Risk and benefits of penile length preservation techniques during penile prosthesis implantation: a systematic review by the young academic urologists sexual and reproductive health working group.

Background: Penile shortening, frequently resulting from end-stage Peyronie's disease (PD), has a negative impact on patients' sexual activity and overall quality of life, especially when accompanied by Erectile dysfunction (ED). Various surgical techniques have been described to manage concomitant ED and penile shortening through penile prosthesis (PP) implantation. Objectives: To evaluate the benefits and risks of different penile length preservation techniques during PP implantation. Design: A systematic review of the available literature on the use of penile length preservation maneuvers in conjunction with PP implantation was conducted. Data sources and methods: For this systematic review, three databases (Medline, Embase and Cochrane) and clinical trial.gov were queried for relevant publications from 1 January 1990 to 1 September 2022. The review process followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines. Results: The qualitative analysis included 15 relevant articles involving 1186 adult patients who underwent penile length preservation techniques during PP implantation. Penile lengthening of 1-7 cm was reported. Overall, postoperative complications were described in up to 21.7% of cases. Only five studies reported functional outcomes, showing a significant improvement in postoperative period based on the administered questionnaire (e.g. IIEF - International Index of Erectile Function, EDITS - Erectile Dysfunction Inventory of Treatment Satisfaction). Conclusion: Penile length preservation procedures appear to offer a viable option for managing acquired penile shortening, particularly in cases of PD. However, they are associated with a significant risk of complications. Proper patient selection, thorough discussion of risks and benefits, and referral to high-volume centers are mandatory to achieve optimal outcomes and minimizing complications. Trial registration: PROSPERO database registration CRD42022360758.

Technical Aspects and Clinical Limitations of Sperm DNA Fragmentation Testing in Male Infertility: A Global Survey, Current Guidelines, and Expert Recommendations.

PURPOSE: Sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) is a functional sperm abnormality that can impact reproductive potential, for which four assays have been described in the recently published sixth edition of the WHO laboratory manual for the examination and processing of human semen. The purpose of this study was to examine the global practices related to the use of SDF assays and investigate the barriers and limitations that clinicians face in incorporating these tests into their practice. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Clinicians managing male infertility were invited to complete an online survey on practices related to SDF diagnostic and treatment approaches. Their responses related to the technical aspects of SDF testing, current professional society guidelines, and the literature were used to generate expert recommendations via the Delphi method. Finally, challenges related to SDF that the clinicians encounter in their daily practice were captured. RESULTS: The survey was completed by 436 reproductive clinicians. Overall, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase deoxyuridine triphosphate Nick-End Labeling (TUNEL) is the most commonly used assay chosen by 28.6%, followed by the sperm chromatin structure assay (24.1%), and the sperm chromatin dispersion (19.1%). The choice of the assay was largely influenced by availability (70% of respondents). A threshold of 30% was the most selected cut-off value for elevated SDF by 33.7% of clinicians. Of respondents, 53.6% recommend SDF testing after 3 to 5 days of abstinence. Although 75.3% believe SDF testing can provide an explanation for many unknown causes of infertility, the main limiting factors selected by respondents are a lack of professional society guideline recommendations (62.7%) and an absence of globally accepted references for SDF interpretation (50.3%). CONCLUSIONS: This study represents the largest global survey on the technical aspects of SDF testing as well as the barriers encountered by clinicians. Unified global recommendations regarding clinician implementation and standard laboratory interpretation of SDF testing are crucial.

A clinical guide to rare male sexual disorders.

Conditions referred to as 'male sexual dysfunctions' usually include erectile dysfunction, ejaculatory disorders and male hypogonadism. However, some less common male sexual disorders exist, which are under-recognized and under-treated, leading to considerable morbidity, with adverse effects on individuals' sexual health and relationships. Such conditions include post-finasteride syndrome, restless genital syndrome, post-orgasmic illness syndrome, post-selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) sexual dysfunction, hard-flaccid syndrome, sleep-related painful erections and post-retinoid sexual dysfunction. Information about these disorders usually originates from case-control trials or small case series; thus, the published literature is scarce. As the aetiology of these diseases has not been fully elucidated, the optimal investigational work-up and therapy are not well defined, and the available options cannot, therefore, adequately address patients' sexual problems and implement appropriate treatment. Thus, larger-scale studies - including prospective trials and comprehensive case registries - are crucial to better understand the aetiology, prevalence and clinical characteristics of these conditions. Furthermore, collaborative efforts among researchers, health-care professionals and patient advocacy groups will be essential in order to develop evidence-based guidelines and novel therapeutic approaches that can effectively address these disorders. By advancing our understanding and refining treatment strategies, we can strive towards improving the quality of life and fostering healthier sexual relationships for individuals suffering from these rare sexual disorders.

