Predictors of biochemical recurrence in pT3b prostate cancer after radical prostatectomy without adjuvant radiotherapy.

BACKGROUND: Men with pathologic evidence of seminal vesicle invasion (SVI) at radical prostatectomy (RP) have higher rates of biochemical recurrence (BCR) and mortality. Adjuvant radiotherapy (XRT) has been shown to increase freedom from BCR, but its impact on overall survival is controversial and it may represent overtreatment for some. The present study, therefore, sought to identify men with SVI at higher risk for BCR after RP in the absence of adjuvant XRT. METHODS: We identified 180 patients in our institutional database who underwent RP from 1990 to 2011 who had pT3bN0-1 disease. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to estimate freedom from BCR for the overall cohort and substratified by Gleason score, PSA, surgical margin status, and lymph node positivity. Cox Proportional Hazards models were used to determine demographic and histopathological factors predictive of BCR. Time-dependent ROC curve analysis was conducted to assess the ability of the UCSF-CAPRA score to predict BCR. RESULTS: Median age was 64 years, and 52.8% of patients were preoperative D'Amico high risk. At RP, 41.4% had a positive surgical margin (PSM), and 12.2% had positive lymph nodes (LN). The most common sites of PSM were the peripheral zone (56.8%) and the apex (32.4%). Positive bladder neck margin (HR = 7.01, P = 0.035) and PSA 10-20 versus ≤10 (HR = 1.63, P = 0.047) predicted higher BCR in multivariable analyses. Median follow-up was 26 months, and 2-, 3-, and 5-year BCR-free rates were 56.1%, 49.0%, and 39.5%. Log rank tests showed that freedom from BCR was significantly less for Gleason 9-10, PSA >20, PSM, and N1 patients. The area under curve (AUC) for CAPRA in predicting BCR was 0.713 at 2 years, 0.692 at 3 years, and 0.641 at 5 years. Increasing CAPRA score was associated with an increased risk of BCR (HR = 1.33, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: pT3b prostate cancer is a heterogeneous disease commonly associated with several high-risk features. Stratifying men with SVI by prognostic features (i.e., Gleason, PSA, node status, surgical margin status) and using these features to augment the CAPRA score will improve identification of those at higher risk for BCR that should be strongly considered for adjuvant XRT.

Outcomes with delayed dorsal vein complex ligation during robotic assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy.

INTRODUCTION: There are many concerns expressed by urologists performed robotic assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP) regarding management of the dorsal vein complex (DVC). We sought to examine the influence of delayed DVC ligation versus standard DVC ligation on the apical surgical margin status and other key surgical parameters following RALP. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The Columbia University Urologic Oncology Database was retrospectively reviewed to identify patients who underwent RALP between 2008-2011. Operative records were analyzed to determine whether the DVC was ligated in the 'standard' or 'delayed' manner. The standard group had the DVC ligated prior to the apical dissection; in the delayed group, the DVC was initially transected and subsequently oversewn after completion of the apical dissection. Clinical and pathologic data was retrospectively evaluated and stratified by the type of DVC ligation to compare positive apical margin rates based on DVC-control technique. RESULTS: A total of 244 patients were identified, including 118 in the standard group and 126 in the delayed group. Estimated blood loss (112 mL versus 122 mL), operative time (132 min versus 126 min), and postoperative continence rates (81% versus 84% at 3 months) were similar between the standard and delayed DVC groups (p = NS). Apical margin status was also similar in the two groups, with 3.4% having a positive surgical margin in the standard DVC ligation arm, and 1.6% having a positive margin in the delayed DVC ligation arm (p = 0.43). CONCLUSIONS: Delayed DVC ligation after apical dissection is a safe approach with comparable surgical outcomes during RALP. From a technical standpoint, we feel it allows for improved visualization of the apical dissection and therefore has become standard practice at our institution.

Comparison of biochemical failure definitions for predicting local cancer recurrence following cryoablation of the prostate.

