Susceptibility of the Index Urinary Tract Infection to Prophylactic Antibiotics Is a Predictive Factor of Breakthrough Urinary Tract Infection in Children with Primary Vesicoureteral Reflux Receiving Continuous Antibiotic Prophylaxis.

BACKGROUND: Few studies have reported on breakthrough urinary tract infection (UTI) associated with the susceptibility of index UTI to prophylactic antibiotics in children with primary vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) receiving continuous antibiotic prophylaxis (CAP). We assessed the impact of the susceptibility of index UTI to prophylactic antibiotics in breakthrough UTIs in children with primary VUR receiving CAP. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 81 children with primary VUR who were diagnosed after febrile or symptomatic UTI and subsequently received trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) as CAP between January 2010 and December 2013. We allocated children to a susceptible group or a resistant group based on the susceptibility of index UTI to TMP-SMX. We evaluated patient demographics and clinical outcomes after CAP according to the susceptibility of index UTI to TMP-SMX. Multivariate analysis was used to identify the predictive factors for breakthrough UTI. RESULTS: Of the 81 children, 42 were classified into the susceptible group and 39 into the resistant group. The proportion of breakthrough UTI was 31.0% (13/42) in the susceptible group and 53.8% (21/39) in the resistant group (P = 0.037). Progression of renal scarring was observed in 0% of children in the susceptible group and 15% in the resistant group (P = 0.053). Multivariate analysis showed that TMP-SMX resistance and initial renal scarring were significant predictors of breakthrough UTI. CONCLUSION: Susceptibility of index UTI to prophylactic antibiotics is a risk factor of breakthrough UTI and is associated with poor clinical outcomes in children with primary VUR receiving CAP.

Decrease in skeletal muscle index 1 year after radical cystectomy as a prognostic indicator in patients with urothelial bladder cancer.

PURPOSE: The present study aimed to determine whether sarcopenia after radical cystectomy (RC) could predict overall survival (OS) in patients with urothelial bladder cancer (UBC). MATERIALS AND METHODS: The lumbar skeletal muscle index (SMI) of 80 patients was measured before and 1 year after RC. The prognostic signifi cance of sarcopenia and SMI decrease after RC were evaluated using Kaplan-Meier analysis and a multivariable Cox regression model. RESULTS: Of 80 patients, 26 (32.5%) experienced sarcopenia before RC, whereas 40 (50.0%) experienced sarcopenia after RC. The median SMI change was -2.2 cm2/m2. Patients with sarcopenia after RC had a higher pathological T stage and tumor grade than patients without sarcopenia. Furthermore, the overall mortality rate was signifi - cantly higher in patients with sarcopenia than in those without sarcopenia 1 year after RC. The median follow-up time was 46.2 months, during which 22 patients died. Kaplan-Meier estimates showed a signifi cant difference in OS rates based on sarcopenia (P=0.012) and SMI decrease (P=0.025). Multivariable Cox regression analysis showed that SMI decrease (≥2.2 cm2/m2) was an independent predictor of OS (hazard ratio: 2.68, confi dence interval: 1.007-7.719, P = 0.048). CONCLUSIONS: The decrease in SMI after surgery might be a negative prognostic factor for OS in patients who underwent RC to treat UBC.

Activated carbon fiber filters could reduce the risk of surgical smoke exposure during laparoscopic surgery: application of volatile organic compounds.

BACKGROUND: Generation of smoke is inevitable during surgical procedures. Some volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in surgical smoke are known to be strong carcinogens. We used a prototype of a multi-layered complex filter in an attempt to eliminate VOCs. METHODS: From June 2015 to July 2015, 20 patients underwent transperitoneal laparoscopic nephrectomy for renal cell carcinoma. Smoke (pre-filter) was collected 20 min after the electrocautery device was first used during the surgery, by the direct collection method, with a 5-L Tedlar® gas-sampling bag. Twenty and 120 min after the filter was applied, smoke (post-filter) was again collected using the same method. The sample was analyzed by gas chromatography and mass spectrography. The cancer risk and hazard quotient were analyzed based on US Environmental Protection Agency guidelines. RESULTS: Twenty patients with a median age of 54.5 (30-80) years were enrolled in the study. Eighteen VOCs were detected using the Japanese indoor air standards mix analysis. The total elimination rate of the VOCs was 86.49 ± 2.83%. The post-filter (120 min) cancer risk (mean ± standard deviation) reduced to a negligible level for benzene, ethylbenzene, and styrene except 1,2-dichloroethane. The post-filter (120 min) hazard quotient for each compound decreased to levels posing a negligible risk for acetone, hexane, benzene, toluene, p-xylene, o-xylene, and styrene. CONCLUSION: Strong carcinogens, such as 1,2-dichloroethane, benzene, and ethylbenzene, were eliminated by more than 85% by using this activated carbon fiber filter and the risks from these compounds decreased to an almost negligible level. We suggest using every measure, including these filters, to protect the health of operating room personnel.

