Enhancing Kidney Transplant Outcomes: The Impact of Living Donor Programs.

INTRODUCTION: The protocol for deceased donor kidney transplants has been standardised. The procedure for a living donor has peculiarities derived from the differences in the graft. When a living kidney donor program is implemented, changes occur in both the profile of the kidney transplant candidate and in the postoperative treatments. AIMS: To discover whether a living donor program influences the functional outcomes of kidney grafts in a longstanding classical deceased donor kidney transplant program and to identify the factors associated with transplant outcomes. METHODS: Retrospective observational multicentre study. SAMPLE: Kidney transplant patients in two urology referral centres for renal transplant in Spain between 1994 and 2019. Groups: TV (living transplant): patients given kidney transplants from living donors (n = 150); TCpre11 (deceased transplant previous to 2011): patients given kidney transplants from deceased donors before the living donor program was implemented (n = 650); and TCpost11 (deceased transplant after 2011): patients given kidney transplants from deceased donors after the living donor program was implemented (n = 500). RESULTS: Mean age was 55.75 years (18-80 years), higher in TCpre11. There were 493 female patients (37.92%) and 1007 male patients (62.08%). Mean body mass index (BMI) was 26.69 kg/m2 (17.50-42.78 kg/m2), higher in TCpre11. Mean ischemia time was 17.97 h (6-29 h), higher in TCpost11. Median duration of urethral catheter: 8 days (6-98 days), higher in TCpost11. Median duration of double-J ureteral stent: 58 days (24-180 days), higher in TCpost11. Pretransplant UTIs: 17.77%, higher in TCpre11 (25.69%) than in TV (12%), higher in TV (12%) than TCpost11 (9.2%), and higher in TCpre11 (25.69%) than TCpost11 (9.2%). Acute renal rejection in 9.33% of TV, 14.77% of TCpre11, and 9.8% of TCpost11. Multivariate analysis: TCpost11 featured higher BMI, more smoking, and chronic renal failure progression time. Lower use of nonantibiotic prophylaxis to prevent recurrent urinary tract infections, increased duration of urethral catheters due to obstructive problems, and favoured deterioration of kidney function was observed in the deceased donor program. The living donor (LD) program had a strong influence on deceased donor transplants in the prelysis phase. Implementation of a LD program was associated with a decrease in the likelihood of acute rejection in TCpost11 and an increase in the tendency towards normal kidney function. CONCLUSIONS: Implementing living donor transplant programs affects functional outcomes in deceased donor transplants, reducing the probability of acute rejection and increasing the tendency towards normal kidney function. Preventing recurrent urinary tract infections with measures other than antibiotics, smoking cessation, delaying the removal of the double-J stent from the graft, and pre-emptive transplant (transplant prior to dialysis) are associated with improved renal function of the graft.

Recurrent Bacteriuria as a Prognosis Marker in the Adjuvant Treatment of Non-Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer.

PURPOSE: Bacteriuria may affect the response to adjuvant therapy in non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). The main aim of this study was to examine the effect of recurrent bacteriuria (RB) on the prognosis of NMIBC in women receiving intravesical therapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We designed a prospective observational study from 2012 to 2019. We included women with bladder cancer treated with transurethral resection of the bladder (TURB) and adjuvant intravesical treatment. Significant bacteriuria was defined as a presence in urine cultures at or above 100,000 colony-forming units per millilitre. The recurrent bacteriuria group included patients with significant bacteriuria in at least two determinations in 6 months or in 3 or more determinations in a year. The institutional board approved the study. RESULTS: One hundred thirty-six patients diagnosed with NMIBC participate in the study, of whom 100 met the inclusion criteria. During follow-up, 48 were categorized in the RB group and 52 formed the non-bacteriuria group (NB). RB GROUP HAD A BETTER OUTCOME: Eight patients (16.67%) experiencing a recurrence of the same grade, with no progression to a higher-grade tumor or muscle-invasive tumor. In the NB group, 18 (34.6%) patients presented a recurrence (P = .001) and 22 (42.3%) progressed to a higher-grade tumor or muscular invasion (P = .001). The presence of RB was identified as a predictor of good response in multivariate regression with a relative risk of 0.13 (P = .018) CONCLUSIONS: Female patients with RB had a better response to adjuvant treatment for NMIBC. The RB group showed lower rates of tumor recurrences and progression.

Relationship between Mental Disorders, Smoking or Alcoholism and Benign Prostate Disease.

