Improved early continence following laparoscopic radical prostatectomy: the urethral hammock technique.

PURPOSE: To introduce and illustrate a novel urethral reconstruction technique-the 'urethral hammock-technique'-and to assess its impact on early postoperative continence following laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP). METHODS: 119 patients who underwent LRP between January 2020 and May 2022 (hammock group: n = 43, control group: n = 76) were included in the study. The primary outcome was continence (zero pads or max. one security pad) at 1, 3, and 6 months following surgery. Secondary outcomes were operative time, complications, and histological findings. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were performed to reveal predictors for continence. p values < 0.05 with a two-sided 95%-confidence interval were considered statistically significant. RESULTS: Baseline characteristics were comparable among both groups. The number of patients achieving complete continence in both the hammock and control groups at various time intervals was: 4 weeks 37.2% (16/43) vs. 19.2% (14/73) (p = 0.047); 3 months 60.5% (26/43) vs. 37.3% (28/75) (p = 0.021) and 6 months 72.1% (31/43) vs. 60.3% (44/73) (p = 0.23), respectively. Adjusting for bladder neck preservation status and age, the hammock technique was a significant predictor for continence for the 4-week (OR 0.33, 95% CI 0.13-0.83, p = 0.019) and 3-month (OR 0.28, 95% CI 0.12-0.66, p = 0.004) interval but not for the 6-month interval (OR 0.64, 95% CI 0.27-1.5, p = 0.31). Operative time, complication rates, time till catheter extraction and histological findings were comparable between both groups (all p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The hammock technique is a simple and reproducible technique to improve early postoperative continence for at least 3 months following surgery. However, these promising results warrant confirmation through a randomized controlled trial.

Experts' recommendations in laser use for the treatment of bladder cancer: a comprehensive guide by the European Section of Uro-Technology (ESUT) and Training and Research in Urological Surgery and Technology (TRUST)-Group.

PURPOSE: To identify laser settings and limits applied by experts during laser vaporization (vapBT) and laser en-bloc resection of bladder tumors (ERBT) and to identify preventive measures to reduce complications. METHODS: After a focused literature search to identify relevant questions, we conducted a survey (57 questions) which was sent to laser experts. The expert selection was based on clinical experience and scientific contribution. Participants were asked for used laser types, typical laser settings during specific scenarios, and preventive measures applied during surgery. Settings for a maximum of 2 different lasers for each scenario were possible. Responses and settings were compared among the reported laser types. RESULTS: Twenty-three of 29 (79.3%) invited experts completed the survey. Thulium fiber laser (TFL) is the most common laser (57%), followed by Holmium:Yttrium-Aluminium-Garnet (Ho:YAG) (48%), continuous wave (cw) Thulium:Yttrium-Aluminium-Garnet (Tm:YAG) (26%), and pulsed Tm:YAG (13%). Experts prefer ERBT (91.3%) to vapBT (8.7%); however, relevant limitations such as tumor size, number, and anatomical tumor location exist. Laser settings were generally comparable; however, we could find significant differences between the laser sources for lateral wall ERBT (p = 0.028) and standard ERBT (p = 0.033), with cwTm:YAG and pulsed Tm:YAG being operated in higher power modes when compared to TFL and Ho:YAG. Experts prefer long pulse modes for Ho:YAG and short pulse modes for TFL lasers. CONCLUSION: TFL seems to have replaced Ho:YAG and Tm:YAG. Most laser settings do not differ significantly among laser sources. For experts, continuous flow irrigation is the most commonly applied measure to reduce complications.

Experts' recommendations in laser use for the treatment of urolithiasis: a comprehensive guide by the European Section of Uro-Technology (ESUT) and Training-Research in Urological Surgery and Technology (T.R.U.S.T.)-Group.

