The impact of mpMRI-targeted vs systematic biopsy on the risk of prostate cancer downgrading at final pathology.

PURPOSE: Although targeted biopsies (TBx) are associated with improved disease assessment, concerns have been raised regarding the risk of prostate cancer (PCa) overgrading due to more accurate biopsy core deployment in the index lesion. METHODS: We identified 1672 patients treated with radical prostatectomy (RP) with a positive mpMRI and ISUP ≥ 2 PCa detected via systematic biopsy (SBx) plus TBx. We compared downgrading rates at RP (ISUP 4-5, 3, and 2 at biopsy, to a lower ISUP) for PCa detected via SBx only (group 1), via TBx only (group 2), and eventually for PCa detected with the same ISUP 2-5 at both SBx and TBx (group 3), using multivariable logistic regression models (MVA). RESULTS: Overall, 12 vs 14 vs 6% (n = 176 vs 227 vs 96) downgrading rates were recorded in group 1 vs group 2 vs group 3, respectively (p < 0.001). At MVA, group 2 was more likely to be downgraded (OR 1.26, p = 0.04), as compared to group 1. Conversely, group 3 was less likely to be downgraded at RP (OR 0.42, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Downgrading rates are highest when PCa is present in TBx only and, especially when the highest grade PCa is diagnosed by TBx cores only. Conversely, downgrading rates are lowest when PCa is identified with the same ISUP through both SBx and TBx. The presence of clinically significant disease at SBx + TBx may indicate a more reliable assessment of the disease at the time of biopsy potentially reducing the risk of downgrading at final pathology.

Significant prostate cancer risk after MRI-guided biopsy showing benign findings: Results from a cohort of 381 men.

BACKGROUND: MRI-guided biopsy (MGB) contributes to the diagnosis of clinically significant Prostate Cancer (csPCa). However, there are no clear recommendations for the management of men after a negative MGB. The aim of this study was to assess the risk of csPCa after a first negative MGB. METHODS: Between 2014 and 2020, we selected men with a PI-RADS score ≥ 3 on MRI and a negative MGB (showing benign findings) performed for suspected prostate cancer. MGB (targeted and systematic biopsies) was performed using fully integrated mobile fusion imaging (KOELIS). The primary endpoint was the rate of csPCa (defined as an ISUP grade ≥ 2) diagnosed after a first negative MGB. RESULTS: A total of 381 men with a negative MGB and a median age of 65 (IQR: 59-69, range: 46-85) years were included. During the median follow-up of 31 months, 124 men (32.5%) had a new MRI, and 76 (19.9%) were referred for a new MGB, which revealed csPCa in 16 (4.2%) of them. We found no statistical difference in the characteristics of men diagnosed with csPCa compared with men with no csPCa after the second MGB. CONCLUSION: We observed a risk of significant prostate cancer in 4% of men two years after a negative MRI-guided biopsy. Performing a repeat MRI could improve the selection of men who will benefit from a repeat MRI-guided biopsy, but a clear protocol is needed to follow these patients.

Photodynamic cystoscopy for bladder cancer diagnosis and for NMIBC follow-up: An overview of systematic reviews and meta-analyses.

INTRODUCTION: Currently, bladder cancer detection is based on cytology and cystoscopy. White light cystoscopy (WLC) is an invasive procedure and may under-detect flat lesions. Blue light cystoscopy (BLC) and narrow band imaging (NBI) cystoscopy are new modalities that could improve the detection of non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) and its recurrence or progression to muscle invasive bladder cancer. We present a systematic review on BLC and NBI cystoscopy for bladder cancer diagnosis and NMIBC follow-up. MATERIAL AND METHODS: All available systematic reviews and meta-analyses on cystoscopy published in PubMed® between May 2010 and March 2021 were identified and reviewed. The main endpoints were clinical performance for bladder cancer diagnosis and for recurrence or progression detection during NMIBC follow-up, and additional value compared with cytology and/or WLC. RESULTS: Most of the meta-analyses and systematic reviews published suggest a better sensitivity of BLC and NBI cystoscopy compared to WLC, particularly for the detection of flat lesions (CIS). NBI- and BLC-guided TURBT could decrease the recurrence rates. However, their clinical utility to reduce progression rate and increase survival is still unclear. CONCLUSIONS: BLC and NBI cystoscopy are efficient techniques for bladder cancer diagnosis and NMIBC follow-up. However, their clinical benefit remains to be confirmed.