INTRODUCTION: Mental disorders, smoking, or alcoholism and benign prostate disease are highly prevalent in men. AIMS: To identify the relationship between mental disorders, smoking, or alcoholism and benign prostate disease. METHODOLOGY: A prospective multicenter study that evaluated prostate health status in 558 men from the community. Groups: GP-men who request a prostate health examination and whose medical history includes a mental disorder, smoking, or alcoholism prior to a diagnosis of benign prostate disease; GU-men who request a prostate health examination and whose medical history includes a benign prostate disease prior to a diagnosis of mental disorder, smoking, or alcoholism. VARIABLES: age, body mass index (BMI), prostate specific antigen (PSA), follow-up of the mental disorder, smoking or alcoholism, time elapsed between urological diagnosis and the mental disorder, smoking or alcoholism diagnosis, status of the urological disease (cured or not cured), concomitant diseases, surgical history, and concomitant treatments. Descriptive statistics, Student's t-test, Chi2, multivariate analysis. RESULTS: There were no mental disorders, smoking, or alcoholism in 51.97% of men. Anxiety, smoking, major depressive disorder, pathological insomnia, psychosis, and alcoholism were identified in 19.71%, 13.26%, 5.73%, 4.30%, 2.87%, and 2.15% of individuals, respectively. Nonbacterial prostatitis (31.54%), urinary tract infection (other than prostatitis, 24.37%), prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (13.98%), and prostatodynia (1.43%) were prostate diseases. Unresolved symptomatic benign prostate disease was associated with anxiety, depression, and psychosis (p = 0.002). Smoking was the disorder that men managed to eliminate most frequently. The dominant disorder in patients with symptomatic benign prostatic disease was alcoholism (p = 0.006). CONCLUSIONS: Unresolved symptomatic benign prostatic disease is associated with anxiety, depression, and psychosis. Alcoholism is associated with a worse prognosis in the follow-up of symptomatic benign prostatic disease.

Four vertex technique for correcting urethral prolapse: technique description and cohort study.

Introduction/Objectives: This study aims to describe the procedure and effectiveness of the four-vertex technique for correcting urethral prolapse in women. Methods and Materials: includes a retrospective case series of 17 patients who underwent surgery for urethral prolapse. Two study groups were distinguished based on the presence or absence of pelvic heaviness symptoms. The variables were analyzed, including age, BMI, concomitant diseases, obstetric and gynecological history, time from diagnosis to surgery, and outcomes of treatment. Results: All patients were postmenopausal, with a mean age at the time of the intervention of 70.41 years, with no differences between groups. Mean BMI was 23.67 kg/m2, higher in the group with a sensation of vaginal heaviness (p = 0.027). Mean time elapsed between diagnosis and operation was 231.58 days, with no differences between groups. Mean childbirth count was 2.29. The most frequent causes for consultation were urethrorrhagia (33.33%) and a bulging sensation (33.33%). After the intervention, 14 patients (82.35%) were asymptomatic, two (11.76%) had dysuria, and one (5.88%) had urinary urgency. Ten patients had pre-surgical urinary incontinence, which was resolved in nine patients. 17.46% subsequently presented pelvic organ prolapse. In three women there was secondary impairment of sexual activity. Conclusion: The four-vertex technique was effective in resolving symptoms in most patients. However, some patients experienced dysuria, urinary urgency, and pelvic organ prolapse after surgery. Urinary incontinence improved in most patients, but a few required additional treatments with suburethral tape. The study also identified associations between variables and the presence of cystocele, consultation for a bulging sensation, and bleeding from urethral prolapse. Overall, this study sheds light on the challenges and outcomes of surgical treatment for urethral prolapse and provides valuable insights for future research in this area.

Long-Term Functional Outcomes and Quality of Life after Male Transobturator-Retrourethral Sling Surgery.

INTRODUCTION: Post-prostatectomy urinary incontinence (PPUI) has an enormous impact in quality of life (QoL). Transobturator-rethrourethral sling (AdVanceTMXP sling) is a well-established treatment option although there is paucity of data on long-term outcomes. Our objective was to assess the long-term functional outcomes and QoL in a cohort of men undergoing AdVanceTMXP sling surgery. METHODS: Retrospective observational study of men undergoing AdVanceTMXP sling in a tertiary referral institution from August 2013 to July 2020. 55 patients met the inclusion criteria, with a minimum follow-up of 12 months. Main outcomes were pre- and post-operative daily pad use and scoring in the ICIQ-SF questionnaire. Post-operative complications were assessed following the Clavien-Dindo classification system. QoL and satisfaction with the procedure were assessed through direct interview. RESULTS: Mean number of pads prior to surgery was 3.1, and mean ICIQ-SF score was 13.5. After surgery, mean daily pads use went to 1.2, and mean ICIQ-SF dropped to 5. With a mean follow-up of 42.36 months, 21.8% patients did not use any pads/day and 76.4% achieved social continence (0-1 pad/day). We found no statistically significant differences in outcomes of patients with follow-up of <36 months, 36-48 months, and >48 months (p = 0.067). CONCLUSIONS: AdVanceTMXP sling implantation in men with PPUI improves urinary incontinence and QoL, and their results are sustained over time.

