Current evidence of robotic-assisted surgery use in functional reconstructive and neuro-urology.

The use of robot-assisted technology has been widely adopted in urological oncological surgery and its benefits have been well established. In recent years, robotic technology has also been used in several functional reconstructive and neuro-urology (FRNU) procedures. The aim of this review was to evaluate the current evidence in the use of robotic technology in the field of FRNU. We performed a PubMed-based literature search between July and August 2022. The keywords we included were 'robotic assisted', 'ureteric reimplantation', 'cystoplasty', 'ileal conduit', 'neobladder', 'sacrocolpopexy', 'colposuspension', 'artificial urinary sphincter', 'genitourinary fistula' and 'posterior urethral stenoses'. We identified the latest available evidence in the use of robotic technology in specific FRNU procedures such as the reconstruction of the ureters, bladder and urinary sphincter, urinary diversion, and repair of genitourinary prolapse and fistula. We found that there is a lack of prospective studies to assess the robotic-assisted approach in the field of FRNU. Despite this, the advantages that robotic technology can bring to the field of FRNU are evident, including better ergonomics and visual field, less blood loss and shorter hospital stays. There is therefore a need for further prospective studies with larger patient numbers and longer follow-up periods to establish the reproducibility of these results and the long-term efficacy of the procedures, as well as the impact on patient outcomes. Common index procedures and a standardized approach to these procedures should be identified to enhance training.

Robotic ureteral reconstruction for benign ureteral strictures: a systematic review of surgical techniques, complications and outcomes : Robotic Ureteral Reconstruction for Ureteral Strictures.

INTRODUCTION: Robotic ureteral reconstruction (RUR) has been widely used to treat ureteral diseases. To summarize the surgical techniques, complications, and outcomes following RUR, as well as to compare data on RUR with open and laparoscopic ureteral reconstruction. METHODS: Our systematic review was registered on the PROSPERO (CRD42022309364) database. The PubMed, Cochrane and Embase databases were searched for publications in English on 06-Feb-2022. Randomised-controlled trials (RCTs) or non-randomised cohort studies with sample size ≥ 10 cases were included. RESULTS: A total of 23 studies were included involving 996 patients and 1004 ureters from 13 non-comparative, and 10 retrospective comparative studies. No RCT study of RUR was reported. The success rate was reported ≥ 90% in 15 studies. Four studies reported 85-90% success rate. Meta-analyses for comparative studies showed that RUR had significantly lower estimated blood loss (EBL) (P = 0.006) and shorter length of stay (LOS) (P < 0.001) than the open approach. RUR had shorter operative time than laparoscopic surgery (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: RUR is associated with lower EBL and shorter LOS than the open approach, and shorter operative time than the laparoscopic approach for the treatment of benign ureteral strictures. However, further studies and more evidence are needed to determine whether RUR is more superior.

A diagnostic conundrum: Is it a periurethral diverticulum/cyst or a bulking agent (Bulkamid)?

INTRODUCTION: Urethral bulking agents are commonly used to manage female stress urinary incontinence (SUI) as they have been suggested to be safe, efficacious, and a minimally invasive surgical option. Bulkamid is a newer bulking agent that has been introduced and promoted in the market for use. It is non-particulate in nature with high tissue biocompatibility, and consequently, it is difficult to differentiate between Bulkamid and a periurethral cyst on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This, therefore, presents a diagnostic dilemma. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Here we describe two cases with previous injections of Bulkamid referred to our Centre for management of a presumed periurethral diverticulum based on MRI findings. Both patients were reviewed and examined in outpatient clinics with MRI findings discussed at MDT, further imaging was required. RESULTS: We found that a limited noncontrast computed tomography (CT) pelvis, followed by a voiding cystometrogram (VCMG), and then a repeat limited noncontrast CT pelvis effectively differentiated between Bulkamid and these presumed periurethral diverticulae. The theory behind this was that during micturition, the contrast would pass through to the urethral diverticulum and appear as high-density (bright) material within the periurethral region (the pre-VCMG was required to prove that any high-density material was due to the contrast and not pre-existing high-contrast material). CONCLUSION: A CT scan done in conjunction with a VCMG is likely to be more effective in differentiating between Bulkamid and a true periurethral diverticulum than an MRI scan. Appropriate diagnostic evaluation of periurethral lesions can lead to time-saving and cost-effective patient management as this will bypass the need for unnecessary investigations and possible unwarranted surgical intervention.

