Gilaburu extract (Viburnum opulus Linnaeus) is as effective as Tamsulosin in medical expulsive therapy of distal ureteral calculi.

BACKGROUND: To compare the extract of Gilaburu (Viburnum opulus Linnaeus) and Tamsulosin as a medical expulsive therapy (MET) in patients with distal ureteral calculi of 10 mm or less. METHODS: Data of 86 patients were prospectively collected. The patients were divided into two groups. In the first group, Viburnum opulus 1000 mg peroral 3 × 2 and diclofenac 50 mg peroral on-demand (n = 43), in the second group Tamsulosin 0.4 mg peroral 1 × 1 and diclofenac 50 mg peroral on-demand (n = 43) was given for MET in patients with distal ureteral calculi. Stone expulsion rates, time until expulsion, additional analgesic requirement, need for emergency admission, need for additional treatment were evaluated. In addition, subgroup analyses of ≤5 and 5-10 mm were also performed. RESULTS: There was no difference between the groups in terms of stone expulsion rates and time until the expulsion in all stones. Additional analgesic requirement and need for emergency admission were found to be lower in the Viburnum opulus group (37.2% vs 65.1%, P = .017 and 11.6% vs 34.8%, P = .02, respectively). In subgroup analyses, while stone expulsion rates were similar in subgroups, it was found shorter in the time until expulsion, lower additional analgesic requirement and need for emergency admission in V. opulus group than Tamsulosin group in 5-10 mm stone size subgroup (7.1 ± 4.2 vs 11.8 ± 5.2, P = .005, 32.2% vs 77.7%, P = .001 and 12.9% vs 40.7%, respectively). CONCLUSION: V. opulus can be used effectively and safely for the treatment of MET in distal ureteral calculi.

New behavior therapy in the treatment of acquired premature ejaculation: A comparative study of listening to music. / Nueva terapia conductual en el tratamiento de la eyaculación precoz adquirida: un estudio comparativo de escuchar música.

OBJECTIVES: Premature ejaculation (PE) is one of the most frequently seen causes of sexual dysfunction in males. The aim of this study is to investigate whether the music therapy is effective in the treatment of acquired PE and compare the intravaginal ejaculation latency time (IELT), premature ejaculation diagnostic tool (PEDT), and anxiety scores of patients with acquired PE symptoms that underwent music therapy to patients that were treated with 30 mg dapoxetine. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study's inclusion criteria was as following: age range from 20-35, married, has regular sexual intercourse, non-smokers, and has no known comorbidities. All participants of the study were with acquired PE based on the International Society for Sexual Medicine criteria. Experimental group (group 1) included 60 patients that were asked to listen to relaxing music and meditate for 45 minutes before the sexual intercourse while continuing their daily routine. This group was selected randomly and prospectively from young healthy individuals. Meanwhile, control group (group 2) included 60 patients who were treated with 30 mg dapoxetine for PE and whose datas were collected from the hospital archive. The patients were evaluated before treatment and re-evaluated (PEDT, IELT, anxiety level) after 60 days. State-Trait Anxiety Inventory was used to assess state and trait anxiety. RESULTS: In both groups, a significant difference (p<0.001) was observed in pre and post-treatment IELT, PEDT, and anxiety scores. Although group 2 showed better improvement in both IELT and PEDT scores, there was no significant difference between two groups. CONCLUSION: Listening to music and other similar anxiety decreasing methods can be a part of treatment plan for PE.

