Nitric oxide coating polypropylene mesh increases angiogenesis and reduces inflammatory response and apoptosis.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effect of implanted S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO) coating polypropylene mesh in foreign-body response of rats. METHODS: Thirty female rats underwent to subcutaneous implant of five polypropylene (PP) fragments: uncoated PP (control); PP polyvinylalcohol (PVA) coated and PP PVA + GSNO (1, 10 and 70 mMol) coated. After euthanasia (4 and 30 days), eight slides were prepared from each animal: hematoxylin-eosin (inflammatory response); unstained (birefringence collagen evaluation); TUNEL technique (apoptosis); and five for immunohistochemical processing: CD-31 (angiogenesis), IL-1 and TNF-α (proinflammatory cytokynes), iNOS (NO synthesis) and MMP-2 (collagen metabolism). The inflammation area, birefringence index, apoptotic index, immunoreactivity and vessel density were objectively measured. RESULTS: Inflammatory reaction area at 4 days was 11.3, 15.2, 25.1, 17.1 and 19.3% of pure PP, PVA, GSNO 1, 10 and 70 mM, respectively, p = 0.0006 (PP × Others). At 30 days lower inflammatory area was observed in GSNO 10 and 70 mM compared to pure PP (5.3, 5.2 and 11.1%, respectively, p = 0.0001). Vessel density was higher for GSNO 1 mM (25.5%) compared to pure PP (19.6%) at 30 days only, p = 0.0081. Apoptotic index at 4 days was lower for GSNO 1 mM (49.3%) than pure PVA (60.6%), p = 0.0124. GSNO 10 and 70 mM reduced their apoptotic index at 30 days compared to 4 days (49.9 vs. 36.9 and 59.1 vs. 47.5%, respectively, p = 0.0397). Birefringence index, IL-1, TNF, MMP-2 and iNOS were not different. CONCLUSIONS: Depending on concentrations, GSNO can increase angiogenesis, reduce inflammation and apoptosis compared to pure PP, without impact on cytokine, collagen organization/metabolism and endogenous NO synthesis.

Host inflammatory response to polypropylene implants: insights from a quantitative immunohistochemical and birefringence analysis in a rat subcutaneous model.

OBJECTIVES: To describe acute and sub acute aspects of histological and immunohistochemical response to PP implant in a rat subcutaneous model based on objective methods. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty rats had a PP mesh subcutaneously implanted and the same dissection on the other side of abdomen but without mesh (sham). The animals were euthanized after 4 and 30 days. Six slides were prepared using the tissue removed: one stained with hematoxylin-eosin (inflammation assessment); one unstained (birefringence evaluation) and four slides for immunohistochemical processing: IL-1 and TNF-α (pro-inflammatory cytokines), MMP-2 (collagen metabolism) and CD-31 (angiogenesis). The area of inflammation, the birefringence index, the area of immunoreactivity and the number of vessels were objectively measured. RESULTS: A larger area of inflammatory reaction was observed in PP compared to sham on the 4th and on the 30th day (p=0.0002). After 4 days, PP presented higher TNF (p=0.0001) immunoreactivity than sham and no differences were observed in MMP-2 (p=0.06) and IL-1 (p=0.08). After 30 days, a reduction of IL-1 (p=0.010) and TNF (p=0.016) for PP and of IL-1 (p=0.010) for sham were observed. Moreover, area of MMP-2 immunoreactivity decreased over time for PP group (p=0.018). Birefringence index and vessel counting showed no differences between PP and sham (p=0.27 and p=0.58, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: The implantation of monofilament and macroporous polypropylene in the subcutaneous of rats resulted in increased inflammatory activity and higher TNF production in the early post implant phase. After 30 days, PP has similar cytokines immunoreactivity, vessel density and extracellular matrix organization.