Prognostic significance of PI-RADS 5 lesions in patients treated by radical prostatectomy.

PURPOSE: To analyse the pathological features and survival of patients with a PI-RADS 5 lesion on pre-biopsy MRI. METHODS: We extracted from a European multicentre prospectively gathered database the data of patients with a PI-RADS 5 lesion on pre-biopsy MRI, diagnosed using both systematic and targeted biopsies and subsequently treated by radical prostatectomy. The Kaplan-Meier model was used to assess the biochemical-free survival of the whole cohort and univariable and multivariable Cox models were set up to study factors associated with survival. RESULTS: Between 2013 and 2019, 539 consecutive patients with a PI-RADS 5 lesion on pre-biopsy MRI were treated by radical prostatectomy and included in the analysis. Follow-up data were available for 448 patients. Radical prostatectomy and lymph node dissection specimens showed non-organ confined disease in 297/539 (55%), (including 2 patients with a locally staged pT2 lesion and lymph node involvement (LNI)). With a median follow-up of 25 months (12-39), the median biochemical recurrence-free survival was 54% at 2 years (95% CI 45-61) and 28% at 5 years (95% CI 18-39). Among the factors studied, MRI T stage [T3a vs T2 HR 3.57 (95%CI 1.78-7.16); T3b vs T2 HR 6.17 (95% CI 2.99-12.72)] and PSA density (HR 4.47 95% CI 1.55-12.89) were significantly associated with a higher risk of biochemical recurrence in multivariable analysis. CONCLUSION: Patients with a PI-RADS 5 lesion on pre-biopsy MRI have a high risk of early biochemical recurrence after radical prostatectomy. MRI T stage and PSA density can be used to improve patient selection and counselling.

French AFU Cancer Committee Guidelines - Update 2022-2024: Non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC).

OBJECTIVE: To update the ccAFU recommendations for the management of bladder tumours that do not infiltrate the bladder muscle (NBMIC). METHODS: A systematic review (Medline) of the literature from 2020 to 2022 was performed, taking account of the diagnosis, treatment options and surveillance of NMIBC, while evaluating the references with their levels of evidence. RESULTS: The diagnosis of NMIBC (Ta, T1, CIS) is made after complete full-thickness tumour resection. The use of bladder fluorescence and the indication of a second look (4-6 weeks) help to improve the initial diagnosis. The EORTC score is used to assess the risk of recurrence and/or tumour progression. Through the stratification of patients in low, intermediate and high-risk categories, adjuvant treatment can be proposed: intravesical chemotherapy (immediate postoperative, initiation regimen) or BCG (initiation and maintenance regimen) instillations, or even the indication of cystectomy for BCG-resistant patients. CONCLUSION: Updating the ccAFU recommendations should contribute to improving patient management, as well as the diagnosis and treatment of NMIBC.

French AFU Cancer Committee Guidelines - Update 2022-2024: Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer (MIBC).

OBJECTIVE: To update the CCAFU recommendations for the management of muscle invasive bladder carcinoma (MIBC). METHODS: A systematic review (Medline) of the literature from 2020 to 2022 was performed taking account of the diagnosis, treatment options and surveillance of NMIBC and MIBC, while evaluating the references with their levels of evidence. RESULTS: MIBC is diagnosed after the most complete tumour resection possible. MIBC grading is based on CTU along with chest CT. Multiparametric pelvic MRI could be an alternative. Cystectomy with extensive lymphadenectomy is the gold standard treatment for non-metastatic MIBC. It should be preceded by platinum-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients in good general health with satisfactory renal function. Enterocystoplasty is proposed in men and women in the absence of contraindications and when the urethral resection is negative on extemporaneous examination. Otherwise, transileal cutaneous ureterostomy is the recommended method of urinary diversion. Inclusion of all patients in an ERAS (Enhanced Recovery After Surgery) protocol is recommended. For metastatic MIBC, first line treatment with platinum-based chemotherapy (GC or MVAC) is recommended, if general health (PS>1) and renal function (clearance>60mL/min) so allow (only 50% of the cases). Pembrolizumab immunotherapy has demonstrated an overall survival benefit in second-line treatment. CONCLUSION: Updating the ccAFU recommendations should contribute to improving patient management, as well as the diagnosis and decision-making concerning MIBC treatment.