PURPOSE: To identify laser lithotripsy settings used by experts for specific clinical scenarios and to identify preventive measures to reduce complications. METHODS: After literature research to identify relevant questions, a survey was conducted and sent to laser experts. Participants were asked for preferred laser settings during specific clinical lithotripsy scenarios. Different settings were compared for the reported laser types, and common settings and preventive measures were identified. RESULTS: Twenty-six laser experts fully returned the survey. Holmium-yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Ho:YAG) was the primary laser used (88%), followed by thulium fiber laser (TFL) (42%) and pulsed thulium-yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Tm:YAG) (23%). For most scenarios, we could not identify relevant differences among laser settings. However, the laser power was significantly different for middle-ureteral (p = 0.027), pelvic (p = 0.047), and lower pole stone (p = 0.018) lithotripsy. Fragmentation or a combined fragmentation with dusting was more common for Ho:YAG and pulsed Tm:YAG lasers, whereas dusting or a combination of dusting and fragmentation was more common for TFL lasers. Experts prefer long pulse modes for Ho:YAG lasers to short pulse modes for TFL lasers. Thermal injury due to temperature development during lithotripsy is seriously considered by experts, with preventive measures applied routinely. CONCLUSIONS: Laser settings do not vary significantly between commonly used lasers for lithotripsy. Lithotripsy techniques and settings mainly depend on the generated laser pulse's and generator settings' physical characteristics. Preventive measures such as maximum power limits, intermittent laser activation, and ureteral access sheaths are commonly used by experts to decrease thermal injury-caused complications.

Navigation systems and 3D imaging in percutaneous nephrolithotripsy: improving outcomes and safety.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Percutaneous nephrolithotripsy (PCNL) is the first-line management option for large kidney stones (>2 cm). It remains, however, a demanding procedure with considerable morbidity. The present narrative review summarizes recent knowledge from original research studies investigating navigation systems/three-dimensional (3D) imaging in PCNL, particularly on publications during the past 12-18 months. RECENT FINDINGS: Navigation systems and 3D imaging are primarily used for preoperative planning, with few intra-operative applications. Patient management and residents' training could benefit from their use. SUMMARY: Navigation systems and 3D imaging technology have emerged as a potential game-changer in PCNL. Even though available evidence is currently scarce/inconclusive, the safety/efficacy of navigation systems and 3D dimensional imaging use in PCNL appears promising. This advanced technology offers precise anatomical mapping, improved visualization, and surgical accuracy. Enabling a comprehensive preoperative evaluation and improving guidance, navigation systems, and 3D imaging technology may improve the safety and efficacy of PCNL. With continuous technological evolution, it is expected that improvements/innovations will offer further aid in such demanding procedures. Familiarization and cost reduction are necessary for widespread application, while larger-scale prospective studies and well designed randomized controlled trials are still needed.

Laparoscopic intracorporeal ileal ureter replacement: multi-institutional data from 102 patients.

OBJECTIVE: To present long-term results of our laparoscopic intracorporeal ileal ureter replacement (LIUR) cohort, including more complex cases of laparoscopic ileocalycostomy. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We collected records of patients undergoing LIUR. Follow-up included a chemical profile and urine cultures. Imaging consisted of renal ultrasonography, excretory urography, cystography, and computer tomographic or magnetic resonance urography. RESULTS: One hundred and two patients were included. Stricture location was left (46.1%), right (39.2%), or bilateral (14.7%). No open conversion was performed. Seventy-four patients (72.5%) underwent a total ureteral unit removal. The mean operative time was 289.4 (120 - 680) minutes. The estimated blood loss was 185.2 (10-400) mL. Three patients had intraoperative complications, and fifteen had early postoperative complications. The mean postoperative hospital stay was 12.2 (7-35) days. The mean follow-up duration period was 37.7 (12-162) months. Most patients' follow-up was uneventful (88%), and seven patients presented with Grade 2 late complications. CONCLUSIONS: Intracorporeal laparoscopic ileal ureteral replacement in cases of extensive ureteral lesions offers optimal long-term outcomes and a low complication rate. Ileocalycostomy constitutes a viable option in the small group of patients with long proximal ureteral strictures and intrarenal pelvis.

Advances in lasers for the minimally invasive treatment of upper and lower urinary tract conditions: a systematic review.