Host inflammatory response to polypropylene implants: insights from a quantitative immunohistochemical and birefringence analysis in a rat subcutaneous model

ABSTRACT Objectives To describe acute and sub acute aspects of histological and immunohistochemical response to PP implant in a rat subcutaneous model based on objective methods. Materials and Methods Thirty rats had a PP mesh subcutaneously implanted and the same dissection on the other side of abdomen but without mesh (sham). The animals were euthanized after 4 and 30 days. Six slides were prepared using the tissue removed: one stained with hematoxylin-eosin (inflammation assessment); one unstained (birefringence evaluation) and four slides for immunohistochemical processing: IL-1 and TNF-α (pro-inflammatory cytokines), MMP-2 (collagen metabolism) and CD-31 (angiogenesis). The area of inflammation, the birefringence index, the area of immunoreactivity and the number of vessels were objectively measured. Results A larger area of inflammatory reaction was observed in PP compared to sham on the 4th and on the 30th day (p=0.0002). After 4 days, PP presented higher TNF (p=0.0001) immunoreactivity than sham and no differences were observed in MMP-2 (p=0.06) and IL-1 (p=0.08). After 30 days, a reduction of IL-1 (p=0.010) and TNF (p=0.016) for PP and of IL-1 (p=0.010) for sham were observed. Moreover, area of MMP-2 immunoreactivity decreased over time for PP group (p=0.018). Birefringence index and vessel counting showed no differences between PP and sham (p=0.27 and p=0.58, respectively). Conclusions The implantation of monofilament and macroporous polypropylene in the subcutaneous of rats resulted in increased inflammatory activity and higher TNF production in the early post implant phase. After 30 days, PP has similar cytokines immunoreactivity, vessel density and extracellular matrix organization.

New strategies to improve results of mesh surgeries for vaginal prolapses repair--an update.

The use of meshes has become the first option for the treatment of soft tissue disorders as hernias and stress urinary incontinence and widely used in vaginal prolapse's treatment. However, complications related to mesh issues cannot be neglected. Various strategies have been used to improve tissue integration of prosthetic meshes and reduce related complications. The aim of this review is to present the state of art of mesh innovations, presenting the whole arsenal which has been studied worldwide since composite meshes, coated meshes, collagen's derived meshes and tissue engineered prostheses, with focus on its biocompatibility and technical innovations, especially for vaginal prolapse surgery.

New strategies to improve results of mesh surgeries for vaginal prolapses repair – an update

ABSTRACTThe use of meshes has become the first option for the treatment of soft tissue disorders as hernias and stress urinary incontinence and widely used in vaginal prolapse's treatment. However, complications related to mesh issues cannot be neglected. Various strategies have been used to improve tissue integration of prosthetic meshes and reduce related complications. The aim of this review is to present the state of art of mesh innovations, presenting the whole arsenal which has been studied worldwide since composite meshes, coated meshes, collagen's derived meshes and tissue engineered prostheses, with focus on its biocompatibility and technical innovations, especially for vaginal prolapse surgery.

Can highly purified collagen coating modulate polypropylene mesh immune-inflammatory and fibroblastic reactions? Immunohistochemical analysis in a rat model.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: Collagen has been proposed to be a useful biomaterial, but previous attempts to combine meshes with a collagen membrane have failed. The objective was to verify the effect of high-purified collagen gel coating in the immune-inflammatory response, host collagen metabolism, and angiogenesis around polypropylene mesh. METHODS: In 20 female Wistar rats were implanted, at one side of the abdominal wall, a monofilament polypropylene mesh (PP), and, on the other side, a mesh coated with a new highly purified collagen gel (PPC). The animals were divided into sub-groups and euthanized at 7, 14, 21, and 90 days after implantation. Immunohistochemical analysis was performed using interleukin 1 (IL-1), matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2, MMP-3), surface antigen CD-31, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α). Objective analysis (percent reactive area, average density, and vessels concentration) was performed using AxioVision Software. RESULTS: Comparative analysis showed: higher vessel density in the PPC group after 14 days (p = 0.002); a decrease in the average density of MMP-2 in the PPC group after 21 and 90 days (p = 0.046); more stability in the behavior of MMP-3 in the PPC group throughout the periods with the percentage reactive area for MMP-3 showing a significant decrease just in the PP group after 14 and 90 days (p = 0.017), and also for MMP-3 average density, in which reduction was significant after 21 days in the PP group, but not until after 90 days in PPC group (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Highly purified collagen coating causes significant changes in angiogenesis and in the immune reaction of metalloproteinase around mesh implants in rats. These findings can be useful for improving mesh biocompatibility for pelvic floor surgery if such effects could be properly controlled.