French AFU Cancer Committee Guidelines - Update 2022-2024: Upper urinary tract urothelial cancer (UTUC).

INTRODUCTION: The aim was to propose an update of the French Urology Association Cancer Committee (ccAFU) Recommendations on the management of upper urinary tract urothelial carcinomas (UUT-UC). METHODS: A systematic Medline search was performed between 2020 and 2022, taking account of the diagnosis, treatment options and follow-up of UUT-UC, while evaluating the references with their levels of evidence. RESULTS: The diagnosis of this rare pathology is based on CTU acquisition during excretion and flexible ureterorenoscopy with histological biopsies. Radical nephroureterectomy (RNU) remains the gold standard for surgical treatment. Nevertheless conservative treatment can be discussed for low risk lesions: tumour of low-grade, with no infiltration on imaging, unifocal<2cm, eligible for full treatment therefore requiring close endoscopic surveillance by flexible ureteroscopy in compliant patients. After RNU, postoperative instillation of chemotherapy is recommended to reduce the risk of recurrence in the bladder. Adjuvant chemotherapy has shown clinical benefits compared to surveillance after RNU for tumours (pT2-T4 N0-3 M0). CONCLUSION: These updated recommendations should contribute to improving not only patients' level of care, but also the diagnosis and decision-making concerning treatment for UUT-UC.

[Bladder-sparing trimodal therapy for muscle invasive bladder cancer]. / Stratégie de préservation vésicale basée sur le traitement trimodal : quelle place dans la prise en charge du carcinome infiltrant de la vessie ?

Organ-sparing strategies in the management of local or locally advanced cancers meet a dual objective: tumor control and preservation of the function of the involved organ. Given the morbidity and mortality of cystectomy and its impact on quality of life and bladder function, bladder-sparing strategies have emerged for the management of urothelial muscle invasive bladder cancer, mostly through trimodal treatment, which consists in maximal trans-urethral resection of bladder tumor, followed by chemo-radiotherapy. This review presents the modalities of trimodal treatment, before exposing the advantages and limitations of this strategy compared to cystectomy among operable patients. Despite the absence of comparative data from randomized trials, the two approaches seem to provide similar oncological results among appropriately selected patients. In modern series, the rate of salvage cystectomy is approximately 15% at 5 years; this delayed cystectomy does not seem to be associated with greater morbidity and mortality as compared to upfront cystectomy. Emphasis is placed in the review on quality of life data of these two approaches. In order to optimize the selection of patients eligible to trimodal therapy, the classical predictive factors of response to radio(chemo)therapy are critically analyzed, with the perspective of innovative molecular biomarkers. Finally, a close multidisciplinary collaboration is needed for the choice and the execution of the therapeutic strategy, and the patient should be fully involved in the decision-making process.

[De novo or secondary metastatic prostate cancer management in France: Observational study from "sentinel multidisciplinary meeting" of the French Association of Urology]. / Prise en charge des cancers de la prostate métastatiques synchrones et métachrones en France : étude observationnelle à partir des « RCP sentinelles ¼ de l'AFU.

