Ejaculatory Hood Sparing versus Standard Laser Photoselective Vaporization of the Prostate: Sexual and Urodynamic Assessment through a Double Blinded, Randomized Trial.

PURPOSE: In a preliminary clinical trial we assessed the efficacy of ejaculatory hood sparing GreenLight™ Laser prostate photoselective vaporization to preserve antegrade ejaculation and urodynamic relief of obstruction compared to standard GreenLight prostate photoselective vaporization. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Standard prostate photoselective vaporization was classically performed in 24 patients. Ejaculatory hood sparing vaporization was performed with preservation of the paracollicular and supracollicular tissue proximal to the verumontanum in 25 patients. Patients were assessed at baseline, and 1, 3, 6 and 12 months postoperatively using the Ej-MSHQ (Ejaculatory Domain of Male Sexual Health Questionnaire) and the IIEF-15 (International Index of Erectile Function-15). The I-PSS (International Prostate Symptom Score), uroflowmetry and post-void residual urine volume were reported at each followup visit. A standard urodynamic study was performed at 6 months. RESULTS: Antegrade ejaculation was reported in 85% and 31.6% of patients after hood sparing and standard prostate vaporization, respectively (p=0.001). A significant reduction in the EJ-MSHQ score was reported after standard vaporization at 6 and 12 months (each p <0.001) with no significant difference after hood sparing vaporization (p=0.18 and 0.078, respectively). The median EJ-MSHQ score was 28.5 (range 1 to 33) and 27 (range 1 to 33) for hood sparing vaporization, and 9.5 (range 1 to 35) and 9 (range 0 to 33) for standard vaporization at 6 (p=0.005) and 12 months (p <0.001), respectively. Each group showed a decline in the mean total IIEF-15 score at 1 year but it was statistically significant only after standard vaporization (p=0.001). All urinary outcome measures revealed comparable significant improvement at all followups. Postoperative urodynamic assessment demonstrated a significant comparable decrease in the Bladder Outlet Obstruction Index from a median of 64 (range 21 to 207) to 23.5 (range 10 to 53) after hood sparing vaporization (p=0.005) and from 87 (range 38 to 186) to 19.5 (range 7 to 51) after standard vaporization (p=0.001). At 1 year the overall re-treatment rate was comparable in the 2 groups (p=0.26). CONCLUSIONS: In well informed, sexually interested patients ejaculatory hood sparing GreenLight prostate photoselective vaporization is feasible and effective treatment of small to moderate sized benign prostatic hyperplasia with a superior sexual function related outcome. Short-term relief of obstruction is objectively comparable to that of standard prostate photoselective vaporization.

Randomised trial of bipolar resection vs holmium laser enucleation vs Greenlight laser vapo-enucleation of the prostate for treatment of large benign prostate obstruction: 3-years outcomes.

OBJECTIVE: To compare transurethral resection in saline (TURIS), Greenlight laser vapo-enucleation of the prostate (GL.PVEP), and holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP), for controlling lower urinary tract symptoms secondary to large benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and to assess non-inferiority of 3-year re-treatment rates. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Eligible patients with BPH (prostate size 80-150 mL) were randomly assigned to one of the intervention groups. Non-inferiority of re-treatment rate was evaluated using a one-sided test at 5% level of significance. RESULTS: At the time of analysis, 60 GL.PVEP, 60 HoLEP and 62 TURIS procedures were included. Perioperative parameters were comparable between groups; however, the operative time was longer in GL.PVEP vs HoLEP and TURIS, at a mean (SD) of 92 (32) vs 73 (30) and 83 (28) min (P = 0.005); and was less effective with a mean (SD) removal of 1.2 (0.4) vs 1.7 (0.7) and 1.4 (0.6) g/min (P < 0.001), respectively. Perioperative complications and need for auxiliary procedures were similar in the three groups; however, there was a significantly higher rate of capsular perforation in TURIS group (five, 8%) compared to one (1.6%) in the GL.PVEP group and none in the HoLEP group (P = 0.01). There was a significantly longer hospital stay, catheter-time and higher rate of blood transfusion in the TURIS group. There was significant but comparable improvements in the International Prostate Symptom Score in three groups at different follow-up points. At 3 years, re-treatment for recurrent bladder outlet obstruction was required more after GL.PVEP and TURIS. More re-do surgeries for recurrent obstructing prostate adenoma was reported after GL.PVEP (four, 6.7%) and TURIS (six, 9.7%) than for HoLEP (none) (P = 0.04). CONCLUSION: The perioperative outcomes of GL.PVEP and HoLEP surpassed that of TURIS for the treatment of large prostates, but with a significantly prolonged operative time with GL.PVEP. The three techniques achieve good functional outcomes; however, 3-year re-treatment rates following TURIS and GL.PVEP were inferior to HoLEP.

