 16.18% for the entire cohort. Complete stone clearance at 48 h was achieved in 77.3% cases. The remaining 22.7% patients had complete clearance at 1-month follow-up CT. In all the stone density, volume, and composition groups, majority of fragments created were either < 1 mm or 1-3 mm. Only 25% fragments were > 3 mm that would get aspirated out through the sheath with suction or could be retrieved with forceps. The combination of a high-power holmium laser and suction would help in complete stone clearance with effective aspiration of smaller stone fragments and dust simultaneously during lasing.

Single ileal segment in a cat-tail configuration for bilateral ureteric strictures.

INTRODUCTION: Management of bilateral long length ureteric strictures is difficult with few options for reconstruction. In this report, we describe our experience with the use of a single, 15- 20 cm ileal segment for reconstruction of bilateral long length (involving more than 2/3rd ureter) ureteric strictures. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A retrospective analysis of 5 cases operated between 2015 and 2020for bilateral long length ureteric strictures, using a single segment ileal interposition in a cat tail configuration was performed. We evaluated renal function, surgical success, incidence of urinary tract infection and complications of the procedure. Surgical success was defined as an asymptomatic patient with no hydronephrosis and/or prompt drainage of the kidney on radiological investigations. RESULTS: The average age of presentation was 42.8 ± 7.4 years (33-53) years). All the cases were secondary to a gynaecological intervention. The mean creatinine prior to surgery was 0.81 ± 0.36 mg % (range 0.5 -1.4 mg%). Mean duration of follow-up was 28.6 ± 20.6 months (Range 10 - 56 months). Mean hospital stay was 14.4 ± 3.36 days (range 12-20 days). Two patients developed ileus and one patient developed deep venous thrombosis in the post-operative period. One patient developed pyelonephritis within one month of surgery. There was no deterioration of renal function with the mean serum creatinine at last follow-up being 0.9 ± 0.36 mg% (range 0.6 - 1.5 mg%). CONCLUSION: The use of an ileal segment in cat-tail configuration for bilateral simultaneous ileal replacement is a feasible and safe option. The medium-term result states that it is effective in the preservation of renal function and provides a good conduit for drainage.

Comparison of STONE score, Guy's stone score and Clinical Research Office of the Endourological Society (CROES) score as predictive tools for percutaneous nephrolithotomy outcome: a prospective study.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate which among the three scoring systems used to predict stone-free status (SFS) after percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), namely Guy's stone score (GSS), STONE nephrolithometry score and Clinical Research Office of the Endourological Society (CROES) nephrolithometry nomogram, is the most accurate predictor of SFS. METHOD AND MATERIALS: We prospectively included all patients who underwent PCNL (tract size >24 F) at our hospital between July 2017 and January 2019. All demographic and peri-operative data were tabulated including calculation of GSS, STONE score and CROES nomogram score using preoperative computed tomography. Comparison of the 'stone-free' group and 'residual-stone' group was carried out using standard statistical methods. RESULTS: A total of 252 patients were enrolled. The mean GSS, STONE score and CROES score in the stone-free group was 1.60, 6.98 and 212.27, respectively, and in the residual stone group group it was 2.93, 8.98 and 129.89, respectively (P < 0.001 in each). Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curves showed that all three scoring systems had similar predictive accuracy for post-PCNL SFS, with STONE score having the highest area under the ROC curve value (0.852). GSS was significantly associated with operating time, estimated blood loss (EBL) and length of hospital stay (LOS; P < 0.001 in each). STONE score and CROES score were both significantly associated with EBL (P = 0.029 and 0.001, respectively). CONCLUSION: All three scoring systems are equally predictive of post-PCNL SFS. EBL is significantly associated with all three scoring systems, while GSS is also associated with operating time and LOS.

Robotic-assisted kidney transplant: a single center experience with median follow-up of 2.8 years.

PURPOSE: The main aim of the paper is to report a single-centre experience with RAKT, focusing on surgical, perioperative and functional outcomes at a median follow-up of 2.8 years. METHODS: Data of 26 RAKT patients was prospectively collected from December 2014 to February 2019 with follow-up of up to 55 months. All donors were done laparoscopically. We followed Vattikuti-Medanta technique with modification of using pfannenstiel incision instead of Gelpoint and patient positioned in steep Trendelenburg position (30°) with leg split position. Hypothermia was maintained using a "modified graft hypothermia jacket". The engrafted kidney is oriented with the vessels being tagged with Prolene sutures. RESULTS: The mean BMI was 26.1 ± 4.7. The mean warm, cold and total ischemia times were 4.8 ± 1.1, 113.8 ± 20.9 and 118.7 ± 21.2 min, respectively. Mean rewarming time was 62.5 ± 10 min. The mean post-operative day (POD) 1, 3, 7, 30, 6 months, 1 year and most recent creatinine was 3.4, 2.4, 1.8, 1.4,1.2, 1.2 and 1.69 mg/dl. There was no case of delayed graft dysfunction (DGF) with graft survival of 1.8-55 months. The mean GFR at POD 1, 1 month and 1 year was 24, 53.16 and 64.6. We had two intraoperative complications-one topsy turvy graft placement with anastomosis of donor ureter to native ureter and other had to be converted to open technique after anastomosis to control graft surface bleeding. Three postoperative complications-one patient has graft pyelonephritis which was managed conservatively with antibiotics. Two patients had lymphocele. One patient was managed with just aspiration while the other required laparoscopic de-roofing of the lymphocele. The mean hospital stay was 13.5 ± 3 days. CONCLUSIONS: RAKT is feasible and safe only if performed by surgeons with appropriate background in robotic surgery and kidney transplantation after proper surgical training at experienced centres in the mid-term follow-up. Further studies need to confirm the long-term safety of RAKT.