Surgical smoke may be a biohazard to surgeons performing laparoscopic surgery.

BACKGROUND: Surgical smoke production is inevitable during surgical procedures. Although many workplaces have adopted smoke-free environments, healthcare workers, especially surgeons, continue to be exposed to surgical smoke. METHODS: From February 2013 to March 2013, a total of 20 patients underwent transperitoneal laparoscopic nephrectomy for renal cell carcinoma. A 5-L gas sample was collected 30 min after the electrocautery device was first used and was analyzed by gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. Cancer risk was calculated for carcinogenic compounds and hazard quotient was calculated for noncarcinogenic compounds using US Environmental Protection Agency guidelines. RESULTS: Twenty patients with a median age of 57.5 years were enrolled in the study. Eighteen volatile organic compounds were detected by Japanese indoor air standards mix analysis. The cancer risks were ethanol, 5.10 × 10(-5) ± 6.35 × 10(-5); 1,2-dichloroethane, 4.75 × 10(-3) ± 7.42 × 10(-4); benzene, 1.09 × 10(-3) ± 4.33 × 10(-4); ethylbenzene, 2.87 × 10(-5) ± 1.32 × 10(-5); and styrene, 2.94 × 10(-6) ± 1.16 × 10(-6). The hazard quotients were acetone, 1.88 × 10(-2) ± 7.63 × 10(-3); hexane, 1.48 × 10(-1) ± 8.70 × 10(-2); benzene, 4.66 ± 1.85; toluene, 2.61 × 10(-2) ± 7.23 × 10(-3); p-xylene, 1.81 × 10(-1) ± 6.45 × 10(-2); o-xylene, 2.40 × 10(-2) ± 3.33 × 10(-2); and styrene, 5.15 × 10(-3) ± 2.03 × 10(-3). CONCLUSIONS: For five carcinogenic compounds detected, the cancer risk was greater than negligible. For 1,2-dichloroethane and benzene, the risk was classified as unacceptable. Analysis of noncarcinogenic compounds showed that risk reduction measures are needed for benzene. Even though surgical smoke is not an immediate health hazard, operating room personnel should be aware of the potential long-term health risks associated with exposure.

A rare pericytic tumor of the kidney: The first case in Korea.

INTRODUCTION: A pericytic tumor is a group of mesenchymal neoplasm found in superficial tissues and only rarely described in viscera. The family of pericytic tumors includes glomus tumors and variants, myopericytoma including myofibroma, and angioleiomyoma etc. The renal pericytic tumor is extremely rare, and only few comprehensive discussions about this entity have been done. PRESENTATION OF CASE: A 58-year-old man was transferred to our institute with suspicions of renal cell carcinoma. The kidney dynamic computed tomography scan showed a 3 cm sized solid mass in the upper pole of the right kidney. Laparoscopic radical nephrectomy was performed due to the deep-seated mass. Pathological result confirmed that the kidney mass was renal pericytic tumor. DISCUSSION: Although general biological behavior of published renal pericytic tumors is likely to be benign, the clinicopathologic experiences are very limited. Therefore, we should evaluate the malignant potential of the entity according to the parameters proposed for soft tissue tumors, including tumor location, tumor size, growth pattern, cellularity, cytological atypia, and mitotic figures with atypical forms. The current case shows several worrisome features, including an extremely rare tumor location, partially infiltrative growth, and a mildly increased proliferating index, which resulted in it being classified as an uncertain malignant potential. CONCLUSION: We described the first case of renal pericytic tumor, addressing uncertain malignant potential, in a Korean male, which would be a distinct mesenchymal neoplasm differentiating from other groups of perivascular tumor families based on histological and immunohistochemical features.

