From Slow Shifts to Fast Flips: Unraveling problem-based learning group function dynamics.

PURPOSE: Problem-Based Learning (PBL) relies on self-directed learning in small groups in the presence of a tutor. While the effectiveness of PBL is often attributed to the dynamics of group function, change in group function over time and factors influencing group function development are less understood. This study aims to explore the development of PBL group function over time to better understand the factors that give rise to high-functioning groups. METHOD: We examined time-function graphs of group function and conducted semi-structured focus group discussions in 2023 with medical students enrolled in a PBL curriculum. Students reflected on their experiences in four different PBL groups, creating time-function graphs to characterize development of group function over 8-12-week periods. We analyzed graphs and transcripts in a staged approach using qualitative description and direct content analysis, sensitized by two frameworks: Tuckman's Stages of Group Development and the Dimensions of PBL Group Function. RESULTS: Three archetypes of PBL group function development were identified: Slow Shifters, Fast Flippers, and Coasters. (1) Slow Shifters were characterized by a complex and extended pattern of growth consistent with Tuckman's model, typically occurring amongst inexperienced groups, or groups faced with a novel task. (2) Fast Flippers were characterized by abrupt state changes in group function arising from internal or external disruptions. (3) Coasters were characterized by plateaus, where maintenance of group function was a frequently cited challenge. Abrupt changes and plateaus occurred more among mature groups and groups with significant PBL experience. CONCLUSIONS: PBL group function varies over time in 3 different patterns. Classic Tuckman's stages are apparent among inexperienced groups, or groups facing novel tasks, whereas experienced groups often face abrupt change or plateaus. PBL educators and students should consider the need for novelty and disruption in more experienced groups to incite growth.

Measuring group function in problem-based learning: development of a reflection tool.

BACKGROUND: Problem-based learning (PBL) is a pedagogy involving self-directed learning in small groups around case problems. Group function is important to PBL outcomes, but there is currently poor scaffolding around key self-reflective practices that necessarily precedes students' and tutors' attempts to improve group function. This study aims to create a structured, literature-based and stakeholder-informed tool to help anchor reflective practices on group function. This article reports on the development process and perceived utility of this tool. METHODS: Tool development unfolded in four steps: 1) a literature review was conducted to identify existent evaluation tools for group function in PBL, 2) literature findings informed the development of this new tool, 3) a group of PBL experts were consulted for engagement with and feedback of the tool, 4) four focus groups of stakeholders (medical students and tutors with lived PBL experiences) commented on the tool's constructs, language, and perceived utility. The tool underwent two rounds of revisions, informed by the feedback from experts and stakeholders. RESULTS: Nineteen scales relating to group function assessment were identified in the literature, lending 18 constructs that mapped into four dimensions: Learning Climate, Facilitation and Process, Engagement and Interactivity, and Evaluation and Group Improvement. Feedback from experts informed the addition of missing items. Focus group discussions allowed further fine-tuning of the organization and language of the tool. The final tool contains 17 descriptive items under the four dimensions. Users are asked to rate each dimension holistically on a 7-point Likert scale and provide open comments. Researchers, faculty, and students highlighted three functions the tool could perform: (1) create space, structure, and language for feedback processes, (2) act as a reference, resource, or memory aid, and (3) serve as a written record for longitudinal benchmarking. They commented that the tool may be particularly helpful for inexperienced and poor-functioning groups, and indicated some practical implementation considerations. CONCLUSION: A four-dimension tool to assist group function reflection in PBL was produced. Its constructs were well supported by literature and experts. Faculty and student stakeholders acknowledged the utility of this tool in addressing an acknowledged gap in group function reflection in PBL.

The Role of Prostate Specific Antigen Monitoring after Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate.