The relationship between testicular tumour characteristics and azoospermia: a systematic review.

Subfertility is a risk factor for testicular cancers (TT), and conversely, TT may induce subfertility due to local and regional toxic effects. We aimed to identify the association between TT characteristics and pre-orchidectomy azoospermia. A systematic review of the literature was performed according to the PRISMA checklist. Overall, eight non-randomised studies involving 469 men with TT (azoospermia, n = 57; no azoospermia n = 412) were included in the qualitative analysis. Bilateral TT (12.3% vs 2.9% in non-azoospermia), non-seminoma germ cell tumours (6.4% vs 1.9%), germ cell neoplasia in-situ (GCNIS) (11.1% vs 1.2%), stage 2-3 disease (22.2% vs 0%), Sertoli Cell only (SCO) on biopsy (60% vs 37.5%) and a history of undescended testis (UDT) (66.7% vs 50%) were more common in azoospermic men. FSH levels are higher (18.7-23.2 mIU/L vs <0.1-8 mIU/L in non-azoospermia), testosterone is lower, and testis size are smaller (lower range 1 mL vs 10 mL) in men with azoospermia. Leydig cell tumours and hyperplasia were only detected in men with azoospermia. In summary, bilateral TT, GCNIS, higher tumour stage, smaller testes, SCO and history of UDT may have direct effects on spermatogenesis. Small testis, raised FSH and low testosterone may reflect reduced testicular function in azoospermic men. Performing a pre-orchidectomy semen analysis is important to identify those with azoospermia or severe oligospermia in order to plan for cryopreservation or onco-TESE in young men who wish to conceive.

Contemporary Outcomes of Surgery for Primary and Recurrent Genitourinary Fistulae in a Well-resourced Country.

BACKGROUND: Urinary fistula (UF) is a global health problem but less common in well-resourced countries. Over the past decade there has been a trend toward managing UF in dedicated centres. Most of the evidence for surgical treatment is from individual case series, with few publications that involve high numbers. We describe the repair of recurrent and complex UF cases and outcomes in a tertiary referral setting. OBJECTIVE: To describe UF aetiology, repair techniques, and outcomes. DESIGN SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS: This is a retrospective study of a series of patients undergoing UF repair at a specialist unit. OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: We describe the aetiology, cure rate, complications, and postoperative urinary incontinence rates for the series of UF cases. RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS: A consecutive series of 98 patients was identified, all of whom were tertiary referrals. Of these, 31 (31.6%) had at least one prior attempt at repair at another centre. The median age was 48 yr (interquartile range [IQR] 40-60.25). The median time from occurrence to repair was 12 mo (IQR 6-12). UF occurred most commonly following hysterectomy (48.0%), Caesarean section (9.2%), other gynaecological surgery (7.1%), and anti-incontinence surgery (7.1%). Complex fistulae (eg, repeat cases, radiation, ureteric involvement) comprised 41 of the cases (41.8%). Most patients with vesicovaginal fistula underwent repair via a transabdominal approach (70.4%). Tissue interposition was used in 96 cases (98%). There were no Clavien-Dindo grade >3 complications. Two patients (2%) had a persistent UF postoperatively. Two patients (2%) developed recurrence more than 2 yr after their initial repair, and both were successfully repaired at our centre. Twelve patients (12.3%) developed de novo overactive bladder, 22 (22.5%) developed stress urinary incontinence (13 had subsequent incontinence surgery), and two (2%) developed bladder pain (both had a subsequent cystectomy). CONCLUSIONS: Despite a high rate of recurrent and complex UF, successful lasting closure was achieved in 96% of our cases. A minority of patients developed other problems such as de novo overactive bladder and stress urinary incontinence that may require further treatment. PATIENT SUMMARY: Urinary fistula is an abnormal opening or connection in the urinary tract and is less common in well-resourced countries. As a consequence, management of this condition is more frequently undertaken at specialist units. Even patients with a complex fistula and those who have had multiple attempts at repair can experience a cure. Urinary leakage is a common complication after the operation but can be successfully managed with surgery.