Efficacy of Androgen Deprivation Therapy in Patients with Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer Receiving Docetaxel-Based Chemotherapy.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine the comparative effectiveness of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) combined with docetaxel (DTX)-based chemotherapy in Korean and Japanese castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) patient cohorts. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Metastatic CRPC patients who underwent more than three DTX-based chemotherapy cycles in Korea and Japan between 2002 and 2017 were retrospectively analyzed and divided into the DTX-only (DTX, n=30) and combination (DTX+ADT, n=46) groups. Progression-free survival (PFS) was calculated as the time from the start of chemotherapy to the occurrence of either disease progression (prostate-specific antigen [PSA] progression or radiographic progression) or death. The primary end point was PFS and the secondary end point was overall survival (OS). RESULTS: In the DTX and DTX+ADT groups, the median PFS was 6.0 and 11.0 months (log-rank p=0.053). The multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that the significant predicting factors of PFS were ADT administration (hazard ratio [HR], 0.478; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.284-0.804; p=0.005) and number of DTX-based chemotherapy cycles (HR, 0.934; 95% CI, 0.899-0.970; p<0.001). In the DTX and DTX+ADT groups, the median OS was 16.0 and 19.5 months (log-rank p=0.825). Through multiple Cox regression analysis, we found that the significant predicting factors of OS were the PSA nadir level (HR, 1.001; 95% CI, 1.000-1.002; p<0.001) and number of DTX-based chemotherapy cycles (HR, 0.932; 95% CI, 0.876-0.991; p=0.024). CONCLUSIONS: Concurrent DTX-based chemotherapy and ADT may be beneficial compared with DTX-based chemotherapy alone in chemotherapy-naïve metastatic CRPC patients in terms of the PFS, but not the OS.

Verification of mesenchymal stem cell injection therapy for interstitial cystitis in a rat model.

OBJECTIVE: Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a chronic intractable disease. Recently, the potential application of stem cell (SC) therapy was suggested for IC management. This study aimed to establish an optimal SC source and verify the efficacy and safety of SC injection therapy in an IC rat model. DESIGN: After IC animal model induction, urine-derived stem cells (USCs), adipose tissue-derived stem cells (ADSCs), bone marrow-derived stem cells (BMSCs) and amniotic fluid-derived stem cells (AFSCs) were injected into the bladder submucosa. The following parameters were analysed: 1) functional improvement of bladder via cystometry, 2) histological changes and 3) inflammatory gene expression and regenerative potential of damaged bladder tissues. Additionally, an optimal method for SC introduction in terms of effective bladder regeneration was analysed. RESULTS: Intercontraction interval was significantly increased and inflammatory reactions and fibrotic changes were decreased in all of the SC-injected groups than in the control group. PCR analysis revealed that inflammatory gene expression significantly decreased in the USC-treated group than in the other groups. To confirm the optimal SC injection route in the IC rat model, group was divided according to the following criteria: 1) direction of SC injection into the bladder submucosa, 2) injection via tail vein, 3) transurethral instillation. In each analysis, the groups in which SCs were injected into the bladder submucosa showed significantly longer intercontraction interval, better morphologic regeneration and inhibition of bladder inflammatory reaction compared with the other groups. CONCLUSION: Regardless of the cell source, human tissue-derived mesenchymal SCs regenerated damaged bladder tissue, promoted functional recovery and inhibited inflammatory cell accumulation in an IC rat model; particularly, USC had the highest inhibitory effect on inflammation. Additionally, direct USC injection into the bladder submucosa was expected to have the best therapeutic effect, which will be an important factor for clinical applications in the future.

In Vivo Safety and Regeneration of Long-Term Transported Amniotic Fluid Stem Cells for Renal Regeneration.