A randomized trial comparing bipolar transurethral vaporization of the prostate with GreenLight laser (xps-180watt) photoselective vaporization of the prostate for treatment of small to moderate benign prostatic obstruction: outcomes after 2 years.

OBJECTIVE: To test the non-inferiority of bipolar transurethral vaporization of the prostate (TUVP) compared to GreenLight laser (GL) photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) for reduction of benign prostatic hyperplasia-related lower urinary tract symptoms in a randomized trial. METHODS: Eligible patients with prostate volumes of 30-80 mL were randomly allocated to GL-PVP (n = 58) or bipolar TUVP (n = 61). Non-inferiority of symptom score (International Prostate Symptom Score [IPSS]) at 24 months was evaluated. All peri-operative variables were recorded and compared. Urinary (IPSS, maximum urinary flow rate and post-void residual urine volume) and sexual (International Index of Erectile Function-15) outcome measures were evaluated at 1, 4, 12 and 24 months. Need for retreatment and complications, change in PSA level and health resources-related costs of both procedures were recorded and compared. RESULTS: Baseline and peri-operative variables were similar in the two groups. At 1, 4, 12 and 24 months, 117, 116, 99 and 96 patients, respectively, were evaluable. Regarding urinary outcome measures, there was no significant difference between the groups. The mean ± sd IPSS at 1 and 2 years was 7.1 ± 3 and 7.9 ± 2.9 (P = 0.8), respectively, after GL-PVP and 6.3 ± 3.1 and 7.2 ± 2.8, respectively, after bipolar TUVP (P = 0.31). At 24 months, the mean difference in IPSS was 0.7 (95% confidence interval -0.6 to 2.3; P = 0.6). The median (range) postoperative PSA reduction was 64.7 (25-99)% and 65.9 (50-99)% (P = 0.006) after GL-PVP, and 32.1 (28.6-89.7)% and 39.3 (68.8-90.5)% (P = 0.005) after bipolar TUVP, at 1 and 2 years, respectively. After 2 years, retreatment for recurrent bladder outlet obstruction was reported in eight (13.8%) and 10 (16.4%) patients in the GL-PVP and bipolar TUVP groups, respectively (P = 0.8). The mean estimated cost per bipolar TUVP procedure was significantly lower than per GL-PVP procedure after 24 months (P = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: In terms of symptom control, bipolar TUVP was not inferior to GL-PVP at 2 years. Durability of the outcome needs to be tracked. The greater cost of GL-PVP compared with bipolar TUVP is an important concern.

Can We Predict the Outcome of Oral Dissolution Therapy for Radiolucent Renal Calculi? A Prospective Study.