PURPOSE: Prostate specific antigen screening for prostate cancer has recently been challenged due to poor sensitivity. In addition to prostate cancer, a number of conditions elevate prostate specific antigen, of which benign prostatic hyperplasia is most common. The objective of this study was to assess the positive predictive value of prostate specific antigen and prostate specific antigen density for prostate cancer risk following holmium laser enucleation of the prostate. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We queried an institutional review board approved database of holmium laser enucleation of the prostate performed at Indiana University from 1999 to 2018 to identify 1,147 patients with prostate specific antigen data available after holmium laser enucleation. A total of 55 biopsies after enucleation were recorded. Demographics, prostate specific antigen, prostate volume and oncologic details were analyzed. The primary outcome was biopsy proven prostate cancer. RESULTS: A total of 55 patients underwent transrectal ultrasound prostate biopsy for cause after holmium laser enucleation of the prostate. Cancer was identified in more than 90% of biopsied cases. Men with prostate specific antigen above 1 ng/ml at biopsy had a 94% probability of cancer detection and an 80% risk of clinically significant disease. Prostate specific antigen density above 0.1 ng/ml2 was associated with a 95% risk of cancer and an 88% risk of clinically significant cancer. Prostate specific antigen greater than 5.8 ng/ml or prostate specific antigen density greater than 0.17 ng/ml2 was universally associated with biopsy proven cancer. CONCLUSIONS: Prostate specific antigen and prostate specific antigen density have high positive predictive value for prostate cancer risk after holmium laser enucleation of the prostate. Thresholds for biopsy should be lower than in patients who do not undergo holmium laser enucleation. Those who undergo that procedure and have prostate specific antigen above 1 ng/ml or prostate specific antigen density above 0.1 ng/ml2 are at higher risk for harboring clinically significant disease and should undergo biopsy. Referring physicians should be aware of these significant risk shifts.

Use of flexible cystoscopy at time of artificial urinary sphincter placement.

INTRODUCTION: Artificial urinary sphincters (AUS) are used to treat significant urinary incontinence. Flexible cystoscopy at the time of AUS placement provides relevant intraoperative feedback including confirmation that the AUS is functioning, visualization of coaptation, and evaluation for urethral injury. Current guidelines for placement of an AUS do not include flexible cystoscopy. The objective was to evaluate whether flexible cystoscopy at time of AUS placement changed cuff size at the time of surgery. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective cohort study was performed to evaluate all patients undergoing AUS placement by a single surgeon between March 2013 and March 2017. The primary endpoint of the study was change in cuff size based on cystoscopy. RESULTS: A total of 109 AUS were placed in 96 patients. In five (4.6%) cases flexible cystoscopy identified a lack of coaptation of the urethra despite appropriate sizing which resulted in down-sizing of the cuff. Five patients were identified as having a bladder neck contracture that was previously unrecognized as clinic cystoscopy was performed by the referring urologist and was reportedly normal. Three patients developed postoperative infections, two of these patients had a history of multiple AUS placement and revisions and the third patient had a history of cystectomy and neobladder. CONCLUSIONS: Flexible cystoscopy at time of AUS placement changed the cuff size in nearly 5% of cases. Flexible cystoscopy at time of AUS placement provides valuable feedback and should be recommended for low volume prosthetic surgeons.

A novel technique for direct visualization of reservoir placement for penoscrotal inflatable penile prostheses using a single incision.

INTRODUCTION: We aim to present a modified technique and outcomes of a novel method allowing for direct visualization of the reservoir placement during a penoscrotal inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP). METHODS: Out of165 patients who underwent IPP placement from August 2012 to March 2015, 157 underwent a modified technique and comprised the cohort of this study. A Deaver's retractor was placed lateral to the penis and over the pubic bone to allow for direct visualization of the tissues overlying the lower abdomen. After dissecting through the superficial layers, the Deaver's was slowly advanced, allowing for visualization of the fascia, which was incised. Using blunt dissection, a space for the reservoir was created between the bladder and the pubic bone. The reservoir was then placed safely into this space and the Deaver's retractor was removed. RESULTS: The causes of ED in the study cohort included postprostatectomy ED (n = 107), organic impotence (n = 40), Peyronie's disease (n = 3), ED following cystoprostatectomy (n = 2), ED due to spinal cord injury (n = 2), ED resulting from priapism (n = 2), and ED after pelvic injury (n = 1); all of which were refractory to medical management. The median age of study population was 66 years and the mean (standard deviation) operative time was 72.8 (14.7) min. Eighty percent of the procedures were performed on outpatient basis. Complication rates were low (<5%), with four infections, one proximal pump migration, one scrotal hematoma, and one urinary tract infection. CONCLUSION: The modified technique for placement of the IPP's spherical reservoir under direct visualization through a penoscrotal incision is quick, safe, and effective.