OBJETIVOS: La eyaculación precoz (EP) es una de las causas más frecuentes de disfunción sexual en los hombres. El objetivo de este estudio es investigar si la musicoterapia es eficaz en el tratamiento de la EP adquirida y comparar el tiempo de latencia de la eyaculación intravaginal (IELT), la herramienta de diagnóstico de la eyaculación precoz (PEDT) y las puntuaciones de ansiedad de pacientes con síntomas de EP adquirida que se sometieron a musicoterapia a pacientes que fueron tratados con 30 mg de dapoxetina.MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Los criterios de inclusión del estudio fueron los siguientes: rango de edad de 20 a 35 años, casado, tiene relaciones sexuales regulares, no fuma y no tiene comorbilidades conocidas. Todos los participantes del estudio fueron diagnosticados con EP adquirida según los criterios de la Sociedad Internacional de Medicina Sexual. El grupo experimental (grupo 1) incluyó a 60 pacientes a los que se les pidió que escucharan música relajante y meditaran durante 45 minutos antes de la relación sexual mientras continuaban con su rutina diaria. Este grupo se seleccionó de forma aleatoria y prospectiva entre individuos jóvenes sanos. Mientras tanto, el grupo de control (grupo 2) incluyó a 60 pacientes que fueron tratados con 30 mg de dapoxetina para EP y cuyos datos fueron recolectados del archivo del hospital. Los pacientes fueron evaluados antes del tratamiento y reevaluados (PEDT, IELT, nivel de ansiedad) después de 60 días. Se utilizó el Inventario de Ansiedad Estado-Rasgo para evaluar el estado y el rasgo de ansiedad. RESULTADOS: En ambos grupos, se observó una diferencia significativa (p<0,001) en las puntuaciones de IELT, PEDT y ansiedad antes y después del tratamiento. Aunque el grupo 2 mostró una mejora en las puntuaciones de IELT y PEDT, no hubo diferencias significativas entre los dos grupos.CONCLUSIÓN: Escuchar música y otros métodos similares para disminuir la ansiedad puede ser parte del plan de tratamiento para la EP.

Nueva terapia conductual en el tratamiento de la eyaculación precoz adquirida: un estudio comparativo de escuchar música / New behavioral therapy in the treatment of acquired premature ejaculation: a comparative study of listening to music

Objetivos: La eyaculación precoz (EP) es una de las causas más frecuentes de disfunción sexual en los hombres. El objetivo de este estudio es investigar si la musicoterapia es eficaz en el tratamiento de la EP adquirida y comparar el tiempo de latencia de la eyaculación intravaginal (IELT), la herramienta de diagnóstico de la eyaculación precoz (PEDT) y las puntuaciones de ansiedad de pacientes con síntomas deEP adquirida que se sometieron a musicoterapia a pacientes que fueron tratados con 30 mg de dapoxetina.Materiales y métodos: Los criterios de inclusión del estudio fueron los siguientes: rango de edad de 20 a 35 años, casado, tiene relaciones sexuales regulares, no fuma y no tiene comorbilidades conocidas. Todos losparticipantes del estudio fueron diagnosticados con EP adquirida según los criterios de la Sociedad Internacional de Medicina Sexual. El grupo experimental (grupo 1) incluyó a 60 pacientes a los que se les pidió que escucharan música relajante y meditaran durante 45 minutos antes de la relación sexual mientras continuaban con su rutina diaria. Este grupo se seleccionó deforma aleatoria y prospectiva entre individuos jóvenes sanos. Mientras tanto, el grupo de control (grupo 2) incluyó a 60 pacientes que fueron tratados con 30 mg de dapoxetina para EP y cuyos datos fueron recolectados del archivo del hospital. Los pacientes fueron evaluados antes del tratamiento y reevaluados (PEDT, IELT, nivel de ansiedad) después de 60 días. Se utilizó el Inventario de Ansiedad Estado-Rasgo para evaluar el estado y el rasgo de ansiedad. Resultados: En ambos grupos, se observó una diferencia significativa (p<0,001) en las puntuaciones deIELT, PEDT y ansiedad antes y después del tratamiento. Aunque el grupo 2 mostró una mejora en las puntuaciones de IELT y PEDT, no hubo diferencias significativas entre los dos grupos.(AU)

Objectives: Premature ejaculation (PE) is one of the most frequently seen causes of sexual dysfunction in males. The aim of this study is to investigate whether the music therapy is effective in the treatment of acquired PE and compare the intravaginal ejaculation latency time (IELT), premature ejaculation diagnostic tool (PEDT), and anxiety scores of patients with acquired PE symptoms that underwent music therapy to patients that were treated with 30 mg dapoxetine. Materials and Methods: The study’s inclusion criteria was as following: age range from 20-35, married,has regular sexual intercourse, non-smokers, and has no known comorbidities. All participants of the study were diagnosed with acquired PE based on the International Society for Sexual Medicine criteria. Experimental group (group 1) included 60 patients that were asked to listen to relaxing music and meditate for 45 minutes before the sexual intercourse while continuing their daily routine. This group was selected randomly and prospectively from young healthy individuals. Meanwhile, control group (group 2) included 60 patients who were treated with 30 mg dapoxetine for PE and whose datas were collected from the hospital archive. The patients were evaluated before treatment and re-evaluated (PEDT, IELT, anxiety level) after 60 days. State-Trait Anxiety Inventory was used to assess state and trait anxiety. Results: In both groups, a significant difference (p<0.001) was observed in pre and post-treatment IELT, PEDT, and anxiety scores. Although group 2 showed better improvement in both IELT and PEDT scores, there was no significant difference between two groups. Conclusions: Listening to music and other similar anxiety decreasing methods can be a part of treatment plan for PE.(AU)