BACKGROUND: Despite major progress in stem cell therapy, our knowledge of the characteristics and tissue regeneration potency of long-term transported cells is insufficient. In a previous in vitro study, we established the optimal cell transport conditions for amniotic fluid stem cells (AFSCs). In the present study, the target tissue regeneration of long-term transported cells was validated in vivo. METHODS: For renal regeneration, transported AFSCs were seeded on a poly(lactide-co-glycolide) scaffold and implanted in a partially resected kidney. The target tissue regeneration of the transported cells was compared with that of freshly harvested cells in terms of morphological reconstruction, histological microstructure reformation, immune cell infiltration, presence of induced cells, migration into remote organs, expression of inflammation/fibrosis/renal differentiation-related factors, and functional recovery. RESULTS: The kidney implanted with transported cells showed recovery of total kidney volume, regeneration of glomerular/renal tubules, low CD4/CD8 infiltration, and no occurrence of cancer during 40 weeks of observation. The AFSCs gradually disappeared and did not migrate into the liver, lung, or spleen. We observed low expression levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and fibrotic factors; enhanced expression of the genes Wnt4, Pax2, Wt1, and Emx2; and significantly reduced blood urea nitrogen and creatinine values. There were no statistical differences between the performance of freshly harvested cells and that of the transported cells. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that long-term transported cells under optimized conditions can be used for cell therapy without adverse effects on stem cell characteristics, in vivo safety, and tissue regeneration potency.

Clinical significance of the De Ritis ratio for detecting prostate cancer in a repeat prostate biopsy.

Purpose: We evaluated factors predicting a positive repeat biopsy result in patients with an initial negative prostate biopsy result. Materials and Methods: This study included 124 patients in whom prostate cancer (PCa) was not detected in the initial transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy and who underwent repeat biopsy from January 2011 to December 2017. Patients without PCa in both initial and repeat prostate biopsies were designated as group 1 (n=82), and those in whom PCa was detected on a repeat prostate biopsy were designated as group 2 (n=42). Among group 2 patients, 6 had insignificant PCa according to the Epstein criteria and were combined with group 1 patients to make up group A (n=88). Patients with significant PCa were categorized as group B (n=36). We compared clinicopathologic characteristics between the groups. Results: Multivariate analysis showed that age (p=0.018) and detection of atypical small acinar proliferation (ASAP) or ≥3 cores of high-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (HGPIN) (p=0.011) on the initial biopsy were predictive factors for a positive result on a repeat biopsy. When we compared group A and group B, age (p=0.004) and the De Ritis ratio (p=0.024) were significantly higher in group B in the multivariate analysis. Conclusions: Age and the detection of ASAP or ≥3 cores of HGPIN on the initial biopsy were associated with detection of PCa on a repeat biopsy. Age and the De Ritis ratio were found to be predictive factors for the detection of clinically significant PCa on a repeat biopsy.

A Novel Dorsal Slit Approached Non-Ischemic Partial Nephrectomy Method for a Renal Tissue Regeneration in a Mouse Model.

BACKGROUND: Kidney ischemia-reperfusion (IR) via laparotomy is a conventional method for kidney surgery in a mouse model. However, IR, an invasive procedure, can cause serious acute and chronic complications through apoptotic and inflammatory pathways. To avoid these adverse responses, a Non-IR and dorsal slit approach was designed for kidney surgery. METHODS: Animals were divided into three groups, 1) sham-operated control; 2) IR, Kidney IR via laparotomy; and 3) Non-IR, Non-IR and dorsal slit. The effects of Non-IR method on renal surgery outcomes were verified with respect to animal viability, renal function, apoptosis, inflammation, fibrosis, renal regeneration, and systemic response using histology, immunohistochemistry, real-time polymerase chain reaction, serum chemistry, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining, and Masson's trichrome staining. RESULTS: The Non-IR group showed 100% viability with mild elevation of serum blood urea nitrogen and creatinine values at day 1 after surgery, whereas the IR group showed 20% viability and lethal functional abnormality. Histologically, renal tubule epithelial cell injury was evident on day 1 in the IR group, and cellular apoptosis enhanced TUNEL-positive cell number and Fas/caspase-3 and KIM-1/NGAL expression. Inflammation and fibrosis were high in the IR group, with enhanced CD4/CD8-positive T cell infiltration, inflammatory cytokine secretion, and Masson's trichrome stain-positive cell numbers. The Non-IR group showed a suitable microenvironment for renal regeneration with enhanced host cell migration, reduced immune cell influx, and increased expression of renal differentiation-related genes and anti-inflammatory cytokines. The local renal IR influenced distal organ apoptosis and inflammation by releasing circulating pro-inflammatory cytokines. CONCLUSION: The Non-IR and dorsal slit method for kidney surgery in a mouse model can be an alternative surgical approach for researchers without adverse reactions such as apoptosis, inflammation, fibrosis, functional impairment, and systemic reactions.