PURPOSE: Technological advancements in laser lithotripsy are expanding into numerous fields of urology, like ureteroscopy (URS), percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), and benign and malignant soft-tissue treatments. Since the amount of research regarding lasers in urology has grown exponentially, we present a systematic review of the most recent and relevant advances encompassing all lasers used in urological endoscopic treatment. METHODS: We performed a literature search using PubMed (May 2023) to obtain information about lasers for urological purposes. We included only recent data from published articles between 2021 and 2023 or articles ahead of print. RESULTS: Lasers are widely used in lithotripsy for ureteric, renal, and bladder stones, benign prostate surgery, and bladder and upper tract tumor ablation. While the holmium (Ho:YAG) laser is still predominant, there seems to be more emphasis on pulse modulation and newer lasers such as thulium fiber laser (TFL) and pulsed Tm:YAG laser. CONCLUSION: The use of lasers and related technological innovations have shown increasing versatility, and over time have proven to be invaluable in the management of stone lithotripsy, treatment of benign and malignant prostate diseases, and urothelial tumors. Laser endoscopic treatment is heavily based on technological nuances, and it is essential to know at least the basics of these technologies. Ultimately the choice of laser used depends on its availability, cost, surgeon experience and expertise.

Peri- and post-operative outcomes, complications, and functional results amongst different modifications of endoscopic enucleation of the prostate (EEP): a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: To investigate and assess outcomes, complications, and functional results amongst different modifications of endoscopic enucleation of the prostate (EEP). METHODS: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis according to the PRISMA checklist. We searched the Medline, Cochrane, and Embase databases. We included only randomised-controlled trials (RCT) comparing modifications of EEPs and assessed the risk of bias (RoB). RESULTS: Seven RCTs were included in the study. Overall, 1266 patients were treated with Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) and 80 patients with thulium laser vapo-enucleation of the prostate (ThuVEP). The operative time during pulse shape-modified HoLEP was shorter when compared to standard pulse HoLEP (MD 18.08 min, 95% CI 8.11-28.05 min, p = 0.0004). The decrease in haemoglobin was significantly lower for two-lobe HoLEP when compared to three-lobe HoLEP (MD 0.16 g/dl, 95% CI 0.22-0.1 g/dl, p < 0.00001). Virtual Basket (VB) HoLEP showed a smaller haemoglobin decrease when compared to standard pulse HoLEP (1.12 ± 1.78 vs. 2.54 ± 1.23 g/dl, p = 0.03). When directly comparing one- vs. two- vs. three-lobe HoLEP, surgical time (p < 0.001) and enucleation efficiency (p = 0.006) were significantly different and favouring one- and two-lobe HoLEP in the study with the largest patient population included. No significant differences for complications were observed; however, Clavien-Dindo IVa events were reported for two patients. CONCLUSION: All variations of EEP improve symptoms and functional parameters with a low incidence of high-grade complications. One- and two-lobe approaches and pulse shape-modified HoLEP seem to be beneficial in terms of operative time and blood loss.

Tissue thermal effect during lithotripsy and tissue ablation in endourology: a systematic review of experimental studies comparing Holmium and Thulium lasers.

PURPOSE: We looked into the Thulium: yttrium-aluminum-garnet (TM:YAG), Thulium Fibre laser (TFL) and Holmium: yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Ho:YAG) thermal laser tissue effect during lithotripsy and tissue ablation. METHODS: We performed a PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) search. RESULTS: During lithotripsy, the Ho:YAG generated temperatures from 24 to 68.7 °C at powers < 20 W, the Tm:YAG from 43.7 °C at 30 W to 68 °C at powers < 20 W, and the TFL from 33 to 40.46 °C. During ablation, the Ho:YAG and continuous wave (cw) Tm:YAG tissue incision depths ranged from 0.08 to 2.26 mm, and from 0.28 to 3.22 mm. The Ho:YAG and Tm:YAG vaporization areas ranged from 0.044 to 0.078 mm2 and from 0.050 to 0.078 mm3 and their coagulation zones were 0.075 mm2 and 0.125 mm3 respectively. Ho:YAG and Tm:YAG laser damage zones ranged from 0.093 to 2.6 mm3 and from 0.207 to 0.98 mm3 respectively. The TFL incision depth ranged from 0.04 to 5.7 mm. The cw and SuperPulsed (SP) vaporization volumes ranged from 8 to 28.2 mm3/s and from 4 to 11 mm3/s. TFL coagulation depth and coagulation zone ranged from zero to 1.1 mm, 2.2 to 5.1 mm3 in SP mode and from 7.7 to 18.1 mm3 in cw mode. CONCLUSION: During lithotripsy all lasers caused similar temperature changes and had a safe temperature profile at < 40 W. During tissue ablation, Ho:YAG has a deeper incision depth, while cwTm:YAG and cwTFL have broader coagulation and total laser areas.