BACKGROUND: Various definitions of biochemical failure (BF) have been used to predict cancer recurrence following prostate cryoablation. However to date, none of these definitions have been validated for this use. We have reviewed several definitions of BF to determine their accuracy in predicting biopsy-proven local recurrence following prostate cryoablation. METHODS: The Columbia University Urologic Oncology Database was queried for patients who underwent prostate cryoablation between 1994 and 2010, and who subsequently underwent surveillance biopsy due to clinical suspicion of prostate cancer recurrence. Serial postoperative prostate-specific antigen (PSA) results were used to determine BF according to various definitions of BF. Biopsy results were used to determine local recurrence. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve area were calculated for each of the BF definitions. RESULTS: A total of 110 patients met inclusion criteria for the study. These patients were treated with primary full-gland (n = 38), primary focal (n = 24), or salvage cryoablation (n = 48). On surveillance biopsy, 66 patients (60%) were found to have locally recurrent prostate cancer. The most accurate BF definition overall was PSA nadir plus 2 ng/ml (Phoenix definition), with sensitivity, specificity, and ROC curve area of 68%, 59%, and 0.64, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, the Phoenix definition best predicted local cancer recurrence following prostate cryoablation. These preliminary data may be useful for researchers evaluating the short-term efficacy of cryoablation, and for urologists assessing their patients for potential cancer recurrence.

R.E.N.A.L. nephrometry score accurately predicts complications following laparoscopic renal cryoablation.

PURPOSE: The R.E.N.A.L. nephrometry is a standardized scoring system that quantifies the complexity of kidney tumors. We evaluated our experience with laparoscopic cryoablation and determined the ability of nephrometry to predict complications. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We reviewed the records of all patients who underwent laparoscopic cryoablation from July 2005 to February 2010 at 3 institutions. The composite R.E.N.A.L. score was determined using preoperative imaging, and tumors were categorized as low (4-6), moderate (7-9) or high complexity (10-12). Perioperative data were analyzed to determine the presence of complications. The distribution of surgical complications and tumor categories was compared using the chi-square and Student's t test. Logistic regression was used to analyze the association between nephrometry score and postoperative complications. RESULTS: A total of 210 patients underwent laparoscopic cryoablation, 77 of whom had available preoperative imaging. Mean patient age was 64.5 years and mean tumor size was 2.6 cm (range 1 to 4.5). Mean nephrometry score was 6.1 (range 4 to 12). Of the tumors 47 (61%) were categorized as low, 23 (30%) as moderate and 7 (9%) as high complexity lesions. Overall there were 15 (19.5%) complications, including 7 (9.5%) major and 8 (10%) minor complications. There was a significant difference in complication rates among the low (47 patients, 0%), moderate (23 patients, 35%) and high complexity (7 patients, 100%) groups, respectively (p <0.001). On multivariate analysis nephrometry score was independently associated with a higher risk of postoperative complications (OR 2.23, 95% CI 1.05-2.11, p = 0.008). CONCLUSIONS: In a multi-institutional cohort of patients undergoing laparoscopic cryoablation, the R.E.N.A.L. nephrometry score is independently associated with the occurrence of complications. Therefore, nephrometry can be used to successfully stratify patients in terms of anticipated risk of complications which, in turn, may help with surgical decision making.

Long-term outcomes in younger men following permanent prostate brachytherapy.

PURPOSE: We reviewed the long-term outcomes in men undergoing permanent prostate brachytherapy with a focus on those presenting before age 60 years. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between 1992 and 2005 a total of 2,119 patients with clinical stage T1-T2, N0, M0 prostate cancer treated with permanent prostate brachytherapy were included in this study. Treatment regimens consisted of permanent prostate brachytherapy with or without hormone therapy, permanent prostate brachytherapy with external beam radiotherapy, or all 3 modalities. Biochemical recurrence was defined using the Phoenix definition. Multivariate analysis was performed to determine if age and/or other clinicopathological features were associated with disease progression. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to calculate rates of freedom from progression with the log rank test to compare patients younger than 60 vs 60 years or older. RESULTS: Median followup was 56.1 months. In the study population 237 patients were younger than 60 years at diagnosis (11%). The 5 and 10-year freedom from progression rates were 90.1% and 85.6%, respectively, for the entire population. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that prostate specific antigen (p <0.01), biopsy Gleason score (p <0.0001) and year of treatment (p <0.001) were associated with freedom from progression while age (p = 0.95) and clinical stage (p = 0.11) were not. There was no significant difference in freedom from progression between men younger than 60, or 60 years or older (log rank p = 0.46). In the younger cohort the 10-year freedom from progression for patients presenting with low, intermediate and high risk disease was 91.3%, 80.0% and 70.2% compared to 91.8%, 83.4% and 72.1%, respectively, for men 60 years or older. CONCLUSIONS: Our long-term results confirm favorable outcomes after permanent prostate brachytherapy in men younger than 60 years. Outcomes are impacted by disease related risk factors but not by age or clinical stage. Definitive treatment options for younger men with clinically localized prostate cancer should include permanent prostate brachytherapy.