Changing USA national trends for adrenalectomy: the influence of surgeon and technique.

OBJECTIVE: To explain differences over time between operative approach and surgeon type for adrenal surgery in the USA. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A retrospective cohort analysis was performed on all patients undergoing adrenalectomy between 2002 and 2011 using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample. Patients undergoing concurrent nephrectomy were excluded. Surgeon specialty was only available for 2003-2009. Descriptive analyses and multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess variables associated with minimally invasive surgery (MIS) and urologist-performed procedures. RESULTS: In all, 58,948 adrenalectomies were identified. A MIS approach was used in 20% of these operations. There was a 4% increase in MIS throughout the study period (P < 0.001). Cases performed at teaching hospitals were more likely to be MIS (odds ratio [OR] 1.47, P < 0.001). We were able to identify surgical specialty in 23,746 cases, of which 60% were performed by urologists. Cases performed in the Midwest compared with Northeast were at increased adjusted odds of being performed by urologists (OR 1.38, P = 0.11). Despite most cases being performed by urologists, adrenalectomy by urologists showed a 15% annual decrease over the analysed period (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The use of a MIS technique to perform adrenalectomy is increasing at a slower rate compared with most other surgical extirpative procedures. Further investigation to explain the decreased performance of adrenalectomy by urologists is warranted.

The Mulcahy Salvage: Past and Present Innovations.

INTRODUCTION: Inflatable penile implants are a mainstay for the surgical correction of erectile dysfunction. For the last 40 years they have provided reliable outcomes with durable patient satisfaction. Infection of the implant continues to remain the primary surgical concern, despite the advent of antibiotic-coated devices and improved skin preparation solutions. METHODS: In this article, we review and evaluate the published literature for important contributions surrounding the various salvage techniques and washout strategies. In addition, the role of biofilm in prosthetic infection will be discussed. RESULTS: First described by Mulcahy for instances of device infection, the salvage or rescue procedure was established to avoid complete removal and staged replacement. This approach, with its avoidance of difficult revision surgery, penile shortening and patient discomfort, has produced success as high as 84%. CONCLUSION: Mulcahy's innovative approach at salvage or rescue reimplantation has proven to be a highly successful approach to this difficult surgical problem. Without question, the report of the long-term results of his salvage patients has directly influenced a generation of prosthetic surgeons.

Ventral onlay buccal mucosa urethroplasty: a 10-year experience.

OBJECTIVE: To report our experience, and to evaluate the long-term outcomes and complication profiles of ventral onlay buccal mucosal graft urethroplasty (BMU) after prior urological intervention. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed 114 consecutive patients between February 2001 and April 2009 who underwent buccal mucosal graft urethroplasty for recurrent anterior urethral stricture disease. Seven patients were excluded for incomplete data. The remaining 107 patients comprised the study cohort. The mean follow-up time was 39.3 months (range 6.6-127.3 months). All patients had prior urological attempts at operative management. RESULTS: The mean stricture length was 3.14 cm (range 1.0-8.0 cm). Indications for buccal mucosal graft urethroplasty included: lichen sclerosis (2.8%), iatrogenic (24.3%), infection (4.7%) and perineal trauma/straddle injury (20.6%). Of these patients, 78 had bulbo-membranous stricture disease, 20 had penile involvement and nine were multifocal strictures. The average number of prior urological procedures was 2.83 (range 1-9). The overall graft failure rate was 6.5%. Importantly, the re-operation rate was 20.6%, primarily for stricture recurrence (18), meatal stenosis (3) and urethral diverticulum. The mean time to complication was 10.8 months. CONCLUSIONS: Ventral onlay buccal mucosal graft urethroplasty offers satisfactory results in the setting of recurrent and complicated urethral stricture disease. Graft failures and complications generally occur within the first year after surgery. Bulbar strictures enjoy greater graft patency and lower complication rates than other stricture locations. In particular, guarded expectations should be given for stricture length >4 cm and multifocal disease.