Tissue engineering: recent advances and review of clinical outcome for urethral strictures.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Urethrotomy remains the first-line therapy in the treatment of a urethral stricture despite data showing no real chance of a cure after repeated urethrotomies. An anastomotic or an augmentation urethroplasty using oral mucosa can be offered to patients following failed urethrotomy. The potential for a tissue engineered solution as an alternative to native tissue has been explored in recent years and is reviewed in this article. RECENT FINDINGS: More than 80 preclinical studies have investigated a tissue-engineered approach for urethral reconstruction mostly using decellularized natural scaffolds derived from natural extracellular matrix with or without cell seeding. The animal models used in preclinical testing are not representative of disease processes seen with strictures in man. The available clinical studies are based on small noncontrolled series. SUMMARY: There is a potential role for tissue engineering to provide a material for substitution urethroplasty and work has demonstrated this. Further work will require a rigorous basic science programme and adequate evaluation of the material prior to its introduction into clinical practice. The research with tissue engineering applied to the urethra has not yet been resulted in a widely available material for clinical use that approaches the efficacy seen with the use of autologous grafts.

A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Adjuncts to Minimally Invasive Treatment of Urethral Stricture in Men.

CONTEXT: Urethral stricture disease (USD) is initially managed with minimally invasive techniques such as urethrotomy and urethral dilatation. Minimally invasive techniques are associated with a high recurrence rate, especially in recurrent USD. Adjunctive measures, such as local drug injection, have been used in an attempt to reduce recurrence rates. OBJECTIVE: To systematically review evidence for the efficacy and safety of adjuncts used alongside minimally invasive treatment of USD. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: A systematic review of the literature published between 1990 and 2020 was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA checklist. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS: A total of 26 studies were included in the systematic review, from which 13 different adjuncts were identified, including intralesional injection (triamcinolone, n = 135; prednisolone, n = 58; mitomycin C, n = 142; steroid-mitomycin C-hyaluronidase, n = 103, triamcinolone-mitomycin C-N-acetyl cysteine, n = 50; platelet-rich plasma, n = 44), intraluminal instillation (mitomycin C, n = 20; hyaluronic acid and carboxymethylcellulose, n = 70; captopril, n = 37; 192-iridium brachytherapy, n = 10), application via a lubricated catheter (triamcinolone, n = 124), application via a coated balloon (paclitaxel, n = 106), and enteral application (tamoxifen, n = 30; deflazacort, n = 36). Overall, 13 randomised controlled trials were included in the meta-analysis. Use of any adjunct was associated with a lower rate of USD recurrence (odds ratio [OR] 0.37, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.27-0.50; p <  0.001) compared to no adjunct use. Of all the adjuncts, mitomycin C was associated with the lowest rate of USD recurrence (intralesional injection: OR 0.23, 95% CI 0.11-0.48; p <  0.001; intraluminal injection: OR 0.11, 95% CI 0.02-0.61; p =  0.01). Urinary tract infection (2.9-14%), bleeding (8.8%), and extravasation (5.8%) were associated with steroid injection; pruritis of the urethra (61%) occurred after instillation of captopril; mild gynaecomastia (6.7%) and gastrointestinal side effects (6.7%) were associated with oral tamoxifen. CONCLUSIONS: Adjuncts to minimally invasive treatment of USD appear to lower the recurrence rate and are associated with a low adjunct-specific complication rate. However, the studies included were at high risk of bias. Mitomycin C is the adjunct supported by the highest level of evidence. PATIENT SUMMARY: We reviewed studies on additional therapies (called adjuncts) to minimally invasive treatments for narrowing of the urethra in men. Adjuncts such as mitomycin C injection result in a lower recurrence rate compared to no adjunct use. The use of adjuncts appeared to be safe and complications are uncommon; however, the studies were small and of low quality.