Do "testosterone boosters" really increase serum total testosterone? A systematic review.

Testosterone boosters are heavily marketed on social media and marketplaces to men with claims to significantly increase testosterone. Lax industry regulation has allowed sales of supplements to thrive in the absence of verification of their purported benefits. Our primary objective was to systematically review all data published in the last two decades on testosterone boosters and determine their efficacy. Our outcome of interest was total testosterone increase versus placebo in four different populations: male athletes, men with late-onset hypogonadism infertile men and healthy men. Following search and screening, 52 studies were included in our review, relating to 27 proposed testosterone boosters: 10 studies of cholecalciferol; 5 zinc/magnesium; 4 Tribulus terrestris and creatine; 3 Eurycoma longifolia and Withania somnifera; 2 betaine, D-aspartic acid, Lepidium meyenii and isoflavones; while the remainder were single reports. Our findings indicate that most fail to increase total testosterone. The exceptions were ß-hydroxy ß-methylbutyrate and betaine, which can be considered effective for male athletes. Eurycoma longifolia, a blend of Punica granatum fruit rind and Theobroma cacao seed extracts (Tesnor™) and purified Shilajit extract (PrimaVie™) can be considered possibly effective for men with late-onset hypogonadism; Eurycoma longifolia and Withania somnifera possibly effective for healthy men; and a non-hormonal aromatase inhibitor (Novadex XT™) possibly effective for male athletes.

Controversy and Consensus on Indications for Sperm DNA Fragmentation Testing in Male Infertility: A Global Survey, Current Guidelines, and Expert Recommendations.

PURPOSE: Sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) testing was recently added to the sixth edition of the World Health Organization laboratory manual for the examination and processing of human semen. Many conditions and risk factors have been associated with elevated SDF; therefore, it is important to identify the population of infertile men who might benefit from this test. The purpose of this study was to investigate global practices related to indications for SDF testing, compare the relevant professional society guideline recommendations, and provide expert recommendations. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Clinicians managing male infertility were invited to take part in a global online survey on SDF clinical practices. This was conducted following the CHERRIES checklist criteria. The responses were compared to professional society guideline recommendations related to SDF and the appropriate available evidence. Expert recommendations on indications for SDF testing were then formulated, and the Delphi method was used to reach consensus. RESULTS: The survey was completed by 436 experts from 55 countries. Almost 75% of respondents test for SDF in all or some men with unexplained or idiopathic infertility, 39% order it routinely in the work-up of recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL), and 62.2% investigate SDF in smokers. While 47% of reproductive urologists test SDF to support the decision for varicocele repair surgery when conventional semen parameters are normal, significantly fewer general urologists (23%; p=0.008) do the same. Nearly 70% would assess SDF before assisted reproductive technologies (ART), either always or for certain conditions. Recurrent ART failure is a common indication for SDF testing. Very few society recommendations were found regarding SDF testing. CONCLUSIONS: This article presents the largest global survey on the indications for SDF testing in infertile men, and demonstrates diverse practices. Furthermore, it highlights the paucity of professional society guideline recommendations. Expert recommendations are proposed to help guide clinicians.

Controversy and Consensus on the Management of Elevated Sperm DNA Fragmentation in Male Infertility: A Global Survey, Current Guidelines, and Expert Recommendations.

