Gynaecological organ involvement in females undergoing radical cystectomy: a multicentre study.

OBJECTIVE: To report the incidence of malignancy in gynaecological organs removed during radical cystectomy (RC). PATIENTS AND METHODS: A retrospective multicentre study of 1600 RCs at three high-volume institutions between January 2009 and March 2022 was performed. Pathological findings in gynaecological organs in female RC specimens were reviewed. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to identify predictors of malignant gynaecological organ involvement (GOI) at time of RC. RESULTS: Overall, 302 females with a median (interquartile range) age of 68 (61-75) years underwent RC for clinical (c)Ta-T4 bladder cancer. In all, 56 patients (18.5%) received neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Malignant GOI was seen in 20 patients (6.6%); the most common single sites of GOI were the uterus (five patients) and vaginal wall (four), followed by cervix (one), and ovaries (one). Nine patients had involvement of more than one gynaecological organ. No females had a primary gynaecological malignancy detected incidentally at RC. Patients with GOI were more likely to have cT3/T4 stage (P < 0.001), preoperative hydronephrosis (P = 0.004), lymphovascular invasion (P = 0.002), and squamous cell carcinoma (P = 0.005) than those without GOI. On multivariable analysis, cT4 stage was an independent predictor of malignant GOI (odds ratio 88.3, 95% confidence interval 10.1-1214; P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: To our knowledge, we present the largest multi-institutional study examining malignant GOI in females with bladder cancer undergoing RC. The rate of GOI at the time of RC is low and associated with higher clinical stage. In the absence of clinical or radiological evidence of sexual organ involvement, our results do not support their routine removal at the time of RC.

The translational implications of the science behind the overactive bladder and the role of OnabotulinumtoxinA.

Urinary incontinence (UI) is a very common condition that can affect patients of all ages and the commonest cause is an overactive bladder (OAB). Most patients with OAB were treated with pharmacotherapy and major surgery. Over 25 years ago, Dasgupta, Fowler et al. studied the presence and role of C fibres in the human bladder which are highly sensitive to capsaicin, the active ingredient of chillies. When capsaicin was instilled into patients' bladders as a synthetic solution, it was found to be highly effective in some patients. Capsaicin was later replaced by Resiniferatoxin. Both toxins desensitised C-fibres through the capsaicin receptor, TRPV1, without any lasting damage to the bladder itself. The discovery of botulinum toxin and its use in the treatment of OAB represents a major breakthrough, in the treatment of OAB. Another key innovation was the development of technique to administer the drug under local anaesthesia which allowed numerous patients to benefit from treatment who would otherwise have been precluded because of the need for injection under general anaesthetic. After extensive trials over many years Botox (OnabotulinumtoxinA) is now licensed for use in OAB. Compared to other treatments for overactive bladder, OnabotulinumtoxinA is more cost-effective and less invasive. It is thought to have changed the quality of life of an estimated 5 million patients worldwide.

Impact of neoadjuvant chemotherapy on survival and recurrence patterns after robot-assisted radical cystectomy for muscle-invasive bladder cancer: Results from the International Robotic Cystectomy Consortium.

OBJECTIVES: To analyze the impact of neoadjuvant chemotherapy on survival and recurrence patterns in muscle-invasive bladder cancer after robot-assisted radical cystectomy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The International Robotic Cystectomy Consortium database was reviewed to identify patients who underwent robot-assisted radical cystectomy for muscle-invasive bladder cancer between 2002 and 2019. Survival outcomes, response rates, and recurrence patterns were compared between patients who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy and those who did not. Survival distributions were estimated using Kaplan-Meier analyses and compared using the log-rank test. RESULTS: A total of 1370 patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer were identified, of whom 353 (26%) received neoadjuvant chemotherapy. After a median follow-up of 27 months, neoadjuvant chemotherapy recipients had higher 3-year overall survival (74% vs 57%; log-rank P < 0.01), 3-year cancer-specific survival (83% vs 73%; log-rank P = 0.03), and 3-year relapse-free survival (64% vs 48%; log-rank P < 0.01). Neoadjuvant chemotherapy was a predictor of higher overall survival, cancer-specific survival, and relapse-free survival in univariate but not multivariate analysis. Pathological downstaging (46% vs 23%; P < 0.01), complete responses (24% vs 8%; P < 0.01), and margin negativity (95% vs 91%; P < 0.01) at robot-assisted radical cystectomy were more common in the neoadjuvant chemotherapy group. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy recipients had lower distant (15% vs 22%; P < 0.01) but similar locoregional (12% vs 13%; P = 0.93) recurrence rates. CONCLUSIONS: In this analysis from a large international database, patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy before robot-assisted radical cystectomy had higher rates of survival, pathological downstaging, and margin-negative resections. They also experienced fewer distant recurrences.