Validation of the Spanish Acute Cystitis Symptoms Score (ACSS) in native Spanish-speaking women of Europe and Latin America.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: The Acute Cystitis Symptom Score (ACSS) is a patient self-reporting questionnaire for clinical diagnostics and patient-reported outcome (PRO), which may assess the symptoms and the effect on the quality of life in women with acute cystitis (AC). The current study aimed to create a validated Spanish version of the ACSS questionnaire. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The process of linguistic validation of the Spanish version of the ACSS consisted of the independent forward and backward translations, revision and reconciliation, and cognitive assessment. Clinical evaluation of the study version of the ACSS was carried out in clinics in Spain and Latin America. Statistical tests included the calculation of Cronbach's α, split-half reliability, specificity, sensitivity, diagnostic odds ratio, positive and negative likelihood ratio, and area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC). RESULTS: The study was performed on 132 patients [age (mean;SD) 45.0;17.8 years] with AC and 55 controls (44.5;12.2 years). Cronbach's α of the ACSS was 0.86, and the split-half reliability was 0.82. The summary scores of the ACSS domains were significantly higher in patients than in controls, 16.0 and 2.0 (p < 0.001), respectively. The predefined cut-off point of ≥6 for a summary score of the "Typical" domain resulted in a specificity of 83.6% and a sensitivity of 99.2% for the Spanish version of the ACSS. AUC was 0.91 [0.85; 0.97]. CONCLUSIONS: The validated Spanish ACSS questionnaire evaluates the symptoms and clinical outcomes of patients with AC. It can be used as a patient's self-diagnosis of AC, as a PRO measure tool, and help to rule out other pathologies in patients with voiding syndrome.

Management of Acute Cystitis in the Era of COVID-19.

Purpose of Review: No specific guidelines have been developed for acute cystitis management during the COVID-19 pandemic. This review aims to provide up-to-date information about treatment and follow-up in patients with symptoms suggesting lower urinary tract infection. Recent Findings: Uncomplicated cystitis does not need microbiological confirmation; thus, clinical diagnosis via telephone interview or questionnaires may be done. When complicated infections are suspected, in-person evaluation or close follow-up is mandatory. Antibiotic treatment is still the gold standard for treatment, although non-pharmacological strategies have also been suggested and further investigations are warranted. Summary: Urinary tract infections are still a frequent reason for consultation that needs to be addressed in both primary care and specialized levels. Their management during the pandemic is similar than in precedent years, but telehealth options have emerged which can facilitate diagnosis and treatment.

Female LUTS adaptations to COVID era: Lessons learned from the ICS TURNOVER (Transition of fUnctional uRology to New COVID ERa).

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically affected the Female and Functional Urology (FFU) practice, leading to massive waiting lists, while patients' quality of life remains severely impaired. The aim of the present study is to develop consensual recommendations to guide clinicians on the management of FFU patients. The present paper focuses on female LUTS. Methods: The authors used the Delphi methodology to develop a robust survey questionnaire, covering the principal topics in FFU, based on literature review and expert opinions. Regarding female LUTS, a 98-question survey was distributed among FFU specialists to obtain optimized recommendations, under the auspicious of the International Continence Society (TURNOVER, ICS project). A quantitative analysis of the data was performed, categorizing the mean value from 0-10. Consensus achievement was defined as attaining ≥ 70% agreement. Results: 98 ICS members completed the F-LUTS survey. Recommendations for the diagnosis and management of female LUTS are summarized. Video-consultation should be used for initial assessment, sending questionnaires and bladder diaries in advance to the patient to be filled out before the consultation. However, face-to-face visits are mandatory if POP or continuous incontinence are suspected, and prior to any surgical procedure, regardless of the health alert. Moreover, prescribing medications such as anticholinergics or ß 3 agonists in a telemedicine setting is not considered a safe practice. Follow-up teleconsultations can be used to assess the efficacy and treatment-related adverse events.Urodynamic testing should be only performed if consequences on F-LUTS treatment are expected. The study should be postponed until the pandemic local behaviour flattens.Invasive procedures should be postponed during a high alert. In case surgery is scheduled, outpatient clinics and local anaesthesia should be prioritized. Every patient should be screened for SARS-CoV-2 infection before invasive tests or procedures, following local authorities' guidance. Conclusions: During a pandemic, telemedicine offers a novel way of communication, maintaining medical care while preventing viral transmission. Non-urgent procedures should be postponed until the pandemic curve flattens. Ambulatory procedures under regional or local anaesthesia should be prioritized, aiming to reduce bed occupancy and risk of transmission.

Artificial Urinary Sphincter in a High-Risk Urethra: Transcorporal Gullwing Modification Description of the Technique.

