The challenging management of malignant ureteral obstruction: Analysis of a series of 188 cases.

Background: Malignant ureteral obstruction (MUO) is a common condition that complicates the course of advanced malignancies. The aims of this study are to analyze the causes, management, and survival of patients with obstructive nephropathy due to malignant ureteric obstruction and to determine prognostic factors. Furthermore, we studied the complications and outcomes in patients who underwent urinary diversion. Materials and methods: A retrospective study was conducted on patients with computed tomography-confirmed MUO between January 2016 and November 2020. Demographic, clinical, radiological, laboratory, and management data were collected. Survival curves were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method, and univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards models were used to test the association between parameters and survival. Results: A total of 188 patients were included. The mean age was 69.01 years (SD, 14.95 years), and the majority (54.8%) were male. The most common mechanism leading to MUO was compression by a pelvic mass (36.9%), and the 3 most frequent tumors causing MUO were prostate (17.6%), bladder (16.5%), and rectal cancer (11.7%).Forty-seven patients (25%) underwent urinary diversion: 23 (48.9%) underwent double-J stenting and 21 (44.7%) underwent percutaneous nephrostomy. The most common reason for urinary diversion was acute kidney injury (53.3%). Recovery of renal function was observed in 55.8% of the patients after urinary diversion. The most frequently identified complications after urinary diversion were urinary tract infection (24.4%), hematuria (17.0%), and urinary sepsis (14.9%). The median survival after hydronephrosis diagnosis was 6.43 months (interquartile range, 1.91-14.81 months). In patients who underwent urinary decompression, the median survival after urinary diversion was 8.67 months (interquartile range, 2.99-17.28 months). In the multivariate analysis, a lower grade of hydronephrosis and cancer cachexia negatively impacted survival. Conclusions: Cancer patients with MUO have a poor prognosis; therefore, the risk-benefit ratio of urinary diversion should be carefully considered. Cachexia and hydronephrosis grade can be useful in selecting suitable candidates for urinary diversion.

Prevention of incisional hernia after kidney transplantation: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Incisional hernia is a common complication after kidney transplantation with an incidence of 1.6-18%. Concerning non-transplant patients, a recently published meta-analysis describes a reduction of the incidence of incisional hernia of up to 85% due to prophylactic mesh replacement in elective, midline laparotomy. The aim of our study is to show a reduction of the incidence of incisional hernia after kidney transplantation with minimal risk for complication. METHODS/DESIGN: This is a blinded, randomized controlled trial comparing time to incisional hernia over a period of 24 months between patients undergoing kidney transplantation and standardized abdominal closure with or without prophylactic placement of ProGrip™ (Medtronic, Fridley, MN, USA) mesh in an onlay position. As we believe that the mesh intervention is superior to the standard procedure in reducing the incidence of hernia, this is a superiority trial. DISCUSSION: The high risk for developing incisional hernia following kidney transplantation might be reduced by prophylactic mesh placement. ProGrip™ mesh features polylactic acid (PLA) microgrips that provide immediate, strong and uniform fixation. The use of this mesh combines the effectiveness demonstrated by the macropore propylene meshes in the treatment of incisional hernias, a high simplicity of use provided by its capacity for self-fixation that does not increase significantly surgery time, and safety. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04794582. Registered on 08 March 2021. Protocol version 2.0. (02-18-2021).

Bibliographic review about the usefulness of ultrasound contrast media in the study of renal masses.

OBJECTIVES: The microbubbles enhanced ultrasound contrast is a novel technique that informs us in real time of renal perfusion and microcirculation. METHOD: We reviewed the literature about its use in the study of renal masses in order to show their actual clinical performance in this condition. RESULT: This technique is useful in the differential diagnosis of pseudotumors, characterization and monitoring of small renal masses, the study of complex renal cysts and controlling the progression of renal masses that underwent ablative treatments. Like any diagnostic technique has some limitations on usage;its rapid contrast wash, being operator-dependent, require some experience and need special software to be correctly interpreted. CONCLUSIONS: The microbubbles enhanced ultrasound contrast is a useful and economic technique for the study and differential diagnosis of the renal masses.

Prospective long-term experience in the treatment of renal tumors with cryotherapy: follow-up with computed tomography scan and contrast-enhanced ultrasound.