Effect of Robot-Assisted Radical Cystectomy With Intracorporeal Urinary Diversion vs Open Radical Cystectomy on 90-Day Morbidity and Mortality Among Patients With Bladder Cancer: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Importance: Robot-assisted radical cystectomy is being performed with increasing frequency, but it is unclear whether total intracorporeal surgery improves recovery compared with open radical cystectomy for bladder cancer. Objectives: To compare recovery and morbidity after robot-assisted radical cystectomy with intracorporeal reconstruction vs open radical cystectomy. Design, Setting, and Participants: Randomized clinical trial of patients with nonmetastatic bladder cancer recruited at 9 sites in the UK, from March 2017-March 2020. Follow-up was conducted at 90 days, 6 months, and 12 months, with final follow-up on September 23, 2021. Interventions: Participants were randomized to receive robot-assisted radical cystectomy with intracorporeal reconstruction (n = 169) or open radical cystectomy (n = 169). Main Outcomes and Measures: The primary outcome was the number of days alive and out of the hospital within 90 days of surgery. There were 20 secondary outcomes, including complications, quality of life, disability, stamina, activity levels, and survival. Analyses were adjusted for the type of diversion and center. Results: Among 338 randomized participants, 317 underwent radical cystectomy (mean age, 69 years; 67 women [21%]; 107 [34%] received neoadjuvant chemotherapy; 282 [89%] underwent ileal conduit reconstruction); the primary outcome was analyzed in 305 (96%). The median number of days alive and out of the hospital within 90 days of surgery was 82 (IQR, 76-84) for patients undergoing robotic surgery vs 80 (IQR, 72-83) for open surgery (adjusted difference, 2.2 days [95% CI, 0.50-3.85]; P = .01). Thromboembolic complications (1.9% vs 8.3%; difference, -6.5% [95% CI, -11.4% to -1.4%]) and wound complications (5.6% vs 16.0%; difference, -11.7% [95% CI, -18.6% to -4.6%]) were less common with robotic surgery than open surgery. Participants undergoing open surgery reported worse quality of life vs robotic surgery at 5 weeks (difference in mean European Quality of Life 5-Dimension, 5-Level instrument scores, -0.07 [95% CI, -0.11 to -0.03]; P = .003) and greater disability at 5 weeks (difference in World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0 scores, 0.48 [95% CI, 0.15-0.73]; P = .003) and at 12 weeks (difference in WHODAS 2.0 scores, 0.38 [95% CI, 0.09-0.68]; P = .01); the differences were not significant after 12 weeks. There were no statistically significant differences in cancer recurrence (29/161 [18%] vs 25/156 [16%] after robotic and open surgery, respectively) and overall mortality (23/161 [14.3%] vs 23/156 [14.7%]), respectively) at median follow-up of 18.4 months (IQR, 12.8-21.1). Conclusions and Relevance: Among patients with nonmetastatic bladder cancer undergoing radical cystectomy, treatment with robot-assisted radical cystectomy with intracorporeal urinary diversion vs open radical cystectomy resulted in a statistically significant increase in days alive and out of the hospital over 90 days. However, the clinical importance of these findings remains uncertain. Trial Registration: ISRCTN Identifier: ISRCTN13680280; ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03049410.

The SIMULATE ureteroscopy training curriculum: educational value and transfer of skills.