European Association of Urology Guidelines on Urethral Stricture Disease (Part 1): Management of Male Urethral Stricture Disease.

OBJECTIVE: To present a summary of the 2021 version of the European Association of Urology (EAU) guidelines on management of male urethral stricture disease. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: The panel performed a literature review on these topics covering a time frame between 2008 and 2018, and used predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria for the literature to be selected. Key papers beyond this time period could be included as per panel consensus. A strength rating for each recommendation was added based on a review of the available literature and after panel discussion. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS: Management of male urethral strictures has extensively been described in literature. Nevertheless, few well-designed studies providing high level of evidence are available. In well-resourced countries, iatrogenic injury to the urethra is one of the most common causes of strictures. Asymptomatic strictures do not always need active treatment. Endoluminal treatments can be used for short, nonobliterative strictures at the bulbar and posterior urethra as first-line treatment. Repetitive endoluminal treatments are not curative. Urethroplasty encompasses a multitude of techniques, and adaptation of the technique to the local conditions of the stricture is crucial to obtain durable patency rates. CONCLUSIONS: Management of male urethral strictures is complex, and a multitude of techniques are available. Selection of the appropriate technique is crucial, and these guidelines provide relevant recommendations. PATIENT SUMMARY: Injury to the urethra by medical interventions is one of the most common reasons of male urethral stricture disease in well-resourced countries. Although different techniques are available to manage urethral strictures, not every technique is appropriate for every type of stricture. These guidelines, developed based on an extensive literature review, aim to guide physicians in the selection of the appropriate technique(s) to treat a specific type of urethral stricture.

European Association of Urology Guidelines on Urethral Stricture Disease (Part 2): Diagnosis, Perioperative Management, and Follow-up in Males.

CONTEXT: Urethral stricture management guidelines are an important tool for guiding evidence-based clinical practice. OBJECTIVE: To present a summary of the 2021 European Association of Urology (EAU) guidelines on diagnosis, classification, perioperative management, and follow-up of male urethral stricture disease. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: The panel performed a literature review on the topics covering a time frame between 2008 and 2018, and using predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria for the literature. Key papers beyond this time period could be included if panel consensus was reached. A strength rating for each recommendation was added based on a review of the available literature after panel discussion. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS: Routine diagnostic evaluation encompasses history, patient-reported outcome measures, examination, uroflowmetry, postvoid residual measurement, endoscopy, and urethrography. Ancillary techniques that provide a three-dimensional assessment and may demonstrate associated abnormalities include sonourethrography and magnetic resonance urethrogram, although these are not utilised routinely. The classification of strictures should include stricture location and calibre. Urethral rest after urethral manipulations is advised prior to offering urethroplasty. An assessment for urinary extravasation after urethroplasty is beneficial before catheter removal. The optimal time of catheterisation after urethrotomy is <72 h, but is unclear following urethroplasty and depends on various factors. Patients undergoing urethroplasty should be followed up for at least 1 yr. Objective and subjective outcomes should be assessed after urethral surgeries, including patient satisfaction and sexual function. CONCLUSIONS: Accurate diagnosis and categorisation is important in determining management. Adequate perioperative care and follow-up is essential for achieving successful outcomes. The EAU guidelines provide relevant evidence-based recommendations to optimise patient work-up and follow-up. PATIENT SUMMARY: Urethral strictures have to be assessed adequately before planning treatment. Before surgery, urethral rest and infection prevention are advised. After urethral surgery, x-ray dye tests are advised before removing catheters to ensure that healing has occurred. Routine follow-up is required, including patient-reported outcomes. These guidelines aim to guide doctors in the diagnosis, care, and follow-up of patients with urethral stricture.