Outcomes and complications of radical cystectomy with ileal conduit urinary diversion: A comparison between open, semi-robotic and totally robotic surgery.

BACKGROUND: It was aimed to compare open versus robotic-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) with intracorporeal ileal conduit (ICIC), versus RARC with extracorporeal ileal conduit (ECIC) formation for bladder cancer. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Open, RARC-ECIC and RARC-ICIC groups were compared in terms of patient demographics, operative and postoperative parameters, pathological parameters, complications and functional outcomes. RESULTS: Mean operative times were lower in the RARC-ECIC group (p = 0.004). Mean estimated blood loss was significantly lower (p < 0.01) in the robotic groups. The blood transfusion was lower in RARC-ICIC groups (p < 0.001). Rates of stage pT3-4 disease were the highest in the RARC-ICIC group (p = 0.004). LOS was significantly shorter in the RARC-ICIC group (p = 0.01). Numbers of Clavien 3-5 complications were lower in the robotic groups (p = 0.012). CONCLUSIONS: RARC and ICIC is a complex procedure involving an increased operation time but with the advantages of lower estimated blood loss, transfusion rates, complications and hospital stays compared with open surgery.

Does the renal parenchymal thickness affect the efficacy of the retrograde intrarenal surgery? A prospective cohort study.

Retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) is one of the minimally invasive main treatment modalities in renal stone disease. There are many factors which affect stone-free rate (SFR). Our study was based on the hypothesis that higher renal parenchymal thickness (RPT) which may include higher average number of nephrons provides better diuresis. We investigated the efficacy of RPT on success of RIRS. This study is a single-centered prospective surgical cohort study. A total of 383 patients were analyzed. Regularly followed 304 patients with unilateral kidney stone at single pole or renal pelvis and who underwent single-session RIRS were included in the final analysis, and the patients' preoperative and postoperative 1st and 3rd months' data were evaluated. RPT was measured on the non-contrast computed tomography (CT) images. ROC analysis was performed to estimate the cutoff value of RPT for SFR. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to model the relationship between RPT and SFR after RIRS. ROC analysis revealed the best cutoff value of the RPT for predicting residual stone as 19 mm for both the 1st and 3rd month visits with Youden indexes of 0.397 and 0.406, respectively. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study which evaluated the effect of RPT on the efficacy of RIRS. RPT measurement is a cost-effective method that can be easily performed on routinely applied non-contrast CT and may have predictive value for the surgical success in patients with nephrolithiasis.

Robot Assisted Radical Cystectomy Outcomes in Micropapillary and Plasmacytoid Variants.

PURPOSE: To compare the patients who underwent robot assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) and extended pelvic lymph node dissection (EPLND) and whose pathology result was reported as micropapillary variant (MV), plasmacytoid variant (PV) and pure urothelial carcinoma (PUC). MATERIALS AND METHODS: The data of 133 patients who underwent RARC and EPLND with the postoperative pathology results reported as MV, PV and PUC were analyzed. According to the postoperative pathology results, patients were divided into two groups in initial analyses as variant pathologies group (n=14) and PUC group (n=119). In secondary analyses, patients were divided into three groups as MV group (n=7), PV group (n=7) and PUC group (n=119). The operative data, oncologic outcomes and complications were compared between the groups. RESULTS: Median operation time and estimated blood loss were significantly increased in variant pathologies group (P <0.001 and P = .001, respectively). The postoperative pathological T stage, positive surgical margin rate and lymph node involvement were also significantly increased in variant pathologies (P = .001, P = 0.004, P <0.001, respectively). Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed significant decrease in OS and CSS times in PV group compared to PUC group (P = .048 and P = .016, respectively). CONCLUSION: MV and PV are rarely seen variant pathologies with higher pathological T stages. RARC is a minimally invasive surgical technique that can be performed successfully by an experienced surgical team with low morbidity rates and similar oncological results, even in challenging cases.