OBJECTIVE: Different simulation modalities may be utilised in a curricular fashion to benefit from the strengths of each training model. The aim of this study is to evaluate a novel multi-modality ureterorenoscopy (URS) simulation curriculum in terms of educational value, content validity, transfer of skills and inter-rater reliability. METHODS: This international prospective study recruited urology residents (n = 46) with ≤ 10 URS experience and no prior simulation training. Participants were guided through each phase of the expert-developed SIMULATE URS curriculum by trainers and followed-up in the operating room (OR). Video recordings were obtained during training. A post-training evaluation survey was distributed to evaluate content validity and educational value, using descriptive statistics. Performance was evaluated using the objective structured assessment of technical skills (OSATS) scale to measure improvement in scores throughout the curriculum. Pearson's correlation coefficient and Cohen's kappa tests were utilised to investigate correlation and agreement between raters. RESULTS: Participants reported gaining OR-transferrable skills (Mean: 4.33 ± 0.67) and demonstrated marked improvement in throughout the curriculum, transferred to the OR for both semi-rigid URS (p = 0.004) and flexible URS (p = 0.007). 70% of participants were successfully followed-up in the OR (n = 32). No differences were identified with the additional use of fresh frozen cadavers (p = 0.85, p = 0.90) and the URO Mentor VR simulator (p = 0.13, p = 0.22). A moderate level of correlation was noted on the video OSATS assessments, between two expert assessors (r = 0.70), but a poor agreement with the live rating. CONCLUSION: The SIMULATE URS training curriculum received high educational value from participants, who demonstrated statistically significant improvement with consecutive cases throughout the curriculum and transferability of skills to the OR in both semi-rigid and flexible URS.

Non-technical skills for urological surgeons (NoTSUS): development and evaluation of curriculum and assessment scale.

OBJECTIVE: In the last decade non-technical skills (NTS) have emerged as a vital area for improvement within surgery. This study aims to develop and evaluate a Non-technical Skills for Urological Surgeons (NoTSUS) training curriculum and assessment scale. METHODS: This international, longitudinal and observational study began with a 3-round Delphi methodology to refine curriculum contents and rating scale. Sessions with up to four participants were delivered where each candidate undertook an independent scenario within the validated full immersion simulation environment. Candidates were assessed using both the NoTSS (Non-technical Skills for Surgeons) and NoTSUS rating scales by NTS-trained and non-trained experts. A post-training evaluation survey was distributed. RESULTS: 62 participants comprising trainees (n = 43) and specialists (n = 19) undertook the NoTSUS course. The NoTSS and NoTSUS scales correlated well, with a mean difference of 3.3 in the overall total (p = 0.10, r = 0.53). However, there was significant differences in scores between the NoTSS-trained and non-trained raters (n = 28, p = 0.03). A one-way ANOVA test revealed significant improvement throughout the four simulation scenarios in each session (p = 0.02). The NoTSUS curriculum received positive feedback from participants and demonstrated educational value and acceptability. CONCLUSIONS: The NoTSUS curriculum has demonstrated high educational value for NTS training aimed at urologists, with marked improvement throughout sessions. Correlation of NoTSUS and NoTSS scales proves its suitability for evaluating NTS in future training. Demonstration of inter-rater reliability indicates that the scale is reliable for use in assessment by expert faculty members. Furthermore, qualitative feedback from participants suggests gain of transferrable skills over the course.

Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy is Not Associated with Adverse Perioperative Outcomes after Robot-Assisted Radical Cystectomy: A Case for Increased Use from the IRCC.

PURPOSE: We sought to determine the trend of neoadjuvant chemotherapy use for nonmetastatic muscle invasive urothelial bladder cancer and whether it is associated with adverse perioperative morbidity after robot-assisted radical cystectomy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the IRCC (International Robotic Cystectomy Consortium) database between 2006 and 2017. After excluding patients with nonmuscle invasive bladder cancer the patients were divided into 2 groups, including those who did vs did not receive neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Data were reviewed for demographics, preoperative, operative and 90-day perioperative outcomes. We used the Cochran-Armitage trend test to assess trends of neoadjuvant chemotherapy associations with high grade and overall complications with time. Multivariate stepwise regression analyses were done to determine whether neoadjuvant chemotherapy was associated with prolonged operative time, 90-day postoperative complications, readmissions, reoperations and mortality after robot-assisted radical cystectomy. RESULTS: A total of 298 patients (26%) received neoadjuvant chemotherapy. These patients were younger (age 67 vs 69 years, p=0.01) and more frequently had an ASA™ (American Society of Anesthesiologists™) score of 3 or greater (62% vs 55%, p=0.02) and pathological T3 stage or greater disease (28% vs 22%, p=0.04). The use of neoadjuvant chemotherapy increased significantly from 10% in 2006 to 2007 to 42% in 2016 to 2017 (p <0.01). On multivariate analysis neoadjuvant chemotherapy was not significantly associated with prolonged operative time, hospital stay, 90-day postoperative complications, reoperation or mortality. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy was associated with 90-day readmissions after robot-assisted radical cystectomy (OR 5.90, 95% CI 3.30-10.90, p <0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Neoadjuvant chemotherapy utilization has significantly increased in the last decade. It was not associated with perioperative surgical morbidity after robot-assisted radical cystectomy.