PURPOSE: We prospectively assessed the efficacy and the predictors of the success of oral dissolution therapy by alkalization for lucent renal calculi. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients with radiolucent renal stones were counseled to undergo oral dissolution therapy, which entails oral potassium citrate 20 mEq 3 times daily, 3 L daily fluid intake and a dietary regimen. The study primary end point was the achievement of a 6-month stone-free rate with oral dissolution therapy. The other end point was a change in stone surface area as measured by noncontrast computerized tomography at 3 and 6 months. RESULTS: Between February 2015 and January 2016 only 182 of the 212 eligible patients who agreed to participate were compliant with oral dissolution therapy and included in the final analysis. Mean stone surface area at enrollment was 1.3 cm (range 0.16 to 11.84). At 3 months 97 (53.2%), 65 (35.7%) and 20 (11.1%) patients were oral dissolution therapy responders (stone-free), partial responders and nonresponders, respectively. Oral dissolution therapy achieved a 6-month stone-free rate of 83%, including 97 and 54 patients after 3 and 6 months of oral dissolution therapy, respectively. On regression analysis the initial 3-month response to oral dissolution therapy (p = 0.001), lower stone density (p = 0.03) and higher urine pH 12 weeks after treatment (p = 0.01) independently predicted the oral dissolution therapy response at 6 months. CONCLUSIONS: Regardless of stone size, oral dissolution therapy was an effective treatment approach for lucent renal stones. The initial response to oral dissolution therapy after 3 months was the key factor in determining the potential oral dissolution therapy response after 6 months. In addition, treatment compliance in achieving the targeted urine pH and low stone density has an independent role in the oral dissolution therapy response.

Chemoprophylaxis during transrectal prostate needle biopsy: critical analysis through randomized clinical trial.

PURPOSE: To compare the efficacy of three chemoprophylaxis approaches in prevention of post-transrectal biopsy infectious complications (TBICs). METHODS: Patients were randomly assigned to receive ciprofloxacin 3 days 500 mg B.I.D 3 days starting the night prior to biopsy (standard prophylaxis), augmented prophylaxis using ciprofloxacin and single preprocedure shot of 160 mg gentamicin IM (augmented prophylaxis) and rectal swab culture-based prophylaxis (targeted prophylaxis). Patients were assessed 2 weeks prior to biopsy, at biopsy and 2 weeks after. Primary end point was occurrence of post-TBICs that included simple UTI, febrile UTI or sepsis. Secondary end points were post-biopsy change in the inflammatory markers (TLC, ESR and CRP), unplanned visits, hospitalization and occurrence of fluoroquinolones resistance (FQ-R; bacterial growth on MacConkey agar plate with 10 µg/ml ciprofloxacin) in the fecal carriage of screened men. RESULTS: Between April/2015 and January/2017, standard, augmented and targeted prophylaxes were given to 163, 166 and 167 patients, respectively. Post-TBICs were reported in 43 (26%), 13 (7.8%) and 34 (20.3%) patients following standard, augmented and targeted prophylaxes protocols, respectively (P = 0.000). Post-TBICs included UTI in 23 (4.6%), febrile UTI in 41 (8.2%) and sepsis in 26 (5.2%) patients. Significantly lower number of post-biopsy positive urine culture was depicted in the augmented group (P = 0.000). The number of biopsy cores was statistically different in the three groups (P = 0.004). On multivariate analysis, augmented prophylaxis had independently lower post-TBICs (OR 0.2, 95% CI 0.1-0.4, P = 0.000) when compared with the other two groups regardless of the number of biopsy cores taken (OR 1.07, 95% CI 0.95-1.17, P = 0.229). Post-biopsy hospitalization was needed in four (2%), one (0.6%) and ten (6%) patients following standard, augmented and targeted prophylaxes, respectively (P = 0.014). However, sepsis-related hospitalization was not statistically different. Post-biopsy changes in the inflammatory markers were significantly less in augmented prophylaxis (P < 0.05). FQ-R was depicted in 139 (83.2%) of the screened men. CONCLUSION: Augmented prophylaxis with single-dose gentamicin is an effective and practical approach. Targeted prophylaxis might be reserved for cases with contraindication to gentamicin.

Prospective Assessment of Learning Curve of Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate for Treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Using a Multidimensional Approach.