Distribution of psychogenic and vascular impotence in a tertiary health-care center's cohort: a retrospective study using penile Doppler imaging / Distribución de la impotencia psicógena y vascular en la cohorte de un centro sanitario de tercer nivel: estudio retrospectivo con imágenes Doppler peneanas

PURPOSE: In this study, we retrospectively reviewed the penile color Doppler ultrasound (PCDU) scans of the patients who had admitted to our clinic with erectile dysfunction and aimed to evaluate the contribution of penile Doppler scan results to the clinical decisions. MATERIAL-METHOD: The data of patients admitted to our outpatient clinic with complaints of erectile dysfunction (IIEF-5 score<22 or IIEF-EF score<26) between January 2005 and January 2018 were retrospectively evaluated. Patients whose testosterone level is lower than 280ng/ml or who had undergone radical prostatectomy were excluded from the analysis. RESULTS: Three thousand ninety patients were included in the study. The mean age of our patients was 55.05±13.05 years. In total, 2139 (69%) patients had normal PCDU findings, 351 (11%) patients had arterial insufficiency, 531 (17%) patients had venous insufficiency, and 69 (2%) patients had arterial insufficiency with concurrent venous leakage. When the patients were divided into 2 groups ≤40 years (Group 1) old and >40 years (Group 2) old; normal PCDU findings were found in 432 patients (84%) of the Group 1 patients and normal PCDU findings in 1707 (66%) patients of the Group 2 patients (p < 0.0001). There were arterial insufficiency findings in 24 (4.7%) and 327 (12.7%) patients of the Group 1 and 2, respectively (p = 0.002). CONCLUSION: The etiology is psychogenic in the majority of patients who present with ED complaints to the urology clinic. With age, the prevalence of psychogenic ED is decreasing but still more than organic

OBJETIVO: En este estudio, revisamos retrospectivamente las ecografías Doppler a color del pene (PCDU) de los pacientes que ingresaron en nuestra clínica con disfunción erectile, el objetivo era evaluar la contribución de los resultados de la ecografía Doppler peneana a las decisiones clínicas. MATERIAL Y MÉTODO: Los datos de los pacientes ingresados en nuestra clínica ambulatoria con quejas de disfunción eréctil (puntuación IIEF-5<22 o puntuación IIEF-EF<26) entre enero de 2005 y enero de 2018 se evaluaron retrospectivamente. Los pacientes cuyo nivel de testosterona fuera inferior a 280ng/ml o a los cuales se les hubiera realizado una prostatectomía radical se excluyeron del análisis. RESULTADOS: En el estudio se incluyó a 3.090 pacientes. La media de edad de nuestros pacientes fue de 55,05±13,05 años. En total, en 2.139 pacientes (69%) hubo hallazgos normales en la PCDU; en 351 (11%) se observó insuficiencia arterial; en 531 (17%) insuficiencia venosa y en 69 (2%) insuficiencia arterial con reflujo venoso simultáneo. Cuando los pacientes se dividieron en 2 grupos, ≤40 años (grupo 1) y >40 años (grupo 2), se encontraron hallazgos normales de la PCDU en 432 pacientes (84%) de los pacientes del grupo 1 y hallazgos normales de PCDU en 1.707 pacientes (66%) del grupo 2 (p < 0,0001). Hubo hallazgos de insuficiencia arterial en 24 (4,7%) y 327 (12,7%) pacientes de los grupos 1 y 2, respectivamente (p = 0,002). CONCLUSIÓN: La etiología es psicógena en la mayoría de los pacientes que presentan quejas de en la clínica de urología. Con la edad, la prevalencia de la DE psicógena va disminuyendo, pero todavía es más psicógena que orgánica

Which is the best radiological imaging method for predicting actual prostate weight?