Bladder function evaluation before renal transplantation in nonurologic disease: is it necessary?

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether preoperative cystometry and a pressure flow study (PFS) are necessary in patients with end-stage renal disease from nonurologic causes who will undergo renal transplantation. METHODS: From April 2009 to June 2010, 30 patients scheduled to undergo renal transplantation were prospectively evaluated with cystometry and PFS. The evaluation was performed immediately before and 6 months after renal transplantation. The inclusion criteria were age >18 years and end-stage renal disease secondary to nonurologic disease. RESULTS: Improvement in the cystometry and PFS parameters was observed after the return of diuresis at 6 months after transplantation. The parameter changes from baseline to the 6-month evaluation were as follows: first sensation of bladder filling, 88.8-168.7 mL (P = .0005); first desire to void, 137.2-251.1 mL (P <.0001); maximal cystometric capacity, 221.2-428.7 mL (P <.0001); bladder compliance, 73.9-138.6 mL/cm H2O (P = .03); and maximal flow rate, 8.1-15.8 mL/s (P <.0001). The Abrams-Griffiths number in the men decreased from 31.8 to 15.2 (P = .002). No significant changes were observed in the detrusor pressure at the maximal flow rate or the postvoid residual urine volume. Patients with a 24-hour urine output <200 mL tended to have had significantly worse parameters before transplantation. CONCLUSION: Significant improvement in the cystometry and PFS parameters was observed in patients with end-stage renal disease, without urologic disease, 6 months after transplantation, and was associated with recovery of the glomerular filtration rate and urine output by the renal graft.

Impregnation of implantable polypropylene mesh with S-nitrosoglutathione-loaded poly(vinyl alcohol).

Clinical complications of implantable polypropylene (PP) meshes used to repair urinary incontinence and vaginal prolapse may be associated with their low surface energy and consequent poor tissue integration. For improving tissue integration, we impregnated monofilament PP meshes with physically crosslinked poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), resulting in PVA deposits tightly attached inside the knot spaces of the PP knit. While preserving the mesh porosity, the PVA deposits acted as an array of hydrophilic regions leading to a great increase in the overall mesh wettability, reflected by a contact angle decrease from 111 to ca. 66°. The PVA deposits were also used as reservoirs for the local release of S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO), a nitric oxide (NO) donor. Plain and impregnated PP meshes (1.0cm×1.0cm) were implanted in the subcutaneous tissue of 21 adult female Wistar rats. Histological analysis of the abdominal wall 21 days after the surgeries revealed lower edema and greater angiogenesis while a marked decrement of NOx concentration in the tissue surrounding the impregnated meshes was observed after 2 days. These results indicate that PVA and PVA/GSNO impregnation might be a new strategy for decreasing the frequency of mesh extrusion after PP mesh implants.

A comparative study of pelvic floor muscle training in women with multiple sclerosis: its impact on lower urinary tract symptoms and quality of life.

OBJECTIVE: To compare pelvic floor muscle training and a sham procedure for the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms and quality of life in women with multiple sclerosis. METHODS: Thirty-five female patients with multiple sclerosis were randomized into two groups: a treatment group (n = 18) and a sham group (n = 17). The evaluation included use of the Overactive Bladder Questionnaire, Medical Outcomes Study Short Form 36, International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Short Form, and Qualiveen questionnaire. The intervention was performed twice per week for 12 weeks in both groups. The treatment group underwent pelvic floor muscle training with assistance from a vaginal perineometer and instructions to practice the exercises daily at home. The sham group received a treatment consisting of introducing a perineometer inside the vagina with no exercises required. Pre- and post-intervention data were recorded. RESULTS: The evaluation results of the two groups were similar at baseline. At the end of the treatment, the treatment group reported fewer storage and voiding symptoms than the sham group. Furthermore, the differences found between the groups were significant improvements in the following scores in the treatment group: Overactive Bladder Questionnaire, International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Short Form, and the General Quality of Life, and Specific Impact of Urinary Problems domains of the Qualiveen questionnaire. CONCLUSIONS: The improvement of lower urinary tract symptoms had a positive effect on the quality of life of women with multiple sclerosis who underwent pelvic floor muscle training, as the disease-specific of quality of life questionnaires demonstrated. This study reinforces the importance of assessing quality of life to judge the effectiveness of a treatment intervention.

