A Retrospective Analysis of 83 Patients with Testicular Mass Who Underwent Testis-Sparing Surgery: The Eurasian Uro-oncology Association Multicenter Study.

INTRODUCTION: Herein, we analyzed the histopathological, oncological and functional outcomes of testis-sparing surgery (TSS) in patients with distinct risk for testicular cancer. METHODS: This is a multicenter retrospective study on consecutive patients who underwent TSS. Patients were categorized in high- or low-risk testicular germ cell tumor (TGCT) according to the presence/absence of features compatible with testicular dysgenesis syndrome. Histology was categorized per size and risk groups. RESULTS: TSS was performed in 83 patients (86 tumors) of them, 27 in the high-risk group. Fifty-nine patients had a non-tumoral contralateral testis present. Sixty masses and 26 masses were benign and TGCTs, respectively. No statistical differences were observed in mean age (30.9 ± 10.32 years), pathological tumor size (14.67 ± 6.7 mm) between risk groups or between benign and malignant tumors (p = 0.608). When categorized per risk groups, 22 (73.3%) and 4 (7.1%) of the TSS specimens were malignant in the high- and low-risk patient groups, respectively. Univariate analysis showed that the only independent variable significantly related to malignant outcome was previous history of TGCT. During a mean follow-up of 25.5 ± 22.7 months, no patient developed systemic disease. Local recurrence was detected in 5 patients and received radical orchiectomy. Postoperative testosterone levels remained normal in 88% of those patients with normal preoperative level. No erectile dysfunction was reported in patients with benign lesions. CONCLUSION: TSS is a safe and feasible approach with adequate cancer control, and preservation of sexual function is possible in 2/3 of patients harboring malignancy. Incidence of TGCT varies extremely between patients at high and low risk for TGCT requiring a careful consideration and counseling.

A risk grouping algorithm for predicting factors of persistently elevated prostate-specific antigen in patients following robot-assisted radical prostatectomy.

OBJECTIVE: After radical prostatectomy, prostate-specific antigen(PSA) value measuring ≥0.1 ng/mL is defined as persistent PSA(pPSA) and in many studies, it was found to be associated with aggressive disease and poor prognosis. Our aim in this study is to point out the pathological and clinical factors affecting pPSA among the patients who underwent robot-assisted radical prostatectomy(RARP) in an experienced academic centre and to make a useful risk grouping algorithm that can predict pPSA value based on operative data. METHODS: We examined records of 1273 patients who underwent RARP retrospectively. Preoperative, operative and postoperative data were collected. Based on the PSA values (ng/mL) measured after 4-to-8 weeks of RARP, patients were divided into two groups as pPSA group (Group1)(n = 97) with PSA values ≥0.1 ng/mL and undetectable PSA group (Group2)(n = 778) with PSA values <0.1 ng/mL. Later on, Group1 was further divided into Group1a (PSA:0.1-0.2 ng/mL) and Group 1b (PSA≥0.2 ng/mL) to evaluate biochemical recurrence(BCR). RESULTS: Multivariate logistic regression analyses of the collected data revealed that preoperative PSA≥20 ng/mL, operation time, a postoperative international society of urological pathology (ISUP) grade of ≥4, pT 3-4 and pN were independently associated with pPSA. Based on these results, a risk grouping algorithm predicting pPSA was developed. By looking at the risk grouping algorithm pPSA was found in 98.9% of the cases with a preoperative PSA value of ≥20 ng/mL, an operation time of 150 min, a postoperative ISUP grade of 4-5, a positive lymphovascular invasion (LVI) status, pT3-T4, and pN+; while pPSA was found in 25.5% of the cases with a preoperative PSA value of <20 ng/mL, an operation time of 100 min, a postoperative ISUP grade of <4-5, a negative LVI status, pT<3-4 and pN-. The estimated BCR-free survival time was 16.3 months in Group 1a and 57.0 months in Group2 (P < .001). Adjuvant treatment ratio was 64.9% in Group1 and 7.1% in Group2 (P < .001). CONCLUSION: For the patients who underwent RARP, factors associated with aggressive disease can predict the PSA persistence. To plan our treatment modalities accurately, an applicable risk grouping algorithm in daily practice would be useful.