INTRODUCTION: Metastatic prostate cancer (mPCa) is an heterogeneous disease. Metachronous mPCa (MM) seems to have a better prognosis than synchronous mPCa (SM). However, it is difficult to analyze their specificities from national registries. Data from the so-called "sentinel multidisciplinary meeting" (SMDM) would represent a "real life" data collection. The objective of this national pilot study was to evaluate the concept of SMDM through the description and comparison of the diagnosis, management and follow-up of patients with synchronous or metachronous mPCa in 2018. METHODS: A survey covering clinical, biological, radiological data as well as treatment initiated and follow-up at 3 and 6 months was sent to the SMDM. All patients diagnosed with metastatic disease (SM or MM) between 01/01/2018 and 11/30/2018 were included. RESULTS: In total, 780 patients from 39 centers were included, 408 SM and 372 MM. SM were more symptomatic and had a higher metastatic burden than MM. PET were mostly performed in MM without a prior standard staging. SM patients received more chemotherapy than MM patients whereas new generation androgen deprivation therapy was mostly given to MM patients. At 6 months, there were no more significant difference in clinical presentation between the two groups. CONCLUSION: Specificities of SM and MM patients in terms of clinical presentation, metastatic burden and management were described, validating the concept of SMDM as a source of reliable informations.

[Guidelines from the cancer (CC-AFU) and infection disease (CI-AFU) committees of the French Association of Urology for the management of adverse events and complications of BCG]. / Recommandations des Comités de cancérologie (CC-AFU) et d'infectiologie (CI-AFU) de l'Association française d'urologie pour la prise en charge effets indésirables et complications du BCG.

INTRODUCTION: Intravesical instillations of BCG are recommended for the treatment of high-risk non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer. However, their prolonged use remains limited by the associated potentially serious adverse effects or complications. The purpose of this article was to provide updated recommendations for the diagnosis and management of adverse events (AEs) or complications of intravesical BCG instillations. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Review of the literature in Medline (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov) and Embase (http://www.embase.com) using the following MeSH keywords or a combination of these keywords: "bladder," "BCG," "complication," "toxicity," "adverse events," "prevention," and "treatment". RESULTS: AEs or complications of BCG included genitourinary and systemic symptoms. The most common complications (cystitis, moderate fever) should be treated symptomatically and may require adjustment to allow patients to have the most complete BCG treatment possible. Serious complications are rare but must be identified promptly because of the life-threatening nature of the disease. Their management is based on the combination of anti-tuberculosis treatments, anti-inflammatory drugs and the definitive discontinuation of BCG. CONCLUSION: The management of BCG AEs requires early identification, rational and effective treatment if necessary, and discussion of the continuation of treatment for each situation.

[Intravesical adjuvant regimen of epitubicin for intermediate risk NMIBC: Feasability study from CC-AFU vessie]. / Instauration du traitement adjuvant endovésical par épirubicine des tumeurs de vessie n'infiltrant pas le muscle : premier retour national d'expérience du CC-AFU vessie.

INTRODUCTION: Mitomycin C is the gold standard intravesical adjuvant therapy for intermediate-risk non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). Tensions in the supply of mitomycin have emerged in France since late 2019. The ANSM in agreement with the AFU proposed to use epirubicin, already available in other European countries in this indication. The objective of our study was to report the initial French experience with the use of epirubicin in adjuvant treatment of NMIBC. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We undertook a French multicenter retrospective descriptive study to collect, from the centers of the members of the CC-AFU bladder, the clinico-pathological data of the patients, the indications, the modalities of use (dose, indication, circuit in the pharmacy) and the tolerance data of epirubicin. The impact of the COVID-19 epidemic on treatment interruptions was also identified. Of the 20 centers contacted, 5 (25%) had implemented the epirubicin administration protocol developed by the CC-AFU bladder subcommittee. A total of 61 patients were treated with endovesical instillations of epirubicin between November 2019 and November 2020 for NMIBC at a single dose of 50mg. RESULTS: A total of 61 patients (mean age 67 years, 64-77 years) were treated with epirubicin, of which 45 (73.8%) were male. The patients had intermediate-risk NMIBC in 88.5%, the rest had high-risk disease. Induction therapy without or with maintenance was planned for 48 (78.7%) and 13 patients (21.3%), respectively. The preparation and administration of epirubicin was similar to that of mitomycin: central pharmacy preparation for same-day dispensing with immediate outpatient instillation. Unlike mitomycin, urinary alkalinization was not required. Of the 498 total instillations scheduled, 345 were performed (69.3%). The COVID-19 epidemic significantly impacted epirubicin delivery: one patient could not start treatment (1.6%), 8 patients (13.1%) had to discontinue it permanently; the rest of the patients underwent delayed instillations (18%). Other causes of discontinuation included infectious complications (9.8%). No major toxicities were reported. CONCLUSION: The implementation of an adjuvant epirubicin treatment protocol presented a good feasibility with low toxicity, without modifying the organization of the patients' care pathway. In the context of unpredictable mitomycin shortage, epirubicin represents a good therapeutic alternative in the endovesical adjuvant treatment of intermediate-risk NMIBC. LEVEL OF PROOF: 3.