Predictive value of cortical transit time on MAG3 for surgery in antenatally detected unilateral hydronephrosis caused by ureteropelvic junction stenosis.

BACKGROUND: In children with antenatally detected hydronephrosis caused by ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) stenosis, the main challenge is preserving renal function by identifying children who require early surgical intervention from those for whom watchful waiting may be appropriate because of the potential for spontaneous resolution without a significant loss of renal function. OBJECTIVE: To assess the impact of initial cortical transit time (CTT) on technetium-99m mercaptoacetyltriglycerine (MAG3) diuretic renogram on the need for surgery in children with antenatally detected unilateral hydronephrosis caused by UPJ stenosis. STUDY DESIGN: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 33 patients with antenatally detected unilateral hydronephrosis caused by UPJ stenosis who were managed at our institution between 2006 and 2014. Delayed CTT was defined as the absence of activity in the subcortical structures within 3 min of tracer injection on a MAG3 scan. The surgical indication includes symptomatic UPJ stenosis, seriously deteriorating hydronephrosis with parenchymal thinning on serial USG, split renal function <40%, or progressive deterioration of split renal function (>5%) on a MAG3 scan. This study analyzed and compared the initial level of Society for Fetal Urology grade, anteroposterior diameter (APD), split renal function, drainage pattern on a diuretic renogram, and CTT with the need for surgery. RESULTS: Of the 33 children, 16 were classified into the delayed CTT group and 17 were placed in the normal CTT group. During the follow-up period (mean 31.8 months), surgery was needed in 75.0% (12/16) of patients in the delayed CTT group and in 5.9% (1/17) of those in the normal CTT group. Multivariate analysis showed that delayed CTT on initial MAG3 scan and APD on initial ultrasonography were independent predictive factors of the need for surgery. DISCUSSION: In this era of conservative management of antenatally detected hydronephrosis caused by UPJ stenosis, it is critical to identify which measurement on an image study is the most reliable for predicting the need for surgery by reflecting functional deterioration. In this study, multivariate analysis revealed that CTT on the initial MAG3 scan was an independent predictive factor of the need for surgery. In addition, CTT showed high negative predictive value for surgical need in children with antenatally detected unilateral hydronephrosis caused by UPJ stenosis. CONCLUSION: CTT on an initial MAG3 scan may be a useful predictor of the need for surgery in children with antenatally detected unilateral hydronephrosis caused by UPJ stenosis.

Clinical Significance of Subclassification of Papillary Renal Cell Carcinoma: Comparison of Clinicopathologic Parameters and Oncologic Outcomes Between Papillary Histologic Subtypes 1 and 2 Using the Korean Renal Cell Carcinoma Database.

INTRODUCTION: The aims of the present study were to compare the clinicopathologic characteristics between type 1 and type 2 papillary renal cell carcinoma (pRCC) and to evaluate the effect of the subclassification of pRCC on the oncologic outcomes after surgery. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The records of 274 patients with pRCC in the Korean renal cell carcinoma (KORCC) database were included for evaluation. Of the 274 patients, 118 had type 1 pRCC and 156 had type 2 pRCC. The patient characteristics, including clinicopathologic parameters, were investigated, and the oncologic outcomes were evaluated. RESULTS: The mean patient age was significantly older in the type 2 pRCC group. Compared with type 1 pRCC tumors, type 2 pRCC tumors were more often localized to the renal hilum (P = .030). Patients with type 2 pRCC had a greater incidence of Fuhrman grade 3 and 4 tumors than those with type 1 pRCC (78.8% vs. 22.8; P < .001). Tumor necrosis and capsular invasion were more frequently found in type 2 pRCC (P = .008 and P = .007, respectively). At a mean follow-up period of 38.0 months (interquartile range, 11.8-57.3 months), the subclassification of pRCC did not influence the prognosis of patients with pRCC. CONCLUSION: From the information available in the KORCC database, we identified significant differences in clinicopathologic variables, including age, Fuhrman grade, tumor location, tumor necrosis, and capsular invasion between type 1 and 2 pRCC. Although type 2 pRCC had more aggressive clinicopathologic characteristics, subclassification of pRCC did not affect the oncologic outcomes.