In this study, we compared the weight of the prostate specimen removed after robotic radical prostatectomy with the prostate weight measured pre-operatively by four different imaging modalities. Pre-operative prostate weight before robotic radical prostatectomy was measured by Transabdominal Ultrasonography (TAUS), Transrectal Ultrasonography (TRUS), Abdominal Tomography (CT) and MultiparametricProstate Magnetic Resonance imaging (mpMRI). Of the 170 patients enrolled in the study, the mean age was 65.2 ± 7.08 (46-84) years and mean prostate-specific antigen (PSA) 9.6 ± 7.7 (1.8-50). The mean post-operative actual prostate weight was 63.1 ± 30 gr. The mean pre-operative prostate volumes measured by TAUS, TRUS, CT and MPMRI were 64.5 ± 28.5, 49.1 ± 30.6, 54.5 ± 30.5 and 68.7 ± 31.7 ml, respectively (p < .001). Post-operative actual prostate weight correlated with prostate weight measured by TAUS, TRUS, CT and mpMRI (r coefficient 0.776, 0.802, 0.768 and 0.825 respectively). The best of these was mpMRI. Although prostate weight measured by different imaging methods has a high correlation to predict actual prostate weight, actual prostate weight is best predicted by measurements with mpMRI. However, errors and deviations that may occur with these imaging methods should be taken into consideration.

The change in Thiol-Disulphide Homeostasis levels as an oxidative stress marker after varicocelectomy: Is there a relationship with sperm parameters?

One of the most important causes of varicocele-related infertility is oxidative stress (OS). One of the markers considered as an indicator of OS is thiol-disulphide homeostasis (TDH). Based on the hypothesis that OS should decrease after varicocelectomy in the light of this information, in our current study, we investigated the relationship between TDH levels and sperm parameters. The data of 56 infertile varicocele men were prospectively analysed. The post-operative total and native thiol levels were significantly higher than those pre-operative total and native thiol levels (477.7 & 436.7 nmol/L, 417.6 & 372.1 nmol/L). Positive correlation was found between total thiol change and change in semen volume (ρ: .277, p: .039), ratio of spermatozoa with normal morphology (ρ: .342, p: .01), progressive (ρ: .334, p: .012) and nonprogressive motility (ρ: .385, p: .003). Positive correlation was also found between native thiol change and semen volume (ρ: .349, p: .008), ratio of spermatozoa with normal morphology (ρ: .362, p: .006), progressive (ρ: .297, p: .026) and nonprogressive motility (ρ: .368, p: .005). Change in the level of TDH was found as positively correlated with progressive and nonprogressive motility change. According to these results, OS decreases with varicocelectomy in infertile patients and TDH can be used as a useful method for measuring OS.

Distribution of psychogenic and vascular impotence in a tertiary health-care center's cohort: A retrospective study using penile Doppler imaging.

PURPOSE: In this study, we retrospectively reviewed the penile color Doppler ultrasound (PCDU) scans of the patients who had admitted to our clinic with erectile dysfunction and aimed to evaluate the contribution of penile Doppler scan results to the clinical decisions. MATERIAL-METHOD: The data of patients admitted to our outpatient clinic with complaints of erectile dysfunction (IIEF-5 score<22 or IIEF-EF score<26) between January 2005 and January 2018 were retrospectively evaluated. Patients whose testosterone level is lower than 280ng/ml or who had undergone radical prostatectomy were excluded from the analysis. RESULTS: Three thousand ninety patients were included in the study. The mean age of our patients was 55.05±13.05 years. In total, 2139 (69%) patients had normal PCDU findings, 351 (11%) patients had arterial insufficiency, 531 (17%) patients had venous insufficiency, and 69 (2%) patients had arterial insufficiency with concurrent venous leakage. When the patients were divided into 2 groups ≤40 years (Group 1) old and >40 years (Group 2) old; normal PCDU findings were found in 432 patients (84%) of the Group 1 patients and normal PCDU findings in 1707 (66%) patients of the Group 2 patients (p<0.0001). There were arterial insufficiency findings in 24 (4.7%) and 327 (12.7%) patients of the Group 1 and 2, respectively (p=0.002). CONCLUSION: The etiology is psychogenic in the majority of patients who present with ED complaints to the urology clinic. With age, the prevalence of psychogenic ED is decreasing but still more than organic.

Relationship between oxidative stress and detrussor overactivity: a case control study.