Parenchymal echo texture predicts testicular salvage after torsion: potential impact on the need for emergent exploration.

PURPOSE: In the setting of signs and symptoms of testicular torsion the absence of diastolic flow and/or color flow on Doppler ultrasound has traditionally prompted emergent scrotal exploration. This practice emanates largely from the difficulty on ultrasound of distinguishing salvageable torsed testes from those that are not salvageable. We identified ultrasound findings predictive of testicular viability or the lack thereof. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the charts of all boys who underwent scrotal exploration for signs and symptoms of torsion during a 4-year period. In those who underwent preoperative Doppler ultrasound of the scrotum ultrasound findings were reviewed, as were the operative dictations. In patients who underwent orchiectomy the pathology reports were also reviewed. In patients in whom the torsed testis appeared viable and who underwent orchiopexy followup data were reviewed when available. Emergency room charts were also reviewed to ascertain, when documented, the duration of pain before presentation to the emergency room and the interval between ultrasound and operating room. RESULTS: During this period 55 boys underwent exploration after preoperative scrotal Doppler ultrasound revealed absent diastolic flow and/or color flow Doppler in the symptomatic testis. Assessment of parenchymal echogenicity revealed heterogeneity in 37 testes (67%), of which none were deemed viable at exploration. Orchiectomy was performed in 34 of 37 cases. Pathological examination revealed necrosis in all 34 cases, a finding consistent with late torsion. The remaining 3 testes underwent orchiopexy by parental directive despite nonviability, as confirmed by biopsy and subsequent atrophy. Thus, heterogeneity on preoperative ultrasound was universally predictive of organ loss (chi-square p <0.001). Of the 18 symptomatic testes (33%) demonstrating homogeneity and isoechogenicity on ultrasound 16 (89%) were deemed viable at exploration. Boys in whom the torsed testicle was nonviable on exploration experienced an average of 27.5 hours of pain preoperatively (range 5 to 72), whereas boys in whom the torsed testis was salvaged experienced an average of 20.5 hours of pain (range 2 to 96) (p = 0.073). The nonviable group underwent surgery an average of 49 minutes after ultrasound, whereas the viable group underwent surgery 52 minutes after ultrasound (p = 0.92). None of the 55 patients experienced any surgical or anesthetic complications and no pathological condition was noted intraoperatively in the contralateral asymptomatic testis. CONCLUSIONS: In the setting of Doppler proven testicular torsion heterogeneous parenchymal echo texture indicates late torsion and testicular nonviability. Therefore, the case may not require emergent scrotal exploration. On the other hand, homogeneous echo texture portends extremely well for testicular viability. Thus, such testes should be explored emergently.

Close surgical margins after radical prostatectomy mimic biochemical recurrence rates of positive margins.

INTRODUCTION: The significance of a "close" but negative surgical margin after radical prostatectomy (RP) is controversial. We evaluated the effect of a close surgical margin (CSM) on biochemical recurrence (BCR) compared to a negative margin after RP. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Pathologic records of men who underwent RP from 2005-2011 were retrospectively reviewed. Margin status was classified as "positive" (PSM), "negative" (NSM), or "close" (<1mm from margin). BCR was defined as 2 consecutive postoperative prostate specific antigen measurements >0.2ng/ml. Probability of BCR was estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method and stratified by margin status. Univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were used to determine whether close margin status was associated with an increased rate of BCR. RESULTS: A total of 609 consecutive patients underwent RP (93% robotic) and had complete pathologic data. A total of 126 (20.7%) had PSM, 453 (74.4%) had NSM, and 30 (4.9%) had CSM (mean<0.44mm). The 3-year BCR-free survival for patients with CSM was similar to those with PSM (70.4% vs. 74.5%, log rank P = 0.66) and significantly worse than those with NSM (90%, log rank P<0.001). On multivariable regression, positive margin status (HR = 3.26, P<0.001) was significantly associated with a higher risk of BCR, along with close margins (HR = 2.7, P = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS: BCR for patients with CSM at RP is tantamount to PSM patients. CSM <1mm should be explicitly noted on pathology reports. Patients with this finding should be followed up closely and offered adjuvant therapy.