BACKGROUND: In this report, we describe a modification of transcorporal artificial urinary sphincter place ment known as Gullwing modification. DESCRIPTION OF TECHNIQUE: Using a penoscrotal approach, bilateral corpora cavernosa flaps are harvested and sutured in the midline covering the lateral and ventral surfaces of the urethra. Transcorporal cuff placement provides dorsal reinforcement, thus having extra tissue buttressing all the circumference in cases of a fragile urethra due to previous urethral cuff erosion, urethroplasty, or pelvic radiotherapy. PATIENT AND METHODS: After previous urethral cuff erosion, radiotherapy, and urethral reconstruction, our patient complained of severe stress urinary incontinence. Due to the high risk of urethral complications, we proceed to a transcorporal artificial sphincter placement with urethral reinforcement through a bilateral cavernosal flap. RESULTS: The surgery was successfully completed, and after 6 weeks, sphincter was activated with satisfac tory results. Two years after surgery, his continence status is stable without complications. CONCLUSION: Urethral complications associated with artificial urinary sphincter surgery remain a challenge for the reconstructive surgeon. Reinforcement of the ventral aspect of the urethra through corpora cavernosal flaps may reduce the likelihood of urethral erosion in high-risk cases.

Current role of neuromodulation in bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis.

Neuromodulation is recommended by major international guidelines as a fourth-line treatment in bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis (BPS/IC) patients after failure of behavioural, oral and intravesical pharmacological treatments, including hydrodistension. A non-systematic review of studies identified by electronic search of MEDLINE was performed with no time limitation. A narrative synthesis of the existing evidence regarding the results of sacral, tibial and pudendal nerve stimulation in the management of BPS/IC was developed. Neuromodulation in pelvic chronic pain disorders, including BPS/IC, is a useful tool for refractory patients to conventional treatments. Sacral neuromodulation may be effective in patients with BPS without Hunner's lesions, and the effect seems to be maintained in the mid- and long-term. Posterior tibial nerve stimulation can be offered to patients with BPS/IC in the context of a multidisciplinary approach. When pudendal neuralgia is suspected, selective pudendal nerve stimulation has a high response rate. The aetiology of the pain can influence the outcomes in the mid- and long-term of the different neuromodulation approaches, thus careful diagnosis is recommended.

Efficacy and Safety of Surgical Treatments for Neurogenic Stress Urinary Incontinence in Adults: A Systematic Review.

CONTEXT: Controversy still exists regarding the balance of benefits and harms for the different surgical options for neurogenic stress urinary incontinence (N-SUI). OBJECTIVE: To identify which surgical option for N-SUI offers the highest cure rate and best safety without compromising urinary tract function and bladder management. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: A systematic review was performed under the auspices of the European Association of Urology Guidelines Office and the European Association of Urology Neuro-Urology Guidelines Panel according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statement. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS: A total of 32 studies were included. Overall, 852 neurourological patients were surgically treated for N-SUI. The treatment offered most often (13/32 studies) was an artificial urinary sphincter (AUS; 49%, 416/852) and was associated with a need for reintervention in one-third of patients. More than 200 surgical revisions were described. Overall, 146/852 patients (17%) received concomitant bladder augmentation, mainly during placement of an AUS (42%, 62/146) or autologous sling (34% of women and 14% of men). Following pubovaginal sling placement, dryness was achieved in 83% of cases. A significant improvement in N-SUI was observed in 87% (82/94) of women following placement of a synthetic midurethral sling. Efficacy after insertion of an adjustable continence therapy device (ACT 40%, proACT 60%) was reported for 38/128 cases (30%). The cure rate for bulking agents was 35% (9/25) according to 2/32 studies, mainly among men (90%). The risk of bias was highly relevant. Baseline and postoperative cystometry were missing in 13 and 28 studies, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The evidence is mainly reported in retrospective studies. More than one intervention is often required to achieve continence because of coexisting neurogenic detrusor overactivity, low compliance, or the onset of complications in the medium and long term. Urodynamic data are needed to better clarify the success of N-SUI treatment with the different techniques. PATIENT SUMMARY: Our review shows that insertion of an artificial urinary sphincter for urinary incontinence is effective but is highly associated with a need for repeat surgery. Other surgical options may have lower continence rates or a risk of requiring intermittent catheterization, which patients should be informed about before deciding on surgery for their incontinence.

Same problem, different approaches: transvesical and extravesical laparoscopic vesicovaginal fistula repair-case report.