Introduction: The aim of this article was to evaluate the oncological results and safety of cryotherapy for the treatment of renal tumors. Material and methods: This study was a prospective review and follow-up of patients who underwent cryotherapy from January 2008 to May 2021. Cryotherapy was offered to patients with bilateral tumors, tumors in solitary kidneys, or comorbid patients. Follow-up consisted of a computed tomography (CT) scan and contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), with analysis of concordance (kappa index). Overall survival and kidney survival were analyzed (Kaplan-Meier). Results: Cryotherapy was performed 71 times in 67 patients. A total of 74.6% of patients were men. The mean age of patients was 69.7 years (standard deviation (SD) 11.3]. Mean follow-up was 52.7 months (SD 36.2). Mean tumor size was 26.2 mm (SD 7.6). 90% were cT1a, 10% cT1b stage. Type of access was open in 1 patient, laparoscopic in 8, percutaneous US-guided in 8 and percutaneous CT-guided in 54 patients. Biopsy was taken in 60 patients (84.5%) and consisted of renal cell carcinoma (22), oncocytoma (9), papillary carcinoma (4), angiomyolipoma (1), sarcoma (1), and non-conclusive (23).There were 22 complications such as pain in 2 patients, hematoma in 8 and 2 cases of bleeding, all resolved conservatively except for one case of bleeding which required embolization.Recurrences occurred in 16 cases (22.5%). Management was cryotherapy in 25%, radical nephrectomy in 31.3% and surveillance in 43.8%. Concordance between contrast-enhanced ultrasound and CT was 0.8 (excellent).Mean glomerular filtration did not change. One patient developed metastasis.No cancer-specific mortality was found. Overall survival at 12, 24 and 48 months was 98.5%, 96.8% and 76.9% respectively. Kidney survival at 12, 24 and 48 months was 97%, 93.5% and 93.5% respectively. Conclusions: Cryotherapy for renal tumors is a safe treatment for comorbid or solitary kidney patients, with rare major complications and good oncological outcome.

Kidney Autotransplantation and Orthotopic Kidney Transplantation: Two Different Approaches for Complex Cases.

Introduction: Transplantation surgery teams often have to face complex cases. In certain circumstances, such as occlusion of the iliac vessels or prior pelvic surgery, heterotopic kidney transplantation may not be feasible and orthotopic kidney transplantation (OKT) could be a good alternative. Kidney autotransplantation (KAT) has been described as a potential treatment for complex renovascular, ureteral, or neoplastic conditions. There are scarce data regarding the complications and outcomes of these procedures; therefore, we present our experience. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively analysed the medical records of both 21 patients who had received OKT and 19 patients who underwent KAT between 1993 and 2020. We collected demographic features and data regarding surgical technique, complications, and graft outcomes. Kidney graft survival was calculated using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. Results: Regarding OKT, in 15 (71.43%) cases, it was the first kidney transplantation. The most common indication was the unsuitable iliac region due to vascular abnormalities (57.14%). The early postoperative complication rate was high (66.67%), with 23.81% of Clavien grade 3b complications. During the follow-up period (mean 5.76 -SD 6.15- years), we detected 9 (42.85%) graft losses. At 1 year, the survival rate was 84.9%. Concerning KAT, the most frequent indication was ureteral pathology (52.63%), followed by vascular lesions (42.11%). The overall early complication rate was 42.11%. During the follow-up period (mean of 4.47 years), 4 (15.79%) graft losses were reported. Conclusions: Although OKT and KAT have high complication rates, these techniques can be considered as two valuable approaches for complex cases, in the absence of other therapeutic options.

Spontaneous urinoma debuting as retroperitoneal abscess: report of 2 cases and literature review.

Spontaneous urinoma is a urological entity that can be complicated by a retroperitoneal abscess. Urinoma can be iatrogenic, traumatic, or can be caused by obstructive uropathy. We report two cases of spontaneous urinomas, describing a not previously published cause of urinoma: pyeloureteritis. (I) A 55-year-old Caucasian female started with intense left-sided flank pain for 3 days. CT scan revealed a voluminous retroperitoneal abscess, which extended through the posterior pararenal space and the left lumbar paravertebral musculature. (II) A 48-year-old Caucasian male presented with constitutional symptoms over the previous 2 months and investigations showed a voluminous urinoma and marked pyeloureteritis findings on CT scan. Both patients were managed by endoscopic placement of a double-J stent and drainage of the collection (open and percutaneous approach, respectively). Urinoma was confirmed by fluid biochemical analysis, which demonstrated that fluid creatinine was markedly raised as compared to the serum creatinine. Urinoma in the absence of obstruction or trauma is rare. These two case reports highlight one of the conditions leading to urinoma and the management of retroperitoneal abscess. Pyeloureteritis is a cause of spontaneous urinoma and it should be considered in the lack of another obstructive cause.

Well-Leg Compartment Syndrome After Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy in the Galdakao-Modified Supine Valdivia Position.