Experts' recommendations in laser use for the endoscopic treatment of prostate hypertrophy: a comprehensive guide by the European Section of Uro-Technology (ESUT) and Training-Research in Urological Surgery and Technology (T.R.U.S.T.)-Group.

PURPOSE: To identify expert laser settings for BPH treatment and evaluate the application of preventive measures to reduce complications. METHODS: A survey was conducted after narrative literature research to identify relevant questions regarding laser use for BPH treatment (59 questions). Experts were asked for laser settings during specific clinical scenarios. Settings were compared for the reported laser types, and common settings and preventive measures were identified. RESULTS: Twenty-two experts completed the survey with a mean filling time of 12.9 min. Ho:YAG, Thulium fiber laser (TFL), continuous wave (cw) Tm:YAG, pulsed Tm:YAG and Greenlight™ lasers are used by 73% (16/22), 50% (11/22), 23% (5/22), 13.6% (3/22) and 9.1% (2/22) of experts, respectively. All experts use anatomical enucleation of the prostate (EEP), preferentially in one- or two-lobe technique. Laser settings differ significantly between laser types, with median laser power for apical/main gland EEP of 75/94 W, 60/60 W, 100/100 W, 100/100 W, and 80/80 W for Ho:YAG, TFL, cwTm:YAG, pulsed Tm:YAG and Greenlight™ lasers, respectively (p = 0.02 and p = 0.005). However, power settings within the same laser source are similar. Pulse shapes for main gland EEP significantly differ between lasers with long and pulse shape modified (e.g., Moses, Virtual Basket) modes preferred for Ho:YAG and short pulse modes for TFL (p = 0.031). CONCLUSION: Ho:YAG lasers no longer seem to be the mainstay of EEP. TFL lasers are generally used in pulsed mode though clinical applicability for quasi-continuous settings has recently been demonstrated. One and two-lobe techniques are beneficial regarding operative time and are used by most experts.

Experts' recommendations in laser use for the treatment of upper tract urothelial carcinoma: a comprehensive guide by the European Section of Uro-Technology (ESUT) and Training Research in Urological Surgery and Technology (T.R.U.S.T.) group.

PURPOSE: To highlight and compare experts' laser settings during endoscopic laser treatment of upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC), to identify measures to reduce complications, and to propose guidance for endourologists. METHODS: Following a focused literature search to identify relevant questions, a survey was sent to laser experts. We asked participants for typical settings during specific scenarios (ureteroscopy (URS), retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS), and percutaneous treatment). These settings were compared among the reported laser types to find common settings and limits. Additionally, we identified preventive measures commonly applied during surgery. RESULTS: Twenty experts completed the survey, needing a mean time of 12.7 min. Overall, most common laser type was Holmium-Yttrium-Aluminum-Garnet (Ho:YAG) (70%, 14/20) followed by Thulium fiber laser (TFL) (45%, 9/20), pulsed Thulium-Yttrium-Aluminum-Garnet (Tm:YAG) (3/20, 15%), and continuous wave (cw)Tm:YAG (1/20, 5%). Pulse energy for the treatment of distal ureteral tumors was significantly different with median settings of 0.9 J, 1 J and 0.45 J for Ho:YAG, TFL and pulsed Tm:YAG, respectively (p = 0.048). During URS and RIRS, pulse shapes were significantly different, with Ho:YAG being used in long pulse and TFL in short pulse mode (all p < 0.05). We did not find further disparities. CONCLUSION: Ho:YAG is used by most experts, while TFL is the most promising alternative. Laser settings largely do not vary significantly. However, further research with novel lasers is necessary to define the optimal approach. With the recent introduction of small caliber and more flexible scopes, minimal-invasive UTUC treatment is further undergoing an extension of applicability in appropriately selected patients.