Vesicovaginal fistulas (VVaFs) are relatively uncommon in developed countries but with devastating consequences for the women suffering them. Conservative management has a low response rate. The surgical repair is a technically demanding procedure. Transvaginal, open transabdominal or laparoscopic (pure or robot-assisted) approaches have been described with similar post-operative results. We report two real-life cases of VVaF after surgery of benign gynaecological conditions, both presenting with continuous urinary incontinence and repaired with laparoscopic surgery. The first case had a simple tract above the trigone and was managed with an extravesical approach. The second is a complex case with multiple fistulous tracts that required a transabdominal-transvesical approach (modified O'Connor technique). Both patients have their fistula closed and are continent after surgery with a mean follow-up of 9 months. Given the lack on evidence for the selection of the best approach, it is important to report the outcomes with the different surgical techniques in both simple and complex fistulae. A pre-operative exhaustive study of the location and number of fistulous tracts is essential, as well as selecting the technique which best allows tissue dissection and tension-free suture to get a successful closure. Therefore, knowledge of several procedures and approaches is mandatory when dealing with this disorder.

Relationship between obstetric history and recurrent urinary infections.

Urinary tract infections affect more than 50% of women. 25% derive from recurrent UTI (RUTI). It is not known the relationship between obstetric history and RUTI occurrence. Investigate the relationship between obstetric events and RUTI. Multicenter observational retrospective study. Groups: G.RUTI (n = 294): women with RUTI; G.NON.RUTI (n = 126): women without RUTI (treated and cured of renal cancer). Descriptive statistics, ANOVA analysis of variance (with Scheffe's test for normal samples and Kruskal-Wallis for other distributions), Fisher's exact test, Pearson and Spearman correlation studies, and multivariate analysis multiple regression were used. Mean age 61.04 years (19-92), G.RUTI: 56.77 years SD 4.46 (19-85). G.NON.RUTI: 71 years SD 6.73 (25-92) (p = 0.0001). Obstetric history: Nulliparous G.RUTI: 20 (3.4%) G.NON.RUTI: 90 (71.42%) p 0.0001; Eutocic G.RUTI: 416 (70.74%) G.NON.RUTI: 30 (23.8%) p 0.0001. Dystocic G.RUTI: 58 (9.86%) G.NON.RUTI: 56 (44.44%) p 0.0001. G.RUTI abortion: 102 (17.34%) G.NON.RUTI: 30 (23.8%) p 0.1381. Hysterectomy without adnexectomy G.RUTI: 100 (17%) G.NON.RUTI: 18 (14.28%) p 0.5640. Hysterectomy with adnexectomy G.RUTI: 100 (17%) G.NON.RUTI: 66 (52.28%) p 0.0001. Nulliparity, dystocic delivery, and hysterectomy with adnexectomy are more frequent in women without RUTI, while eutocic births are more associated with RUTI. The most prevalent gynaecological-obstetric history in women with RUTI is eutocic delivery associated with a good health state.

Improvement in Quality of Life with Pelvic Floor Muscle Training and Biofeedback in Patients with Painful Bladder Syndrome/Interstitial Cystitis.

OBJECTIVE: To prove the benefits of pelvic floor muscle training with biofeedback (BFB) as a complementary treatment in women with bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis (BPS/IC). METHODS: Prospective, randomized study in 123 women with BPS/IC. Groups: BFB+ (n = 48): women with oral drug treatment (perphenazine and amitriptyline) plus intravesical instillations (sodium hyaluronate) plus pelvic floor muscle training with BFB; BFB-: (n = 75): women with oral drug treatment plus intravesical instillations. VARIABLES: age, body mass index (BMI), time of follow-up, length of disease, time free of disease, diseases and health conditions concomitant, and responses to the SF-36 health-related quality of life questionnaire at the first consultation (SF-36 pre-treatment), and at the end of the study (SF-36 post-treatment). The treatment was considered successful when the SF-36 score reached values equal to or greater than 80 points or when the initial value increased by 30 or more points. RESULTS: Mean age was 51.62 years old (23-82). BMI was higher in BFB-. The mean length of BPS/IC condition was 4.92 years (1-20), shorter in BFB+ than in BFB-. Mean SF-36 score pre-treatment was 45.92 points (40-58), lower in BFB+ than in BFB-. Post-treatment SF-36 score was higher than pre-treatment SF-36 score both in BFB+ and BFB-. SF-36 values were higher in BFB+ compared to BFB- over the follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: BFB improves quality of life in women with BPS/IC as adjunct therapy to combined oral and intravesical treatment.