PURPOSE: The objective is to present a case of well-leg compartment syndrome in the Galdakao-modified supine Valdivia position. RESULTS: The case of a 32-year-old male, obese (105 Kg) and a former smoker is presented. The patient was positioned in the Galdakao-modified supine Valdivia position, with lower limbs bandaged, to perform a right percutaneous nephrolithotomy. In the immediate postoperative period, significant pain was reported in the left lower limb. The limb appeared oedematous and cyanotic, although pedis pulses were preserved. Doppler ultrasound ruled out venous thrombosis. Suspecting compartment syndrome, the patient underwent a complete decompression fasciotomy of the four left leg compartments. After the surgery, values of creatine phosphokinase reached 80.000 UI/L and serum creatinine levels were 1.53 mg/dL. The patient was taken to the intensive care unit. Six months after the episode, the patient still needs rehabilitation care. The compartment syndrome is a rare complication in lithotomy position, but never described in the Galdakao-modified supine Valdivia position before, with the lower limbs in moderate flexion, and with the ipsilateral lower limb in a slightly inferior position with respect to the other. It may lead to skin necrosis, permanent neuromuscular dysfunction, myoglobinuric renal failure, amputation and even death. Therefore, this complication must be suspected and early decompression of the compartment must be performed. Risk factors include obesity, peripheral vascular disease (advanced age, hypertension, hyperlipidemia and diabetes mellitus), height, hypothermia, acidemia, BMI, male sex, combined general-spinal anesthesia, prolonged surgery time, systemic hypotension, ASA (American Society of Anesthesiologists) class, lack of operative experience, vasoconstricting drugs, important bleeding during the surgery and increased muscle bulk. CONCLUSION: Compartment syndrome is a potentially life-threatening complication that may occur in the Galdakao-modified supine Valdivia position. It should be suspected in cases with risk factors and compatible clinical symptoms and signs, and treated rapidly to avoid further complications.

Long-term results of the treatment of complex ureteral stenosis with extra-anatomic ureteral bypasses.

INTRODUCTION: Complex ureteral obstruction is a pathology that has always been a challenge for the urologist, especially in patients with high surgical risk or with a short life expectancy. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Between 2002 and 2017, 13 extra-anatomical bypasses were placed. A descriptive retrospective study was carried out. An analysis of the permeability time of the prosthesis was performed using Kaplan-Meyer curves. Demographic and etiological characteristics as well as early and late complications were analysed. RESULTS: Etiologies were benign in 39% (including 3 transplant recipients) and malignant in 69%. Permeability rates were 90.9% at each of 12, 24 and 48 months, respectively, and 75.8% at 60 months. There were no deaths in the early postoperative period, nor intraoperative complications. The most frequent complications were infections. Three of them were associated with bypass extrusion, which needed to be removed. A total of 5 prosthesis had to be removed. 40% of the patients did not present complications. CONCLUSIONS: The extra-anatomical ureteral bypass is an alternative to permanent nephrostomy in the treatment of complex ureteral strictures. Their patency rates after long-term follow-up vary from 90% to 75% at 48 and 60 months, respectively. Their complication rates can be considered acceptable in the patients' clinical contexts.

[Evaluation of the PI-RADSv2 classification in a cohort of patients who underwent a prostate fusion biopsy.] / Evaluación del sistema PI-RADSv2 en una cohorte de pacientes sometidos a biopsia prostática por fusión.

INTRODUCTION: Prostate Fusion biopsy (MRI + prostate ultrasound) is described in literature as superior to classic random transrectal biopsy in order to identify suspicious lesion. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS) proposed by the European Society of Urogenital Radiology (ESUR) for detection of prostate cancer by multiparametric MRI in a consecutive cohort of patients with MRI and transrectal ultrasound prostate fusion-guided biopsy. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 87 patients with suspected Prostatic Cancer on prostate MRI underwent fusion transperineal prostate biopsy in our Department. 37 patients had at least one prior negative classic prostatic transrectal biopsy. Clinically significant tumor was described as Gleason 7(3+4) or higher. The Chi-square test was used to analyze the relationship between prostate cancer and the different PIRADS stages, as well as logistic regression and linear trend tests, comparing the proportions using measures of association intensity. We use the HITACHI Real-Time Virtual Sonography (HI-RVS) system, and the STATA/IC v.14.2 software for statistical analysis. RESULTS: 64.37% patients had tested positive for malignancy. Median age 67.89 years old. Median PSA 9.15 ng/ml, and average prostate volume was 54.05 cc. 124 suspicious lesions were described in prostate MRI (25% PIRADS III, 57% PIRADS IV and 17% PIRADS V). 5/31 lesions PIRADS III, 47/71 PIRADS IV and 18/22 PIRADS V were positive for malignancy, with a statistically significant linear relationship between PIRADS and malignancy (p<0.001) - HR 4.10 (CI 95% 1.81 to 9.32) for PIRADS IV and HR 5.07 (CI95% 2.22 to 11.59) for PIRADS V vs. PIRADS III. 3.23% lesions PIRADS III, 32.39% PIRADS IV and 63.64% PIRADS V corresponded to significant tumors. A statistically significant association between PIRADS and significant tumors (p<0.001) - HR 10.04 (CI95% 1.42 to 71.09) for PIRADS IV and HR 19.73 (CI95% 2.80 to 139.18) for PIRADS V vs PIRADS III was observed -. CONCLUSION: Our results show that transperineal targeted prostate biopsy using multiparametric MRI and transrectal ultrasound fusion is a safe procedure with excellent outcomes to obtain an accurate diagnosis of prostate cancer. Fusion biopsy has the potential to improve the diagnosis of malignancy and clinically significant tumors while reducing overdiagnosis.