Simulation in Urological Training and Education (SIMULATE): Protocol and curriculum development of the first multicentre international randomized controlled trial assessing the transferability of simulation-based surgical training.

OBJECTIVES: To report the study protocol for the first international multicentre randomized controlled trial investigating the effectiveness of simulation-based surgical training and the development process for an evidence-based training curriculum, to be delivered as an educational intervention. PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS: This prospective, international, multicentre randomized controlled clinical and educational trial will recruit urology surgical trainees who must not have performed ≥10 of the selected index procedure, ureterorenoscopy (URS). Participants will be randomized to simulation-based training (SBT) or non-simulation-based training (NSBT), the latter of which is the current sole standard of training globally. The primary outcome is the number of procedures required to achieve proficiency, where proficiency is defined as achieving a learning curve plateau of 28 or more on an Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills (OSATS) assessment scale, for three consecutive operations, without any complications. All participants will be followed up either until they complete 25 procedures or for 18 months. Development of the URS SBT curriculum took place through a two-round Delphi process. RESULTS: A total of 47 respondents, consisting of trainees (n = 24) with URS experience and urolithiasis specialists (n = 23), participated in round 1 of the Delphi process. Specialists (n = 10) finalized the content of the curriculum in round 2. The developed interventional curriculum consists of initial theoretic knowledge through didactic lectures followed by select tasks and cases on the URO-Mentor (Simbionix, Lod, Israel) VR Simulator, Uro-Scopic Trainer (Limbs & Things, Bristol, UK) and Scope Trainer (Mediskills, Manchester, UK) models for both semi-rigid and flexible URS. Respondents also selected relevant non-technical skills scenarios and cadaveric simulation tasks as additional components, with delivery subject to local availability. CONCLUSIONS: SIMULATE is the first multicentre trial investigating the effect and transferability of supplementary SBT on operating performance and patient outcomes. An evidence-based training curriculum is presented, developed with expert and trainee input. Participants will be followed and the primary outcome, number of procedures required to proficiency, will be reported alongside key clinical secondary outcomes, (ISCRTN 12260261).

Development and content validation of the Urethroplasty Training and Assessment Tool (UTAT) for dorsal onlay buccal mucosa graft urethroplasty.

OBJECTIVES: To develop and validate the Urethroplasty Training and Assessment Tool (UTAT) using Healthcare Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (HFMEA) for training and assessment of urology trainees learning this urethral reconstruction technique, as urethroplasty is the 'gold standard' treatment for long and recurrent urethral strictures and with a variety of techniques and a lack of standardised reconstructive curricula, there is a need for procedure-specific training tools to improve surgeon training and patient safety. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This international observational study was performed over an 11-month period. The HFMEA was used to identify and evaluate hazardous stages of urethroplasty to develop the UTAT. Hazard scores were calculated for the included steps of urethroplasty. Content validation was performed by 12 expert surgeons and multidisciplinary teams from international tertiary centres. RESULTS: The HFMEA process resulted in an internationally validated UTAT. Hazard scores ≥4 and single point weaknesses were included to implement actions and outcome measures. Content validation was achieved by circulating the process map, hazard analysis table, and developed tools. Changes were implemented based on the feedback received from expert surgeons. The content validated dorsal onlay buccal mucosa graft bulbar UTAT contained five phases, 10 processes and 23 sub-processes. CONCLUSIONS: The modular UTAT offers a comprehensive validated training tool developed via a detailed HFMEA protocol. This may be utilised to standardise the training and assessment of urology trainees.