Female Bladder Dysfunction Following Boari Bladder Flap Ureteral Reconstruction.

OBJECTIVE: To describe our institution's experience with Boari flap ureteral reconstruction, specifically focusing on the development of postoperative lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). METHODS: A retrospective review of all Boari flaps performed at our institution between 2013 and 2023 was performed, excluding patients with urothelial carcinoma and males, given the frequency of LUTS from benign prostatic hyperplasia. Primary outcome was the development of new onset LUTS and subsequent treatment. Secondary outcomes included postoperative infections and ureteral stricture. RESULTS: Twenty-nine total patients were identified. Mean age was 52.2 years (standard deviation (SD) 13.1). Mean follow-up was 22.3 months (SD 25.3). Primary reasons for ureteral reconstruction were radiation damage (37.9%) and iatrogenic surgical injury (37.9%). A concurrent psoas hitch was performed in 18/29 (62%) cases, nephropexy was utilized in 1/29 (3.4%) cases, and contralateral bladder pedicles were ligated in 10/29 (34.5%) for increased bladder mobilization. Postoperatively, 8 patients (27.6%) developed new-onset LUTS, effectively managed with oral anticholinergics. Recurrent urinary tract infections occurred in 5 patients (17.2%) and pyelonephritis in 1 (3.4%) patient. Two patients (6.9%) developed ureteral strictures, one treated with ileal ureter replacement and the other with ureteral balloon dilation. CONCLUSION: Boari bladder flap ureteral reconstruction leads to moderate rates of new onset LUTS postoperatively, which is important information when counseling women on reconstructive options. Boari flap ureteral reconstruction has a high success rate, and serious complications are rare. In the setting of ureteral injury, reconstruction using Boari flaps with or without psoas hitch should be considered for definitive management.

Long-term Renal Preservation and Complication Profile With Ileal Ureter Creation.

OBJECTIVE: To examine long-term ileal ureter replacement results at over 32 years at our institution. Long segment or proximal ureteral strictures pose a challenging reconstructive problem. Ureteroureterostomy, psoas hitch, Boari flap, buccal ureteroplasty, and autotransplantation are common reconstructive techniques. We show that ileal ureter remains a lasting option. METHODS: We performed a retrospective review of patients undergoing open ileal ureter creation from 1989-2021. Patient demographics, operative history, and complications were examined. All patients were followed for changes in renal function. Demographic data were analyzed and Cox proportional hazard models were performed. RESULTS: One hundred and fifty-eight patients were identified with median follow-up time of 40 months. Eighty-one percent had a unilateral ileal ureter creation. Fifty percent were female, median age was 53.3. Twenty-seven percent of patients had radiation-induced strictures. Preoperatively, 56.3% of patients were chronic kidney disease stage 1-2 and 43.7% were stage 3-5. Post-operatively, 54% were stage 1-2 and 46% were stage 3-5. Cox proportional hazard models demonstrated no significant correlation between worsening renal function and stricture cause, bilateral repair, complications, or sex (biologically male or female). Seventy-seven percent had no 30-day complications. Clavien complications included grade 1 (18), grade 2 (4), grade 3 (9), and grade 4 (5). Long-term complications included worsening renal function (3%), incisional hernia (8.2%), and small bowel obstruction (6.9%). Five (3.1%) patients ultimately required dialysis and 5 (3.1%) patients developed metabolic acidosis. CONCLUSION: Ileal ureteral reconstruction is often a last resort for patients with complex ureteral injuries. Clinicians can be reassured by our long-term data that ileal ureteral creation is a safe treatment with good preservation of renal function and low risk of hemodialysis and metabolic acidosis.

A review of the literature and proposed algorithm for penile fracture management.