Predictive factors for conservative treatment failure in grade IV pediatric blunt renal trauma.

BACKGROUND: Most children with grade IV renal injury are treated using a conservative approach with a high success rate. However, a small minority of patients with grade IV renal injury require urological intervention because of symptomatic urinomas. The challenge lies in predicting which of the patients receiving initial conservative treatment may require delayed interventional management because of urological complications. OBJECTIVE: To identify clinical factors and radiological features associated with the need for urological intervention in grade IV pediatric, blunt renal trauma patients who were initially treated with a conservative approach. STUDY DESIGN: The medical records of consecutive 26 children presenting to our center between 1996 and 2014 with grade IV renal injury, were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical factors, radiological features on computed tomography (CT), use of urological intervention, and patient outcomes were analyzed. RESULTS: The population algorithm of this study is shown in the figure. The patients who required urological intervention had a higher transfusion rate and larger perinephric hematomas (>2.2 cm) than those who did not require intervention. The main laceration was located in the antero-medial portion of the kidney, and intravascular contrast extravasation was observed more often in patients who underwent urological intervention compared with patients with successful conservative management. DISCUSSION: The authors recommend the use of cautious observation and timely imaging studies for unresolved or expanding urinomas in children with grade IV renal trauma with predictive factors. Moreover, most patients received urological intervention 4-8 days after the trauma. Therefore, it is suggested that a follow-up image study for early detection of urological complications should be conducted 4-5 days after trauma in grade IV renal trauma children with predictive factors. If none of these factors are observed on the initial CT or during the clinical course, follow-up imaging study may be avoided during hospitalization. CONCLUSION: The need for transfusion, and the presence of specific image features on initial CT, such as the main laceration location in the antero-medial portion of kidney, intravascular contrast extravasation, and a large perinephric hematoma, served as useful predictive factors for urological intervention in grade IV pediatric blunt renal trauma patients who were initially treated with a conservative approach. The findings indicate that early detection and appropriate intervention should be considered a priority in the conservative treatment of grade IV pediatric renal trauma with predictive factors.

VUR timing on VCUG as a predictive factor of VUR resolution after endoscopic therapy.

BACKGROUND: The timing of reflux onset on VCUG (VUR timing) has been considered a predictive factor of spontaneous resolution in VUR children. While the voiding reflux is associated with a greater rate of spontaneous resolution, the filling reflux is more likely to require surgical intervention. However, the VUR timing in children with primary VUR has not been evaluated with regard to the prognostic value of endoscopic therapy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of VUR timing on the surgical outcome after endoscopic therapy for primary VUR. METHOD: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 94 primary VUR patients who underwent endoscopic injection for their initial surgical management. Radiologic success was defined as grade I or less on VCUG at 3-6 months following endoscopic therapy. We allocated patients to a filling reflux group or a voiding reflux group on the basis of their most recent preoperative VCUG. We evaluated the patients' demographics and outcomes after endoscopic therapy according to VUR timing. Predictive factors for radiologic success were analyzed using a multivariate logistic regression model. RESULTS: Of the 94 children (136 ureters), 68 (101 ureters) were classified as the filling reflux group and 26 (35 ureters) were placed in the voiding reflux group. The preoperative VUR grade in the filling reflux group was significantly higher than that in the voiding reflux group (p = 0.001). Radiologic success was observed in 56.44% (57/101 ureters) in the filling reflux group and in 88.57% (31/35 ureters) in the voiding reflux group (p = 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that VUR grade and VUR timing on VCUG were predictive factors of radiologic success after endoscopic therapy (p = 0.001 and p = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS: Despite the clinical importance of VUR timing, no studies have investigated the prognostic value of VUR timing for endoscopic therapy in primary VUR children. In this study, multivariate analysis revealed that the VUR grade and VUR timing on preoperative VCUG were significant predictors of success after endoscopic injection. Although the VUR grade is the most well-known factor that can affect the success of the procedure, VUR timing was a newly identified predictive factor. While patients with a filling reflux have lower success rates, patients with a voiding reflux were observed to show higher resolution rates after endoscopic injection. VUR timing on preoperative VCUG was found to be an independent predictive factor of VUR resolution after endoscopic therapy.