Monoprosthesis for anterior vaginal prolapse and stress urinary incontinence: midterm results of an international multicentre prospective study.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) can occur simultaneously with anterior vaginal prolapse (AVP) in up to 30% of patients. We studied a monoprosthesis that combines prepubic and transobturator arms for simultaneous treatment of AVP and SUI. METHODS: One hundred four women with AVP underwent surgical treatment using a monoprosthesis (NAZCA TC). POP-Q was used for anatomical evaluation. Functional results were evaluated by quality of life questionnaires, stress test and Stamey score. Patients were evaluated at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months postoperatively. RESULTS: There were significant and sustained improvements in points Aa, Ba and C. Positive stress test was observed in 29.8% preoperatively and decreased to 1.9% after 12 months. There was no significant impact in sexual symptoms. Mesh exposure was noted in 5.7% of patients. CONCLUSIONS: Monoprosthesis with combined prepubic and transobturator arms presented high success rates for AVP repair and simultaneous SUI treatment. It has also been shown to be safe and appears to preserve sexual function.

A comparative study of pelvic floor muscle training in women with multiple sclerosis: its impact on lower urinary tract symptoms and quality of life

OBJECTIVE: To compare pelvic floor muscle training and a sham procedure for the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms and quality of life in women with multiple sclerosis. METHODS: Thirty-five female patients with multiple sclerosis were randomized into two groups: a treatment group (n = 18) and a sham group (n = 17). The evaluation included use of the Overactive Bladder Questionnaire, Medical Outcomes Study Short Form 36, International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Short Form, and Qualiveen questionnaire. The intervention was performed twice per week for 12 weeks in both groups. The treatment group underwent pelvic floor muscle training with assistance from a vaginal perineometer and instructions to practice the exercises daily at home. The sham group received a treatment consisting of introducing a perineometer inside the vagina with no exercises required. Pre- and post-intervention data were recorded. RESULTS: The evaluation results of the two groups were similar at baseline. At the end of the treatment, the treatment group reported fewer storage and voiding symptoms than the sham group. Furthermore, the differences found between the groups were significant improvements in the following scores in the treatment group: Overactive Bladder Questionnaire, International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Short Form, and the General Quality of Life, and Specific Impact of Urinary Problems domains of the Qualiveen questionnaire. CONCLUSIONS: The improvement of lower urinary tract symptoms had a positive effect on the quality of life of women with multiple sclerosis who underwent pelvic floor muscle training, as the disease-specific of quality of life questionnaires demonstrated. This study reinforces the importance of assessing quality of life to judge the effectiveness of a treatment intervention.

The triple clinicopathologic features to seminal vesicle-sparing radical prostatectomy.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: With the widespread early detection programs for prostate cancer, there has been a downward stage migration and a marked decrease in the percentage of men with seminal vesicle invasion (SVI) compared with previous data. We evaluated clinicopathologic findings that are associated with SVI to select patients for potential seminal vesicle-sparing surgery. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We reviewed our radical prostatectomy database from 1997 to 2006 to evaluate the incidence and clinical correlates of SVI. Variables analyzed included serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level, clinical stage, percentage of positive cores with cancer, Gleason score on biopsy, age, prostate weight, and urethral and vesical surgical margins. Statistical analysis included univariate and multivariate logistic regressions. RESULTS: Of 267 patients, 32 (12%) had SVI. Preoperative PSA level, biopsy Gleason score, and percentage of positive cores were highly predictive of SVI on multivariate analysis. SVI was present in only 1/98 patients (1.02 %) with biopsy Gleason score ≤6, 0/23 patients (0%) with serum PSA level <4 ng/mL, and only 1 patient with ≤12.8% of positive cores on biopsy. In all cases of distal SVI, there was proximal involvement. CONCLUSION: Serum PSA level, Gleason score, and percentage of positive cores on biopsy are statistically significant predictors of SVI on multivariate analysis. Seminal vesiculectomy does not benefit almost 99% of patients with biopsy Gleason score ≤6, PSA level <4 ng/mL, and with <12% cores with cancer. In cases of seminal vesicle-sparing surgery, frozen section of the proximal portion may be of adjunct usefulness for the triple.