EMS Lithoclast Trilogy™: an effective single-probe dual-energy lithotripter for mini and standard PCNL.

PURPOSE: Several energy sources are available to clear stones during PCNL. Required improvements are faster stone clearance, optimized suction and ease of use while maintaining high patient safety standard. EMS LithoClast® Trilogy, is the first device combining electromagnetic impactor with ultrasonic energy and suction, all-in-one probe. Animal studies and in vitro phantom stone studies have proven safety and efficacy of this device. We aim to study safety and clinical efficacy of Trilogy in our patients. METHODS: 31 patients with renal stones were included. Amplatz sheath sizes/Trilogy probe size was 22-28 Fr/10.2 Fr for standard PNL (n = 20) and 15 Fr./5.7 Fr for mini PNL access (n = 11). Analysis was done with respect to demography, stone characteristics, operation duration (total time and lithotripter activation time), post op Hb drop, clearance rate and adverse events. Stone area/volume was calculated based on CT using 3D doctor. Efficacy was determined by stone volume clearance rate (mm3/min). RESULTS: Male:female ratio was 6:5 and 16:4 for mini (MPNL)/standard PNL (SPNL). Stone densities were 1229 ± 206 vs. 1168 ± 344 HU (MPNL vs. SPNL). Mean stone volumes were 3776.1 ± 2132 mm3 for MPNL and 7096 ± 6441 for SPNL. Mean stone volume clearance ratios were 370.5 ± 171 mm3/min and 590.7 ± 250mm3/min for MPNL and SPNL, respectively. Hb drop was 1.24 ± 0.64 g/dL (MPNL) and 1.23 ± 0.89gm/dL (SPNL). Total procedure time/lithotripter activation time was 53.4 ± 23.8/14.7 ± 12.4 min for MPNL and 65.2 ± 23.5/12.0 ± 8.9 for SPNL. Immediate post-operative/1 month stone clearance rates were 93%/96% with one clinically insignificant residual fragment (< 3 mm) and no necessity for auxiliary procedures. No device failure occured and three Clavien grade I and one grade II complications were observed. CONCLUSION: Swiss LithoClast® Trilogy provides fast stone clearance in standard/mini-PCNL procedures. Ease of use, high tissue safety and optimized suction that avoids fragment blockings are other key features.

Effect of caudal bupivacaine alone and with adjuvant fentanyl and nalbuphine to minimize the catheter-related bladder discomfort after tubeless percutaneous nephrolithotomy: A prospective randomized study.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Catheter-related bladder discomfort (CRBD) is a major cause of postoperative morbidity following urological procedures. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of caudal bupivacaine alone and with adjuvant fentanyl and nalbuphine to minimize the severity of CRBD after tubeless percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). MATERIAL AND METHODS: A randomized prospective study was conducted on one hundred thirty-two (American society of Anaesthesiologist physical status I to II) patients who presented for tubeless PCNL under general anesthesia. Patients were randomly divided into four groups control (C), bupivacaine (B), bupivacaine-fentanyl (BF), and bupivacaine-nalbuphine (BN) by using computer-generated codes. All patients received local infiltration at the procedure site while Groups B, BF, and BN received caudal epidural block (CEB) under ultrasound guidance after conclusion of the procedure. Groups B, BF, and BN received bupivacaine alone, bupivacaine-fentanyl, and bupivacaine-nalbuphine, respectively, for CEB. Patients were monitored 24 h for CRBD scale, visual analogue score (VAS), and duration of analgesia at 30 min, 1, 2, 4, 6, 12, 18, and 24 h intervals. The analgesics were supplemented if the CRBD score was >2 and VAS was ≥4. Student t-test, analysis of variance, and Chi-square test were applied for quantitative, within group occurrence, and qualitative analysis respectively. RESULTS: The CRBD scores were considerably lower in the Groups BF and BN as compared to Groups C and B during the first four hours. The duration of analgesia was significantly prolonged in Group BN (475 ± 47 min) versus BF (320 ± 68 min) versus B (104 ± 40 min) versus C (26 ± 14 min). CONCLUSIONS: The severity of CRBD can be reduced with CEB. The effect of CEB can be prolonged with the addition of opioid.