[Guidelines from the cancer committee of the French Association of Urology (CC-AFU) for adequate intravesical instillations of Mitomycin C, Epirubicin, and BCG for non-muscle invasive bladder cancer]. / Recommandations du Comité de cancérologie de l'Association Française d'Urologie (CC-AFU) pour la bonne pratique des instillations intravésicales de mitomycine C, d'épirubicine et de BCG pour le traitement des tumeurs de la vessie n'infiltrant pas le muscle (TVNIM).

INTRODUCTION: Intravesical instillations of mitomycin C, epirubicin and BCG are considered as the standard treatment for most patients diagnosed with non-muscle invasive bladder cancer. These guidelines aim to optimize the adjuvant intravesical treatment in order to increase the efficacy and lower the morbidity associated with its administration. METHODS: We conducted a daily practice survey, an online search of available national regulation recommendations and of published guidelines. A bibliography search in French and English using Medline® and Embase® with the keywords "BCG"; "mitomycin C"; "epirubicin"; "bladder"; "complication"; "toxicity"; "adverse reaction"; "prevention" and "treatment" was performed November 2021. RESULTS: Patient information should be given by the attending physician before the first intravesical instillation. A medical exam to look for specific contraindications is also mandatory to select adequate candidates. Intravesical instillations should be delivered in health-care centers where urologic endoscopic procedures are routinely performed. Attending urologist or specialized nurse should check for negative pretreatment urine test. Intravesical instillation can only be delivered after bladder catheter has been inserted in the bladder without any injury of the lower urinary tract. The pharmaceutical agent should be kept in the bladder for two hours. Finally, voiding within the 6hours following intravesical instillations should be done in the sitting position and the patient should drink at least 2 liters of water per day for 2 days. CONCLUSION: The delivery of intravesical instillations of mitomycin C, epirubicin and BCG should follow a standardized procedure for better efficacy and lower morbidity.

[Assessment of trainee urologists' knowledge in urogenital anatomy]. / Évaluation des connaissances en anatomie uro-génitale des urologues en formation.

The purpose of this study was to assess trainee urologists' [interns and assistant heads of university hospitals (CHU)] knowledge of the anatomy of the urogenital system. An examination consisting of 10 timed (16minutes) multiple-choice questions (MCQ) based on urogenital anatomy assessments for students in third year of the general medical science diploma program (DFGSM3) was sent to members of the French Association of Trainee Urologists (AFUF) in May 2018 in order to compare the average scores of these two populations. In addition, a questionnaire consisting of epidemiological data, their opinion on the quality of education in anatomy and the willingness to have more courses on this subject was included in the examination. The same scale based on a score out of 20 was applied to both populations. Of the 501 AFUF members solicited, 144 answered all the questions (28.7%). The mean score for urologists was lower than that of DFGSM3 students (10.56±1.82 vs. 11.4±2.37 respectively) (P=0.0013). Moreover, the desire for further education in anatomy was widespread among urologists (87%). According to our study, urologists have less knowledge of urogenital anatomy than third year medical students. Many means are being implemented or are available to rectify this failing, especially since the majority of trainee urologists consider that there are insufficient anatomy lessons in the curriculum and would like to receive further education in anatomy. LEVEL IF EVIDENCE: 3.