Free Graft Augmentation Urethroplasty for Bulbar Urethral Strictures: Which Technique Is Best? A Systematic Review.

CONTEXT: Four techniques for graft placement in one-stage bulbar urethroplasty have been reported: dorsal onlay (DO), ventral onlay (VO), dorsolateral onlay (DLO), and dorsal inlay (DI). There is currently no systematic review in the literature comparing these techniques. OBJECTIVE: To assess if stricture recurrence and secondary outcomes vary between the four techniques and to assess if one technique is superior to any other. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: The EMBASE, MEDLINE, and Cochrane Systematic Reviews-Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL; Cochrane HTA, DARE, HEED) databases and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched for publications in English from 1996 onwards. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs), nonrandomised comparative studies (NRCSs), observational studies (cohort, case-control/comparative, single-arm), and case series with ≥20 adult male participants were included. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS: A total of 41 studies were included involving 3683 patients from one RCT, four NRCSs, and 36 case series. Owing to the overall low quality of the evidence, a narrative synthesis was performed. CONCLUSIONS: No single technique appears to be superior to another for bulbar free graft urethroplasty. Both DO and VO are suitable for bulbar augmentation urethroplasty, with a ≤20% recurrence rate over medium-term follow-up. No recommendations can be made regarding DI or DLO techniques owing to the paucity of evidence. Secondary outcomes including sexual function, and complications are infrequently reported. Recurrence rates deteriorate in the long term for both DO and VO procedures. PATIENT SUMMARY: We reviewed the evidence for four different skin-graft techniques used to repair narrowing of a section of the urethra (bulbar urethra, under the scrotum and perineum) in men. Two of the techniques seem to give consistent results, with recurrence rates lower than 20%. Recurrence rates increase over time, so patients should continue to monitor their symptoms. There is poorer reporting of other outcomes such as sexual function, urinary symptoms, and complications, and it is possible that these occur more frequently than the current data suggest.

A Systematic Review of Surgical interventions for the Treatment of Bladder Pain Syndrome/Interstitial Cystitis.

CONTEXT: Bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis (BPS/IC) is a poorly understood chronic debilitating condition. Surgery is reserved for severe refractory cases; however, there is no consensus on patient selection or optimal approach. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the evidence relating to the safety and efficacy of surgical interventions for treating BPS/IC. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: PubMed and Scopus databases were searched for original studies, using keywords "cystectomy", "interstitial cystitis", and "bladder pain syndrome". Articles were reviewed and screened by three independent reviewers. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS: A total of 450 patients were identified from 20 eligible studies: mean age was 54.5 yr and 90.2% were female. The median duration of symptoms preoperatively was 60 mo (range 9-84), with a mean follow-up of 45.5 mo. A total of 448 patients underwent surgery: subtotal cystectomy with cystoplasty (48.6%), cystectomy and orthotopic neobladder (21.9%), cystectomy and ileal conduit (11.2%), and urinary diversion only (18.3%). Symptomatic improvement occurred in 77.2%, with higher rates in the total cystectomy and orthotopic neobladder group. Thirty-one patients (6.9%) required secondary total cystectomy and/or ileal conduit diversion; 48.4% subsequently improved. Seventeen studies reported 102 complications overall (26.5%). Overall mortality was 1.3%. CONCLUSIONS: Overall surgical intervention is associated with a 23% risk of failure to improve symptoms. Higher rates of improvement were reported in patients with total cystectomy. Interpretation should be guarded given the small patient number, multiple centres, and variable outcome measurements. There is a need for prospective randomised studies to answer questions regarding patient selection and optimal surgical approach. PATIENT SUMMARY: In this review, we looked at the outcomes of surgery for treatment-refractory bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis. We found overall symptom improvement in 77.2% of patients with a complication rate of 26.5%. However, there remains a need for further studies of higher quality to identify patients who will have symptom improvement and the best surgical option.

The Modified Prone Jack-knife Position for the Excision of Female Urethral Diverticula.