Non-technical skills: a review of training and evaluation in urology.

PURPOSE: With non-technical skills (NTS) deficits being recognised as a major cause for error in surgery, there is an increasing interest in their training and evaluation. A growing number of training courses are emerging and some NTS curricula have also been created. Many different training methods are described in the literature but there is still uncertainty with regards to their optimum combination within a curriculum. METHODS: A literature review of the electronic database Medline was performed. All articles published before December 2018 were screened by abstract and included if deemed relevant by the author. The included articles' reference lists were also screened for further relevant studies. RESULTS: Simulation training is accepted as the most effective way to train NTS. Within simulation training, it is shown that the 'igloo' full immersion/distributed simulation environment is appropriate for teaching NTS in urological scenarios where a designated operating room or space is not available. The use of multiple settings, for example wards and clinics as well as the operating room, is advantageous, as is training in an interprofessional team. Classroom teaching also plays a role in NTS training as an adjunct to simulation, with evidence that it improves some parameters of NTS. All levels, including qualified surgeons, benefit from NTS training; however, adaptation to both trainee level and specialty is important. Although less time consuming, training juniors and seniors together mainly benefits juniors, and training NTS at the same time as technical skills detracts from the quality of teaching. Debriefing is an important part of training and should be well structured; there are many debriefing models in existence, allowing for choice of method based on examiner preference and participant demographic. Furthermore, examiners should be well briefed in their task and trained in NTS assessment. CONCLUSION: To move forward, studies should combine tried and tested learning techniques into a curriculum covering all training levels, which should then be validated and followed up long term to ensure a positive impact on patient safety.

Effectiveness of the HoloLens mixed-reality headset in minimally invasive surgery: a simulation-based feasibility study.

BACKGROUND: The advent of Virtual Reality technologies presents new opportunities for enhancing current surgical practice. Studies suggest that current techniques in endoscopic surgery are prone to disturbance of a surgeon's visual-motor axis, influencing performance, ergonomics and iatrogenic injury rates. The Microsoft® HoloLens is a novel head-mounted display that has not been explored within surgical innovation research. This study aims to evaluate the HoloLens as a potential alternative to conventional monitors in endoscopic surgery. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This prospective, observational and comparative study recruited 72 participants consisting of novices (n = 28), intermediate-level (n = 24) and experts (n = 20). Participants performed ureteroscopy, within an inflatable operating environment, using a validated training model and the HoloLens mixed-reality device as a monitor. Novices also completed the assigned task using conventional monitors; whilst the experienced groups did not, due to their extensive familiarity. Outcome measures were procedural completion time and performance evaluation (OSATS) score. A final evaluation survey was distributed amongst all participants. RESULTS: The HoloLens facilitated improved outcomes for procedural times (absolute difference, - 73 s; 95% CI - 115 to - 30; P = 0.0011) and OSAT scores (absolute difference, 4.1 points; 95% CI 2.9-5.3; P < 0.0001) compared to conventional monitors. Feedback evaluation demonstrated 97% of participants agreed or strongly agreed that the HoloLens will have a role in surgical education (mean rating, 4.6 of 5; 95% CI 4.5-4.8). Furthermore, 95% of participants agreed or strongly agreed that the HoloLens is feasible to introduce clinically and will have a role within surgery (mean rating, 4.4 of 5; 95% CI 4.2-4.5). CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that the device facilitated improved outcomes of performance in novices and was widely accepted as a surgical visual aid by all groups. The HoloLens represents a feasible alternative to the conventional setup, possibly by aligning the surgeon's visual-motor axis.

Unmet needs in sexual health in bladder cancer patients: a systematic review of the evidence.