Temperature change during laser upper-tract endourological procedures: current evidence and future perspective.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To examine the most recent data on temperatures produced during laser lithotripsy and to provide several strategies for maintaining lower values and reducing the risk of complications during endourological treatment. RECENT FINDINGS: Endourologists have access to a wide range of alternatives with the help of the holmium: yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Ho:YAG), thulium: yttrium-aluminum-garnet (TM:YAG), and thulium fiber laser (TFL) that compose a robust and adaptable laser lithotripsy armamentarium. Nevertheless, the threat of thermal damage increases as the local temperature rises with high total power. Most endourologists are not familiar with normal and pathological temperature ranges, how elevated temperatures affect perioperative problems, or how to avoid them. SUMMARY: Increased temperatures experienced during laser lithotripsy may affect the course of the healing process. All lasers display a safe temperature profile at energies below 40 W. At equal power settings, Ho:YAG, Tm:YAG, and TFL lasers change the temperature comparably. Shorter on/off laser activation intervals, chilled irrigation, open irrigation systems, and UASs all aid in maintaining acceptable temperatures.

Selection and Outcomes for Dissolution Therapy in Uric Acid Stones: A Systematic Review of Literature.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The prevalence of uric acid (UA) urolithiasis contributes significantly to global disease burden, due to high rates of recurrence and diagnostic challenges. Dissolution therapy plays a valuable role in the conservative management of UA calculi, reducing the requirement for surgical intervention. This review summarises the existing evidence for the efficacy of medical dissolution of uric acid urolithiasis. RECENT FINDINGS: A systematic search was conducted of worldwide literature according to PRISMA methodology and Cochrane standards for systematic review. Studies were included if they reported outcome data for the administration of medical therapy for the dissolution of UA calculi. A total of 1075 patients were included in the systematic review. Complete or partial dissolution of UA calculi was observed in 80.5% of patients (865/1075 patients), with 61.7% (647/1048 patients) achieving complete dissolution and 19.8% (207/1048 patients) achieving partial dissolution. A discontinuation rate of 10.2% (110/1075 patients) was noted, and 15.7% (169/1075 patients) required surgical intervention. Dissolution therapy is a safe and effective method of conservatively managing uric acid stones in the short term. Despite the significant disease burden of UA calculi, current guidelines are limited by deficiencies in the existing body of research. Further research should be undertaken to develop evidence-based clinical guidelines for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of UA urolithiasis.

Current role of endoscopic combined intrarenal surgery in the management of renal stones: A scoping review.

Introduction: This study aims to review the current role of endoscopic combined intrarenal surgery (ECIRS) in the management of renal stones, with a focus on its efficacy and safety. The secondary outcome was to highlight the tips and tricks to improve the urologist's experience with ECIRS. Methods: A scoping review of the literature, in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis guidelines, was performed, using ECIRS and flexible ureteroscopy and percutaneous nephrolithotomy as the search terms. All original articles were screened and included. Results: Thirty-three studies were included in the analysis. ECIRS showed a good efficacy and safety profile, with an excellent stone-free rate and a low rate of complications, mostly Clavien-Dindo I/II. With ECIRS, a reduction in the need for multiple access tracts was noted and direct visualization of the targeted calyx during the puncture increased the ability to attain transpapillary punctures, thereby reducing the amount of bleeding. Conclusion: ECIRS, as the first-line minimal access intervention, is safe and efficacious, particularly for achieving a stone-free status in patients with large complex stones in a single stage. The ability to gain access under direct vision and the reduction in the number of tracts, in both the supine and the prone positions, makes this procedure an attractive surgical choice.

Generated temperatures and thermal laser damage during upper tract endourological procedures using the holmium: yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Ho:YAG) laser: a systematic review of experimental studies.

PURPOSE: To perform a review on the latest evidence related to generated temperatures during Ho:YAG laser use, and present different tools to maintain decreased values, and minimize complication rates during endourological procedures. METHODS: We performed a literature search using PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials-CENTRAL, restricted to original English-written articles, including animal, artificial model, and human studies. Different keywords were URS, RIRS, ureteroscopy, percutaneous, PCNL, and laser. RESULTS: Thermal dose (t43) is an acceptable tool to assess possible thermal damage using the generated temperature and the time of laser exposure. A t43 value of more than 120 min leads to a high risk of thermal tissue injury and at temperatures higher than 43 °C Ho:YAG laser use becomes hazardous due to an exponentially increased cytotoxic effect. Using open continuous flow, or chilled irrigation, temperatures remain lower than 45 °C. By utilizing high-power (> 40 W) or shorter laser pulse, temperatures rise above the accepted threshold, but adding a ureteral access sheath (UAS) helps to maintain acceptable values. CONCLUSIONS: Open irrigation systems, chilled irrigation, UASs, laser power < 40 W, and shorter on/off laser activation intervals help to keep intrarenal temperatures at accepted values during URS and PCNL.