Long-term Outcomes of Sacral Nerve Stimulation in Pelvic Floor Dysfunctions.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to analyze the long-term outcomes of sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) in both idiopathic and neurogenic pelvic floor disorders in patients treated at a referral center. METHODS: This retrospective observational study analyzed the records of 106 patients tested at our department from December 1999 to January 2017. The efficacy variables evaluated were the Global Response Assessment (range, 0%-100%) and, according to the clinical indication, other specific variables such International Consultation on Incontinence QuestionnaireShort Form, number of catheterizations or pads/day, and the numerical pain scale. The safety variables analyzed were complications (pain, migration, infection), reinterventions and explants. Patients' quality of life (QoL) and satisfaction with the procedure were evaluated through telephone interviews. RESULTS: The clinical indications were overactive bladder (OAB) (n=36), urinary retention (UR) (n=37), bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis (BPS/IC) (n=19), fecal incontinence (FI) (n=8), and double incontinence (DI) (n=6). The implant rates according to the clinical indication were as follows: OAB, 55.6%; UR, 56.8%; BPS/IC, 63.15%; FI, 87.5%; and DI, 66.7%. Clinical and/or statistically significant improvements in all efficacy variables were observed. Loss of therapeutic effect at 75 months of follow-up was observed in 34% of patients. Device-related pain appeared in 25 patients (39%); in 20 patients, it was resolved by reprogramming and 5 patients required device removal. An overall improvement in QoL and high levels of satisfaction with the procedure were observed. More than 90% of patients would recommend SNS to a friend or relative. CONCLUSION: SNS is a minimally invasive procedure that offers a real alternative to patients with refractory pelvic floor dysfunction. Its safety profile is very favorable and it provides a long-lasting improvement in symptoms and QoL.

Effects on Health-Related Quality of Life of Biofeedback Physiotherapy of the Pelvic Floor as an Adjunctive Treatment Following Surgical Repair of Cystocele.

OBJECTIVES: to demonstrate the benefits of physiotherapy (PT) with pelvic floor biofeedback (BFB) in improving health-related quality of life when used as a complementary therapy after surgical treatment of cystocele, in cases in which perineal pain or discomfort persists. MATERIALS AND METHODS: prospective observational study in 226 women who received complementary therapy after surgical treatment of cystocele due to persistent perineal discomfort or pain. Groups: GA (n = 78): women treated with 25 mg of oral pregabalin every 12 h plus BFB, consisting of 20 once-weekly therapy sessions, each 20 min long, with perineal pregelled surface electrodes connected to a screen which provides visual feedback; GB (n = 148): women treated with oral pregabalin 25 mg every 12 h without BFB. VARIABLES: age, body mass index (BMI), time since onset of cystocele prior to surgery (TO), SF-36 health-related quality of life survey score, diseases and concomitant health conditions, follow-up time, success, or failure of postsurgical treatment. RESULTS: average age 67.88 years (SD 12.33, 30-88), with no difference between GA and GB. Average body mass index (BMI) 27.08 (SD 0.45, 18.74-46.22), with no difference between GA and GB. Time since onset of cystocele prior to surgery (TO) was 6.61 years (SD 0.6), with no difference between GA and GB. Pretreatment SF-36 score was lower in GA success than GB success. Treatment was successful in 141 (63.20%) women and failed in 82 (36.80%). PT and age were the main predictors of success, and the least important were pretreatment SF-36 and the time elapsed after the intervention. In GA, 63 women (80.80%) showed improvement while 15 (19.20%) did not. Age was the main predictor of treatment success, while the least important was BMI. In GB, 78 women (53.80%) showed improvement while 67 (46.20%) did not improve. The main predictor was time since cystocele onset prior to surgery, while the least important was age. The odds ratio (OR) of improving quality of life for each unit increase in SF-36 was 11.5% (OR = 0.115) in all patients, with no difference between success and failure; in GA it was 23.80% (OR = 0.238), with a difference between success and failure; in GB it was 11.11% (OR = 0.111), with no difference between success and failure. GA and GB success had more history of eutocic delivery. GA success had more rUTI. GB success and GA failure both had more history of UI corrective surgery. The "failure" outcome had a higher number of patients with more than two concomitant pathological conditions. CONCLUSIONS: BFB as an adjunctive treatment improves quality of life in women suffering from persistent discomfort after surgery for cystocele. Young women who meet the criteria for recurrent urinary tract infection or who have a history of eutocic delivery show greater improvement. Body mass index does not influence response to treatment, while the presence of more than two concomitant conditions indicates a poor prognosis for improving quality of life.

The Association between Prostate-Specific Antigen Velocity (PSAV), Value and Acceleration, and of the Free PSA/Total PSA Index or Ratio, with Prostate Conditions.