BACKGROUND: Bladder cancer (BC) treatment can have a detrimental effect on the sexual organs of patients and yet assessment of sexual health needs has been greatly overlooked for these patients compared to those who have undergone other cancer therapies. METHODS: This review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines in July 2019. Studies were identified by conducting searches for Medline (using the PubMed interface), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) and Ovid Gateway (Embase and Ovid) using a list of defined search terms. RESULTS: 15 out of 37 studies included men only, 10 studies women only and 11 both sexes. Most participants were aged 50 to 65 years. Most studies (n = 34) focused on muscle invasive BC and only three on non-muscle invasive BC. Measurements of sexual dysfunction, including erection, ejaculation, firmness and desire, were the most commonly used measurements to report sexual health in men. In women, lubrification/dryness, desire, orgasm and dyspareunia were the most commonly reported. Twenty-one studies evaluated sexual dysfunction based on validated questionnaires, two with a non-validated questionnaire and through interviewing participants. CONCLUSION: While recognition of the importance of the inclusion of psychometric measurements to assess sexual health is growing, there is a lack of consistent measures to assess sexual health in BC. With the focus on QoL arising in cancer survivorship, further studies are needed to develop, standardize and implement use of sexual health questionnaires with appropriate psychometrics and social measures to evaluate QoL in BC patients. TRIAL REGISTRATION: "PROSPERO does not currently accept registrations for scoping reviews, literature reviews or mapping reviews. PROSPERO is therefore unable to accept your application or provide a registration number. This decision should not stop you from submitting your project for publication to a journal."

Development and validation of a porcine organ model for training in essential laparoscopic surgical skills.

OBJECTIVES: To develop a wet laboratory training model for learning core laparoscopic surgical skills and evaluating learners' competency level outside the operating room. METHODS: Participants completed three tasks (task 1: tissue dissection around the aorta; task 2: tissue dissection and division of the renal artery; task 3: renal parenchymal closure). Each performance was video recorded and subsequently evaluated by two experts, according to the Global Operative Assessment of Laparoscopic Skills and task-specific metrics that we developed (Assessment Sheet of Laparoscopic Skills in Wet Lab score). Mean scores were used for analyses. The subjective mental workload was also assessed (NASA Task Load Index). RESULTS: The 54 participants included 32 urologists, eight young trainees and 14 medical students. A total of 13 participants were categorized as experts (≥50 laparoscopic surgeries), eight as intermediates (10-49) and 33 as novices (0-9). There were significant differences in the Global Operative Assessment of Laparoscopic Skills and Assessment Sheet of Laparoscopic Skills in Wet Lab scores among the three groups in all three tasks. Higher NASA Task Load Index scores were observed in novices, and there were significant differences in tasks 1 (Kruskal-Wallis test, P = 0.0004) and 2 (P = 0.0002), and marginal differences in task 3 (P = 0.0745) among the three groups. CONCLUSIONS: Our training model has good construct validity, and differences in the NASA Task Load Index score reflect previous laparoscopic surgical experiences. Our findings show the ability to assess both laparoscopic surgical skills and mental workloads, which could help educators comprehend trainees' level outside the operating room. Given the decreasing opportunity to carry out pure laparoscopic surgeries because of the dissemination of robotic surgery, especially in urology, our model can offer practical training opportunities.

Development and content validation of the percutaneous nephrolithotomy assessment score.

OBJECTIVES: To develop and content validate a percutaneous nephrolithotomy assessment score, taking into consideration the procedure-specific risks. METHODS: This prospective international study utilized the Healthcare Failure Mode and Effect Analysis to systematically outline percutaneous nephrolithotomy and failure modes for each step. A total of 25 h was spent observing percutaneous nephrolithotomy carried out by six expert surgeons. Hazard analysis scoring was carried out by 11 experts. It was determined if the steps were single point weaknesses. Single point weaknesses and those assigned a hazard score ≥4 were included in the percutaneous nephrolithotomy assessment score. The tool was then content validated by 16 experts from 10 countries. RESULTS: Application of the Healthcare Failure Mode and Effect Analysis identified 64 failure modes; 37 failure modes had a hazard score ≥4. After adaptations based on expert feedback the final percutaneous nephrolithotomy assessment score was developed containing 10 phases, 21 processes and 47 subprocesses. All participants agreed that the tool contained pertinent procedural steps. CONCLUSIONS: This study has developed and shown the international content validity of a novel percutaneous nephrolithotomy assessment score. The tool can be utilized in modular operating room training to quantify operator progress, and can be used in conjunction with other modules as part of a complete percutaneous nephrolithotomy curriculum for trainees.

The impact of non-urothelial variant histology on oncological outcomes following radical cystectomy.