INTRODUCTION: In the management of penile fractures, immediate surgical repair has resulted in better outcomes when compared with a conservative approach; however, there is currently no consensus on the treatment of patients presenting beyond the immediate period (>24 hours) following injury. OBJECTIVES: To examine the latest literature on management strategies in penile fracture and propose an optimal algorithm for the treatment of patients with delayed presentation. METHODS: A comprehensive search was conducted following the PRISMA-P 2020 guidelines. A search was performed in several databases with the following strategy: ("Penile fracture" OR "fracture of penis" OR "rupture of corpora cavernosa" OR "rupture of tunica albuginea") AND (management OR treatment OR surgery OR "surgical reconstruction" OR "surgical repair"). This resulted in 108 relevant articles. Two independent reviewers screened these articles according to the inclusion criteria. Full-text review of 56 articles was performed, and ultimately 20 studies were selected. Measures included the use of diagnostic imaging, timing of surgical repair (immediate, <24 hours after injury; delayed, >24 hours), surgical approach, and long-term complications (ie, erectile dysfunction and penile curvature). RESULTS: The review highlighted the benefits of immediate surgical repair in penile fractures, demonstrating improved patient outcomes. Furthermore, it found that surgical repair should be considered even in cases with delayed presentation (>24 hours after injury). To better evaluate the long-term impact of delayed surgical intervention on patient outcomes, we recommend standardized postoperative follow-up, with routine assessments of erectile function and penile curvature. CONCLUSION: Contemporary literature suggests that immediate and delayed surgical repair of penile fractures leads to adequate postoperative outcomes, and patients presenting >24 hours after injury should still be considered for surgery.

Percutaneous Cystolitholapaxy Is Safe and Effective in Adult Patients With Lower Urinary Tract Reconstruction Utilizing Bowel.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the safety, efficacy, and surgical approach of percutaneous bladder calculi removal in adult patients with prior lower urinary tract reconstruction utilizing bowel using a single-institution database. METHODS: Twenty patients with prior history of lower urinary tract reconstruction (continent cutaneous urinary reservoir, augmentation enterocystoplasty with catheterizable channel, or ileal neobladder) who underwent percutaneous cystolitholapaxy from 2014 to 2020 were identified from an IRB-approved database. Analysis of patient demographics, operative details, stone composition, stone-free rates, recurrence, and associated complications was performed. RESULTS: Percutaneous access and either ultrasonic lithotripter or laser lithotripsy were utilized to remove bladder stones. Over half of the patients also underwent concomitant renal stone removal via percutaneous removal or retrograde ureteroscopy. Postoperative computed tomography imaging revealed complete bladder stone clearance in 90% of patients. There were no notable complications from percutaneous bladder stone removal and most patients were discharged either the same day or within 24hours. Urine and stone analysis revealed infection was present in the majority of patients. Bladder stones recurred in 45% of patients after more than 2years of follow-up, on average. CONCLUSION: Percutaneous cystolitholapaxy is a safe and effective approach for the removal of moderate-sized bladder calculi in adults with prior lower urinary tract reconstruction utilizing bowel. Its efficacy and minimally invasive nature make it the approach of choice at our institution.

Ileal Ureter Utilization in Patients With Previous Urinary Diversions.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate a subset of patients who develop strictures requiring Ileal Ureter (IU) in the setting of prior urinary diversion or augmentation (ileal conduits, neobladders, continent urinary diversions). To our knowledge, there are no prior studies on patients with IU substitution into established lower urinary tract reconstructions. METHODS: A retrospective review of patients (18 years) undergoing IU creation from 1989 to 2021 was performed. A total of 160 patients were identified. In total, 19 (12%) patients had IUs into diversions. We examined demographics, stricture cause, diversion type, renal function, and postoperative complications. RESULTS: Nineteen patients were identified. Sixteen were male. Mean age was 57.7(SD 17.0) years. Diversions included continent urinary reservoirs (4), neobladders (5), ileal conduits (7), and bladder augmentations with Monti channels (3). Fifteen had unilateral surgery, and 4 had bilateral "reverse 7" IU creation. Average length of stay was 7.6 days (SD 2.9). Average follow-up was 32.9 months (SD 27). Mean preoperative creatinine was 1.5 (SD 0.4); mean postoperative creatinine at most recent follow-up was 1.6 (SD 0.7). There was no significant difference between pre- and postoperative creatinine (P = .18). One patient had a ventriculoperitoneal Shunt infection resulting ventriculoperitoneal shunt externalization, 1 had Clostridium difficile infection potentially causing an entero-neobladder fistula, 2 with ileus, 1 urine leak, and 1 wound infection. None required renal replacement therapy. CONCLUSION: Patients with urinary diversions and prior bowel reconstructive surgeries with subsequent ureteral strictures are a challenging cohort of patients. In properly selected patients, ureteral reconstruction with ileum is feasible and preserves renal function with minimal long-term complications.