PURPOSE: Despite being endorsed in most guidelines, wide adoption of holmium laser enucleation of the prostate is hindered by learning difficulties. We prospectively assessed the learning curve using a multidimensional approach. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We prospectively report all perioperative safety and efficacy outcome measures as well as the need for reoperation and continence status. Case difficulty and learning curve characterization variables were considered, looking for predictors of different outcome measures. Our analysis included the first 313 procedures done by a total of 3 surgeons. RESULTS: Prostate volume and the number of previously performed cases independently predicted operative and enucleation efficiency (mean ± SD 0.76 ± 0.36 and 1.2 ± 0.6 gm per minute, respectively). Both measures plateaued only after the first 40 procedures. The mean percent reduction in postoperative prostate specific antigen was 80% ± 19%. A significantly lower decrease was independently predicted by the transrectal ultrasound depiction of a grossly multinodular prostate (p = 0.000, R2 = 0.59). Perioperative safety measures showed significant improvement after the first and second 20 procedures apart from hospital stay and catheter time. Urinary incontinence was reported in 89 (28.5%), 26 (8.3%) and 7 cases (2.2%) at 1, 4 and 12 months, respectively. Only the number of previously performed cases predicted urinary incontinence at 1 month, which was significantly reduced following the first 20 procedures (plateau) (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.98-0.999, p = 0.03). The I-PSS (International Prostate Symptom Score) preoperative storage subdomain (OR 0.7, 95% CI 0.4-0.9, p = 0.04), case density (OR 0.3, 95% CI 0.2-0.6, p = 0.01) and number of previously performed cases (OR 0.97, 95% CI 0.98-0.999, p = 0.02) predicted urinary incontinence at 4 months, which was significantly reduced after the first and second 20 procedures. Persistent urinary incontinence at 12 months was significantly associated with fewer previously performed cases (median 60, range 0 to 211 vs 20, range 0 to 99, p = 0.04) with no plateauing through the curve. CONCLUSIONS: Plateauing through the learning curve of holmium laser enucleation of the prostate is a moving target. Looking at different outcome measures, different levels of experience are needed to reach the plateau. Preoperative prostate volume, the number of previously performed cases and case density are the main influential factors in the curve. Urinary incontinence is the most relevant clinical outcome that was significantly affected by learning, although its transient nature is assuring.

A randomised controlled trial evaluating renal protective effects of selenium with vitamins A, C, E, verapamil, and losartan against extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy-induced renal injury.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the protective effects of selenium with vitamins A, C and E (selenium ACE, i.e. antioxidants), verapamil (calcium channel blocker), and losartan (angiotensin receptor blocker) against extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy (ESWL)-induced renal injury. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A randomised controlled trial was conducted between August 2012 and February 2015. Inclusion criteria were adult patients with a single renal stone (<2 cm) suitable for ESWL. Patients with diabetes, hypertension, congenital renal anomalies, moderate or marked hydronephrosis, or preoperative albuminuria (>300 mg/L) were excluded. ESWL was performed using the electromagnetic DoLiS lithotripter. Eligible patients were randomised into one of four groups using sealed closed envelopes: Group1, control; Group 2, selenium ACE; Group 3, losartan; and Group 4, verapamil. Albuminuria and urinary neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (uNGAL) were estimated after 2-4 h and 1 week after ESWL. The primary outcome was differences between albuminuria and uNGAL. Dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging was performed before ESWL, and at 2-4 h and 1 week after ESWL to compare changes in renal perfusion. RESULTS: Of 329 patients assessed for eligibility, the final analysis comprised 160 patients (40 in each group). Losartan was the only medication that showed significantly lower levels of albuminuria after 1 week (P < 0.001). For perfusion changes, there was a statistically significant decrease in the renal perfusion in patients with obstructed kidneys in comparison to before ESWL (P = 0.003). These significant changes were present in the control or antioxidant group, whilst in the losartan and verapamil groups renal perfusion was not significantly decreased. CONCLUSIONS: Losartan was found to protect the kidney against ESWL-induced renal injury by significantly decreasing post-ESWL albuminuria. Verapamil and losartan maintained renal perfusion in patients with post-ESWL renal obstruction.