Comparison of before and after COVID-19 urology practices of a pandemic hospital.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to compare the effects of COVID-19 on urology practice using pre- and post-pandemic data of a pandemic hospital. MATERIAL AND METHODS: March 11 is considered as the beginning of COVID-19 and, changes in the number of the outpatient clinic examinations, non-surgical procedures, and surgery in the 8-week period before and during the pandemic were evaluated by weeks. Age, gender, and comorbid diseases of the operated patients were compared statistically. The symptoms, complaints, mortality, and morbidity conditions of the patients were recorded by contacting them. Descriptive data and chi-square test were used. RESULTS: The number of COVID-19 cases has been reported as 8,916 for the hospital, 88,412 for the city and 150,593 for the country. The mean age of the operated patients before and after 11 March was 51 and 47, and comorbidities were 79 and 40, respectively, and there was no statistically significant difference(p<0.05). The number of patients examined was 2,309 and 868, the number of operated patients 173 and 94, the number of patients undergoing non-surgical procedures were 371 and 174, respectively. The names and numbers of surgical and non-surgical procedures are listed according to European Association of Urology (EAU) priority classification. In follow-up, no complication because of COVID-19 was observed in any patient. CONCLUSION: Our study showed that, although the numbers have decreased, similar operations can be performed in daily urology practice without any contamination and mortality during the pandemic compared to the prepandemic period, by taking precautions and following the algorithms.

Analysis of patients undergoing urological intervention amid the COVID-19: experience from the pandemic hospital.

PURPOSE: It is reported that surgical procedures performed during the COVID-19 pandemic are accompanied by high complications and risks. In this study, the urological interventions applied with appropriate infrastructure and protocols during the pandemic in the pandemic hospital that is carrying out the COVID-19 struggle are analyzed. METHODS: Urological interventions were reviewed in the 5-week period between March 11 and April 16. The distribution of outpatient and interventional procedures was determined by weeks concurrently along with the COVID-19 patient workload, and data in the country, subgroups were further analyzed. Patients intervened were divided into four groups as Emergency, High, Intermediate, and Low Priority cases according to the EAU recommendations. The COVID-19-related findings were recorded; staff and patient effects were reported. RESULTS: Of the 160 interventions, 65 were minimally invasive or open surgical intervention, 95 were non-surgical outpatient intervention, and the outpatient admission was 777. According to the priority level, 33 cases had emergency and high priority, 32 intermediate and low priority. COVID-19 quarantine and follow-up were performed at least 1 week in 22 (33.8%) operated patients at the last week, 43 (66.2%) patients who were operated in the previous 4 weeks followed up at least 2 weeks. No postoperative complications were encountered in any patient due to COVID-19 during the postoperative period. CONCLUSION: In the COVID-19 pandemic, precautions, isolation, and algorithms are required to avoid disruption in the intervention and follow-up of urology patients; priority urological interventions should not be disrupted in the presence of necessary experience and infrastructure.

Does steep Trendelenburg positioning effect the ocular hemodynamics and intraocular pressure in patients undergoing robotic cystectomy and robotic prostatectomy?

PURPOSE: To examine the effect of steep Trendelenburg position (ST) on intraocular pressure (IOP), resistive index of the central retinal artery, and venous impedance index of the central retinal vein during robotic prostatectomy and cystectomy. METHODS: A total of fifty-three male patients were included into the study (prostatectomy: 43, cystectomy: 10). During robotic surgery, the effect of the ST on IOP, resistive index of the central retinal artery (CRA-RI), and venous impedance index of the central retinal vein (CRV-VI) was prospectively examined. The measurement times of IOP are as follows: T1: before anesthesia while supine and awake; T2: anesthetized and supine; T3: anesthetized and ST; T4: anesthetized, ST, and intraperitoneal insufflation; T5: anesthetized in ST at the end of the procedure with CO2; T6: anesthetized in ST after desufflation; and T7: anesthetized supine before awakening. RESULTS: There was no difference between the IOP values of the right and left eyes in both groups. The highest IOP values were reached at T4 and T5. CRA-RI values were different, while CRV-VI values were similar at T1 and T4. CONCLUSIONS: Despite staying in the ST for a long time provided that the ophthalmologic examination was normal, ocular complication risk is low in robotic prostatectomy and cystectomy.

Impact of robotic partial nephrectomy with and without ischemia on renal functions: experience in 34 cases.

OBJECTIVE: In this study we aimed to compare renal functions in patients who underwent robotic partial nephrectomy (RPN) with on-clamp and zero- ischemia techniques. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Between 2009 and 2015, 12 off-clamp and 22 on-clamp RPN procedures were performed on a total of 34 patients in two centers. The main outcome parameters examined were serum creatinine, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) during preoperative, immediate postoperative periods, and at postoperative 3rd months. RESULTS: There were no statistically significant differences between on-clamp and zero- ischemia groups regarding age, ASA score, BMI, PADUA and R.E.N.A.L. nephrometry scores, operation time and tumor size (p>0.05). Significant differences were found in the duration of hospital stay (3.8±0.9 days vs. 3.0±0.9 days) and amount of blood loss (85.9±49.6 mL vs. 183.3±176.2 mL) between the on-clamp and zero-ischemia groups (p<0.05). Statistically significant differences were found between preoperative and immediate post-operative periods, in terms of eGFR and serum creatinine levels in both groups. Moreover, statistically significant differences were found between preoperative and postoperative 3rd month periods, in the on-clamp group in terms of eGFR and serum creatinine levels. In the zero-ischemia group, the decrease in eGFR and serum creatinine levels at postoperative 3rd month relative to the preoperative period was not statistically significant. CONCLUSION: Off-clamp RPN technique is superior, in short-term outcomes involving renal functions, compared to on clamp approach. However, long- term data regarding the renal functions should be evaluated to arrive at a definitive decision.