BACKGROUND: Female urethral diverticula (UD) are an uncommon and often overlooked aetiology in women presenting with lower urinary tract symptoms, urethral pain, and recurrent urinary tract infection. With increasing awareness, appropriate imaging is more commonly undertaken with consideration given to surgical management. OBJECTIVE: The video presented demonstrates the technique for excising large and/or complex UD using a modified prone jack-knife position-a position that offers excellent surgical access and allows the surgeon to operate in a more ergonomic position. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: A retrospective review of the data on patients undergoing excision of UD at a tertiary referral unit was performed. SURGICAL PROCEDURE: Urethral and suprapubic catheters (±insertion of ureteric stents) were placed in supine position. UD excised in the modified prone jack-knife position (±placement of a Martius flap). MEASUREMENTS: Subjective cure rate, recurrence rate, rates of postoperative urinary incontinence, need for secondary incontinence procedure, and postoperative complications were measured. RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS: A total of 121 patients were operated on in the study period. The mean follow-up time was 10 mo (range 3-40). The most frequent presenting symptoms included a vaginal mass (n = 76, 63%), followed by dysuria (n = 72, 60%) and pelvic pain (n = 71, 59%). An identifiable aetiological factor was present in 45 patients, including traumatic vaginal delivery (18, 15%), prior periurethral surgery (17, 14%), and urethral dilatation (10, 8%). All patients underwent postvoiding magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to confirm the diagnosis and plan surgery. UD ranged in maximum diameter from 8 to 48 mm, with a mean of 43 mm (standard deviation 9.24). The most common anatomical location was midurethral (55, 46%), followed by distal (36, 30%), proximal (25, 21%), and full length (5, 4%). Most UDs were single in configuration (74%), followed by multiloculated (15%), saddle shaped (7%), and circumferential (5%). On preoperative videourodynamics, 17 (14%) had stress urinary incontinence. UD excision was undertaken in the modified prone jack-knife position in all cases. A Martius flap was utilised in 36 (30%). The median postoperative postvoiding residual was 26 ml (interquartile range 0-40). In total, 88 (73%) patients were continent postoperatively and 16 (13%) experienced de novo stress urinary incontinence. Of the 37 with pre-existing stress incontinence symptoms, 20 (54%) were continent after operation. A total of 14 patients had subsequent autologous fascial sling at 6 mo. In total, five symptomatic recurrences occurred (4%); of these patients, three elected to undergo surgical excision, all of whom had symptom resolution and were continent after operation. A total of 11 patients (9%) experienced a Clavien-Dindo grade I-II complication within 90 d after operation. Five patients complained of dyspareunia, which resolved by 6 mo. CONCLUSIONS: The modified prone jack-knife position facilitates excellent access for excision of both simple and complex UDs. This positioning of the patient is not widely recognised amongst urologists. Using this approach, there were low rates of symptomatic recurrence and de novo stress incontinence at medium-term follow-up. Associated urinary incontinence resolves in over half of patients following UD excision; hence, we advocate deferring any incontinence procedure until after the results of surgery are established. PATIENT SUMMARY: Surgical removal of urethral outpouching (diverticula) in women is challenging due to its potential to damage the nearby sphincter muscle, which controls continence, or the urethra tube. Placement of patients on their front, rather than on their back, provides excellent access for the surgical removal of urethral diverticula. With this approach, we achieved excellent rates of cure and low rates of urinary incontinence at an average follow-up of 10 mo.

Robotic Surgery as Applied to Functional and Reconstructive Urology.