A comparison of robotic, laparoscopic and open partial nephrectomy.

INTRODUCTION: Comparison of treatments for partial nephrectomy is limited by case selection. We compared robotic (RPN), laparoscopic (LPN), and open partial nephrectomy (OPN), controlling for tumor size, patient age, sex, and nephrometry score. METHODS: RPN, LPN, and OPN procedures between March 2003 and March 2010 were reviewed. All RPN and LPN were included, and 2 OPN were matched for each RPN in tumor size (±0.5cm), patient age (±10 y), sex, and nephrometry score. Perioperative outcomes were compared. RESULTS: Ninety-six partial nephrectomy procedures were reviewed: 27 RPN, 15 LPN, and 54 OPN. RPN, LPN, and OPN had similar median tumor size (2.4, 2.2, and 2.3cm, respectively), nephrometry score (6.0 each), and preoperative glomerular filtration rate (71.5, 84.6, and 77.0 mL/min/1.73m(2), respectively). Blood loss was higher for OPN (250 mL) than for RPN or LPN (100 mL), P < 0.001. Operative time was shorter in OPN (147 min) than in RPN (190 min) or LPN (195 min), P < .001. Median warm ischemia time was shorter for OPN (12.0 min) than for RPN (25.0 min) or LPN (29.5 min), P Kt; .05. Cold ischemia time for OPN was 25.0 min. A 10% glomerular filtration rate decline occurred in 10 RPN, 5 LPN, and 29 OPN cases (P < .252). Median hospital stay for LPN and RPN was 2.0 d versus 3.0 d for OPN (P < .001). Urine leak occurred in 1 RPN and 3 OPN cases. Postoperative complications occurred in 4 RPN (3 were Clavien grade 2 or less), 1 LPN (grade 1), and 7 OPN (6 were grade 2 or less) cases. CONCLUSION: Renal function preservation and complications are similar for each treatment modality. OPN offers faster operative and ischemia times at the expense of greater blood loss and hospital stay.

Sarcoidosis: A rare cause of penile edema.

Reports of penile sarcoidosis are rare in the literature. We describe the case of a male who presented with several months of distal penile swelling and progressive inability to retract the foreskin. Firm, non-tender subcutaneous nodules were palpated near the base of the penis. The patient ultimately underwent penile skin resection, partial scrotal resection, and split thickness skin graft to the penis after failing multiple conservative treatments. Pathology revealed non-caseating granulomatous lesions which in addition to CT chest findings of bilateral hilar adenopathy suggested a diagnosis of penile sarcoidosis.

The role of urethral ligation after AUS failure and end stage urethra.

PURPOSE: To provide our single-center experience with an approach to refractory stress urinary incontinence (SUI) with permanent urethral ligation (PUL) and suprapubic tube (SPT) placement, in hopes of contributing to the limited body of research surrounding this surgical treatment option for patients with end-stage urethra (ESU). METHODS: All patients undergoing PUL with SPT placement from 01/01/2018 to 04/30/2022 were identified from an institutional database. Institutional Review Board exempt status was granted for the conduct of this study. Patients were seen postoperatively at 1 month and 1 year. If there were any concerns of incontinence, an antegrade urethrogram via the SPT was performed. Descriptive statistics were used to evaluate patients. RESULTS: Seven patients underwent PUL with SPT in our timeframe and were included in the study. All patients previously had an AUS placed, and two patients had a urethral sling previously placed. The median follow-up time was 21 months, ranging between 2 and 48 months. Complications included bladder spasms (43%) and continued leakage per urethra (14%). Of the 7 patients, 6 have reported continence through their urethra at their most recent follow-up. CONCLUSION: This initial data suggest that PUL with SPT placement may be a viable surgical approach to treating refractory SUI, especially for patients with ESU who wish to avoid the morbidity associated with more formal supravesical diversion. Further study of this technique and longer follow-up is required to determine its long-term efficacy and tolerability for patients.