Robotic partial nephrectomy for clinical stage T1 tumors: Experience in 42 cases.

The aim of this study was to evaluate outcomes of robotic partial nephrectomy (RAPN) procedures. At two centers, 42 patients underwent RAPN. Radius, Exo/Endophytic, Nearness, Anterior/Posterior, Location (R.E.N.A.L.) nephrometry and PADUA scores of patients were calculated by computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Intra- and perioperative (0-30 days) complications were evaluated using modified Clavien classification. A four-arm da Vinci-S robotic surgical system was used and outcomes were evaluated retrospectively. Mean age of the patients was 52.3 ± 6.5 years. Mean tumor size was 3.1 ± 1.0 (1.4-6.6) cm. R.E.N.A.L. nephrometry and PADUA scores were 6.0 ± 1.5 and 7.5 ± 0.9, respectively. Mean surgical time was 127.7 ± 18.7 minutes and estimated blood loss was 100 ± 18.1 cc. Mean warm ischemia time was 16.0 ± 8.9 (0-30) minutes. Intraoperative complications did not develop in any patient. Median hospital stay was 3.0 (2-6) days. Except for 17 patients, hilar clamping was performed in 25 patients. Histopathology results included 34 renal cell carcinoma (22 clear cell, 7 chromophobe cell, 4 papillary cell, and 1 clear papillary cell). Oncocytoma (n = 4), adenoma (n = 1), fibroadipose tissue (n = 1), papillary epithelial hyperplasia (n = 1), and chronic pyelonephritis (n = 1) were present. Surgical margins were negative in all patients. During a median follow-up period of 15.5 ± 10.9 (3-46) months, neither local recurrence nor distant metastasis was detected. In conclusion, RAPN is a safe, minimally invasive surgical approach, with excellent surgical and oncological outcomes in T1 kidney tumors. Zero ischemia off-clamp RAPN is also safe in selected masses with the advantage of avoiding complete renal ischemia.

Removing the specimen with traction during robotic radical prostatectomy does not cause a positive surgical margin.

BACKGROUND/AIM: The aim of this study was to gauge whether removal of a specimen with traction during robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy causes a positive surgical margin or not. MATERIALS AND METHODS: One hundred and sixty-nine patients with localized prostate cancer who underwent robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy from 2009 to 2011 were included in the study. After dividing the patients into two groups, we recorded their characteristics and pre-op/post-op evaluations. RESULTS: There were 111 and 58 patients in groups 1 (with traction) and 2 (without traction), respectively. We evaluated the patients' ages, follow-up time, body mass index (BMI), prostate-specific antigen (PSA) values, pre-op and post-op Gleason score values, pathological stage, positive surgical margin rates, and biochemical PSA recurrence rates. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups for age, pre-op PSA values, BMI, pre-op and post-op Gleason scores, positive surgical margin rates and biochemical recurrence rates. There was a significant difference between prostate weight, tumor volume, and clinical stage. CONCLUSION: Removing the specimen with traction during robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy does not cause a positive surgical margin. The incision should be as small as possible for cosmetic appearance.

Open versus robotic radical cystectomy with intracorporeal Studer diversion.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: To compare open versus totally intracorporeal robotic-assisted radical cystectomy, bilateral extended pelvic lymph node dissection, and Studer urinary diversion in bladder cancer patients. METHODS: A retrospective comparison of open (n = 42) versus totally intracorporeal (n = 32) robotic-assisted radical cystectomy, bilateral extended pelvic lymph node dissection, and Studer urinary diversion was performed concerning patient demographic data, operative and postoperative parameters, pathologic parameters, complications, and functional outcomes. RESULTS: Patient demographic data and the percentages of patients with pT2 disease or lower and pT3-pT4 disease were similar between groups (P > .05). Positive surgical margin rates were similar between the open (n = 1, 2.4%) and robotic (n = 2, 6.3%) groups (P > .05). Minor and major complication rates were similar between groups (P > .05). Mean estimated blood loss was significantly lower in the robotic group (412.5 ± 208.3 mL vs 1314.3 ± 987.1 mL, P < .001). Significantly higher percentages of patients were detected in the robotic group regarding bilateral neurovascular bundle-sparing surgery (93.7% vs 64.3%, P = .004) and bilateral extended pelvic lymph node dissection (100% vs 71.4%, P = .001). The mean lymph node yield was significantly higher in the robotic group (25.4 ± 9.7 vs 17.2 ± 13.5, P = .005). The number of postoperative readmissions for minor complications was significantly lower in the robotic group (0 vs 7, P = .017). Better trends were detected in the robotic group concerning daytime continence with no pad use (84.6% vs 75%, P > .05) and severe daytime incontinence (8.3% vs 16.6%, P > .05). No significant differences were detected regarding postoperative mean International Index of Erectile Function scores between groups (P > .05). CONCLUSIONS: Robotic surgery has the advantages of decreased blood loss, better preservation of neurovascular bundles, an increased lymph node yield, a decreased rate of hospital readmissions for minor complications, and a better trend for improved daytime continence when compared with the open approach.