Robot-assisted nephroureterectomy and bladder cuff excision without patient or robot repositioning: description of modified port placement and technique.

INTRODUCTION: Nephroureterectomy (NUx) with full bladder cuff excision is the gold-standard treatment for upper urinary tract urothelial cancer. Although minimally invasive techniques for NUx have demonstrated comparable outcomes to those of the open technique, the robotic technique is limited by the need for intraoperative patient repositioning and robot redocking to manage the distal ureter and bladder cuff. We describe our novel technique of robotic NUx that allows for complete access to the kidney and full bladder cuff excision. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This modified technique was performed on a consecutive series of patients undergoing robotic NUx for upper urinary tract urothelial cancer from August 2012 to January 2014. Operative parameters and pathologic data were recorded, and patients were followed up for surveillance. After insufflation, the robotic trocars are placed in a standardized fashion, allowing for a one-time switch of instruments to facilitate distal ureteral dissection and a wide bladder cuff excision without patient repositioning or robot redocking. RESULTS: Twenty-six patients have undergone NUx using our modified technique. Mean blood loss and operative time were 66 mL and 230 minutes, respectively. There were no intraoperative complications or open conversions, and there were no positive surgical margins. The average follow-up time was 7.8 months (range, 2-17 months), and 4 cases of cancer recurrence in the bladder were identified. CONCLUSIONS: This novel technique for robotic NUx offers a standardized and easy-to-implement approach for NUx that requires a minimal learning curve for an experienced robotic surgeon, while affording a comparable oncologic control without the need for patient repositioning or additional port placement.

Baseline serum 25-hydroxyvitamin d levels in men undergoing radical prostatectomy: is there an association with adverse pathologic features?

INTRODUCTION/BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of vitamin D (VitD) deficiency in men undergoing radical prostatectomy and determine whether an association exists between preoperative VitD levels and adverse pathologic features. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Patients scheduled to undergo radical prostatectomy for clinically localized disease from January to August 2012 were prospectively followed and those with available preoperative serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels were included. Men with a known diagnosis of VitD deficiency or taking VitD supplementation were excluded. Cox regression analysis was performed to determine whether preoperative VitD level is predictive of adverse pathologic outcomes. RESULTS: One hundred consecutive men were included. Mean age was 62 (range, 42-79) years and mean VitD level was 26 (range, 6-57) ng/mL. Overall, 65 men (65%) had suboptimal levels of VitD (< 30 ng/mL), and 32 (32%) had deficiency (< 20 ng/mL). There was no significant correlation between VitD and age (P = .5). In logistic regression analysis, VitD level was not predictive of pathologic Gleason (P = .11), pathologic stage (P = .7), or positive margin status (P = .8). CONCLUSION: The association between VitD and prostate cancer has been controversial and data suggesting an increased risk of aggressive cancer in men with low levels of VitD have been inconsistent. We found that baseline preoperative VitD level was not associated with any adverse pathologic features. However, VitD deficiency is a common finding in this population, although unrelated to patient age. These results represent the first time the correlation between VitD and prostate cancer has been evaluated in a cohort of men undergoing radical prostatectomy.

Pain and analgesic use after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy.