INTRODUCTION: Prostate-specific antigen velocity (PSAV) is used to monitor men with clinical suspicion of prostate cancer (PCa), with a normal cut-off point of 0.3-0.5 ng/mL/year. The aim of the study is to establish the predictive capacity of PSAV (value and acceleration) and of the free PSA/total PSA index or ratio. METHOD: Prospective multicentre observational study in 2035 men of over 47 years of age. INCLUSION CRITERIA: men who wished to be informed on the health of their prostate. EXCLUSION CRITERIA: men with a previously diagnosed prostate condition. Groups: GA: (n = 518): men with serum PSA equal to or greater than 2.01 ng/mL. GB: (n = 775): men with serum PSA greater than or equal to 0.78 ng/mL and less than 2.01 ng/mL. GC: (n = 742): men with serum PSA less than 0.78 ng/mL. VARIABLES: prostate-specific antigen (PSA); age; body mass index (BMI); PSA velocity (PSAV) (ng/mL per year); free PSA/total PSA index (iPSA); PSAV acceleration (increasing: positive, or decreasing: negative); prostate diagnosis (benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PIN), or infectious and non-infectious prostatitis and prostatic adenocarcinoma (PCa)); de novo diagnoses of urinary tract diseases or conditions; concomitant treatments, diseases and conditions; final diagnosis of prostate health. RESULTS: Mean age 62.35 years (SD 8.12), median 61 (47-94); age was lowest in GC. Mean BMI was 27.89 kg/m2 (SD 3.96), median 27.58 (18.56-57.13); no differences between groups. Mean PSAV was 0.69, SD 2.16, median 0.13 (0.001-34.46); PSAV was lowest in GC. Mean iPSA was 27.39 u/L (SD 14.25), median 24.29 (3.7-115); iPSA was lowest in GA. PSAV had more positive acceleration in GA and more negative acceleration in GC. There were 1600 (78.62%) cases of normal prostate or BPH, 322 (15.82%) cases of PIN or non-infectious prostatitis, and 113 (5.55%) cases of PCa. There were more cases of BPH in GC and more cases of PIN or prostatitis and cancer in GA (p = 0.00001). De novo diagnoses: 15 cases of urinary incontinence (UI), 16 discomfort/pain in LUT, 112 cases of voiding disorders, 12 urethral strictures, 19 hematuria, 51 cystitis, 3 pyelonephritis, 4 pelvic inflammatory disease; no differences were found between groups. In the multivariate analysis, PSAV and the direction of PSAV acceleration (positive or negative) were the variables which were correlated most strongly with prostate health. iPSA was associated with the presence of prostatitis, PCa, and BPH. Men in GA had more prostatitis, PCa, treatment with alpha blockers, and history of previous smoking. GB had more cases of BPH and more positive acceleration of PSAV. GC had more normal prostates, more BPH, more use of ranitidine, and more PSAV with negative acceleration. CONCLUSIONS: PSAV, direction of PSAV acceleration, and iPSA in PSA cut-off points of 0.78 ng/mL and 2.01 ng/mL in a priori healthy men over 47 predict the probability of benign or malignant pathology of the prostate.

The American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status (ASA-PS) Risk Group Classification Can Be Used to Anticipate Functional Recovery Outcomes after the Surgical Treatment of Female Urinary Incontinence with Transobturator Suburethral Tape.

INTRODUCTION: Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) has an incidence of 15-80% in women. One of the most widely used surgical techniques for treatment is the placement of a suburethral transobturator tape (TOT). Although this technique has a relatively low morbidity rate, it is not exempt from intraoperative or postoperative complications, which can have an impact on functional recovery, understood as the return to routine life prior to the intervention. AIMS: To assess the time for functional recovery in women operated on for SUI by TOT; to identify complications and related factors, according to anaesthetic risk, which condition the time to functional recovery; and proposals for improvements in the prevention of possible complications and in reducing functional recovery time. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A non-concurrent prospective observational multicenter study of 891 women undergoing TOT for stress urinary incontinence since 1 April 2003, who were successful in achieving urinary continence (completely dry). Study groups: GA (n = 443): patients with ASA I risk. GB (n = 306): patients with ASA II risk. GC (n = 142): patients with anaesthetic risk ASA III. Investigated variables: age, body mass index, follow-up time, secondary diagnoses, surgical history, obstetric-gynecological history, toxic habits, and complications derived from surgery: bleeding, pain, infection. Descriptive statistics, Student's t test, Chi2, Fisher, ANOVA, multivariate analysis, significance for p < 0.05. RESULTS: Mean age was 60.10 years (SD13.38), with no difference between groups. Mean body mass index (BMI) was 26.55 kg/m2 (SD 4.51), lowest in GA. GB had more HT (38.6%) than GC (23.23%), more type 2 diabetes (19.83% versus 10.56%), and more respiratory disorders (6.97% versus 2.11%). There were more women with anxiety in GB (19.3%) than in GC (6.33%) (p = 0.0221) and GA (10.51%) (p = 0.0004). There was more hypothyroidism in GB (16.08%) compared to GC (2.11%) and GA (9.07%). There was more history of curettage in GC (11.97%) versus GB (5.63%); and more pelvic surgery in GB (71.31%) and GC (66.9%) compared to GA (32.57%). There were more concomitant treatments with benzodiazepines in GC (27.46%) and GB (28.41%) than in GA (8.86%), and more parapharmacy treatments in GB (17.96%) than in GC (6.33%). Following the operation, 113 patients had some sign or symptom that required medical attention: in GA 48 (10.83%), in GB 49 (16.06%), in GC 16 (13.22%). Mean days until functional recovery in patients with complications: in GA 5.72 (SD2.05); bleeding 3 (SD1), pain 6.40 (SD1.34), and infection 7.33 (SD0.57), with fewer days for bleeding than for pain or infection. GB: 27.96 (SD 28.42), bleeding 3 (SD0), pain 46.69 (SD31.36), infection 10.83 (SD3.90); lowest for patients with bleeding. GC: 9.44 (SD 2.50); for bleeding 7.66 (SD2. 08), pain 10.66 (SD1.15), infection 10 (SD3.46); no differences. Overall, for women with bleeding, the time was 4.16 days (SD1.94); less in GA and GB than in GC. Pain, at 31.33 days (SD 30.70), was the factor that most delayed functional recovery; in GB women, it took longer to return to work due to pain (45.96, SD31.36) compared to GA (6.4, SD 1.34) and GC (10.66, SD1.15). In women with infection, overall mean time was 10.11 days (SD 3.61) with no difference between groups. CONCLUSIONS: Mean time for the return to normal activity in patients who underwent TOT for SUI is 5 days if there are no complications, and 16.91 days if there are any. The ASA-SP risk group classification can be used to anticipate functional outcomes. An ASA-PS risk-based functional recovery forecasting protocol should be adapted, especially ASA II patients who may present with long-term disabling postoperative pain. Preventive management measures are proposed that favour functional recovery.