Robotic prostatectomy: the anesthetist's view for robotic urological surgeries, a prospective study / Prostatectomia robótica: análise anestesiológica de cirurgias urológicas robóticas: estudo prospectivo / Prostatectomía robótica: análisis anestesiológico de cirugías urológicas robóticas, un estudio prospectivo

Background and objectives: Although many features of robotic prostatectomy are similar to those of conventional laparoscopic urological procedures (such as laparoscopic prostatectomy), the procedure is associated with some drawbacks, which include limited intravenous access, relatively long operating time, deep Trendelenburg position, and high intra-abdominal pressure. The primary aim was to describe respiratory and hemodynamic challenges and the complications related to high intra-abdominal pressure and the deep Trendelenburg position in robotic prostatectomy patients. The secondary aim was to reveal safe discharge criteria from the operating room. Methods: Fifty-three patients who underwent robotic prostatectomy between December 2009 and January 2011 were prospectively enrolled. Main outcome measures were non-invasive monitoring, invasive monitoring and blood gas analysis performed at supine (T0), Trendelenburg (T1), Trendelenburg + pneumoperitoneum (T2), Trendelenburg-before desufflation (T3), Trendelenburg (after desufflation) (T4), and supine (T5) positions. Results: Fifty-three robotic prostatectomy patients were included in the study. The main clinical challenge in our study group was the choice of ventilation strategy to manage respiratory acidosis, which is detected through end-tidal carbon dioxide pressure and blood gas analysis. Furthermore, the mean arterial pressure remained unchanged, the heart rate decreased significantly and required intervention. The central venous pressure values were also above the normal limits. Conclusion: Respiratory acidosis and "upper airway obstruction-like" clinical symptoms were the main challenges associated with robotic prostatectomy procedures during this study. .

Justificativa e objetivos: Embora muitas características da prostatectomia robótica sejam semelhantes àquelas de laparoscopias urológicas convencionais (como a prostatectomia por laparoscopia), o procedimento está associado a alguns inconvenientes, incluindo acesso intravenoso limitado, tempo cirúrgico relativamente longo, posição de Trendelenburg profunda e pressão intra-abdominal alta. O objetivo principal foi descrever as alterações respiratória e hemodinâmica e as complicações relacionadas à pressão intra-abdominal elevada e à posição de Trendelenburg profunda em pacientes submetidos à prostatectomia robótica. O objetivo secundário foi revelar critérios seguros de alta do centro cirúrgico. Métodos: Foram inscritos prospectivamente 53 pacientes submetidos à prostatectomia robótica entre dezembro de 2009 e janeiro de 2011. As medidas de desfecho primário foram: monitoramento não invasivo, monitoramento invasivo e gasometria feita em decúbito dorsal (T0), Trendelenburg (T1), Trendelenburg + pneumoperitônio (T2), Trendelenburg pré-desinsuflação (T3), Trendelenburg pós-desinsuflação (T4) e posições supinas (T5). Resultados: O principal desafio clínico em nosso grupo de estudo foi a escolha da estratégia de ventilação para controlar a acidose respiratória, que é detectada por meio da pressão de dióxido de carbono expirado e da gasometria. Além disso, a pressão arterial média permaneceu inalterada e a frequência cardíaca diminuiu significativamente e precisou de intervenção. Os valores da pressão venosa central também estavam acima dos limites normais. Conclusão: A acidose respiratória e sintomas clínicos "semelhantes à obstrução ...

Justificación y objetivos: Aunque muchas características de la prostatectomía robótica sean similares a las de las laparoscopias urológicas convencionales (como la prostatectomía laparoscópica), el procedimiento está asociado con algunos inconvenientes, incluyendo el acceso intravenoso limitado, tiempo quirúrgico relativamente largo, posición de Trendelenburg profunda y presión intraabdominal alta. El objetivo principal fue describir las alteraciones respiratorias y hemodinámicas y las complicaciones relacionadas con la presión intraabdominal elevada y con la posición de Trendelenburg profunda en pacientes sometidos a prostatectomía robótica. El objetivo secundario fue revelar criterios seguros de alta del quirófano. Métodos: Cincuenta y tres pacientes sometidos a prostatectomía robótica entre diciembre de 2009 y enero de 2011 fueron incluidos en un estudio prospectivo. Las principales medidas de resultado fueron: monitorización no invasiva, monitorización invasiva y gasometría realizada en decúbito dorsal (T0), Trendelenburg (T1), Trendelenburg + neumoperitoneo (T2), Trendelenburg predesinsuflación (T3), Trendelenburg posdesinsuflación (T4) y posiciones supinas (T5). Resultados: Cincuenta y tres pacientes sometidos a prostatectomía robótica fueron incluidos en el estudio. El principal reto clínico en nuestro grupo de estudio fue la elección de la estrategia de ventilación para controlar la acidosis respiratoria, que es detectada por medio de la presión de dióxido de carbono espirado y la gasometría. Además, la presión arterial media permaneció inalterada, y la frecuencia cardíaca disminuyó significativamente y fue necesario intervenir. Los valores de la presión venosa central también estaban por encima de los límites normales. ...