INTRODUCCIÓN: La biopsia prostática por fusión se describe como superior a la biopsia transrectal sistemática para identificar lesiones sospechosas de carcinoma de próstata.OBJETIVOS: Evaluar la clasificación PIRADS propuesto por la Sociedad Europea de Radiología Urogenital para la detección de cáncer de próstata mediante RNM en una cohorte consecutiva de pacientes con RNM y biopsia guiada por fusión.MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Estudio observacional transversal. 87 pacientes con sospecha de cáncer de próstata sometidos a biopsia de próstata transperineal y fusión con RNM en nuestro centro. Describimos tumor significativo como Gleason ≥7(3+4), y carcinoma de alto riesgo como Gleason ≥8. Utilizamos la prueba de Chi-cuadrado para analizar la relación entre cáncer de próstata y PIRADS, así como regresión logística y pruebas de tendencia lineal, comparando las proporciones con medidas de intensidad de asociación. Empleamos el sistema HITACHI Real-Time Virtual Sonography y el software STATA/IC v.14.2 para el análisis estadístico.RESULTADOS: 64,37% pacientes presentaron resultado positivo para malignidad. Media de edad 67,89 años (SD7,42), de PSA total 9,15 ng/ml (SD7,85), y de volumen prostático 54,05 cc (SD22,92). Se biopsiaron 124 lesiones sospechosas en RNM (25% PIRADS III, 57,26% PIRADS IV y 17,74% PIRADS V). 5/31 lesiones PIRADS III, 47/71 PIRADS IV y 18/22 PIRADS V fueron positivas para malignidad, con relación lineal estadísticamente significativa entre PIRADS y malignidad (p<0,001), razón de prevalencias (RP) 4,10 (IC95% 1,81-9,32) para PIRADS IV, y RP 5,07 (CI95% 2,2211,59) para PIRADS V respecto a PIRADS III. 3,23% lesiones PIRADS III, 32,39% PIRADS IV y 63,64% PIRADS V correspondieron a tumores significativos. Encontramos asociación estadísticamente significativa entre PIRADS y tumores significativos (p<0,001), RP 10,04 (IC95% 1,42-71,09) para PIRADS IV y RP 19,73 (IC95% 2,80139,18) para PIRADS V respecto a PIRADS III.CONCLUSIÓN: Nuestros resultados muestran que la biopsia de próstata ecodirigida y por fusión utilizando RNM es una técnica segura con excelentes resultados para obtener un diagnóstico preciso de cáncer de próstata, y puede mejorar el diagnóstico de malignidad y de tumores significativos reduciendo el sobrediagnóstico.

Evaluación del sistema PI-RADSv2 en una cohorte de pacientes sometidos a biopsia prostática por fusión / Evaluation of the PI-RADSv2 classification in a cohort of patients who underwent a prostate fusion biopsy