OBJECTIVES: To determine if the presence of non-urothelial variant histology (NUVH) is associated with a poorer prognosis following radical cystectomy (RC) compared to pure urothelial carcinoma (PUC). PATIENTS AND METHODS: A prospectively maintained database of all patients undergoing RC at a high-volume regional tertiary bladder cancer service between January 2010 and January 2017 was retrospectively analysed looking for patients with NUVH. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was used to determine disease recurrence, overall survival and bladder cancer-specific survival, as well as lymph node positivity. Association of tumour stage was determined using chi-squared analysis. RESULTS: In total, 430 patients underwent RC of which 73 (17%) had NUVH and 357 (83%) had PUC. The median (range) follow-up was 45.0 (8.5-100.2) months. The presence of NUVH was associated with both increased overall (hazard ratio [HR] 1.86, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.21-2.85) and bladder cancer-specific mortality (HR 1.81, 95% CI 1.91-3.01), as well as disease recurrence (HR 1.71, 95% CI 1.06-2.75) in multivariate analysis. Squamous cell variant was also associated with increased overall mortality (HR 1.91, 95% CI 1.16-3.13), cancer-specific mortality (HR 2.03, 95% CI 1.21-3.42) and disease recurrence (HR 2.08, 95% CI 1.23-3.52), although this was not seen in other variant subtypes. Lymph node positivity was not associated with NUVH in multivariate analysis (HR 1.28, 95% CI 0.59-2.75), but NUVH was associated with advanced tumour stage on chi-squared analysis (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Our results showed a risk of shorter survival in NUVH compared to PUC. This suggests NUVH as an independent predictor of worse outcomes. As a result, patients with NUVH should be counselled preoperatively that overall and disease-specific outcomes are worse postoperatively and about the possible need for adjuvant treatment.

Safe transition from extracorporeal to intracorporeal urinary diversion following robot-assisted cystectomy: a recipe for reducing operative time, blood loss and complication rates.

PURPOSE: We report the perioperative outcomes and complications after transition from extracorporeal urinary diversion (ECUD) to intracorporeal urinary diversion (ICUD) following robot-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC). METHODS: Analysis of data from a prospectively maintained institutional review board-approved database of 180 patients treated with cystectomy at our institution from April 2015 to October 2017 was performed. 127 patients underwent RARC and received an ileal conduit. Only five patients received a neobladder after RARC and were excluded from analysis. RESULTS: 68 patients had extracorporeal and 59 intracorporeal ileal conduit after RARC. There were no significant differences in patient demographics and oncological characteristics between the two groups. Of note, intracorporeal ileal conduit was associated with significantly reduced median total operative times (330 vs 375 min, p = 0.019), reduced median estimated blood loss (300 vs 425 ml, p < 0.035) and lower 30-day overall complication rates (48.4 vs 71.4%, p = 0.008) when compared to extracorporeal diversion. However, the median length of stay, 30-90-day complication rates, mortality rates and ureteroileal anastomotic stricture rates were similar in both groups. The median operative time for RARC and intracorporeal ileal conduit was significantly shorter in the second cohort of 29 cases compared to the first 30 cases (300 vs 360 min, p = 0.004). Other outcomes were similar in both cohorts. CONCLUSION: In our experience, transition from extracorporeal to intracorporeal diversion after RARC is safe, technically feasible and benefits from shorter operative times, reduced estimated blood loss, and lower 30-day overall complication rates.

The effect of repeated full immersion simulation training in ureterorenoscopy on mental workload of novice operators.