[Robotic prostatectomy: The anesthetist's view for robotic urological surgeries, a prospective study]. / Prostatectomia robótica: análise anestesiológica de cirurgias urológicas robóticas: estudo prospectivo.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Although many features of robotic prostatectomy are similar to those of conventional laparoscopic urological procedures (such as laparoscopic prostatectomy), the procedure is associated with some drawbacks, which include limited intravenous access, relatively long operating time, deep Trendelenburg position, and high intra-abdominal pressure. The primary aim was to describe respiratory and hemodynamic challenges and the complications related to high intra-abdominal pressure and the deep Trendelenburg position in robotic prostatectomy patients. The secondary aim was to reveal safe discharge criteria from the operating room. METHODS: Fifty-three patients who underwent robotic prostatectomy between December 2009 and January 2011 were prospectively enrolled. Main outcome measures were non-invasive monitoring, invasive monitoring and blood gas analysis performed at supine (T0), Trendelenburg (T1), Trendelenburg + pneumoperitoneum (T2), Trendelenburg-before desufflation (T3), Trendelenburg (after desufflation) (T4), and supine (T5) positions. RESULTS: Fifty-three robotic prostatectomy patients were included in the study. The main clinical challenge in our study group was the choice of ventilation strategy to manage respiratory acidosis, which is detected through end-tidal carbon dioxide pressure and blood gas analysis. Furthermore, the mean arterial pressure remained unchanged, the heart rate decreased significantly and required intervention. The central venous pressure values were also above the normal limits. CONCLUSION: Respiratory acidosis and "upper airway obstruction-like" clinical symptoms were the main challenges associated with robotic prostatectomy procedures during this study.

Anesthetic considerations for robotic cystectomy: a prospective study.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Robotic cystectomy is rapidly becoming a part of the standard surgical repertoire for the treatment of prostate cancer. Our aim was to describe respiratory and hemodynamic challenges and the complications observed in robotic cystectomy patients. PATIENTS: Sixteen patients who underwent robotic surgery between December 2009 and January 2011 were prospectively enrolled. Main outcome measures were non-invasive monitoring, invasive monitoring and blood gas analysis performed at supine (T0), Trendelenburg (T1), Trendelenburg+pneumoperitoneum (T2), Trendelenburg-before desufflation (T3), Trendelenburg (after desufflation) (T4), and supine (T5) positions. RESULTS: There were significant differences between T0-T1 and T0-T2 with lower heart rates. The mean arterial pressure value at T1 was significantly lower than T0. The central venous pressure value was significantly higher at T1, T2, T3, and T4 than at T0. There was no significant difference in the PET-CO2 value at any time point compared with T0. There were no significant differences in respiratory rate at any time point compared with T0. The mean f values at T3, T4, and T5 were significantly higher than T0. The mean minute ventilation at T4 and T5 were significantly higher than at T0. The mean plateau pressures and peak pressures at T1, T2, T3, T4, and T5 were significantly higher than the mean value at T0. CONCLUSIONS: Although the majority of patients generally tolerate robotic cystectomy well and appreciate the benefits, anesthesiologists must consider the changes in the cardiopulmonary system that occur when patients are placed in Trendelenburg position, and when pneumoperitoneum is created.

Considerações anestésicas para cistectomia robótica: estudo prospectivo / Anesthetic considerations for robotic cystectomy: a prospective study / Consideraciones anestésicas para la cistectomía robótica:estudio prospectivo