PURPOSE: Sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) has been associated with male infertility and poor outcomes of assisted reproductive technology (ART). The purpose of this study was to investigate global practices related to the management of elevated SDF in infertile men, summarize the relevant professional society recommendations, and provide expert recommendations for managing this condition. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An online global survey on clinical practices related to SDF was disseminated to reproductive clinicians, according to the CHERRIES checklist criteria. Management protocols for various conditions associated with SDF were captured and compared to the relevant recommendations in professional society guidelines and the appropriate available evidence. Expert recommendations and consensus on the management of infertile men with elevated SDF were then formulated and adapted using the Delphi method. RESULTS: A total of 436 experts from 55 different countries submitted responses. As an initial approach, 79.1% of reproductive experts recommend lifestyle modifications for infertile men with elevated SDF, and 76.9% prescribe empiric antioxidants. Regarding antioxidant duration, 39.3% recommend 4-6 months and 38.1% recommend 3 months. For men with unexplained or idiopathic infertility, and couples experiencing recurrent miscarriages associated with elevated SDF, most respondents refer to ART 6 months after failure of conservative and empiric medical management. Infertile men with clinical varicocele, normal conventional semen parameters, and elevated SDF are offered varicocele repair immediately after diagnosis by 31.4%, and after failure of antioxidants and conservative measures by 40.9%. Sperm selection techniques and testicular sperm extraction are also management options for couples undergoing ART. For most questions, heterogenous practices were demonstrated. CONCLUSIONS: This paper presents the results of a large global survey on the management of infertile men with elevated SDF and reveals a lack of consensus among clinicians. Furthermore, it demonstrates the scarcity of professional society guidelines in this regard and attempts to highlight the relevant evidence. Expert recommendations are proposed to help guide clinicians.

Our experience on Fournier's gangrene in a tertiary-stage care center and analysis of its relationship with blood count parameters.

BACKGROUND: Fournier's gangrene (FG) is rapidly progressing and life-threatening necrotizing fasciitis of genital and perineal regions. The aim of the study was to share our experience with FG and to analyze the relationship of clinical data with whole blood count parameters, inflammation cells, and systemic inflammation markers. METHODS: The digital medical records of the adult patients followed-up and treated with diagnosis of FG between January 2016 to December 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. Data were as age, gender, total length of hospital stay, predisposing factors, etiological factors, total number of debridement's, surgical procedures, and antibiotherapy were collected. Serum glucose levels, complete blood count parameter levels, serum inflammation indicators and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels measured at the initial day of hospital admission, post-debridement 1st and 7th days were measured. RESULTS: Thirty-six male patients were included, with a mean age of 56.42 (22-86) years. The most common predisposing factor was diabetes mellitus (n=13; 36.1%). The most frequently seen etiological cause was scrotal abscess (n=19; 52.8%). A statistically significant decrease was found in White blood cell count, neutrophil level, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) value and CRP level measured before debridement, post-debridement 1st and 7th days (p<0.05). There was a positive correlation between the number of debridement's and age, NLR, platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio, and CRP values at the initial admission time (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: The infections of urogenital region are the essential etiological origin of FG. As a rare urological emergency, significant changes were observed in clinical data and blood count parameters during the course of FG.

The timing of micro-TESE: what is the ideal age for male and female partner to bring a child to home?

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to analyze the results of microsurgical testicular sperm extraction (micro-TESE) and investigate the potential factors that may affect the successful sperm retrieval and timing of micro-TESE. METHODS: A total of 56 patients with nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) who underwent micro-TESE procedure between January 2017 and December 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. The patient age, marriage duration, infertility duration, smoking, chronic illness, varicocele status, previous scrotal surgeries, and the presence of genetic disease were noted by an urologist for all patients. RESULTS: The mean age of patients was 33.28±4.4 (22-44) years. Our total sperm-retrieval rate was 55.4% (n:31). Sixteen (28.6%) pregnancies were achieved and 15 (26.8%) healthy live births could be managed. Only the marriage duration (p=0.016) and infertility duration (p=0.015) were detected to be the significant factors to manage successful sperm retrieval. Men with NOA younger than 35.2 years and having a female partner younger than 36.9 years seemed to have the best chance to have a living healthy baby. CONCLUSIONS: The fertility decreased by both male and female age and for men with NOA. The early visit to doctor seemed to have positive effect.

Examination of clinical data and semen analysis results of patients undergoing orchiectomy for testicular tumor.