Fimose: conceitos e atualidades / Phymosis: concepts and uptodates

Fimose é condição comum nos consultórios pediátricos. Por tratar-se, possivelmente, de evento fisiológico na vida da criança e, muitas vezes, não precisar de tratamento é fundamental diferenciar as situações patológicas e fisiológicas. Este artigo trata de questões como conceitos, classificação e indicações para o tratamento clínico ou cirúrgico. Explorando opções desses tratamentos, discutimos o sucesso e as principais complicações dos mesmos. Além disso, faz-se breve análise da relação custo-benefício entre os tratamentos.

Triple therapy in refractory detrusor overactivity: a preliminary study.

PURPOSE: To evaluate in a prospective study the impact of the "three-drug therapy" (antimuscarinic, alpha-blocker and tricyclic antidepressants) on the treatment of refractory detrusor overactivity (DO). METHODS: Data from 27 consented patients with refractory DO were available for study. They were asked to complete a daily urinary chart and underwent urodynamic evaluation (UD) before and 60 days after treatment. Response to treatment was considered the presence of one or less involuntary detrusor contractions (IDC) on post-treatment UD. Statistical analysis was performed with Fisher and Mann-Whitney tests, besides Spearman's correlation. P values <0.05 were considered significant. RESULTS: The mean follow-up was 15 months. The comparison of the daily urinary chart before and after treatment showed significant increase on bladder capacity and decreases on urgency, urge-incontinence and frequency. Objective data from UD showed that the mean maximum bladder capacity (MBC) ranged from 200 to 300 mL (P < 0.001) with treatment. The same trend was observed with the other UD variables. When compared to baseline, the questionnaire OAB-v8 showed significant improvement (P < 0.01). Main side effects comprised dry mouth and constipation (40%), with average scores of 5.16 and 3.08, respectively (visual scale from 0 to 10). CONCLUSIONS: Triple therapy may be an effective, easily employed and well-tolerated option to refractory DO treatment. More studies are necessary to achieve more consistent data on the matter.

[Autologous versus synthetic sling procedure: success rate and bladder outlet obstruction rates]. / Procedimiento cabestrillo autólogo versus sintético: tasa de éxito y frecuencia de obstrucción del tracto urinario inferior.

OBJECTIVES: Voiding dysfunction and urinary retention were frequent complications of sling. More recently synthetic supplies such as polypropylene mesh have been included in the armamentarium for sub urethral support. METHODS: A prospective non randomized study was conducted. Sling procedure was performed in 436 consecutive patients with SUI. Patients were divided in groups according to mesh type, being 210 on autologous and 226 on synthetic. Patients were surveyed on voiding condition, continence and satisfaction. Surgical results were assessed according to Blaivas classification. Results were considered significant p<0.05. RESULTS: Mean patient age was 48.4 years. Mean operative time for autologous sling was of 107.6 min versus 20.6 min for synthetic. Mean hospitalization was 36h on autologous versus 24h on synthetic and mean follow up was 25 months. We found 87.1% and 92.9% of patients continent in autologous and synthetic group, respectively. Failure was presented by 7% in autologous and 4.8% in synthetic group (p=0.1961). The global rate of BOO was of 4.5% (20/436), when analysed by groups we found on autologous a rate of 8.5% (18/210), compared to 0.9% on synthetics (2/226) (p=0.000126). CONCLUSIONS: Autologous and synthetic slings presented comparable success rates, however BOO was more common among patients treated by autologous slings.