PURPOSE: We analyzed the role of oxidative stress in detrusor overactivity (DO) by measuring serum total antioxidant capacity (TAC), total oxidant status (TOS), binding capacity of exogenous cobalt to human albumin (IMA), serum advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), paraoxonase (PON), and arylesterase. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study included 38 female patients diagnosed with DO and 29 healthy female subjects forming the control group. Serum total antioxidant capacity (TAC), total oxidant status (TOS), binding capacity of exogenous cobalt to human albumin (IMA), serum advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), paraoxonase (PON), and arylesterase were analyzed. The results of serum TAC, TOS, IMA, AOPP, PON, and arylesterase of the subjects in both groups were compared. RESULTS: There was no difference between the groups in terms of age. When compared to the control group, serum TAC and IMA levels were statisticaly lower (P  < 0,001)  and higher (P = 0,003), respectively. However, TOS, AOPP, PON, arylesterase levels were similar in both groups ( p > 0.05 ). CONCLUSION: There seems to be an association between DO and oxidative damage according to our results, this can be measured by analyzing TAC and IMA in this patient group.

Complete blood count and penile colour doppler ultrasonography findings in erectile dysfunction: Is there a relationship?

The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between penile colour doppler ultrasonography (PCDUS) and complete blood count parameters in patients with erectile dysfunction (ED). The data of the patients who applied to our outpatient clinic with ED (IIEF-5 score <22 or IIEF-EF score <26) between January 2007 and May 2017 were retrospectively analysed. The patients who had available PCDUS results and complete blood count (CBC) values were included in the study. Patients were divided into two groups having normal (n = 530 [68.9%]) or abnormal (n = 240 [31.1%]) PCDUS findings (group 1 versus group 2 respectively). Subsequently, group 2 was divided into three subgroups according to presence of arterial insufficiency (group 2a; n = 85 [11%]), venous insufficiency (group 2b; n = 140 [18.2%]) and both of arterial and venous insufficiency (group 2c; n = 15 [1.9%]), and the four groups were compared in terms of CBC parameters. There was no statistically significant difference between the 4 groups, and between the patients with normal and abnormal PCDUS findings in terms of CBC values. CBC values were not associated with PCDUS findings in patients with ED.

Robotic Radical Cystectomy with Intracorporeal Studer Pouch Formation for Bladder Cancer: Experience in Ninety-Eight Cases.

Aim: To report the outcomes of robot-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) with bilateral extended pelvic lymph node dissection (BEPLND) and intracorporeal Studer pouch formation for bladder cancer. Materials and Methods: Overall 98 patients (92 males, 6 females) were included. Patient demographics, operative and postoperative variables, pathological parameters, complications, and functional outcomes were evaluated. Results: Mean age and American Society of Anesthesiologists score and body mass index were 60.9 years, 1.7 and 26 kg/m2, respectively. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy was given to 18 patients. Mean operation time, intraoperative estimated blood loss, and mean lymph node (LN) yield were 8.22 hours, 314.6 mL, and 28.3, respectively. Mean hospitalization time was 13.6 days. There were one perioperative and one postoperative deaths, both due to cardiac arrest on postoperative 21st and 60th days. Drains were removed at a mean of 10 days. Surgical margins were positive in two patients. Postoperative pathological stages were reported as pT0 (n = 21), pTis (n = 7), pT1 (n = 7), pT2a (n = 14), pT2b (n = 14), pT3a (n = 15), pT3b (n = 11), and pT4a (n = 9). Positive LNs were found in 21 patients. Prostate cancer was incidentally detected in 23 patients. Twenty-five patients received adjuvant chemotherapy. At a mean follow-up period of 25.1 months, 13 patients died from metastatic disease and 7 from cardiac disease. According to the modified Clavien-Dindo system, 30 minor and 20 major complications were identified in the perioperative (0-30 days) period, and 6 minor and 7 major complications were detected in the postoperative (31-90 days) period. According to the available data of the 60 patients, 37 were fully continent, 14 had mild, 6 had moderate, and 4 had severe daytime incontinence. Conclusions: Due to our experience, RARC with BEPLND and intracorporeal Studer pouch reconstruction procedures are complex procedures with acceptable morbidity, excellent surgical and pathological outcomes, and satisfactory oncologic and functional results.

Is there a difference in the number of interstitial cells, neurons, presence of fibrosis and inflammation in ureteropelvic junction tissues of patients with ureteropelvic junction obstruction with and without crossing vessels?