OBJECTIVE: Testicular tumor constitutes 1% of male neoplasms. Infertility can be determined in patients with testicular tumors before orchiectomy due to the deterioration of spermatogenesis. The aim of this study was to show the clinical, radiological, and pathological characteristics and spermiogram results of patients with testicular tumor and their relationship with each other. METHODS: The data of patients who underwent orchiectomy due to testicular tumor between 2016 and 2019 were reviewed retrospectively. These data included sociodemographic data of the patients, pretreatment spermiogram characteristics, level of serum tumor markers, characteristics of the ultrasonography, type of orchiectomy, and histopathological examination. RESULTS: This study included 53 male patients, with a mean age of 33.51±12.86 years. The mean levels of all tumor markers were above the reference levels. The mean tumor size was 34.68±23.32 mm. Multiple localizations and microlithiasis were detected in 11.3 and 13.2% of the tumors, respectively. The most common masses were hypoechoic (n=37; 69.8%) and hypervascular (n=47; 81%). Spermiogram and cryopreservation were performed in 29 (54.7%) of 53 patients preoperatively. The mean sperm concentration before orchiectomy was 24.21×106 /mL and group A sperm motility 0.79%, group B sperm motility 39.10%, group C sperm motility 9.83%, and group D sperm motility 22.69% in testicular tumors. CONCLUSION: Spermatogenesis adversely affected before the treatment due to local and systemic effects of testicular cancer. Fertility expectations can be increased in the subsequent years by semen analysis and referral to cryopreservation.

The timing of micro-TESE: what is the ideal age for male and female partner to bring a child to home?

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to analyze the results of microsurgical testicular sperm extraction (micro-TESE) and investigate the potential factors that may affect the successful sperm retrieval and timing of micro-TESE. METHODS: A total of 56 patients with nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) who underwent micro-TESE procedure between January 2017 and December 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. The patient age, marriage duration, infertility duration, smoking, chronic illness, varicocele status, previous scrotal surgeries, and the presence of genetic disease were noted by an urologist for all patients. RESULTS: The mean age of patients was 33.28±4.4 (22-44) years. Our total sperm-retrieval rate was 55.4% (n:31). Sixteen (28.6%) pregnancies were achieved and 15 (26.8%) healthy live births could be managed. Only the marriage duration (p=0.016) and infertility duration (p=0.015) were detected to be the significant factors to manage successful sperm retrieval. Men with NOA younger than 35.2 years and having a female partner younger than 36.9 years seemed to have the best chance to have a living healthy baby. CONCLUSIONS: The fertility decreased by both male and female age and for men with NOA. The early visit to doctor seemed to have positive effect.

Examination of clinical data and semen analysis results of patients undergoing orchiectomy for testicular tumor

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: Testicular tumor constitutes 1% of male neoplasms. Infertility can be determined in patients with testicular tumors before orchiectomy due to the deterioration of spermatogenesis. The aim of this study was to show the clinical, radiological, and pathological characteristics and spermiogram results of patients with testicular tumor and their relationship with each other. METHODS: The data of patients who underwent orchiectomy due to testicular tumor between 2016 and 2019 were reviewed retrospectively. These data included sociodemographic data of the patients, pretreatment spermiogram characteristics, level of serum tumor markers, characteristics of the ultrasonography, type of orchiectomy, and histopathological examination. RESULTS: This study included 53 male patients, with a mean age of 33.51±12.86 years. The mean levels of all tumor markers were above the reference levels. The mean tumor size was 34.68±23.32 mm. Multiple localizations and microlithiasis were detected in 11.3 and 13.2% of the tumors, respectively. The most common masses were hypoechoic (n=37; 69.8%) and hypervascular (n=47; 81%). Spermiogram and cryopreservation were performed in 29 (54.7%) of 53 patients preoperatively. The mean sperm concentration before orchiectomy was 24.21×106 /mL and group A sperm motility 0.79%, group B sperm motility 39.10%, group C sperm motility 9.83%, and group D sperm motility 22.69% in testicular tumors. CONCLUSION: Spermatogenesis adversely affected before the treatment due to local and systemic effects of testicular cancer. Fertility expectations can be increased in the subsequent years by semen analysis and referral to cryopreservation.

Penile Rehabilitation and Treatment Options for Erectile Dysfunction Following Radical Prostatectomy and Radiotherapy: A Systematic Review.