BACKGROUND: Difficult surgical procedures may result in a higher mental workload, leading to increased fatigue and subsequent errors. This study was aimed to investigate the effect of repeated simulation training in ureterorenoscopy in a high-fidelity setting on the performance and mental workload of novice operators. METHODS: Medical students voluntarily participated in the present simulation study. After a didactic and video-based lecture, they underwent simulation training involving a renal stone case, including a rigid cystoscope component (task 1, performing a WHO checklist, assembling a scope, and insertion of a guide-wire and an access sheath after examining the bladder) and a flexible ureterorenoscope component (task 2, retrieving a stone located in the upper calyx using a basket after inspecting the upper, middle, and lower calyx). Training was performed in a mock operating theater. Technical skills were assessed by one author (an experienced urologist) onsite using an Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills (OSATS) score at each training session. The mental workload was subjectively evaluated by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Task Load Index (NASA-TLX) questionnaire after each training session. RESULTS: Seventeen students completed a minimum of 6 training sessions (male: female = 10: 7, median age of 22) over a median of 21 days (range, 10-32). In both tasks 1 and 2, the OSATS score improved over the 6 sessions with evidence of plateauing (MANOVA model, task 1: p < 0.0001, task 2: p < 0.0001). In contrast, the NASA-TLX score persistently decreased without plateauing (task 1: p = 0.0005, task 2: p = 0.0028). CONCLUSIONS: Under repeated simulation training in ureterorenoscopy in a high-fidelity setting, participants showed a continual decrease of the mental workload, while the improvement of technical skills reached a plateau over the 6 sessions. Our study showed the important benefit of simulation training to reduce the mental workload by repeated scenario training before actual clinical practice.

Correction to: Robot-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty: a single-centre experience.

In the original version of this article, Oussama Elhage's name was spelled incorrectly. It is correct as displayed above.

Robot-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty: a single-centre experience.

BACKGROUND: Ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) is characterised by an obstruction compromising the passage of urine from the renal pelvis into the ureter, and can be corrected by Robot-Assisted Laparoscopic Pyeloplasty (RALP). We aimed to evaluate the surgical outcomes of RALP, and examine the rates of true pain resolution following the procedure. METHODS: We retrospectively explored the records of all patients who underwent RALP between April 2005 and January 2017. Measures of success were defined as the prevention of deterioration in split renal function and resolution of obstruction, and the resolution or improvement in subjective pain levels. RESULTS: 83 patients were included in this series. Mean patient age was 40.8 years. 38 patients had a left sided RALP, whilst 45 underwent RALP on the right. Crossing vessels were identified in 53.0% of patients. Mean operative time was 148.0 min. 68 patients had pain as their presenting feature. Following RALP, the pain resolved in 69.2% (n = 47), improved in 26.5% (n = 18), and remained the same in 4.4% (n = 3). 11.8% (n = 8) of patients required referral to other specialities for pain management. Success from a radiological perspective of cleared obstruction and arrest of deteriorating renal function was 97.6%. CONCLUSIONS: Our individual outcomes demonstrate a high success rate regarding resolution of obstruction and preventing deterioration in renal function. We also report that a number of patients, who despite meeting the radiological criteria to undergo RALP, had alternate underlying causes for their pain symptoms. For this reason, we propose that the primary measure of success for RALP should be based on renal function and radiological outcomes, rather than the outcomes relating to pain. Both surgeons and patients should be aware that whilst RALP is a highly successful procedure, persistence of pain may be due to overlapping clinical conditions which can be managed by a multidisciplinary approach.

PAK5 mediates cell: cell adhesion integrity via interaction with E-cadherin in bladder cancer cells.

Urothelial bladder cancer is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, causing an estimated 150 000 deaths per year. Whilst non-muscle-invasive bladder tumours can be effectively treated, with high survival rates, many tumours recur, and some will progress to muscle-invasive disease with a much poorer long-term prognosis. Thus, there is a pressing need to understand the molecular transitions occurring within the progression of bladder cancer to an invasive disease. Tumour invasion is often associated with a down-regulation of E-cadherin expression concomitant with a suppression of cell:cell junctions, and decreased levels of E-cadherin expression have been reported in higher grade urothelial bladder tumours. We find that expression of E-cadherin in a panel of bladder cancer cell lines correlated with the presence of cell:cell junctions and the level of PAK5 expression. Interestingly, exogenous PAK5 has recently been described to be associated with cell:cell junctions and we now find that endogenous PAK5 is localised to cell junctions and interacts with an E-cadherin complex. Moreover, depletion of PAK5 expression significantly reduced junctional integrity. These data suggest a role for PAK5 in maintaining junctional stability and we find that, in both our own patient samples and a commercially available dataset, PAK5mRNA levels are reduced in human bladder cancer compared with normal controls. Taken together, the present study proposes that PAK5 expression levels could be used as a novel prognostic marker for bladder cancer progression.