Experiência e objetivos: a cistectomia robótica vem rapidamente se tornando parte do repertório cirúrgico de rotina para o tratamento do câncer de próstata. Nosso objetivo foi descrever os desafios respiratórios e hemodinâmicos e as complicações observadas em pacientes de cistectomia robótica. Pacientes: foram prospectivamente recrutados 16 pacientes tratados com cistectomia robótica entre dezembro de 2009 e janeiro de 2011. As medidas de desfecho primário foram monitoração não invasiva, monitoração invasiva e análise de gases sangüíneos feita nas posições supina (T0), Trendelenburg (T1), Trendelenburg + pneumoperitônio (T2), Trendelenburg antes da dessuflação (T3), Trendelenburg depois da dessuflacão (T4) e supina (T5). Resultados: houve diferencas significativas entre T0 - T1 e T0 - T2 com frequências cardíacas mais baixas. O valor médio para a pressão arterial em T1 foi significativamente mais baixo do que em T0. O valor da pressão venosa central foi significativamente mais elevado em T1, T2, T3 e T4 versus T0. Não foi observada diferença significativa no valor de PET-CO2 em qualquer ponto temporal, em comparação com T0. Também não foram notadas diferenças significativas na frequência respiratória em qualquer ponto temporal, em comparação com T0. Os valores médios de ƒ em T3, T4 e T5 foram significativamente mais elevados versus T0. A ventilação minuto média em T4 e T5 foi significativamente mais elevada versus T0. As pressões de platô e de pico médias em T1, T2, T3, T4 e T5 foram significativamente mais elevadas versus T0. Conclusões: embora a maioria dos pacientes geralmente tolere satisfatoriamente a cistectomia robótica e perceba os benefícios, os ...

Background and objectives: Robotic cystectomy is rapidly becoming a part of the standard surgical repertoire for the treatment of prostate cancer. Our aim was to describe respiratory and hemodynamic challenges and the complications observed in robotic cystectomy patients. Patients: Sixteen patients who underwent robotic surgery between December 2009 and January 2011 were prospectively enrolled. Main outcome measures were non-invasive monitoring, invasive monitoring and blood gas analysis performed at supine (T0), Trendelenburg (T1), Trendelenburg + pneumoperitoneum (T2), Trendelenburg-before desufflation (T3), Trendelenburg (after desufflation) (T4), and supine (T5) positions. Results: There were significant differences between T0 - T1 and T0 - T2 with lower heart rates. The mean arterial pressure value at T1 was significantly lower than T0. The central venous pressure value was significantly higher at T1, T2, T3, and T4 than at T0. There was no significant difference in the PET-CO2 value at any time point compared with T0. There were no significant differences in respiratory rate at any time point compared with T0. The mean ƒ values at T3, T4, and T5 were significantly higher than T0. The mean minute ventilation at T4 and T5 were significantly higher than at T0. The mean plateau pressures and peak pressures at T1, T2, T3, T4, and T5 were significantly higher than the mean value at T0. Conclusions: Although the majority of patients generally tolerate robotic cystectomy well and appreciate the benefits, anesthesiologists must consider the changes in the cardiopulmonary system that occur when patients are placed in Trendelenburg position, and when pneumoperitoneum is created. .

Antecedentes y objetivos: la cistectomía robótica se ha convertido rápidamente en parte del repertorio quirúrgico de rutina para el tratamiento del cáncer de próstata. Nuestro objetivo ha sido describir los retos respiratorios y hemodinámicos, junto con las complicaciones observadas en pacientes sometidos a cistectomía robótica. Pacientes: diesiséis pacientes tratados con cistectomía robótica entre diciembre de 2009 y enero de 2011 se reclutaron de forma prospectiva. Las medidas de resultado primario fueron la monitorización no invasiva, la monitorización invasiva y la gasometría sanguínea realizada en las posiciones supina (T0), Trendelenburg (T1), Trendelenburg + neumoperitoneo (T2), Trendelenburg antes del desinflado (T3), Trendelenburg después del desinflado (T4), y supina (T5). Resultados: hubo diferencias significativas entre T0-T1 y T0-T2 con frecuencias cardíacas más bajas. El valor medio para la presión arterial en T1 fue significativamente más bajo que en T0. El valor de la presión venosa central fue significativamente más elevado en T1, T2, T3, y T4 versus T0. No se observó diferencia significativa en el valor de PET-CO2 en ningún momento en comparación con T0. Tampoco se encontraron nunca diferencias significativas en la frecuencia respiratoria en comparación con T0. Los valores medios de ƒ en T3, T4, y T5 fueron significativamente más elevados versus T0. La ventilación minuto promedio en T4 y T5 fue significativamente más elevada versus T0. Las presiones de meseta y de pico promedios en T1, T2, T3, T4, y T5 fueron significativamente más elevadas versus T0. Conclusiones: aunque la mayoría de los pacientes generalmente tolere satisfactoriamente la cistectomía robótica y se dé cuenta de los beneficios, los anestesiólogos deben tener ...

Diagnostic significance of biopsies in renal masses.