After radical prostatectomy (RP) or radiotherapy (RT) for prostate cancer, erectile dysfunction (ED) is the main complication next to urinary incontinence, affecting quality of life. The pathophysiology of ED after these treatments is believed to include neuropraxia causing reduced oxygenation and structural changes of the tissue in the corpora cavernosa. Next to the option of sparing the nerves during RP, research has been focusing on methods for penile rehabilitation after RP and RT, since it occurs often, even after nerve-sparing techniques were used. In animal studies, the use of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5i) after cavernous nerve damage is supported, but results in human studies are contradictory. Non-medical treatment options such as vacuum device therapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, yoga, aerobic, or pelvic floor training may be helpful, but evidence is scarce. Clear guidelines for penile rehabilitation are not yet available. However, care and support for ED after RP and RT is highly demanded by a large group of patients, so measures have to be taken even though the evidence is not strong yet. In this systematic review, an overview of the literature for penile rehabilitation and treatment options for ED after RP and RT is provided, using only randomized controlled trials (RCT).

Ventral onlay buccal mucosa graft urethroplasty for female urethral stricture.

OBJECTIVES: Female urethral stricture is a rare disease. Urethroplasty with different techniques using grafts or flaps are successful treatment options. The objective of this study was to present our experience with ventral onlay buccal mucosa graft urethroplasty for the treatment of female urethral stricture disease. METHODS: Eight female patients treated with ventral onlay buccal mucosa graft urethroplasty were identified retrospectively. Patient evaluation included physical examination, uroflowmetry with postvoid residual urine measurement, videourodynamics and urethrocystoscopy. Stricture was identified by videourethrography and/or urethrocystoscopy. Urodynamic evidence of stricture was considered as a persistent low maximum flow rate of <12 mL/s combined with detrusor pressure at maximum measured flow rate of >20 cmH2 O in the pressure flow study. RESULTS: The mean age was 50.5 ± 4.14 years. Stricture etiology was idiopathic (62.5%) or iatrogenic (37.5%). Two patients (25%) had undergone prior urethral dilations before buccal mucosa graft urethroplasty. Mean stricture length was 1.62 ± 0.44 cm. Stricture location was as follows: four distal urethra (50%), two mid-distal (25%) and two mid-urethra (25%). The mean postoperative follow-up period was 16.37 ± 5.75 months, and the during follow-up success rate was 100%. No complication, such as incontinence or vaginal fistula, was noted, except dyspareunia developed in one patient (12.5%). CONCLUSIONS: Ventral onlay buccal mucosa graft urethroplasty is a safe and effective treatment option for female urethral stricture. Unnecessary dilation should not be carried out and buccal mucosa graft urethroplasty in expert centers should be recommended to these patients.

Patterns of sexual behavior and psychological processes in asexual persons: a systematic review.

Asexuality is commonly regarded as lack of sexual attraction. Research in asexuality grew progressively in the past two decades. However, asexuals' patterns of sexual behavior and psychological processes were not yet systematized. This review searched for articles that could potentially help establishing these patterns. Articles published in English until December 31st 2019 were retrieved from Medline, Embase, Cochrane, EBSCO, PubMed, Scopus, and PsycARTICLES. A systematic search was conducted using an exhaustive list of key terms regarding asexuality and sexual behavior following PRISMA guidelines. Of the 195 initially retrieved, only 23 were considered for this review. Of the 23 articles, 16 were quantitative studies, 5 were qualitative studies, and 2 comprised quantitative and qualitative studies. Overall, current findings suggest that asexuals present great heterogeneity of sexual behaviors and psychological processes regarding sexuality, including different aspects and types of interpersonal and romantic relationships, sexual attitudes or fantasies. Conversely, data did not find support for the claim that asexuals present impaired sexual functioning. The little geographic and cultural diversity of the samples is a major limitation in these studies, preventing the properly representation of asexuals. Furthermore, asexuals may benefit from evidence on the biopsychosocial factors shaping sexual, emotional, and relationship well-being, as far as such evidence is built upon asexuals' lenses, rather than on heteronormativity criteria.