Vesicostomy as a protector of upper urinary tract in long-term follow-up.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to analyze the results of vesicostomy in children as a protector of the upper urinary tract and assess the adjustments taken by the caregivers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-one children who had undergone vesicostomy with the Blocksom technique were evaluated. Their mean age was 3.7 years (range, < 1 to 10 years). The evaluation consisted of kidney function tests, cystography, and analysis of complications. Twenty parents or caregivers were interviewed about their attitudes towards vesicostomy and its outcomes. RESULTS: The main causes of the vesical dysfunction were posterior urethral valve in 7 (33.3%) and myelomeningocele in 5 patients (23.8%). Ten children (58.8%) showed improvement and 7 (41,2%) showed cure. Hydronephrosis observed in 17 children was alleviated or cured following the procedure. Kidney function, tested by creatinine clearance calculation, remained stable or improved in 20 patients (95.2%). Episodes of urinary tract infection and vesicoureteral reflux lowered in 8 of 21 (38.1%) and 10 of 14 patients (71.4%), respectively. Subjective evaluation of 20 cases showed that 18 children (90.0%) remained dry during the day and 14 caregivers/parents (70.0%) felt they had acquired the skills necessary to handle a patient with vesicostomy. The mean global rate of satisfaction of the results of the surgery ranging from 0 (worst result) to 10 (best result) was 8.7. CONCLUSION: Vesicostomy is a simple surgery that protects the upper urinary tract, decreases hydronephrosis, and improves kidney function. There was adequate adjustment to vesicostomy and a positive global evaluation as reported by the parents and caregivers.

Procedimiento Cabestrillo Autólogo versus Sintético: Tasa de éxito y frecuencia de obstrucción del tracto urinario inferior / Autologous versus Synthetic sling procedure: Success rate and bladder outlet obstruction rates

Introducción: Disfunción en el vaciamiento y retención urinaria son complicaciones frecuentes del cabestrillo. Recientemente se han incluido en el arsenal para el soporte sub-uretral, suministros sintéticos tales como la malla de polipropilenol. Métodos: Se llevó a cabo un Estudio prospectivo no aleatorizado. El procedimiento cabestrillo se realizó en 436 pacientes consecutivos con IUE (Incontinencia Urinaria de Esfuerzo). Las pacientes fueron divididas en grupos según el tipo de malla, en autólogos 210 y 226 sintéticos. Las pacientes fueron evaluadas en cuanto a condición de vaciamiento, continencia y satisfacción. Los resultados quirúrgicos fueron evaluados en función de la clasificación de Blaivas. Se consideró significativo p<0,05. Resultados: La media de edad fue 48,4 años. El tiempo medio operatorio para los Cabestrillo autólogos fue de 107,6 minutos frente a 20,6 min para el sintético. El promedio de hospitalización fue de 36 horas para autólogos frente a 24 horas para los sintéticos y la media de seguimiento fue de 25 meses. Se encontró 87,1% y 92,9% de las pacientes continentes en los grupos autólogos y sintéticos, respectivamente. Fallo en el procedimiento se presentó en un 7% en el grupo autólogo y 4,8% en el sintético (p=0,1961). La tasa global de obstrucción del tracto urinario inferior fue de 4,5% (20/436), cuando se analizó por grupos, encontramos en el grupo autólogo una tasa de 8,5% (18/210), en comparación con el 0,9% en el grupo sintético (2/226) (p=0,000126).Conclusiones: Cabestrillos autólogos y sintéticos presentan las tasas de éxito comparables, sin embargo la obstrucción del tracto urinario inferior fue más común entre las pacientes tratadas con fascias autólogas (AU)