INTRODUCTION: We investigated the reliability and mapping of percutaneous needle core biopsies in the kidney in histopathological diagnosis of renal masses particularly for those with suspicious radiologic appearance in an attempt to prevent unnecessary nephrectomies. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Overall, 96 cases were included in our study that underwent radical nephrectomy or partial nephrectomy due to renal mass between November 2007 - March 2010. Ex-vivo biopsies 1 cm apart were obtained from the peripheral region of the mass. Additionally, half of these peripheral biopsies were obtained from the central region of the mass. Diagnostic yield of the biopsy cores were correlated. Sensitivity and specificity of peripheral and central biopsies in differentiating benign and malignant tissues were calculated. RESULTS: Sensitivity and specificity in differentiating malignant lesions were 93% and 87%, and 90% and 93% for peripheral and central biopsies, respectively. Positive and negative predictive values were 97% and 68%, and 98% and 64% for peripheral biopsies and central biopsies, respectively. Hazard ratio for cigarette smoking and presence of necrosis on CT scans were 4.76 (CI 1, 6-14.3; p = 0.04) and 3.32 (CI 1,2-9.2; p = 0.017) and 3.71 (CI 1.3-10.7; p = 0.013) and 3,51 (CI 1.3-9.6; p = 0.012) for peripheral and central biopsies, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Kidney biopsies can be performed in suspicious renal masses of central and peripheral biopsies with similar efficacy.

Does diabetes affect the distribution and number of interstitial cells and neuronal tissue in the ureter, bladder, prostate, and urethra of humans?

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to investigate and compare the distribution and number of interstitial cells (ICs) and neuronal tissue in the ureter, bladder, prostate, and urethra of human patients with and without diabetes. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Human tissue was obtained from patients who had undergone radical cystectomy for bladder cancer (10 diabetic and 11 non-diabetic males). Interstitial cells were stained immunohistochemically with anti-human CD117 (c-kit) rabbit polyclonal antibody, Vimentin, and Connexin-43. Neural tissue was stained with synaptophysin. The number of ICs and neurons was evaluated and compared between the groups (diabetic versus non-diabetic). RESULTS: The mean number of c-kit (+) ICs in bladder lamina propria was significantly decreased in diabetics (32.40 ±12.96 versus 57.18 ±25.37, p = 0.036). The mean number of ICs in the detrusor muscle was significantly decreased in diabetics (40.50 ±16.79 versus 64.55 ±22.08, p = 0.013). Between the groups, no significant differences were detected regarding the number of ICs at the level of the ureter, urethra, and prostate. No significant differences were detected regarding the number of nerves in the ureter, bladder, prostate, and urethra of both groups. CONCLUSIONS: The number of ICs may be decreased in the lamina propria and detrusor muscle of the human bladder in diabetes. This can be an underlying cause of lower urinary tract (LUT) dysfunction in diabetics. Research into the development of drugs targeting or stimulating IC function in order to prevent diabetic LUT dysfunction is warranted.

Outcomes of robot-assisted laparoscopic transperitoneal pyeloplasty procedures: a series of 18 patients.

OBJECTIVE: We evaluated outcomes of our robot-assisted laparoscopic transperitoneal pyeloplasty (RALP) procedures. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Between July 2011 and March 2014, 18 RALP procedures were performed at our instutition. Ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) diagnosis was made based on clinical presentation and intravenous urography. All patients underwent basal and diuretic isotopic renography to evaluate the degree of obstruction and impaired renal function. Anderson-Hynes dismembered pyeloplasty technique was used with a transperitoneal approach by using the da Vinci-S 4-arm surgical robot. Outcomes were assessed retrospectively. RESULTS: Mean patient age was 31.3±11.7 (13-62) years. Male: female ratio was 9: 9. All procedures were primary surgeries. Of 18 patients, 10 (55.5%) had a crossing vessel and 8 (44.5%) had intrinsic obstruction. Mean operative time was 150.4±17.2 (115-185) minutes. Mean anastomosis time was 21.4±5.5 (10-33) minutes. Mean blood loss during the operation was 33.6±17.3 (10-60) cc. Mean hospital stay was 2.6±1.0 (1-6) days. No conversion to open surgery was required. No intraoperative and perioperative (0-30 days) complication occurred. Readmission rate during perioperative period was 0%. Median follow-up was 16.6±10.3 (3-35) months. Postoperative intravenous urography and renography showed improved results in all cases. CONCLUSION: Due to our experience, RALP is a safe and feasible minimally invasive approach in patients with UPJO with excellent surgical and functional outcomes.

Is sampling transitional zone in patients who had prior negative prostate biopsy necessary?

OBJECTIVE: To assess the necessity of transitional zone sampling of the prostate during repeat prostate biopsy procedures. METHODS: Patients treated for lower urinary tract symptoms with transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) from April 2004 to July 2009 whom had at least 1 negative prostate biopsy prior to this treatment were chosen as the study group. A histopathological analysis of surgical specimens was employed to determine cancer detection rates. RESULTS: A total of 72 patients with the mean age of 66.1, mean prostate-specific antigen (PSA) of 10.4 ng/mL and mean prostate volume of 63.2 cc were included. Of the patients, 50 had 1 biopsy set, 17 had 2 sets, 4 had 3 sets and 1 patient had 4 sets of consecutive biopsies. All biopsy results were negative for prostate cancer. After the analysis of surgical specimens obtained during TURP, cancer was detected in 3 patients (4.2%). Transitional zone sampling during prostate biopsies did not significantly improve the cancer detection rate. Transitional zone sampling was performed in 29 biopsies taken from 20 patients, one of whom (5%) had prostate cancer. The remaining 71 biopsies were taken from 52 patients without transitional zone sampling, and cancer was detected in 2 (3.8%) of them. CONCLUSIONS: Since no significant difference was observed between patient groups (those with and those without transitional zone biopsies) in the detection of prostate cancer in the transitional zone, strategies for increasing the number of cores taken from transitional zone during repeat biopsies should be reconsidered.