PURPOSE: While robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) is associated with shortened convalescence and decreased blood loss over open prostatectomy, little objective data is available regarding postoperative pain/discomfort and use of analgesic medications after RARP. We sought to examine these parameters in a contemporary cohort. PATIENTS AND METHODS: From 2011 to 2013, patients undergoing RARP were prospectively enrolled in a study to examine various pain parameters and carefully monitor opiate and other analgesic medication use while the patient recovered in the hospital. After discharge, the patients were asked to fill out a daily questionnaire regarding their pain parameters and self-report opiate usage. All questionnaires were based on the Wong-Baker FACES pain rating scale (0-10). Opiate dosages were converted to the approximate oral morphine sulfate equivalent dose (MSE). RESULTS: A total of 60 patients, mean age 61 years, were enrolled in the study, underwent RARP, and completed follow-up questionnaires. None had a history of chronic narcotic use. Intraoperative opiate use was 94.1 mg MSE. There were 73.3% who received immediate postoperative ketorolac. After RARP, the main source of pain/discomfort was abdominal/incisional, followed by urethral catheter-related, penile, and bladder spasm-related discomfort. Abdominal pain was generally moderate for most patients and decreased significantly after about 4 days. Penile and urethral catheter-related discomfort was mild throughout the study period. Opiate analgesic medication use quickly decreased as the subjective pain scores improved. CONCLUSIONS: After RARP, most patients experience mild/moderate abdominal discomfort, which improves steadily over several days. There is also a quick decline in the average opiate pain medication use that corresponds to the subjective improvement in pain symptoms. This information is useful for clinicians counseling patients on the pain associated with RARP and can serve as a reference to compare the convalescence associated with the other options for treatment of patients with localized prostate cancer.

Comparison of robot-assisted and open retropubic radical prostatectomy for risk of biochemical progression in men with positive surgical margins.

OBJECTIVE: Robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) is a minimally invasive alternative to open retropubic radical prostatectomy (RP), and is reported to offer equivalent oncologic outcomes while reducing perioperative morbidity. However, the technique of extirpation can differ based on the usage of thermal energy and coagulation during RARP, which may alter the risk of finding a positive surgical margin (PSM) as cautery may destroy residual cancer cells. We sought to evaluate whether the method of surgery (RP vs RARP) affects the rate of biochemical recurrence (BCR) in patients with PSMs. MATERIALS & METHODS: The Columbia University Urologic Oncology Database was reviewed to identify patients who underwent RP and RARP from 2000 to 2010 and had a PSM on final pathology. BCR was defined as a postoperative prostate-specific antigen (PSA) ≥0.2 ng/mL. The Kaplan-Meier analysis was utilized to calculate BCR rates based on the method of surgery. Cox regression analysis was performed to determine if the method of surgery was associated with BCR. RESULTS: We identified 3267 patients who underwent prostatectomy, of which 910 (28%) had a PSM. Of those with a PSM, 337 patients had available follow-up data, including 229 who underwent RP (68%) and 108 who underwent RARP (32%). At a mean follow-up time of 37 months for the RP group, 103 (46%) patients demonstrated BCR; at a mean follow-up time of 44 months for the RARP group, 62 (57%) patients had a BCR (p=0.140). Two-year BCR-free rates for RP vs RARP were 65% and 49%, respectively (log-rank p<0.001). However, after controlling for age, PSA, grade, and year of surgery, the surgical method was not significantly associated with increased risk of BCR (HR 1.25; p=0.29). CONCLUSION: Our results confirm the noninferiority of RARP to RP with regard to patients with PSMs. As such, all patients with a PSM at RP are at high risk for BCR and should be followed in the same manner regardless of the surgical approach.

Modified-PCNL without modified instruments: a description of technique.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Mini-PCNL was developed to reduce the morbidity of PCNL by using smaller tract sizes. Most mini-techniques, however, require specialized instruments and use ureteroscopes as surrogates for nephroscopes, resulting in decreased visualization, poor irrigation, and difficult fragment extraction. We describe our modified technique (mPCNL) that allows for the use of standard PCNL equipment through a tract that is smaller than standard PCNL (sPCNL) but larger than previously reported for mini-PCNL. TECHNIQUE: After ureteral access with a coaxial anti-retropulsion device, the patient is placed in the prone position. After percutaneous access under fluoroscopic guidance, a 24F balloon dilating catheter is used to place a 24F Amplatz sheath. A standard 26F rigid nephroscope is used to complete the entire procedure, with the modification of selectively removing the outer sheath to allow the scope to fit in the smaller tract. Standard lithotripters and graspers are used, as necessary. ROLE IN PRACTICE: We have performed this technique on 52 patients with a mean stone burden of 19.4 mm. Overall stone-free rate was 100%, even for stones >2 cm. This technique allows for improved visualization and irrigation compared with other mini-PCNL procedures and obviates the need to purchase specialized equipment.

Characterization of perioperative leukocytosis in patients undergoing robot-assisted radical prostatectomy: effects of Gleason score and race.