INTRODUCCIÓN: La biopsia prostática por fusión se describe como superior a la biopsia transrectal sistemática para identificar lesiones sospechosas de carcinoma de próstata. OBJETIVOS: Evaluar la clasificación PIRADS propuesto por la Sociedad Europea de Radiología Urogenital para la detección de cáncer de próstata mediante RNM en una cohorte consecutiva de pacientes con RNM y biopsia guiada por fusión. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Estudio observacional transversal. 87 pacientes con sospecha de cáncer de próstata sometidos a biopsia de próstata transperineal y fusión con RNM en nuestro centro. Describimos tumor significativo como Gleason ≥ 7(3 + 4), y carcinoma de alto riesgo como Gleason ≥ 8. Utilizamos la prueba de Chi-cuadrado para analizar la relación entre cáncer de próstata y PIRADS, así como regresión logística y pruebas de tendencia lineal, comparando las proporciones con medidas de intensidad de asociación. Empleamos el sistema HITACHI Real-Time Virtual Sonography y el software STATA/IC v.14.2 para el análisis estadístico. RESULTADOS: 64,37% pacientes presentaron resultado positivo para malignidad. Media de edad 67,89 años (SD 7,42), de PSA total 9,15 ng/ml (SD 7,85), y de volumen prostático 54,05 cc (SD 22,92). Se biopsiaron 124 lesiones sospechosas en RNM (25% PIRADS III, 57,26% PIRADS IV y 17,74% PIRADS V). 5/31 lesiones PIRADS III, 47/71 PIRADS IV y 18/22 PIRADS V fueron positivas para malignidad, con relación lineal estadísticamente significativa entre PIRADS y malignidad (p < 0,001), razón de prevalencias (RP) 4,10 (IC95% 1,81-9,32) para PIRADS IV, y RP 5,07 (CI95% 2,2211,59) para PIRADS V respecto a PIRADS III. 3,23% lesiones PIRADS III, 32,39% PIRADS IV y 63,64% PIRADS V correspondieron a tumores significativos. Encontramos asociación estadísticamente significativa entre PIRADS y tumores significativos (p < 0,001), RP 10,04 (IC95% 1,42-71,09) para PIRADS IV y RP 19,73 (IC95% 2,80139,18) para PIRADS V respecto a PIRADS III. CONCLUSIÓN: Nuestros resultados muestran que la biopsia de próstata ecodirigida y por fusión utilizando RNM es una técnica segura con excelentes resultados para obtener un diagnóstico preciso de cáncer de próstata, y puede mejorar el diagnóstico de malignidad y de tumores significativos reduciendo el sobrediagnóstico

INTRODUCTION: Prostate Fusion biopsy (MRI + prostate ultrasound) is described in literature as superior to classic random transrectal biopsy in order to identify suspicious lesion. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS) proposed by the European Society of Urogenital Radiology (ESUR) for detection of prostate cancer by multiparametric MRI in a consecutive cohort of patients with MRI and transrectal ultrasound prostate fusion-guided biopsy. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 87 patients with suspected Prostatic Cancer on prostate MRI underwent fusion transperineal prostate biopsy in our Department. 37 patients had at least one prior negative classic prostatic transrectal biopsy. Clinically significant tumor was described as Gleason 7(3+4) or higher. The Chi-square test was used to analyze the relationship between prostate cancer and the different PIRADS stages, as well as logistic regression and linear trend tests, comparing the proportions using measures of association intensity. We use the HITACHI Real-Time Virtual Sonography (HI-RVS) system, and the STATA/IC v.14.2 software for statistical analysis. RESULTS: 64.37% patients had tested positive for malignancy. Median age 67.89 years old. Median PSA 9.15 ng/ml, and average prostate volume was 54.05 cc. 124 suspicious lesions were described in prostate MRI (25% PIRADS III, 57% PIRADS IV and 17% PIRADS V). 5/31 lesions PIRADS III, 47/71 PIRADS IV and 18/22 PIRADS V were positive for malignancy, with a statistically significant linear relationship between PIRADS and malignancy (p < 0.001) - HR 4.10 (CI 95% 1.81 to 9.32) for PIRADS IV and HR 5.07 (CI95% 2.22 to 11.59) for PIRADS V vs. PIRADS III. 3.23% lesions PIRADS III, 32.39% PIRADS IV and 63.64% PIRADS V corresponded to significant tumors. A statistically significant association between PIRADS and significant tumors (p < 0.001) - HR 10.04 (CI95% 1.42 to 71.09) for PIRADS IV and HR 19.73 (CI95% 2.80 to 139.18) for PIRADS V vs PIRADS III was observed -. CONCLUSION: Our results show that transperineal targeted prostate biopsy using multiparametric MRI and transrectal ultrasound fusion is a safe procedure with excellent outcomes to obtain an accurate diagnosis of prostate cancer. Fusion biopsy has the potential to improve the diagnosis of malignancy and clinically significant tumors while reducing overdiagnosis

[Diagnosis and follow-up of benign prostatic hyperplasia by ultrasound]. / Diagnóstico y seguimiento de la hipertrofia prostática benigna mediante ecografía.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study is to analyze the utility of ultrasound in the evaluation and treatment selection of patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). METHODS: A total of 5000 patients older than 50 years and with prostatic symptoms were evaluated with abdominal ultrasound and in selected cases with transrectal ultrasound. RESULTS: The first ultrasonographic sign of BPH is the increase of anteroposterior and longitudinal diameters. Prostatic volume is measured with a safety of 80%, post-void volume and indirect signs of bladder obstruction are also determined by ultrasound. Upper urinary tract pathological conditions can be also detected. CONCLUSIONS: Ultrasound associated with PSA and urinary flow are adequate to evaluate and select treatment in patients with BPH.