Evaluation of depression, anxiety and quality of life in patients with non-obstructive azoospermia.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to determine the levels of depression, anxiety and quality of life in non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) patients who attended our clinic. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 40 male patients were included in the study troubled with non-obstructive azoospermia. An etiological classification was made according to the hormone levels of the patients. The semen specimen was obtained by masturbation from the patients. Three questionnaires, the Beck Depression Inventory, the Beck Anxiety Inventory, and the Short Form of the World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire, were utilized in the study. RESULTS: The mean age of the patients in the study was 32.75±5.22 years. The patients were classified as follows: 26 (65%) patients were idiopathic, 11 (27.5%) patients were hyper-hypo and 3 (7.5%) patients could not be reached. In this cohort, 62.5% of patients had minimal depression, 27.5% of patients had mild depression and 10% of patients had moderate depression. In addition, 97.5% of patients had minimal anxiety and 2.5% of the patients had mild anxiety. Quality of life scores of the patients were 58.75% for general health status, 70.98% for physical health status, 72.92% for psychological status, 65% for social relations and 66.25% for environmental status. CONCLUSION: NOA particularly affects men in terms of biological, psychological and social aspects. In order to evaluate the quality of life and psychiatric conditions patients with azoospermia, various questionnaires may be applied before infertility treatment. Thus, patients who need psychiatric support can be identified.

Is dialysis adequacy a useful predictor for sexual function in males and females with end-stage renal disease?

INTRODUCTION: The development of sexual dysfunction (SD) in dialysis patients is multifactorial. We aimed to evaluate whether adequate dialysis had an effect on the development of SD in male and female patients undergoing dialysis due to end stage renal disease. Anxiety, depression, health-related quality of life and the other risk factors related to dialysis were also evaluated in terms of SD. METHODS: Seventy men and 57 women undergoing haemodialysis (HD) or peritoneal dialysis (PD) and 65 healthy male volunteers and 48 healthy female volunteers, age-matched, were included in the study. The International Index of Erectile Function, Female Sexual Function Index, Beck Depression Inventory, Beck Anxiety Inventory and The Short Form-36 Health Survey were applied to all participants. The cut off value of Kt/V was determined as 1.3 for HD and 1.7 for PD to assess dialysis adequacy. Per gender, all the participants were divided into three groups as control, adequate dialysis and non-adequate dialysis. RESULTS: Dialysis adequacy [OR: 3.225, 95%CI (1.213-8.620), p=.019] was found as a more decisive factor for male SD, while dialysis adequacy [OR: 3.015, 95%CI (.991-7.250), p=.041] and depression [OR: 4.280, 95%CI (1.705-10.747), p=.002] were more significant for female SD. In addition, a strong relationship was found between male SD and physical functioning (r: .524, p=.032), social functioning (r: .565, p=.042), general health (r: .693, p=.037) perception, while female SD was found to be strongly associated with anxiety (r: -.697, p=.002) and depression (r: -.738, p=.001). DISCUSSION: Dialysis adequacy was found to be the most important factor in reducing SD. Non-adequate dialysis resulted in worse sexual function, higher levels of depression and anxiety. Its negative effect on health-related quality of life was only seen in men.

Effects of testicular dysgenesis syndrome components on testicular germ cell tumor prognosis and oncological outcomes

ABSTRACT Purpose: To evaluate whether components of Testicular Dysgenesis Syndrome (TDS) affect testicular germ cell tumor (TGCT) prognosis and oncological outcomes. According to the hypothesis called TDS; undescended testis, hypospadias, testicular cancer and spermatogenic disorders share the same risk factors and have a combined fetal origin. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively evaluated the stages and oncological outcomes of 69 patients who underwent radical orchiectomy between January 2010 and December 2014 due to TGCT in our department. The presence of undescended testis, hypospadias and semen parameters disorders were recorded according to anamnesis of patients. Results: Among 69 patients with TGCT, only 16 (23.1%) had TDS. Significantly higher rate of TDS (36.1% vs. 9.1%) was observed at the advanced stages of TGCT(p=0.008). In the TDS group, the rates of local recurrence (50% vs. 11.3%, p<0.001), distant metastasis (93.6% vs. 3.8%, p<0.001) and cancer-spesific mortality (87.5% vs. 3.8%, p<0.001) were found significantly higher than those without TDS. The predicted time for recurrence-free survival (13.70±5.13 vs. 100.96±2.83 months, p<0.001) metastasis-free survival (13.12±4.21 vs. 102.79±2.21 months, p <0.001) and cancer-specific survival (13.68±5.38 vs. 102.80±2.19 months, p<0.001) were also statistically lower in this group. Conclusions: According to our preliminary results, there is an apparent relationship between TDS and tumor prognosis. Even if the components of TDS alone did not contain poor prognostic features for TGCT, the presence of TDS was found as the most important independent predictive factor for oncological outcomes in both seminomas and nonseminomas as well as all patients with TGCT.