INTRODUCTION: Our objective was to determine the impact of race and tumor grade on perioperative leukocytosis on patients undergoing robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP). METHODS: A retrospective review of our urologic oncology database for patients undergoing RARP from August 2002 to July 2011 was conducted. A total of 768 patients were identified with complete data. Demographic data, preoperative prostate specific antigen (PSA), biopsy Gleason score, pathology Gleason score, pathology stage, margin status, and node status were collected. White blood cell (WBC) counts were captured preoperatively, 1 hour postoperatively, and on postoperative day 1. We assessed the differences in leukocyte responses according to the race and Gleason score using ANOVA testing. RESULTS: Preoperative WBC was lowest in black men and comparable between white and Hispanic men. At 1 hour, postoperative WBC remained lowest in Black men (p<0.001). Post-RARP leukocytosis varied significantly depending on the race (p<0.001). At 1 hour, patients with Gleason 8-10 tumors had decreased WBC compared to Gleason 6 patients (p<0.05) despite similar preoperative WBC and Charlson comorbidity index values. CONCLUSIONS: We report novel clinical observations that suggest differences in the immune response associated with the race and Gleason grade following RARP. The clinical utility of these findings are yet to be determined.

Diagnostic radiation exposure during surveillance in patients with pT1a renal cell carcinoma.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the pattern of postoperative radiographic surveillance in patients with pT1a renal cell carcinoma (RCC) at a tertiary care hospital. METHODS: An institutionally approved urologic oncology database was used to retrospectively identify patients who underwent partial or radical nephrectomy for pT1a RCC from 1990 to 2010 at a tertiary care center. Baseline characteristics were reviewed, and postoperative imaging for the indication of RCC surveillance was recorded. Radiation exposure was calculated using the effective dose according to imaging modality. Relative risks of the development of solid malignancies and leukemia were calculated from the dose of radiation exposure. RCC recurrence, defined as radiologic evidence of local recurrence or distant metastases, was noted. RESULTS: A total of 1708 patients had undergone partial or radical nephrectomy for a renal mass. Of these, 315 patients had pT1a RCC with postsurgical follow-up, and 252 (80%) of these patients were exposed to ionizing radiation during postoperative surveillance. Mean radiation doses in years 1, 2 to 5, and ≥6 after surgery were 11.4, 47.0, and 13.8 mSv, respectively. Relative risks of radiation-induced solid cancers and leukemia were 1.05 and 1.12, respectively. There were 8 (2.5%) total recurrences. CONCLUSION: During the past 20 years, 80% of patients undergoing surgery for pT1a RCC were monitored with radiation-based imaging during postoperative surveillance. Given the low rate of cancer recurrence in this population, expanded efforts in counseling physicians regarding the risk of ionizing radiation in imaging should be encouraged.

Findings of routine apical margin biopsy during robot-assisted radical prostatectomy.

INTRODUCTION: Intraoperative biopsy of the apical margin during radical prostatectomy has been recommended as a way to reduce the positive margin rate at this location. However, the enhanced visibility of the apex during robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) may obviate this need, allowing for the preservation of maximal urethral length. We assessed pathologic findings of routine apical margin biopsy intraoperative frozen section (IFS) during RARP. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The Columbia University Robotic Database was retrospectively reviewed to identify men who underwent RARP with biopsy of the apical soft tissue (urethroprostatic junction). Both IFS and permanent section samples were analyzed. The clinical characteristics associated with IFS and permanent section histological findings were assessed. RESULTS: In total, 335 men underwent RARP with apical biopsy from December 2007 to August 2011. Of these, 329 had IFS available for analysis. Median age and prostate-specific antigen level were 60 years (range, 42-78 years) and 5.2 ng/mL (interquartile range, 4.1-6.9 ng/mL), respectively. Of the 329 apical IFS cases, cancer was detected in 9 patients (2.7%), benign prostatic glands in 135 (41%), and nonprostatic tissue in 185 (56.3%). On permanent section, cancer was seen in 9 patients (2.7%), benign prostatic glands in 125 (38%), and nonprostatic tissue in 195 (59.3%). False-positive and false-negative rates of detecting cancer on IFS were 33% (3/9) and 1% (3/320), respectively. The overall positive surgical margin rate was 11%. CONCLUSIONS: Cancer is rarely detected by IFS analysis of routine biopsy of the apical margin during RARP. Although routine IFS may not be beneficial for all patients, selective utilization of IFS may be useful in directing apical dissection in men with apical tumors, allowing for the preservation of maximal urethral length.