[The role of transrectal ultrasound on prostatic cryotherapy and brachytherapy]. / Papel de la ecografía transrectal en crioterapia y braquiterapia prostáticas.

OBJECTIVES: Transrectal ultrasound is the method that gives a direct image of the prostate, its limits, structural and morphologic anomalies, and anatomical relations. Therefore, prostate volume is easily determined, being the first step for the application of certain therapeutic procedures. Prostatic cryotherapy and brachytherapy have been developed over the last years as minimally invasive options for the treatment of prostate cancer. Transrectal ultrasound of the prostate has allowed the application of these technologies in the daily practice, guaranteeing high efficacy and safety indexes. Cryosurgery is the controlled freezing of tissues. Prostatic transrectal ultrasound is the only method able to show the real-time evolution of prostatic cryoablation, allowing the urologist to control the evolution of the ice ball and to reach the targeted anatomical structures guaranteeing the oncological objectives, and diminishing complications and sequels. Brachytherapy, as a local intraprostatic radiotherapy, needs exact volume and dose calculations before the implant of the radioactive source within the gland. With transrectal ultrasound of the prostate, ultrasound-tomographic cuts are made for prostatic volume calculation and planimetry Once dosimetry is completed, real-time transrectal ultrasound control is necessary to perform the implant of the needles loaded with the seeds. Today, prostate cryotherapy and brachytherapy would be inconceivable without transrectal ultrasound.

[Ultrasonography for the study of small renal masses]. / Estudio ultrasonográfico de las masas renales de pequeño tamaño.

OBJECTIVES: To perform an update on the usefulness of ultrasound in the study of small size renal tumors and its current possibilities. METHODS: We review the results of ultrasound in this pathology with the addition of the most recent technological advances such as a harmonic digital converters and power color Doppler. We analyze its contribution to the differential diagnosis of the cystic pathology, to the definition of solid masses, to the detection and characterization of small size masses, and to the definition of the vascular patterns of various tumors. RESULTS: Ultrasonography offers a diagnostic safety of 98% in cystic masses, being able to detect them from 0.5 cm diameter in favourable conditions. The differential diagnosis of multiloculated masses, multivesicular hydatid cyst, multiloculated cystic nephroma, and multiloculated cystic carcinoma still poses great difficulty, the same way it happens with other radiological tests. For solid masses, the greater image resolution has lead to a progressive increase in the incidental detection of tumors and the percentage of patients candidates to conservative surgery due to the decrease in size. It is easy to differentiate between adenocarcinoma and angiomyolipoma, up to 85% of the cases, but the rest of the tumors do not have specific characteristics. For small size masses, smaller than 3 cm, ultrasound sensitivity is clearly inferior to CT scan. Power color Doppler helps to confirm the existence of solid masses and helps a better differential diagnosis with pseudo tumors. CONCLUSIONS: The modern ultrasound techniques provide a high cost-effectiveness both in detection and definition of the nature of small size renal masses.

[Transrectal ultrasound-guided prostatic biopsy: contribution of an ultrasound diagnostic unit after ten years of experience]. / Biopsia transrectal ecodirigida de próstata: aportación de una unidad urológica de diagnóstico ecográfico tras 10 años de experiencia.

OBJECTIVES: Although transrectal ultrasound-guided (TRUS) prostatic biopsy is the procedure of choice for the diagnosis of prostate cancer (PC), neither the ideal number of cores nor the number of repeated biopsies, nor the required diagnostic yield have been established. After our experience of ten years with TRUS biopsy we perform a review of the technique and its indications. METHODS: PSA, ultrasound features, and pathologic data of 6000 patients undergoing modified sextant TRUS biopsy between 1994 to December 2002 were collected. 222 patients undergoing ten-core TRUS biopsy were included in an experimental group to study the role of the extended biopsy. The contribution of the extra cores to the diagnostic yield in the experimental group was studied to determine the effectiveness of the extended biopsy, using as a control group 552 patients undergoing sextant TRUS biopsy during 2002. Both groups were comparable for the study variables at the start of the study. RESULTS: The incidence of PC in the first biopsy in the group of 6000 patients was 39.1% (2345/6000). Patients with PSA between 4 and 10 ng/ml have an incidence of PC greater than 50% among prostates smaller than 20 cc, diminishing down to 8.9% in those greater than 50 cc. The percentage of PC among patients with negative digital rectal examination (DRE), normal TRUS, and PSA below 4 ng/ml was 16.7%. The diagnostic yield for PSA density lower than 0.11 ng/ml/cc was lower than 8%. The free/total PSA ratio shows a 13.7% incidence of PC with values higher than 0.24. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the only non-significant parameter was free/total PSA. Sixty (27.15%) patients of the extended TRUS biopsy group had PC. Only 2.25% of the 221 patients benefited from the augmented number of biopsies. There were no significant differences in the figures of prostate cancer between groups. Only PSA and volume where significant in the multivariate logistic regression analysis; number of samples, PSA density and age lacked of influence in the detection of PC. CONCLUSIONS: The sextant biopsy model obtaining cores from the lateral horns of the prostate continues to be the reference for TRUS biopsy, and the extended biopsy is not applicable to all patients from the beginning do to the small increase in the diagnostic yield. Isolated PSA may not be the unique reference to indicate TRUS biopsy, being volume, in our experience, a definitive factor for the adjustment of high risk levels.