Objectives: Voiding dysfunction and urinary retention were frequent complications of sling. More recently synthetic supplies such as polypropylene mesh have been included in the armamentarium for sub urethral support. Methods: A prospective non randomized study was conducted. Sling procedure was performed in 436 consecutive patients with SUI. Patients were divided in groups according to mesh type, being 210 on autologous and 226 on synthetic. Patients were surveyed on voiding condition, continence and satisfaction. Surgical results were assessed according to Blaivas classification. Results were considered significant p<0.05.Results: Mean patient age was 48,4years. Mean operative time for autologous sling was of 107,6 min versus 20,6min for synthetic. Mean hospitalization was 36h on autologous versus 24h on synthetic and mean follow up was 25 months. We found87,1% and 92,9% of patients continent in autologous and synthetic group, respectively. Failure was presented by 7% in autologous and 4,8 % in synthetic group (p=0.1961). The global rate of BOO was of 4,5 % (20/436), when analysed by groups we found on autologous a rate of 8.5% (18/210), compared to 0.9% on synthetics (2/226) (p=0.000126).Conclusions: Autologous and synthetic slings presented comparable success rates, however BOO was more common among patients treated by autologous slings (AU)

A novel intraurethral device diagnostic index to classify bladder outlet obstruction in men with lower urinary tract symptoms.

Objectives. Using a urethral device at the fossa navicularis, bladder pressure during voiding can be estimated by a minimal invasive technique. This study purposes a new diagnostic index for patients with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTSs). Methods. Fifty one patients presenting with LUTSs were submitted to a conventional urodynamic and a minimal invasive study. The results obtained through the urethral device and invasive classic urodynamics were compared. The existing bladder outlet obstruction index (BOOI) equation that classifies men with LUTSs was modified to allow minimal invasive measurement of isovolumetric bladder pressure in place of detrusor pressure at maximum urine flow. Accuracy of the new equation for classifying obstruction was then tested in this group of men. Results. The modified equation identified men with obstruction with a positive predictive value of 68% and a negative predictive value of 70%, with an overall accuracy of 70%. Conclusions. The proposed equation can accurately classify over 70% of men without resorting to invasive pressure flow studies. We must now evaluate the usefulness of this classification for the surgical treatment of men with LUTSs.

Sentinel lymph node biopsy in penile cancer: a comparative study using modified inguinal dissection.

INTRODUCTION: In the case of clinically negative inguinal regions in penile cancer, the treatments proposed might vary from careful observation to radical dissection for all patients. We evaluated the effectiveness of the sentinel lymph node biopsy using lymphoscintigraphy in patients with penile cancer and at least one negative inguinal region. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In 18 patients, biopsy of the sentinel lymph node from the 32 negative inguinal regions and modified radical lymphadenectomy in these regions regardless of the biopsy results was performed. Clinical staging, pathological results of the sentinel and the other lymph nodes removed during lymphadenectomy, tumor behavior, local and inguinal recurrence and specific disease mortality were accessed. RESULTS: The mean age of the study sample was 57.7 years (44 - 81 years) and the sentinel lymph node presented 0% false negative 66% sensitivity, and 79.3% specificity when compared with the modified inguinal lymphadenectomy as the gold standard treatment. CONCLUSION: Sentinel lymph node biopsy is a feasible method of assessing the presence of regional metastasis in patients with penile cancer and clinically negative inguinal regions. However, the optimal lymphoscintigraphy technique is still in evolution and requires further optimization at high volume centers.

Sentinel lymph node biopsy in penile cancer: a comparative study using modified inguinal dissection

INTRODUCTION: In the case of clinically negative inguinal regions in penile cancer, the treatments proposed might vary from careful observation to radical dissection for all patients. We evaluated the effectiveness of the sentinel lymph node biopsy using lymphoscintigraphy in patients with penile cancer and at least one negative inguinal region. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In 18 patients, biopsy of the sentinel lymph node from the 32 negative inguinal regions and modified radical lymphadenectomy in these regions regardless of the biopsy results was performed. Clinical staging, pathological results of the sentinel and the other lymph nodes removed during lymphadenectomy, tumor behavior, local and inguinal recurrence and specific disease mortality were accessed. RESULTS: The mean age of the study sample was 57.7 years (44 - 81 years) and the sentinel lymph node presented 0 percent false negative 66 percent sensitivity, and 79.3 percent specificity when compared with the modified inguinal lymphadenectomy as the gold standard treatment. CONCLUSION: Sentinel lymph node biopsy is a feasible method of assessing the presence of regional metastasis in patients with penile cancer and clinically negative inguinal regions. However, the optimal lymphoscintigraphy technique is still in evolution and requires further optimization at high volume centers.