Development of a porcine renal extracellular matrix scaffold as a platform for kidney regeneration.

Acellular scaffolds, possessing an intact three-dimensional extracellular matrix (ECM) architecture and biochemical components, are promising for regeneration of complex organs, such as the kidney. We have successfully developed a porcine renal acellular scaffold and analyzed its physical/biochemical characteristics, biocompatibility, and kidney reconstructive potential. Segmented porcine kidney cortexes were treated with either 1% (v/v) Triton X-100 (Triton) or sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS). Scanning electron microscopy showed both treatments preserved native tissue architecture, including porosity and composition. Swelling behavior was higher in the Triton-treated compared with the SDS-treated scaffold. Maximum compressive strength was lower in the Triton-treated compared with the SDS-treated scaffold. Attenuated total reflective-infrared spectroscopy showed the presence of amide II (-NH) in both scaffolds. Furthermore, richer ECM protein and growth factor contents were observed in the Triton-treated compared with SDS-treated scaffold. Primary human kidney cell adherence, viability, and proliferation were enhanced on the Triton-treated scaffold compared with SDS-treated scaffold. Following murine in vivo implantation, tumorigenecity was absent for both scaffolds after 8 weeks and in the Triton-treated scaffold only, glomeruli-like structure formation and neovascularity were observed. We identified 1% Triton X-100 as a more suitable decellularizing agent for porcine renal ECM scaffolds prior to kidney regeneration.

Pre-clinical efficacy and safety evaluation of human amniotic fluid-derived stem cell injection in a mouse model of urinary incontinence.

PURPOSE: Stem cell-based therapies represent new promises for the treatment of urinary incontinence. This study was performed to assess optimized cell passage number, cell dose, therapeutic efficacy, feasibility, toxicity, and cell trafficking for the first step of the pre-clinical evaluation of human amniotic fluid stem cell (hAFSC) therapy in a urinary incontinence animal model. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The proper cell passage number was analyzed with hAFSCs at passages 4, 6, and 8 at week 2. The cell dose optimization included 1×104, 1×105, and 1×106 cells at week 2. The in vivo cell toxicity was performed with 0.25×106, 0.5×106, and 1×106 cells at weeks 2 and 4. Cell tracking was performed with 1×106 cells at weeks 2 and 4. RESULTS: The selected optimal cell passage number was smaller than 6, and the optimal cell dose was 1×106 for the mouse model. In our pre-clinical study, hAFSC-injected animals showed normal values for several parameters. Moreover, the injected cells were found to be non-toxic and non-tumorigenic. Furthermore, the injected hAFSCs were rarely identified by in vivo cell trafficking in the target organs at week 2. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates for the first time the pre-clinical efficacy and safety of hAFSC injection in the urinary incontinence animal model and provides a basis for future clinical applications.

Efficacy of low-dose tamsulosin on lower urinary tract symptoms suggestive of benign prostatic hyperplasia : a nonblind multicentre korean study.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of tamsulosin 0.2mg once daily in Korean patients with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) suggestive of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), who were treated for up to 1 year. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Of the 211 patients from six urology outpatient centres who participated in this investigation, 146 patients were evaluable. Tamsulosin 0.2 mg/day was administered orally in a nonblind design for a 1-year period. The primary efficacy parameters were improvement in the total, obstructive and irritative International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), measured at baseline and at weeks 12, 24, 36 and 52, and in the maximal urinary flow rate (Qmax) measured at baseline and at weeks 24 and 52. The secondary efficacy parameters were a decrease of >/=30% in IPSS, and an increase in Qmax of >/=30% from baseline. Changes in parameters between baseline and 52 weeks were assessed using Student's paired t-test. RESULTS: Statistically significant, gradual improvements in all efficacy parameters were observed over the 1-year period. Tamsulosin 0.2 mg/day resulted in a mean reduction of 41.1% in total IPSS (p < 0.001) and a mean increase of 4.56 mL/sec in Qmax at 52 weeks (p < 0.001). Tamsulosin was well tolerated; adverse events occurred in 6.2% of patients and there were no withdrawals as a result of adverse events. There were no significant changes in blood pressure or pulse rate during the study. CONCLUSIONS: One-year treatment with tamsulosin 0.2 mg/day in Korean patients with suspected BPH was well tolerated and effective in improving LUTS and urinary flow. The effect on symptoms was apparent after 12 weeks of treatment, and symptom improvement was observed for up to 1 year.