Percutaneous nephrolithotomy for staghorn stones: a randomised trial comparing high-power holmium laser versus ultrasonic lithotripsy.

OBJECTIVE: To compare high-power holmium laser lithotripsy (HP-HLL) and ultrasonic lithotripsy (US-L) for disintegration of staghorn stones during percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). PATIENTS AND METHODS: A non-inferiority randomised controlled trial was conducted between August 2011 and September 2014. Inclusion criteria were patients' aged >18 years who had complete staghorn stones (branching to the three major calyces), without contraindications to PCNL. Eligible patients were randomised between two groups: HP-HLL and US- . A standard PCNL in the prone position was performed for all patients. The only difference between the treatment groups was the method of stone disintegration. In the first group (HP-HLL), a laser power of 40-60 W (2 J, 20-30 Hz) was used to pulverise the staghorn stone into very small fragments, which could pass through the Amplatz sheath with the irrigation fluid. US-L,with suction of the fragments, was used in the second group. The primary outcome (stone-free rate) was evaluated with non-contrast computed tomography after 3 months. Secondary outcomes of complications, blood transfusion, operative time, and haemoglobin deficit were compared. The outcome assessor was 'blinded' to the treatment arm. RESULTS: The study included 70 patients (35 in each group). The baseline characteristics (age, sex, body mass index, side, stone volume, and density) and operative technique (number, size of tracts, and need for second PCNL session) were comparable for both groups. Operative time was significantly shorter in US-L group, at a mean (SD) of 130 (34) vs 148.7 (35) min (P = 0.028). The haemoglobin deficit was significantly more with in the US-L group, at a mean (SD) of 1.7 (0.9) vs 1.3 (0.6) g/dL (P = 0.037). The differences in blood transfusion (17% for US-L vs 11% for HP-HLL) and the complication rates (34% for US-L vs 23% for HP-HLL) were not significant (P = 0.495 and P = 0.290, respectively). The stone-free rates at 3 months were comparable (60% for US-L and 66% for HPL-L; P = 0.621). CONCLUSIONS: Compared with US-L for intracorporeal lithotripsy of staghorn stones during PCNL, HP-HLL showed comparable safety and efficacy with a lower haemoglobin deficit but longer operative time.

Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate for treatment for large-sized benign prostate hyperplasia; is it a realistic endourologic alternative in developing country?

OBJECTIVES: To assess the functional outcome and cumulative health-resource-related cost of holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) in comparison with transvesical open prostatectomy (TVOP) in a developing country. METHODS: Matching of 92 HoLEP and 91 TVOP procedures was performed using resected prostate tissue weight as a sole matching criterion. Safety, efficacy, and accordingly health-related cost-efficiency of both procedures were statistically compared. RESULTS: Preoperative criteria and mean prostate size (166.7 ± 49.7, 161.4 ± 35.7 ml) were similar in HoLEP and TVOP, respectively; however, HoLEP treated more comorbid patients. Blood transfusion was 2.1 and 26.1 % after HoLEP and TVOP, respectively (P = 0.001). Median time to catheter removal and hospital stay was 2 days after HoLEP and 5 and 9 days, respectively, after TVOP (P < 0.001). On modified Clavien scale, grade per grade, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups apart from local wound complications in TVOP group. High-grade complications (≥ grade 3) were reported in 3.2 and 6.5 % in HoLEP and TVOP, respectively (P = 0.49). Resected prostate tissue weight was independently associated with high-grade periprocedure complications (OR[95 %CI] 1.22[1.02:1.49], P = 0.03). Last follow-up symptom score, peak urine flow rate, residual urine, % PSA reduction, and need for reoperation were comparable between the two groups. HoLEP costs the hospital in the first 3 months 4111.8EP (575US$) versus 4305.4EP (602US$) for TVOP (P = 0.09). CONCLUSION: In high-volume hospital, HoLEP procedure seems to be equally safe and effective as TVOP with the advantages of minimally invasive procedures. Two years after adopting the technique, HoLEP equally costs the hospital as TVOP. Significant hospital cost savings are anticipated in subsequent cases.