Management of Female and Functional Urology Patients During the COVID Pandemic.

CONTEXT: Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) has changed standard urology practice around the world. The situation is affecting not only uro-oncological patients but also patients with benign and disabling conditions who are suffering delays in medical attention that impact their quality of life. OBJECTIVE: To propose, based on expert advice and current evidence where available, a strategy to reorganize female and functional urological (FFU) activity (diagnosis and treatment). EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: The present document is based on a narrative review of the limited data available in the urological literature on SARS-Cov-2 and the experience of FFU experts from several countries around the world. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS: In all the treatment schemes proposed in the literature on the COVID-19 pandemic, FFU surgery is not adequately covered and usually grouped into the category that is not urgent or can be delayed, but in a sustained pandemic scenario there are cases that cannot be delayed that should be considered for surgery as a priority. The aim of this document is to provide a detailed management plan for noninvasive and invasive FFU consultations, investigations, and operations. A classification of FFU surgical activity by indication and urgency is proposed, as well as recommendations adopted from the literature for good surgical practice and by surgical approach in FFU in the COVID-19 era. CONCLUSIONS: Functional, benign, and pelvic floor conditions have often been considered suitable for delay in challenging times. The long-term implications of this reduction in functional urology clinical activity are currently unknown. This document will help functional urology departments to reorganize their activity to best serve their patients. PATIENT SUMMARY: Many patients will suffer delays in urology treatment because of COVID-19, with consequent impairment of their physical and psychological health and deterioration of their quality of life. Efforts should be made to minimize the burden for this patient group, without endangering patients and health care workers.

Position of Ibero-American Society of Neurourology and UroGynecology (SINUG) on the use of vaginal meshes in pelvic organ prolapse.

AIMS: Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a very prevalent condition with a great impact on women's quality of life. At present, there is great controversy regarding the use of mesh in POP surgery. To understand the current moment, it is advisable to make a brief summary of the historical evolution of mesh use for pelvic floor pathology. The aim of this paper is to establish the position of the Ibero-American Society of Neurourology and UroGynecology (SINUG for its acronym in Spanish) regarding vaginal mesh reconstructive surgery. METHODS: A working committee from the SINUG's scientific board performed a literature search about the use of vaginal meshes for pelvic organ prolapse reconstructive surgery and about the position of different societies. We analyzed the evolution into three periods: before the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) statement, FDA statement, and after the statement. SINUG drew up a position statement regarding vaginal mesh reconstructive surgery, based on the available scientific evidence and the evolution of its use in different contexts. RESULTS: Before mesh appearance in the 1990s, native tissue repair was the surgical treatment of choice for POP. Vaginal mesh reconstructive surgery has been frequently accompanied by procedure underestimation by inexperienced surgeons, besides inadequate diagnoses and indications. This situation led to the presentation of serious complications including mesh extrusion, exposure, and contraction. CONCLUSIONS: Once reviewed the available evidence and the position of different societies, SINUG presents its vision in this communication, which is a summary of the document prepared by the society's scientific board.