[Comparison of penoscrotal and perineal approaches for implantation of an artificial urinary sphincter in man]. / Comparaison des voies d'abords peno-scrotales et perineales pour l'implantation d'un sphincter urinaire artificiel chez l'homme.

INTRODUCTION: Artificial urinary sphincter is considered the gold standard of treatment for male urinary incontinence because of intrinsic sphincter deficiency. The objective of our study was to compare the functional results and complications of the penoscrotal and perineal incision for the implantation of artificial urinary sphincter. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A retrospective, monocentric study comparing the perioperative and long-term results of primary implantation of an artificial urinary sphincter in men, performed by the penoscrotal or the perineal incision, was conducted in a French university hospital. RESULTS: Between April 2004 and February 2019, 175 patients were implanted (118 by penoscrotal incision and 57 by perineal incision) by 19 surgeons. Cuff placement approach depended on surgeon preference. The average follow-up was 34.2 ± 35.6 months. Cuff size was smaller in the penoscrotal group (4 [4;5] vs 4.5[4;5] p<0.001). At the end of follow-up, the rates of complete continence, social continence, reintervention for any reason, explantation, and revision was similar between the two groups. CONCLUSION: Long-term outcomes of penoscrotal and perineal artificial sphincter implantation were similar between the two groups. Prospective multicenter studies are needed to confirm these results.

Assessment of oncological and functional outcomes of retropubic radical prostatectomy: An academic center experience.

PURPOSE: To report perioperative, pathological, oncological and functional outcomes of a contemporary series of retropubic radical prostatectomy (RRP), performed by one experienced surgeon. METHODS: We analyzed data from a prospectively gathered database of consecutive patients who were treated by an RRP as first-line treatment for localized prostate cancer, from January 2014 to December 2019, in a single French academic center. RESULTS: Overall, 364 patients were included. Median age and PSA were 65.7 years and 8.0ng/mL. According to D'Amico risk classification, 13.7% patients had a low-risk prostate cancer, 41.5% a favorable intermediate-risk, 23.4% an unfavorable intermediate-risk and 21.4% a high-risk prostate cancer. The rates of pT2 and pT3 were 48.6% (n=177) and 51.4% (n=187), respectively. The rates of non-nerve sparing surgery (NSS), unilateral NSS and bilateral NSS were 19.5% (n=71), 32.7% (n=119) and 47.8% (n=174). Total positive surgical margin (PSM) rate was 12.6% (n=46). Total pT2 PSM and pT3 PSM rates were 0.6% (n=1) and 24.1% (n=45) and achieved a statistical difference (P<0.001). At a median follow-up of 1.9-year, biochemical recurrence (BCR) occurred in 47 (12,9%) patients. Extracapsular extension was associated with a poor BCR-free survival as compared to organ confined disease (P<0.0001). At 2.7 years of follow-up, urinary continence rate was 88% (322/364). After exclusion of non-NSS RRP and non-interpretable questionnaires (score 1-4), median IIEF-5 score was 16 (8-20). CONCLUSION: Retropubic radical prostatectomy ensures optimal pathological and functional results, in a current predominantly population of intermediate-risk prostate cancer and high-risk prostate cancer. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 3.

Multicenter external validation of the radical cystectomy pentafecta in a European cohort of patients undergoing robot-assisted radical cystectomy with intracorporeal urinary diversion for bladder cancer.

OBJECTIVE: To perform an external validation of this RC-pentafecta. METHOD: Between January 2014 and December 2019, 104 consecutive patients who underwent RARC with ICUD within 6 urological centers were analyzed retrospectively. Patients who simultaneously demonstrated negative soft tissue surgical margins (STSMs), a lymph node (LN) yield ≥ 16, absence of major (Clavien-Dindo grade III-V) 90-day postoperative complications, absence of UD-related long-term sequelae, and absence of 12-month clinical recurrence were considered to have achieved RC-pentafecta. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to measure predictors for achieving RC-pentafecta. We analyzed the influence of this RC-pentafecta on survival, and the impact ofthe surgical experience. RESULTS: Since 2014, 104 patients who had completed at least 12 months of follow-up were included. Over a mean follow-up of 18 months, a LN yield ≥ 16, negative STSMs, absence of major complications at 90 days, and absence of UD-related surgical sequelae and clinical recurrence at ≤ 12 months were observed in 56%, 96%, 85%, 81%, and 91% of patients, respectively, resulting in a RC-pentafecta rate of 39.4%. Multivariate analysis showed that age was an independent predictor of pentafecta achievement (odds ratio [OR], 0.96; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.90. 0.99; p = 0.04). The surgeon experience had an impact on the validation of the criteria. CONCLUSION: This study confirmed that the RC-pentafecta is reproducible and could be externally used for the outcome assessment after RARC with ICUD. Therefore, the RC-pentafecta could be a useful tool to assess surgical success and its impact on different outcomes.