CONTEXT: In recent years, there has been a rapid uptake in the use of laparoscopic and robotic surgery within urological oncological surgery. There is now growing interest in applying these surgical techniques to functional and reconstructive urology (FRU). OBJECTIVE: To provide an overview of the use of robotic surgery within the sphere of functional and reconstructive urology and discuss the research needs and the likely role of robotic technology in future. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: A PubMed-based literature review performed in March 2019 identified all articles published regarding the use of robotic surgery within FRU for the reconstruction of the upper tracts, bladder, bladder neck, pelvic floor, and urinary sphincter; creation of urinary diversion; and repair of genitourinary fistulae. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS: There is a need to study the robotic approach in carefully designed prospective studies to better establish safety and clinical efficacy as well as the economic viability as compared with laparoscopic and open approaches. CONCLUSIONS: The use of the robotic minimally invasive approach has many potential advantages; however, there is a need for a high level of technical expertise and experience, especially in some of the complex and technically challenging scenarios often seen within FRU. Surgeons should ensure that they have received sufficient training in not only the surgical principles of FRU, but also the assessment, management, and follow-up of patients. Moreover, it is imperative not to compromise important surgical steps. PATIENT SUMMARY: In this report, we looked into the use of robotic technologies in the treatment of functional and reconstructive problems of the urinary tract. We found that the robotic approach has not yet been evaluated in prospective clinical studies in this field. There is a need for carefully designed prospective studies to establish the safety and efficacy of robotic surgeries.

The use of laser as a therapeutic modality as compared to TURP for the small prostate ≤40 mL: a collaborative review.

INTRODUCTION: In the last decade therapeutic options for patients with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) secondary to benign prostatic enlargement (BPE) have constantly increased. Although transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is still considered the surgical gold standard, different lasers and advanced techniques have been introduced as alternatives to TURP. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: A non-systematic Medline/Pubmed literature search was performed with different combination of terms including: "BPH," "M-TURP," "B-TURP" "bladder outlet obstruction," "YAG laser," "Diode laser," "Potassium titanyl phosphate," "KTP," "bladder outlet obstruction" (BOO), "BOO in small prostate". Only studies reporting prostate volume ≤40 cc were considered for this review. EVIDENCE SYNTESIS: Current evidence on the use of laser as a therapeutic modality as compared to TURP reported similar functional results of bipolar-TURP, Thulium laser and Greenlight. For prostate gland ≤40 cc, HoLEP can be technically more difficult while Holmium-TUIP seems to be a valid option but with a higher rate of retrograde ejaculation which is considerably higher than the rate in electrocautery series. The diode laser showed excellent intra-operatively haemostasis with clear endoscopic vision and durable improvements in functional results, but may produce greater passive thermal energy conduction that can cause scrotal edema and anal pain. However, conclusions need to be drawn after median to long term evaluation of patients and consideration of the economic implications, coupled with the potential for reducing morbidity. CONCLUSIONS: Evidence acquisition from the literature showed that mini-invasive surgeries, including Greenlight laser and Holmium laser incision represent valid alternatives to TURP in prostate ≤40 g. We reported effective results of laser therapy as therapeutic modalities as compared to TURP for the small prostate ≤40 mL, both for enucleation and excision or cauterization, however cost effective of laser in the current literature are still scarce and it should be implemented.

What is the Role of Surgery in Bladder Pain Syndrome?

The role of surgery in the management of bladder pain syndrome is unclear; particularly the optimum surgical approach. Treatment refractory patients should be managed in a multi-disciplinary setting including psychological support. Further prospective studies using validated assessments and clear diagnostic criteria would be useful to guide patient selection.

Islam and the Urinary Stoma: A Contemporary Theological and Urological Dilemma.

BACKGROUND: The prayer ritual is an essential component of Islam that requires entry into a state of physical purity (wudhu) through ablution, which is invalidated by voiding. An important dilemma for patients and surgeons may arise when a Muslim patient is counselled on cystectomy because of the belief by some that an incontinent urinary diversion will automatically invalidate their wudhu. OBJECTIVE: To determine if there are any religious barriers and implications for Muslim patients undergoing an incontinent urinary diversion. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: A questionnaire was distributed to all UK mosques, addressed to the imam (n=804). RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS: A total of 134 imams (response rate 16.7%) responded. There was general agreement among imams, with >90% answering that it is possible for a Muslim to perform ablution, pray, and enter a mosque with a urinary stoma. The majority of imams (86.6%) also stated that refusal of a urinary stoma was not justified by religious teachings. When asked if patients should choose the option of a neobladder despite this surgery having greater risk, 57.5% of respondents stated that they were either unsure or agreed with this alternative. CONCLUSIONS: The majority of imams agreed that Muslims with a urinary stoma are able to maintain their ablution, allowing them to conduct their daily prayers, and that this form of surgery should not be refused on religious grounds. Our study suggests that the consensus view is that a urinary stoma is not contraindicated with regard to the practice of Islamic prayer rituals. PATIENT SUMMARY: In this study we investigated if having a urinary stoma would be a religious barrier for Muslim patients in performing their obligatory prayer rituals. The overwhelming majority of imams stated that having a urinary stoma should not stop Muslim patients practising important aspects of their faith.