Comparison of 3 upper tract anticarcinogenic agent delivery techniques in an ex vivo porcine model.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the degree of urothelial exposure using 3 upper tract delivery techniques in an ex vivo porcine model, to determine the optimal modality to locally deliver topical anticarcinogenic agents in patients with upper tract urothelial carcinoma. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An indigo carmine solution was infused into en bloc porcine urinary tracts to test the 3 techniques: antegrade infusion via nephrostomy tube, reflux via indwelling double-pigtail stent, and retrograde administration via a 5F open-ended ureteral catheter. Nine renal units (3 per delivery method) were used. After a 1-hour dwell time, the urinary tracts were bivalved and photographed. Each renal unit was evaluated by 3 blinded reviewers who estimated the total percentage of stained urothelial surface area using a computer-based area approximation system. In addition, as a surrogate for exposure adequacy, a validated equation was used to calculate the staining intensity at 6 predetermined locations in the upper tract, with lower values representing more efficient staining. RESULTS: Mean percent of surface area stained for the nephrostomy tube, double-pigtail stent, and open-ended ureteral catheter groups was 65.2%, 66.2%, and 83.6%, respectively (P = .002). Mean staining intensities were 40.9, 33.4, and 20.4, respectively (P = .023). CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that retrograde infusion via open-ended ureteral catheter is the most efficient method of upper tract therapy delivery. Larger studies using in vivo models should be performed to further validate these findings and potentially confirm this method as optimal for delivery of topical anticarcinogenic agents in upper tract urothelial carcinoma.

Endoscopic management of intraluminal ureteral endometriosis.

OBJECTIVE: To present the largest experience on the ureteroscopic management of ureteral obstruction secondary to intraluminal endometrial implantation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated patients who underwent ureteroscopic management of intraluminal endometriosis from 1996 to 2012. All patients were diagnosed with ureteroscopic biopsy and underwent at least 1 ureteroscopic ablation with a holmium YAG (Ho:Yag) laser. Patients were monitored for evidence of disease persistence, recurrence, or progression with computed tomography, sonography, renal scan, ureteroscopy, and retrograde urography. Success was defined as the complete eradication of ureteral endometriosis, resolution of symptoms, and maintenance of renal function. RESULTS: Five patients were identified. Mean age was 37.5 years. All patients had hydroureteronephrosis at presentation whereas 2 had severely impaired renal function. Three patients were successfully treated with a single ablative procedure, whereas 2 had persistent symptomatic hydroureteronephrosis and underwent repeat ablation. Of those requiring repeat ablation, 1 became disease-free after the second ablation, whereas the other had persistence of disease, requiring nephroureterectomy. Three patients developed ureteral strictures, requiring balloon dilation and serial stent exchanges. At a median follow-up of 35 months (16-84), overall success rate was observed in 4 of 5 patients (80%). CONCLUSION: Endometriosis affects approximately 15% of premenopausal women and can present anywhere along the urinary tract including the ureters, which might result in urinary obstruction and impaired renal function. Although surgical resection is the conventional treatment option for intraluminal endometriosis, ureteroscopic management is a viable nephron-sparing alternative. Follow-up imaging, including ureteroscopic surveillance and retrograde urography is recommended to detect disease recurrence or progression, or both.

A Pilot Study of Laparoscopic Doppler Ultrasound Probe to Map Arterial Vascular Flow within the Neurovascular Bundle during Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy.