OBJECTIVE: We compared the number of interstitial cells (ICs), nerves, presence of fibrosis and inflammation at the level of full-thickness human ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) tissues obtained from normal subjects, and patients with UPJ obstruction with and without crossing vessels. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Normal UPJ tissues (n=12) histopathologically confirmed to be without tumor involvement were obtained from subjects who underwent radical nephrectomy for kidney mass. Additional UPJ tissues were obtained from patients who underwent pyeloplasty due to UPJ obstruction. Crossing vessel was identified in 17 patients. In 57 patients, no crossing-vessel was noted. ICs were stained immunohistochemically with anti-human CD117 (c-kit) antibody. Neural tissue was stained with S-100. The numbers of ICs and neurons were compared between the groups: controls with normal UPJ (Group I), Ureteropelvic junction obtruction (UPJO) with crossing vessel (Group II) and UPJ obstruction without crossing vessel (Group III). Groups were also compared in terms of the presence of fibrosis and inflammation. RESULTS: The mean age of total population included in the study was 30.5±18.5 years. No significant differences were detected between the three groups regarding mean and median numbers of ICs at the level of UPJ (lamina propria and muscle layer) and mean and median numbers of neurons at the level of lamina propria (p>0.05). Likewise, no significant differences were detected between the three groups regarding the presence of fibrosis and inflammation (p>0.05). CONCLUSION: Number of ICs, neurons, presence of fibrosis and inflammation seem to be similar in the intact UPJ and UPJ with obstruction with and without crossing vessel. Cellular function rather than the number ICs might play a role that warrants further research.

Does Presence of a Median Lobe Affect Perioperative Complications, Oncological Outcomes and Urinary Continence Following Robotic-assisted Radical Prostatectomy?

PURPOSE: To evaluate of the presence of a median lobe(ML) affect perioperative complications, positive surgical margins(PSM), biochemical recurrence(BCR) and urinary continence(UC) following robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy(RARP). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Data of 924 consecutive patients who underwent RARP for prostate cancer (PCa) and who have at least 1-year follow-up were evaluated retrospectively. All patients were divided into two groups: Group 1(n=252) included patients with ML and Group 2 (n=672) included patients without ML. The primary endpoint of this study was to compare complication rates between two groups. The secondary endpoints were to compare PSM, BCR and UC rates. RESULTS: Both groups were statistically similar in terms of demographics and variables about PCa. Mean prostate volume was higher in Group 1 vs. Group 2 (69± 31 vs. 56±23 mL, p<.001). Total operative time was longer in Group 1 vs. Group 2 (144±38 vs. 136±44 min, p=.01). Biochemical recurrence, PSM, perioperative and postoperative complication rates of our population were 13.6%, 14.9%, 1.7% and 8.7%, respectively. There were no statistical differences in terms of perioperative complication, PSM and BCR rates between the groups(p>0.05). At the first month after RARP, total continence rate was statistically significant lower in Group 1 vs. Group 2 (49.2% and 56.5%, p=.03), respectively. However, there were no significant differences in terms of continence rates at 3rd month, 6th month and 1st-year follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Due to our experience, the presence of ML does not seem to affect perioperative complication, intraoperative blood loss, PSM and BCR following RARP. However, the presence of ML seems to be a disadvantage in gaining early UC following RARP.

Management of ureteric duplications identified during robotic cystectomy and intracorporeal urinary diversion.

Ureteral duplication is rarely seen malformation that could be diagnosed during radiological imaging. Herein, we present 5 patients with ureteral duplication who underwent robotic radical cystectomy with intracorporeal urinary diversion for bladder cancer. Preoperative computerized tomography did not show presence of a ureteral duplication in any patient and all were identified intraoperatively. A Wallace type uretero-ureteral anastomosis was performed in all patients. During the follow-up period, we did not detect any ureterointestinal anastomotic strictures or complication related to the presence of a ureteral duplication following robotic cystectomy. We conclude that ureteral duplication might be missed during preoperative radiological imaging, might be a surprising and challenging issue for the robotic surgeon that could be safely managed intraoperatively.

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.

The hounsfield unit value calculated with the aid of non-contrast computed tomography and its effect on the outcome of percutaneous nephrolithotomy.