[Living-donor robotic-assisted kidney transplantation: French academic center experience]. / Transplantation rénale robot-assistée avec donneur vivant : expérience d'un centre universitaire français.

INTRODUCTION: The main objective was to report the intra-, post-operative and functional outcomes of living-donor robotic-assisted kidney transplantation (RAKT), performed by a surgeon skilled in robotic surgery. The secondary objective was to compare the results of RAKT, based on the surgeon's experience. METHODS: For this retrospective cohort study, we analyzed data from consecutive patients who underwent living-donor RAKT from July 2015 to March 2020 and compared the results of RAKT according to the surgeon's experience (group 1: 1-14th RAKT versus group 2: 15-29th RAKT). RESULTS: Twenty-nine living-donor RAKT were performed. The median age and BMI of the recipients were: 57.0 (44.0-66.0) years and 32.7 (23.5-39.6)kg/m2. The median overall operative time and median console time were: 140.0 (122.5-165.0) and 120.0 (107.5-137.5) minutes. The median rewarming time, arterial, venous and urinary anastomoses durations were: 35.0 (27.5-45.0), 15.0 (11.0-20.0), 12.0 (10.0-16.0), 20.0 (16.0-23.0) minutes. Two (6.9%) minor and 5 (17.2%) major (Clavien-Dindo≥III) postoperative complications occurred. At 2 years of follow-up, patient and transplant survival was 100% (n=29) and 93.1% (n=27). After the 14th RAKT, the rewarming time (P=0.01) and venous anastomosis duration (P=0.004) were statistically shorter. CONCLUSION: Living-donor robotic-assisted kidney transplantation, performed by a surgeon skilled robotic surgery, ensures good functional results in the medium term. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 3.

Comparison between retroperitoneal and transperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomy: Are both equally safe?

STUDY OBJECTIVES: Compare the rates of major intra- and postoperative complications, surgical conversion and mortality between transperitoneal versus retroperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomy. PATIENTS AND METHODS: In a series of 344 consecutive unilateral laparoscopic adrenalectomies, performed from January 1997 to December 2017, we evaluated the rates of major intra- and postoperative complications (Clavien-Dindo≥III) and surgical conversion of the two approaches. RESULTS: The retroperitoneal laparoscopic route was used in 259 patients (67.3%) and the transperitoneal laparoscopic route in 85 patients (22.1%). A total of 12 (3.5%) major postoperative complications occurred, with no statistically significant difference between the two approaches (P=0.7). In univariate analysis, the only predictor of major postoperative complication was Cushing's syndrome (P=0.03). The surgical conversion rate was higher in the transperitoneal route group (10/85 (11.8%) compared to 6/259 (2.3%), P=0.0003) in the retroperitoneal route group. One death occurred in each group. Independent predictors of surgical conversion in multivariate analysis included the transperitoneal laparoscopic approach (OR 1.7, 95% CI 1.3-1.9, P=0.02), advanced age (OR 1.2, 95% CI 1.1-1.6, P=0.04) and large tumor size (OR 1.3, 95% CI 1.1-1.7, P=0.01). CONCLUSION: Both transperitoneal and retroperitoneal approaches for laparoscopic adrenalectomy are safe, with an equivalent rate of major complications and mortality. The surgical conversion rate was higher for the transperitoneal route. The retroperitoneal approach should be reserved for small adrenal lesions.