Urethroplasty by use of turnover flaps (modified mathieu procedure) for distal hypospadias repair in adolescents: comparison with the tubularized incised plate procedure.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine whether urethroplasty with a turnover flap, as an alternative method of distal hypospadias repair in adolescents, improves the outcome of surgery. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between January 2004 and December 2013, a total of 38 adolescents (aged 11-17 years) underwent distal hypospadias repair with either the tubularized incised plate (TIP) procedure (n=25) or the turnover flap procedure (n=13). The turnover flap procedure was performed with a proximal, ventral penile flap that was turned over to cover the urethral plate. Patient demographics, perioperative outcomes, complications, and postoperative uroflowmetry in each surgical group were analyzed retrospectively. RESULTS: The patient demographics were similar in the two groups. There were no significant differences in perioperative outcomes between the groups, including mean operative time, duration of hospital stay, and urethral catheterization. The number of patients with at least one complication, including wound dehiscence, urethrocutaneous fistula, meatal stenosis, and urethral stricture, was lower in the turnover flap group (1/13, 7.7%) than in the TIP group (11/25, 44%, p=0.030). The incidence of meatal stenosis was lower in the turnover flap group (0/12, 0%) than in the TIP group (6/25, 24%). In postoperative uroflowmetry, the plateau-shaped curve rate was lower in the turnover flap group (1/12, 8.3%) than in the TIP group (5/19, 26.3%); the peak flow was higher (p=0.030). CONCLUSIONS: The turnover flap procedure is clinically useful for repairing adolescent distal hypospadias because it offers lower complication rates and better functional outcomes than TIP.

Decrease in skeletal muscle index one year after radical cystectomy as a prognostic indicator in patients with urothelial bladder cancer

ABSTRACT Purpose The present study aimed to determine whether sarcopenia after radical cystectomy (RC) could predict overall survival (OS) in patients with urothelial bladder cancer (UBC). Materials and Methods The lumbar skeletal muscle index (SMI) of 80 patients was measured before and 1 year after RC. The prognostic significance of sarcopenia and SMI decrease after RC were evaluated using Kaplan-Meier analysis and a multivariable Cox regression model. Results Of 80 patients, 26 (32.5%) experienced sarcopenia before RC, whereas 40 (50.0%) experienced sarcopenia after RC. The median SMI change was -2.2 cm2/m2. Patients with sarcopenia after RC had a higher pathological T stage and tumor grade than patients without sarcopenia. Furthermore, the overall mortality rate was significantly higher in patients with sarcopenia than in those without sarcopenia 1 year after RC. The median follow-up time was 46.2 months, during which 22 patients died. Kaplan-Meier estimates showed a significant difference in OS rates based on sarcopenia (P=0.012) and SMI decrease (P=0.025). Multivariable Cox regression analysis showed that SMI decrease (≥2.2 cm2/m2) was an independent predictor of OS (hazard ratio: 2.68, confidence interval: 1.007-7.719, P = 0.048). Conclusions The decrease in SMI after surgery might be a negative prognostic factor for OS in patients who underwent RC to treat UBC.

Two different surgical approaches for prostatic stromal sarcoma: robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy and open radical cysto-prostatectomy with ileal conduit.

Stromal sarcoma of the prostate is very rare and shows rapid growth, which consequently is related to poor prognosis. Recently, we treated two cases of prostatic stromal sarcoma: one with robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy and the other with open radical cysto-prostatectomy with an ileal conduit. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report of a prostatic stromal sarcoma managed by use of a robotic procedure. Here, we report of our experiences in the treatment of prostatic stromal sarcoma by use of two different methods.