[Testicular ultrasonography]. / Ecografía testicular.

OBJECTIVES: To review the contribution of ultrasound to the differential diagnosis of scrotal pathology, both testicular and adnexal. METHODS: We performed a bibliographic review on the topic, adding the experience of our Unit over the years; we classified the pathology in testicular and extratesticular, separating liquid and solid lesions, and a miscellaneous group of unclassifiable cases. RESULTS: Currently, ultrasonography with high frequency equipment allows not only to differentiate between intra and extratesticular lesions, but also to identify specific lesions, the manage of which may include follow-up without need of unavoidable surgery. CONCLUSIONS: Ultrasonography is a painless simple test that may be repeated without inconvenience so that it is the first test to be indicated for any problem of the scrotal content.

[Cryotherapy III, bibliographic review. Our experience(II)]. / Criocirugía (tercera parte). Revisión de la literatura y nuestra experiencia. (II).

OBJECTIVES: To perform a bibliographic review of the main features of cryotherapy as a therapeutic option in the monagemente of prostate cancer and to report our initial experience. METHODS: We employed the Endocare Fast-Trac system (Medipro) with 2.4 mm needles implanted in a single maneouvre without rack or transrectal U.S. transducer support. Two cycles of freezing thawing were employed, with apex backward movement when necessary. Freezing cycle duration was between 7-10 minutes or more. The Onik maneouvre--injection of saline into the Denonvillier's space-diminishes the risk of rectal injury and fistula allowing reaching posterior limits of the icaball beyond the prostatic capsule. RESULTS: We treated 20 patients. Follow-up was between 3036 months. 58% of the patients had unilateral prostate cancer, 42% bilateral. In accordance to the classic definition 9 patients were classified as low risk of extraprostatic disease, 6 medium risk and 5 high risk; using number of positive cores as the criterion for risk 5, 6 and 9 were low, medium and high risk respectively. Per protocol prostate biopsies were performed in 18 patients 6, 12 and 24 months after treatment. Two patients underwent a second treatment due to persistence of cancer cells in the 6-month biopsy (11%). 3-month PSA nadirs after a total of 21 cryo treatments administered were < 0,2 ng/cc in 15 cases (78.9%), < 0.5 ng/cc in 17 (89.4%) and < or = 1.0 ng/cc in 18 (94.7%); it was over 1 ng/cc in only 5.6%. 30 month PSA for the same cutoff values was 27.8%, 50.0%, 66.6% and 33.3%, respectively. Prostate cancer cells were detected in the 12-month biopsies of 5.5% cases. All 24-month biopsies were negative. COMPLICATIONS: We observed scrotal edema, hematoma, perineal pain and constipation which lasted 2-3 weeks. 1 patient suffered injury of the mucosa at the prostatic urethra, which did not result in rectal fistula and was treated with bladder catheter for 3 months. 4 patients had erectile dysfunction before treatment. All others presented erectile dysfunction after treatment; 3 of them (20%) recovered rigidity enough to have intercourse over the 30 month period. No urethral sloughing or acute urinary retention appeared and all patients are continent. CONCLUSIONS: Prostatic cryosurgery is an effective, minimally invasive procedure for the treatment of prostate cancer with very low surgical risk, low morbidity and almost null mortality.

[Cryotherapy III, Bibliographic review. Our experience (I)]. / Criocirugía (tercera parte). Revisión de la literatura y nuestra experiencia. (I).