Cost-Effectiveness of 90-day Single-use Flexible Cystoscope Trial: Single Center Micro-Costing Analysis and User Satisfaction.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate cost-effectiveness and user satisfaction of a single-use flexible cystoscope at a tertiary care center we conducted a 90-day trial. Single-use flexible cystoscope advancements have introduced alternative options to reusable scopes. However, there is a paucity of cost-effectiveness and provider satisfaction studies examining the implementation of a hospital-based transition to single-use cystoscopes. METHODS: Following institutional device-approval we initiated a 90-day trial period (November 1, 2020-January 29, 2021) where all flexible, transurethral, and percutaneous, urologic care was provided with a disposable AMBU aScope. We performed a micro-costing analysis examining payor per case cost of the reusable flexible cystoscope (including servicing and processing) to the disposable units. Provider surveys assessed visual quality, deflection, ease of working channel and overall satisfaction on a 10-point Likert scale. RESULTS: Over the 90-day period, we encountered 84 cases (78 operative, 5 inpatient, 1 emergency department) where flexible cystoscopy was required. One disposable flexible cystoscope was successfully used in 78 of 84 (93%) cases. Of the 6 failures, 2 were due to an inability to access a disposable scope/monitor. Per use cost of the reusable flexible cystoscope at our center was $272.41 versus $185.00 for the single use. Extrapolating our average case volume and conservative failure rate (3 single use failures/month, requiring reusable), transitioning to predominately single use scopes results in $39,142.84 annual cost savings. CONCLUSIONS: This single center 90-day trial of disposable flexible cystoscopy identified per-use costs to be less when a single-use flexible cystoscope was utilized at a high-volume tertiary care center.

Late recognition of an early catastrophic failure of a carbon fiber reinforced distal femoral plate: A case report.

The use of carbon fiber reinforced implants to address distal femur fractures has gained in popularity due to their favorable mechanical characteristics and potential for improved healing. The failure of metal locked plates for this application has been widely reported. Here is presented a novel case of early failure of a carbon fiber reinforced polyetheretherketone (PEEK) plate applied for a distal femur fracture. This is the first known report of failure of a carbon fiber reinforced distal femur plate in a patient with a traumatic fracture. Due to the radiolucent characteristics of the plate, the failure was not immediately recognized. While there may be advantages to these plates, early catastrophic failure can still occur.

Initial Experience with Novel Single-Use Disposable Ureteroscopy: A Prospective, Single Arm 90-Day Trial of the Axis Ureteroscope.

INTRODUCTION: Novel digital disposable ureteroscopes are becoming more commonplace in endourological practices. We trialed the Axis™ single-use ureteroscope, which is distributed within the United States by Dornier MedTech. Our goal was to demonstrate clinical equivalence to our reusable platform and to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of a single-use digital ureteroscope. METHODS: We conducted a prospective 90-day trial where all flexible ureteroscopic procedures were completed using the single-use ureteroscope. The cases were monitored for scope failure, scope deficiencies and surgeon satisfaction scores via an immediate postoperative REDCap® survey. We also performed a cost analysis between reusable scopes and the single-use ureteroscope. The cost of the reusable platform included the amortized initial purchase, maintenance and clean processing. RESULTS: Over a 90-day period, we performed 93 flexible ureteroscopy procedures with a single-use ureteroscope, of which 74 were completed using Axis. After controlling for operating room time and disposable items used, the utilization of Axis was associated with an average reduction of $140.31 per case. Extrapolating the per-case savings over an annual case volume, we estimate a total savings of $56,127.15. There were no disposable scope malfunctions. There were 4 (4.3%) cases converted to reusable scopes due to image quality (1), inadequate secondary deflection (2) and a tight ureter (1). Mean±SD score for image quality, mobility and ergonomics was 9.1±1.1, 8.9±1.1, 9.3±1.1, respectively. The 90-day complication rates were equal to our controls. CONCLUSIONS: We demonstrated that the Axis single-use digital ureteroscope is equivalent in function to our digital reusable scope and reduced the cost of flexible ureteroscopy.