Are There Pharmacotherapeutic Options for Underactive Bladder?

Currently, underactive bladder, the symptom-based correlate of the urodynamic diagnosis of detrusor underactivity, has no effective drug treatments. Use of sympathomimetics, targeting cholinergic receptors, is not supported by current evidence. Several potential targets are the subject of ongoing investigation.

The Midurethral Fascial "Sling on a String": An Alternative to Midurethral Synthetic Tapes in the Era of Mesh Complications.

BACKGROUND: Surgery for stress urinary incontinence (SUI) has been dominated recently by synthetic midurethral tapes. Increasing recognition of serious complications associated with nonabsorbable polypropylene mesh has led to resurgence in interest in alternative approaches, such as the autologous fascial sling (AFS). Despite being an efficacious and durable option in women with recurrent and complex SUI, there has been a reluctance to consider AFS in women with primary SUI due to a perception that it is only appropriate for treating patients with intrinsic sphincter deficiency (ISD) and is associated with high rates of urinary retention and de novo storage symptoms. OBJECTIVE: The video presented demonstrates the technique for a loosely applied midurethral AFS. In contrast to AFS applied at the bladder neck, this technical modification in patients who demonstrate primary SUI without ISD avoids high rates of de novo storage symptoms and urinary retention. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: A retrospective review of data on patients undergoing AFS at a tertiary referral unit. SURGICAL PROCEDURE: AFS placement in a "loose" fashion using a short length of fascia suspended on a suture bilaterally at the midurethral level rather than at the bladder neck and only using more tension in patients with ISD. MEASUREMENTS: Subjective cure rate, rates of postoperative storage symptoms, and urinary retention necessitating intermittent self-catheterisation (ISC). RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS: A total of 106 patients underwent AFS; the mean follow-up period was 9 mo. The mean age was 52.6 (range 24-83) yr. In total, 46.2% had primary SUI, whilst all of the remaining 53.8% had undergone prior surgical intervention. Overall subjective cure occurred in 79.2% of patients; a further 15.1% described significant subjective improvement in symptoms, whilst 5.7% reported no change in symptoms. In those with primary SUI, rates of subjective cure, improvement, and nonresolution of symptoms were 87.8%, 12.2%, and 0%, respectively. In individuals with prior surgical intervention, rates of subjective cure, improvement, and nonresolution of symptoms were 72.0%, 17.5%, and 10.5%, respectively. De novo storage symptoms occurred in 8.2% of those with primary SUI compared with 14.0% of those with prior surgical intervention. Only 2.0% patients with primary SUI needed to perform ISC beyond 2 wk compared with 10.5% of those after prior surgery. CONCLUSIONS: A midurethral AFS appears to be effective and safe both in women with primary SUI who want to avoid the placement of permanent material and its attendant risks, and in more complex cases where this is less appropriate. PATIENT SUMMARY: A graft taken from the covering of the abdominal muscle or the outer aspect of the thigh is an alternative to a synthetic vaginal mesh in women who have stress urinary incontinence requiring surgical treatment. Placing the graft loosely at the midpoint of the urethral tube, rather than at the bladder neck, reduces the risk of postoperative voiding difficulty and overactive bladder symptoms. Long-term data have suggested an outcome at least as good as a synthetic nonabsorbable tape without the potential for sling erosion into adjacent structures, as it avoids the use of nonabsorbable material.