Irrigation fluid absorption during transurethral bipolar and laser prostate surgery: a systematic review.

PURPOSE: Transurethral endoscopic procedures using bipolar current, or laser energy are nowadays widely accepted and have replaced the traditional monopolar resection. A major advantage of these techniques is the utilization of isotonic saline as irrigation solution, which minimizes side effects such as symptoms associated to classical transurethral resection syndrome (TUR-syndrome). Nonetheless, clinically significant IFA also occurs with saline and is determined by pressure gradients, systemic resistance and by the amount of irrigation fluid. We aimed to investigate the extend of IFA and symptoms due to volume overload during bipolar transurethral resection (bTUR) and laser procedures of the prostate. METHODS: We performed a systematic literature search using PubMed, restricted to original English-written articles, including animal, artificial model, and human studies. Search terms were TUR, transurethral, laser, HoLEP, ThuLEP, greenlight, enucleation, fluid absorption, fluid uptake, and TUR-syndrome. RESULTS: Mean and maximum IFA during bTURP ranges between 133 and 915 ml and 1019 ml and 2166 ml, respectively. Absorption during laser procedures can be significant with maximum values up to 4579 ml and mainly occurs during prostate vaporization techniques. Incidence of moderate to severe symptoms from iso-osmolar volume overload reaches 9%. CONCLUSIONS: Irrigation fluid absorption during bTUR and laser surgery of the prostate is not negligible. Iso-osmolar overhydration with development of non-classical TUR-syndrome should be identified peri- and postoperatively and surgical teams should be aware of complications. Breath ethanol, venous pH, serum chloride, and bicarbonate could be markers for detecting dangerous events of IFA with saline.

Simulation training in transurethral resection/laser vaporization of the prostate; evidence from a systematic review by the European Section of Uro-Technology.

PURPOSE: Transurethral resection (TURP) and photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) constitute established surgical options to treat benign prostate hyperplasia. We investigated the current literature for simulators that could be used as a tool for teaching urologists alone or within the boundaries of a course or a curriculum. METHODS: A literature search was performed using PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials-CENTRAL. Search terms included: Simulat*, train*, curricull*, transurethral, TUR*, vaporesect*, laser. The efficacy of different simulators and the impact of different devices, curricula and courses in training and trainee learning curves were the primary endpoints. RESULTS: Thirty-one studies are selected and presented. Validated virtual reality TURP simulators are the UW VR, PelvicVision, Uro-Trainer, and TURPsim™. Validated synthetic TURP models are Dr. K. Forke's TURP trainer, Bristol TURP trainer, different tissue prostate models, and 3D-printed phantoms. The Myo Sim PVP and the GreenLightTM are sufficiently validated PVP simulators. Several TURP and PVP training curricula have been developed and judged as applicable. Finally, the TURP modules of the European Urology Residents Education Programme (EUREP) Hands-on Training course and the Urology Simulation Bootcamp Course (USBC) are the most basic annual TURP courses identified in the international literature. CONCLUSIONS: Simulators and courses or curricula are valuable learning and training TURP/PVP tools. The existent models seem efficient, are not always adequately evaluated and accepted. As part of training curricula and training courses, the use of training simulators can significantly improve quality for young urologists' education and clinical practice.

Thulium Fiber Laser Behavior on Tissue During Upper- and Lower-Tract Endourology.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To present the latest evidence on thulium fiber laser (TFL) effects on tissue, during lithotripsy and ablation, emphasizing on generated temperatures, thermal damage thresholds, incision depths, areas of coagulation, and laser damage. RECENT FINDINGS: Lasers are frequently utilized during endoscopic treatment of different urological conditions. The holmium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Ho:YAG) is most frequently used for various types of stones and soft tissue. The TFL has been recently introduced, offering several advantages. However, its activity on tissue during upper and lower tract endourology is poorly understood. At equivalent power settings, TFL and Ho:YAG generate similar temperature changes during lithotripsy. TFL has a shallow incision depth during tissue ablation. Compared to SP TFL, (cw) TFL results in a broader coagulation zone, whereas SP TFL gives of Ho:YAG-similar incision, and (cw) TFL offers a quick, precise cut with more carbonization.