OBJECTIVES: To perform a bibliographic review of the main features of cryotherapy as a therapeutic option in the managemente of prostate cancer and to report our initial experience. METHODS: We employed the Endocare Fast-Trac system (Medipro) with 2,4 mm needles implanted in a single maneouvre without rack or transrectal US transducer support. Two cycles of freezing--hawing were employed, with apex backward movement when necessary. Freezing cycle duration was between 7-10 minutes or more. The Onik maneouvre-injection of saline into the Denonvillier's space--diminishes the risk of rectal injury and fistula allowing reaching posterior limits of the ica-ball beyond the prostatic capsule. RESULTS: We treated 20 patients. Follow-up was between 30-36 months. 58% of the patients had unilateral prostate cancer, 42% bilateral. In accordance to the classic definition 9 patients were classified as low risk of extraprostatic disease, 6 medium risk and 5 high risk; using number of positive cores as the criterion for risk 5, 6 and 9 were low, medium and high risk respectively. Per protocol prostate biopsies were performed in 18 patients 6, 12 and 24 months after treatment. Two patients underwent a second treatment due to persistence of cancer cells in the 6-month biopsy (11%). 3-month PSA nadirs after a total of 21 cryo treatments administered were < 0,2 ng/cc in 15 cases (78,9%), < 0,5 ng/cc in 17 (89,4%) and < or = 1.0 ng/cc in 18 (94,7%); it was over 1 ng/cc in only 5,6%. 30 month PSA for the same cutoff values was 27.8%, 50.0%, 66.6% and 33.3%, respectively. Prostate cancer cells were detected in the 12-month biopsies of 5.5% cases. All 24-month biopsies were negative. COMPLICATIONS: We observed scrotal edema, hematoma, perineal pain and constipation which lasted 2-3 weeks. 1 patient suffered injury of the mucosa at the prostatic urethra, which did not result in rectal fistula and was treated with bladder catheter for 3 months. 4 patients had erectile dysfunction before treatment. All others presented erectile dysfunction after treatment; 3 of them (20%) recovered rigidity enough to have intercourse over the 30 month period. No urethral sloughing or acute urinary retention appeared and all patients are continent. CONCLUSIONS: Prostatic cryosurgery is an effective, minimally invasive procedure for the treatment of prostate cancer with very low surgical risk, low morbidity and almost null mortality.

[Treatment of upper urinary tract tumors. Report of our experience]. / Tratamiento de los tumores del tracto urinario superior. Aportación de nuestra experiencia.

OBJECTIVES: The objective of this article is to perform a comprehensive exposition of the various non-endourological treatment options for upper urinary tract tumors in order to set the bases to choose the most adequate surgical indication depending on tumors' and patients' characteristics; we consider the various surgical approaches, and the historic evolution from the classic indication established by Albarran (radical nephroureterectomy with bladder cuff) to the current ones more conservative. We also consider the role of radiotherapy and chemotherapy in the treatment of these tumors. METHODS/RESULTS: We refer to the conclusions of various authors and their large series published in the literature, series considered classic already, and provide support adding our experience by reviewing 223 patients treated from 1977 to 2003 with a mean follow-up of 45 months (maximum 238 months). CONCLUSIONS: We can state that it is acceptable to indicate less aggressive ways of treatment (nephroureterectomy without bladder cuff, distal or partial ureterectomy, and conservative operations) if the oncological radicality requirements are met, remembering that site, tumor grade and stage are determinant in the outcome.

[Technical principles of prostatic cryosurgery (Part 1)]. / Principios técnicos de la criocirugía prostática. (1a Parte).

OBJECTIVES: Cryosurgery is defined as in situ freezing of tissues. Criosurgery in the treatment of prostate cancer aims to: 1- Eliminate all the glandular tissues and completely destroy the adenocarcinoma, 2- With a minimum number of complications. a) Preserving neighbour structures: bladder neck, striated sphincter, and rectum. b) Preserving urethral mucosa to reduce the elimination of sloughing tissues. METHODS: We describe the technique of prostatic cryosurgery including all innovations introduced during the last ten years. The map with the number and situation of the 6-8 crioprobes should be done in such a way that the iceball created around each of them overlaps the contiguous ones. Probe-mapping and icing strategy together get the prostate included in a unique, solid mass, in which temperature descents homogeneously and spreads out of its limits, so that intraprostatic and extraprostatic temperatures (sensors at the apex, Denonvilliers fascia and both neurovascular bundles) are below -40 degrees C. RESULTS: The standardized technique is based on: Substitution of liquid nitrogen by argon. Use of 6 to 8 cryoprobes. The probes are properly inserted into the perineum percutaneously under transrectal ultrasound guidance. Ice ball evolution control by biplane transrectal ultrasound. Separation of the two layers of Denonvilliers' fascia by injection of saline solution. Real-time measurement of temperature descent. Minimal temperature lower than -40 degrees C Commercial ureteral heating system. Double cycle of freezing-unfreezing Administration of hormonal therapy during time enough to avoid the gland size to exceed 45-50 cc. CONCLUSIONS: We describe the most advanced technique for prostatic freezing, highlighting the basic requirements to achieve the objectives pursued. It has improved oncologic results, in relation to PSA and percentage of negative biopsies, and has dramatically reduced complications.