Purpose. To report on the feasibility of a new Laparoscopic Doppler ultrasound (LDU) technology to aid in identifying and preserving arterial blood flow within the neurovascular bundle (NVB) during robotic prostatectomy (RARP). Materials and Methods. Nine patients with normal preoperative potency and scheduled for a bilateral nerve-sparing procedure were prospectively enrolled. LDU was used to measure arterial flow at 6 anatomic locations alongside the prostate, and signal intensity was evaluated by 4 independent reviewers. Measurements were made before and after NVB dissection. Modifications in nerve-sparing procedure due to LDU use were recorded. Postoperative erectile function was assessed. Fleiss Kappa statistic was used to evaluate inter-rater agreement for each of the 12 measurements. Results. Analysis of Doppler signal intensity showed maintenance of flow in 80% of points assessed, a decrease in 16%, and an increase in 4%. Plane of NVB dissection was altered in 5 patients (56%) on the left and in 4 patients (44%) on the right. There was good inter-rater reliability for the 4 reviewers. Use of the probe did not significantly increase operative time or result in any complications. Seven (78%) patients had recovery of erections at time of the 8-month follow-up visit. Conclusions. LDU is a safe, easy to use, and effective method to identify local vasculature and anatomic landmarks during RARP, and can potentially be used to achieve greater nerve preservation.

Audio and visual analysis of urologic laparoscopic and robotic skills: objective criteria for surgical skill evaluation.

OBJECTIVE: To assess intraoperative cognitive and motor skills using audio- and video-based analysis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study enrolled 11 surgeons who were categorized into novice (n = 4), intermediate (n = 4), and expert (n = 3) groups. Categorization of skill level was based on years of experience and as determined by the lead expert surgeon. A total of 32 cases were available for analysis, including 5 robotic and 27 laparoscopic renal cases. For each procedure, video and audio components were recorded and sent for grading to 4 blinded judges. The previously validated global rating scale (GRS) and operation-specific rating scale (ORS), as well as a novel cognitive rating scale (CRS), were used to assess performances. Statistical comparisons were performed by analysis of variance. RESULTS: Comparison of the 3 skill levels using analysis of variance showed that each scale was able to differentiate among the levels (P <.05). The mean scores for the before and after audio GRS, ORS, and CRS showed significant difference between the novice, intermediate, and expert groups, demonstrating construct validity. CONCLUSION: The use of intraoperative audio is an innovative way to assess the cognitive ability of the surgeon. The CRS demonstrated construct validity. The addition of the CRS to the already validated GRS and ORS may serve as a reliable system to objectively evaluate laparoscopic and robotic surgical skill.

Outcomes of intrarenal Bacillus Calmette-Guérin/interferon-α2B for biopsy-proven upper-tract carcinoma in situ.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: While nephroureterectomy (NU) remains the gold-standard treatment for upper-tract carcinoma in situ (UT-CIS), it may be unnecessarily aggressive in comparison with the treatment of bladder CIS. Upper-tract administration of bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) has shown promise for UT-CIS, but with limited reports and varied results. Furthermore, all previous reports included patients with positive cytology results without biopsy-proven CIS, or combined BCG with other topical therapies that are used for bladder CIS. We report our experience using a novel technique to directly instill BCG with interferon-α2B (BCG/IFN) into the upper-tract in patients with biopsy-proven UT-CIS. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Patients who received a diagnosis of isolated, biopsy-proven UT-CIS from September 2003 to January 2012 were included. After biopsy, all patients received a 6-week induction course of BCG/IFN, administered via an open-ended ureteral catheter. Initial follow-up was scheduled 1 month after the completion of the intrarenal therapy and consisted of flexible ureteroscopy, selective urinary cytology, retrograde pyelography, and rebiopsy of the upper tract. Complete response (CR) was defined as the absence of visualized lesions on ureteroscopy, negative selective cytology results, and absence of clinical progression. Absence of visualized lesions with persistently positive cytology results or persistence of lesions after induction was considered no response (NR). New upper-tract lesions after an initial CR were considered recurrences. Patients with a CR were placed on maintenance therapy for 2 years. Surveillance was performed every 3 months with ureteroscopy, selective cytology, and imaging. RESULTS: Eleven patients (mean age=73 years) were followed for a median of 13.5 months (3.7-103.3 mos). Eight patients had an initial CR, while three initially had NR. Two of the NR patients had negative biopsy results but persistently positive cytology results; both of these patients underwent a second induction course and achieved a CR. The third NR patient had persistence of lesions after induction and was offered a nephroureterctomy. Total kidney preservation rate was 91% (10/11). There were no treatment-related adverse events. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates the safety and efficacy of intrarenal BCG/IFN maintenance therapy for patients with UT-CIS. Unlike other mechanisms of delivery, including percutaneous administration or reflux via double pigtail stents, this office-based technique spares the morbidity of a chronically indwelling nephrostomy tube or ureteral stent.