Management of erectile dysfunction following robot-assisted radical prostatectomy: a systematic review.

INTRODUCTION: We aimed to summarize evidences about the efficacy of available treatments for erectile disfunction after robotic assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP). EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: A systematic literature review searching on PubMed (Medline), Scopus, and Web of Science databases was performed in December 2019. PRISMA guidelines were followed. Population consisted of patients with erectile disfunction after RARP (P), conservative and surgical intervention were considered of interest (I). No comparator was considered mandatory (C). Outcomes of interest were the recovery of erectile function after conservative treatments and sexual function after surgical treatments (O). EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS: Eleven studies were included. Seven studies focused on the use of phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (PDE5i) alone (five studies) or associated with other treatments (two studies). All the studies confirmed the efficacy of PDE5i, while the most promising association is with vacuum pump erectile devices. Two studies investigated topical treatments, namely low intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy and alprostadil. Low intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy may be a promising option in patients in whom nerve-sparing surgery was performed. The use of alprostadil could be an effective alternative to intracorporeal injection in those who underwent non-nerve-sparing surgery. One study focused and confirmed the efficacy of penile implants. Furthermore, one study reported the efficacy of a multi-modal treatment with preoperative medication, showing the benefits of a multimodal approach. CONCLUSIONS: Penile rehabilitation with PDE5i is effective after nerve sparing RARP. The association of PDE5i with vacuum devices could led to a faster recovery. A multimodal approach with preoperative specific care seems to be effective to fasten erectile function recovery.

Effects of testicular dysgenesis syndrome components on testicular germ cell tumor prognosis and oncological outcomes.

PURPOSE: To evaluate whether components of Testicular Dysgenesis Syndrome (TDS) affect testicular germ cell tumor (TGCT) prognosis and oncological outcomes. According to the hypothesis called TDS; undescended testis, hypospadias, testicular cancer and spermatogenic disorders share the same risk factors and have a combined fetal origin. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated the stages and oncological outcomes of 69 patients who underwent radical orchiectomy between January 2010 and December 2014 due to TGCT in our department. The presence of undescended testis, hypospadias and semen parameters disorders were recorded according to anamnesis of patients. RESULTS: Among 69 patients with TGCT, only 16 (23.1%) had TDS. Significantly higher rate of TDS (36.1% vs. 9.1%) was observed at the advanced stages of TGCT(p=0.008). In the TDS group, the rates of local recurrence (50% vs. 11.3%, p< 0.001), distant metastasis (93.6% vs. 3.8%, p< 0.001) and cancer-spesific mortality (87.5% vs. 3.8%, p< 0.001) were found significantly higher than those without TDS. The predicted time for recurrence-free survival (13.70±5.13 vs. 100.96±2.83 months, p< 0.001) metastasis-free survival (13.12±4.21 vs. 102.79±2.21 months, p< 0.001) and cancer-specific survival (13.68±5.38 vs. 102.80±2.19 months, p< 0.001) were also statistically lower in this group. CONCLUSIONS: According to our preliminary results, there is an apparent relationship between TDS and tumor prognosis. Even if the components of TDS alone did not contain poor prognostic features for TGCT, the presence of TDS was found as the most important independent predictive factor for oncological outcomes in both seminomas and nonseminomas as well as all patients with TGCT.