To evaluate the effect of the Hounsfield unit (HU) value, calculated with the aid of non-contrast computed tomography, on the outcome of percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). Data for 83 patients evaluated in our clinic between November 2011 and February 2014 that had similar stone sizes, localizations, and radio opacities were retrospectively reviewed. The patients were grouped according to their HU value, in a low HU group (HU ≤ 1000) or a high HU group (HU > 1000). The two groups were compared based on their PCNL success rates, complications, duration of surgery, duration of fluoroscopy, and decrease in the hematocrit. There were no significant differences in terms of mean age, female-male ratio, or mean body mass index between the two groups (p > 0.05). The stone size and stone surface area did not differ significantly between the groups (p = 0.820 and p = 0.394, respectively). The unsuccessful PCNL rate and the prevalence of complications did not differ significantly between the two groups (p > 0.05). The duration of surgery, duration of fluoroscopy, and decrease in the hematocrit were significantly greater in the high HU group compared to the low HU group (p < 0.001). Calculating the HU value using this imaging method may predict cases with longer surgery durations, longer fluoroscopy durations, and greater decreases in hematocrite levels, but this value is not related to the success rate of PCNL.

Low ERCC1 expression is associated with prolonged survival in patients with bladder cancer receiving platinum-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy.

PURPOSE: Excision repair cross-complementation group 1 enzyme (ERCC1) plays a key role in the removal of platinum induced DNA adducts and cisplatin resistance. Prognostic role of ERCC1 expression in the neoadjuvant setting in bladder cancer has not been reported before. We evaluated the prognostic role of ERCC1 expression in bladder cancer receiving platinum-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty-eight patients with muscle invasive bladder cancer who received neoadjuvant platinum-based chemotherapy were included. Clinical and histopathologic parameters along with immunohistochemical ERCC1 staining were examined and correlated with response rates and survival. RESULTS: Pathologic complete response rates were similar between patients with low and high ERCC1 expression. Median disease-free survival (DFS) was 9.3 vs. 20.5 months (P = 0.186) and median overall survival (OS) was 9.3 vs. 26.7 months (P = 0.058) in patients with high ERCC1 expression compared with those with low expression, respectively. In multivariate Cox regression analysis: pathological complete response (pCR) after chemotherapy (hazard ratio (HR) 0.1, 95% CI 0.012-0.842, P = 0.034) and high ERCC1 expression (HR 3.7, 95% CI 1.2-11.2, P = 0.019) were significantly associated with DFS. Patient age (>60 vs. ≤ 60 years) (HR 3.4, 95% CI 1.2-9.4, P = 0.018), the presence of pCR (HR 0.11, 95% CI 0.014-0.981, P = 0.048) and high ERCC expression (HR 6.1, 95 CI 1.9-19.9, P = 0.002) were significantly associated with OS. CONCLUSIONS: Our results showed that high ERCC1 expression was independently associated with shorter disease-free and overall survival in patients with bladder cancer who received neoadjuvant platinum-based chemotherapy. ERCC1 may represent a potential predictive marker for platinum-based treatment in bladder cancer.

Prediction of morbidity and mortality after percutaneous nephrolithotomy by using the Charlson Comorbidity Index.

OBJECTIVES: To determine whether the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) predicts postoperative medical complications and death in patients treated with percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). METHODS: A total of 1406 PCNL procedures were performed at 4-stone referral centers between September 2004 and March 2011 were reviewed in this multicenter study. Variables included patient and stone characteristics, preoperative comorbidities, intraoperative data, and postoperative complications, including mortality. RESULTS: The present study included 868 (61.7%) men and 538 (38.3%) women. Mean patient age was 44.1 years (range 1-81). CCI score was calculated as "0" for 993 patients (70.6%, called group I), "1" for 316 patients (22.5%, called group II) and"≥2" for 97 patients (6.9%, called group III). The incidence of comorbidities increased with age (P=.001). The overall postoperative complication rate was 29.3%. Life-threatening medical complications developed in 2.9% of patients in group I, 7.6% of patients in group II, and 21.6% of patients in group III, (P=.001). There were 3 deaths for an overall 0.2% mortality rate. Perioperative bleeding requiring blood transfusion was observed in 9.5% of patients, and we found an increased risk of hemorrhage associated with CCI score (P=.049). High CCI score, patient age, hemorrhage, and operative time were significantly related to higher medical complication rates after PCNL. CONCLUSIONS: CCI is a quick, simple, and reproducible scoring system that accurately predicts the morbidity and mortality of PCNL.