Laparoscopic totally intracorporeal ileal ureter replacement: a multi-institutional study.

OBJECTIVE: To prove the feasibility, as well as the reproducibility of laparoscopic totally intracorporeal ileal ureter replacement (LIUR), by presenting a multicenter patient cohort with a long follow-up. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Records of patients undergoing different types of ureteral replacements have been collected. Follow-up included a chemical profile and urine cultures. Imaging consisted of renal ultrasonography and excretory urography, as well as a cystography or an isotopic renography when indicated. RESULTS: Forty patients were included in the study. Twelve underwent a right, 20 a left, and eight a bilateral laparoscopic ureteral replacement. The mean procedure time was 335 (150-680) minutes and the mean estimated blood loss was 221 (50-400) mL. Only three patients presented intraoperative complications, which were managed immediately, and three patients presented a Clavien III postoperative complication. Abdominal drains and nephrostomy tubes were removed after 24-36 h and 7-10 days, respectively. The mean hospital stay was 13.5 (10-35) days. Follow-up was at least six months. CONCLUSIONS: LIUR constitutes a feasible and reproducible method for the restoration of long ureteral defects.

Relevance of intravesical pressures during transurethral procedures.

PURPOSE: Endourology has undergone fundamental changes over the last 2 decades. Maintaining low intrarenal pressure (IRP) during upper urinary tract procedures is an established concept. However, researchers have not yet studied the concept of reduced intravesical pressures (IVPs) during transurethral (TUR) surgery as thoroughly. Low IVP is supposed to decrease complications as fluid retention, TUR syndrome, and incidence of fever. The study aims to give an overview of the contemporarily existing concepts and specify the term of low IVP to avoid TUR-related complications and optimize TUR-related results. METHODS: A literature search was performed using PubMed, restricted to original English-written articles, including animal, artificial model, and human studies. Different keywords were transurethral resection, transurethral enucleation, transurethral vaporization, pressure, fluid absorption, and TUR syndrome. RESULTS: Analyzed mean IVPs during TUR vary between 11 and 35 cmH2O but are mostly kept below 30 cmH2O. Mean maximum IVPs during TUR range from 20 to 55 cmH2O. Maximum IVPs seem to be lower when surgeons utilize continuous flow resection, and irrigation pressures are kept low. The results demonstrate a strong correlation between IVP levels and fluid absorption. CONCLUSIONS: IVP increase remains a neglected predictor of transurethral procedure complications, and endourologists should consider its intraoperative monitoring. Further research is necessary to quantify generated pressures and introduce means of controlling them.

The "Omega Sign": a novel HoLEP technique that improves continence outcomes after enucleation.

PURPOSE: Holmium-laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) has been a promising prostate surgery since its first introduction. Although there are 10 different HoLEP techniques in the literature, stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is common, because surgery is not performed based on the topographic anatomy of the external sphincter. We have developed a new HoLEP method named as the ''Omega Sign technique", which is based on the topographic anatomy of the external sphincter and could provide better continence outcomes by decreasing SUI rates. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The data of 400 patients who underwent HoLEP by a single surgeon between May 2016 and February 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. The patients were divided into two groups, the first underwent the Gilling's technique (Group 1) and the second the novel ''Omega Sign'' technique (Group 2). Continence status and post-micturition symptoms (PMS) were evaluated according to the standards recommended by the international continence status. RESULTS: The data of 400 HoLEP procedures between May 2016 and February 2019 were analyzed, comparing Group 1 (n = 200) and Group 2(n = 200). SUI rate was significantly lower in Group 2 at the day of catheter removal and first month (p < 0.005). In addition, urge urinary incontinence (UUI) rate and PMS were significantly lower in Group 2. CONCLUSIONS: We could demonstrate improved continence results, comparable functional outcomes and equally minimal complications with the standard HoLEP technique. We believe that, the novel 'Omega sign' technique decreases SUI rates and will become standardised and easy to understand, thereby bringing and creating a shorter learning curve.