Efficiency of percutaneous nephrolithotomy in pediatric patients using adult-type instruments.

To evaluate the efficiency of percutaneous nephrolithotomy using adult-type instruments in children with kidney stones. Between September 2004 and October 2009, 18 children (19 renal units) underwent percutaneous nephrolithotomy using adult-type instruments. Following percutaneous access under fluoroscopy, 20-30F tract dilatation was performed (1,92,427F), and lithotripters were used. Postoperatively, kidney-ureter-bladder X-ray and antegrade pyelography were performed to evaluate residual stones and contrast passage to the bladder. 8 boys and 10 girls with a mean age of 9.8 ± 4.56 years were evaluated. Mean stone burden was 338 ± 196.21 mm². Stones were located in the left and right kidneys in 16 (84.2%) and 3 (16.8%) patients, respectively. Horse-shoe kidney was present in one patient. Mean operation (including cystoscopy) and fluoroscopy times were 106 ± 49.60 and 5.2 ± 2.14 min, respectively. Postoperatively, 10(52.6%) patients were stone free and 4 (21.1%) patients had clinically insignificant stones. Saline extravasation developed in three patients and surgery was aborted in one patient. Stone fragments migrated into the ureter in two patients and managed by additional endourological interventions. Nephrostomy catheters were kept for a mean of 2.6 ± 1.12 days. Four patients required blood transfusion due to bleeding. Postoperative fever of <39°C developed in five patients and >39°C in one patient. Mean hospitalization time was 5.3 ± 3.12 days. Overall, 73.7% of our patients were stone free, including patients with clinically insignificant stones. Particularly in children with a high-stone burden, the use of adult-type instruments might have a positive impact on stone-free rate, operation time and fluoroscopy time without increasing the complication rate.

Robot-assisted nerve-sparing radical cystectomy with bilateral extended pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND) and intracorporeal urinary diversion for bladder cancer: initial experience in 27 cases.

OBJECTIVE: • To report the outcomes of 27 patients whom we performed robot-assisted radical cystoprostatectomy and cystectomy (RARC) with intracorporeal urinary diversion (Studer pouch and ileal conduit) for bladder cancer. PATIENTS AND METHODS: • Between December 2009 and December 2010, we performed RARC in 25 men (intrafascial bilateral [22], unilateral [one], non-neurovascular bundle [NVB] sparing [two]), NVB-sparing RARC with anterior pelvic exenteration in two women, bilateral extended robot-assisted pelvic lymph node dissection (RAPLND) (25), intracorporeal Studer pouch (23), ileal conduit (two), and extracorporeal Studer pouch (two) construction. • Patient demographics, operative and postoperative variables, pathological variables, complications (according to modified Clavien system) and functional outcomes were evaluated. RESULTS: • The mean (sd, range) operative duration, intraoperative estimated blood loss and mean lymph node (LN) yield were 9.9 (1.4, 7.1-12.4) h, 429 (257, 100-1200) mL and 24.8 (9.2, 8-46), respectively. • The mean (sd, range) hospital stay was 10.5 (6.8, 7-36) days, there was one perioperative death (3.7%), lodge drains were removed at a mean of 11.3 (5.6, 9-35) days and surgical margins were negative in all but one patient who had pT4b disease. • The postoperative pathological stages were: pT0 (five), pTis (one), pT1 (one), pT2a (five), pT2b (three), pT3a (six), pT3b (two), pT4a (three) and pT4b (one). • Positive LNs and incidental prostate cancer were detected in six and nine patients, respectively and at a mean follow-up of 6.3 (2.9, 1.8-11.3) months, three patients died from metastatic disease and one from cardiac disease. • According to the modified Clavien system, there were nine minor (Grade 1 and 2) and four major (Grade 3-5) complications in the perioperative (0-30 days) period; four minor and three major complications in the postoperative (31-90 days) period. Of the available 18 patients, 11 were fully continent, four had mild and two had severe day-time incontinence. CONCLUSIONS: • Bilateral NVB-sparing RARC with RAPLND and intracorporeal Studer pouch or ileal conduit reconstruction are complex procedures with acceptable morbidity, excellent short-term surgical and pathological outcomes and satisfactory functional results. • Studies with more patients and longer follow-ups are required to evaluate the feasibility of these RA totally intracorporeal complex procedures.