Urinary incontinence as a cause of depression and sexual dysfunction: questionnaire-based study / Incontinencia urinaria como causa de depresión y disfunción sexual: estudio basado en cuestionarios

INTRODUCTION: Urinary incontinence is a severe and common health problem. In this study, we aimed to assess severity of sexual dysfunction and depression in patients with urinary incontinence. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study has been conducted between 2015 and 2017. Age, body mass index, accompanying health problems, Over Active Bladder (OAB) symptom score, Type of urinary incontinence, Beck Depression Scale were assessed for all PATIENTS: International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5) was used for male patients in order to assess sexual dysfunction. Index of Female Sexual Function (IFSF) and Female Sexual Distress Scale (FSDS) were used in female patients in order to assess sexual dysfunction. RESULTS: 33 patients have been included in the study (Male-12: Urge-10/Stress-1/Mixed-1/Female-21: Urge-10/Stress-6/Mixed-5). Mean age of all patients was 47.9 (Male-49.3/Female-47.2). Mean Body Mass Index for all patients was 23.2 (Male-25.9/Female-21.8). Mean OAB score was 24.3 for all patients (Male-27.5: Urge-28.6/Stress-17/Mixed-27/Female-22.5: Urge-24.2/Stress:21.3/Mixed-20.6). Mean Beck Depression Result for all patients was 20.9 (Male-18.5: Urge-20.2/Stress-9/Mixt-11/Female-22.4: Urge-19.1/Stress-20.3/Mixed-31.6). Mean IIEF-5 score for male patients was 39.5 (Urge-41.4/Stress-55/Mixed-5). Mean IFSF score for female patients was 19.9 (Urge-17.9/Stress-21.3/Mixed-22.4) and mean FSDS score for female patients was 22.1 (Urge-22.3/Stress-23.1/Mixed-20.8). DISCUSSION: Most of the patients that have been included in the study were diagnosed as urge incontinence. When assessing the OAB scores, they were higher in urge incontinence group. Beck depression results showed higher scores in female patients and it was higher in urge group of male patients and mixt group of female PATIENTS: Sexual dysfunction rates were found to be higher for both genders

INTRODUCCIÓN: La incontinencia urinaria es un problema de salud grave y frecuente. En este estudio se pretende evaluar la gravedad de la disfunción sexual y la depresión en pacientes con incontinencia urinaria. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: El estudio se ha realizado entre 2015 y 2017. Edad, índice de masa corporal, problemas de salud concomitantes, puntuación de los síntomas de vejiga hiperactiva, tipo de incontinencia urinaria y escala de depresión de Beck fueron evaluados en todos los PACIENTES: El índice internacional de la función eréctil 5 (IIEF-5) fue utilizado en los pacientes varones para determinar la disfunción sexual. El índice de la función sexual femenina (IFSF) y la escala sexual femenina de la señal de socorro (FSDS, por sus siglas en inglés) fueron utilizados en pacientes mujeres para determinar la disfunción sexual. RESULTADOS: Treinta y tres pacientes han sido incluidos en el estudio (varones: 12, ganas: 10, estrés: 1 y mixto: 1; mujeres: 21, ganas: 10, estrés: 6 y mixto: 5). La media de edad de todos los pacientes era de 47,9 (varones: 49,3 y mujeres: 47,2) años. El índice de masa corporal promedio de todos los pacientes fue de 23,2 (varones: 25,9 y mujeres: 21,8). La media de puntuación de vejiga hiperactiva en todos los pacientes fue de 24,3 (varones: 27,5, ganas: 28,6, estrés: 17 y mixto: 27; mujeres: 22,5, ganas: 24,2, estrés: 21,3 y mixto: 20,6). Los resultados de la media de Beck para la depresión de todos los pacientes fue de 20,9 (varones: 18,5, ganas: 20,2, estrés: 9 y mixto: 11; mujeres: 22,4, ganas: 19,1, estrés: 20,3 y mixto: 31,6). La puntuación media IIEF-5 para pacientes varones fue de 39,5 (ganas: 41,4, estrés: 55 y mixto: 5). La puntuación media IFSF para pacientes mujeres fue de 19,9 (ganas: 17,9, estrés: 21,3 y mixto: 22,4) y la puntuación media FSDS para pacientes mujeres fue de 22,1 (ganas: 22,3, estrés: 23,1 y mixto: 20,8). DISCUSIÓN: La mayoría de los pacientes que han sido incluidos en el estudio fueron diagnosticados con incontinencia de urgencia. A la hora de evaluar las puntuaciones de vejiga hiperactiva fueron más altos en el grupo de incontinencia. Los resultados de la media de Beck para la depresión mostraron puntuaciones más elevadas en pacientes mujeres y fue mayor en el grupo de pacientes varones con ganas y en el grupo de pacientes mujeres con mixto. Las tasas de disfunción sexual se encontraron altas en ambos sexos