GreenLight™ laser (XPS) photoselective vapo-enucleation versus holmium laser enucleation of the prostate for the treatment of symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia: a randomized controlled study.

PURPOSE: After the advent of the GreenLight XPS™ (180 W) 532 nm laser, photoselective vapo-enucleation of the prostate could compete with holmium laser enucleation of the prostate as a size independent procedure. We assessed whether photoselective vapo-enucleation of the prostate-XPS is not less effective than holmium laser enucleation of prostate for improvement of lower urinary tract symptoms secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A randomized controlled noninferiority trial comparing holmium laser enucleation of the prostate to photoselective vapo-enucleation of the prostate-XPS 180 W was conducted. I-PSS, flow rate, residual urine, prostate specific antigen and prostate volume changes as well as perioperative and late adverse events were compared. Noninferiority of I-PSS at 1 year was evaluated using a 1-sided test at 5% level of significance. The statistical significance of other comparators was assessed at the (2-sided) 5% level. RESULTS: Overall 50 and 53 patients were included in the holmium laser enucleation and photoselective vapo-enucleation of the prostate groups, respectively. Operative time, hospital stay and time to catheter removal were comparable between the groups. There was significant, comparable improvement in I-PSS and post-void residual urine volume at 1, 4 and 12 months. After 4 months prostate size reduction was significantly higher in the holmium laser enucleation of prostate group (74.3% vs 43.1%, p=0.001). At 12 months maximum urine flow rate was significantly higher in the holmium laser enucleation of prostate group (26.4 ±11.5 vs 18.4 ±7.5 ml per second, p=0.03). Re-intervention was needed in 2 and 3 cases in the holmium laser enucleation and photoselective vapo-enucleation of the prostate groups, respectively (p=1.0). Mean estimated cost per holmium laser enucleation of prostate procedure was significantly lower than per photoselective vapo-enucleation of the prostate procedure. CONCLUSIONS: Compared to holmium laser enucleation of prostate, GreenLight XPS laser photoselective vapo-enucleation of the prostate is safe, noninferior and effective in treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Bricker Conduit for Pediatric Urinary Diversion--Should we Still Offer It?

PURPOSE: We sought to evaluate long-term outcomes of the Bricker conduit urinary diversion in children. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the database of a single tertiary center for children who had undergone ileal conduit between 1981 and 2011. Patients followed for less than 1 year were excluded. Patient files were reviewed for demographics, diversion indication, preoperative imaging, surgical details, hospital readmissions and followup data. Renal function at baseline and last followup was assessed by estimated glomerular filtration rate, calculated using the modified Schwartz or MDRD (Modified Diet in Renal Disease) formula. Growth charts elucidated patient growth patterns, while an internally designed quality of life questionnaire demonstrated patient and family satisfaction with the procedure. RESULTS: We evaluated 29 children who underwent Bricker conduit at a median age of 10 years (range 2 to 18) and were followed for a median of 91 months (16 to 389). Neuropathic bladder was the underlying diagnosis in 72.4% of cases. Hydronephrosis improved or remained stable in 39 of 55 studied renal units (70.9%). Although no statistically significant difference was observed between mean ± SD baseline (64.5 ± 46 ml/minute/1.73 m(2)) and last followup estimated glomerular filtration rate (54.1 ± 44.9 ml/minute/1.73 m(2)), chronic kidney disease stage had worsened in 13 patients (44.8%), end-stage kidney disease had developed in 11 patients and 9 patients had died. Six patients underwent undiversion after stabilization of renal function. Linear growth was negatively affected in 12 patients (41.4%), and 85% reported poor quality of life. A total of 19 hospital readmissions were required in 14 patients to treat diversion related complications. CONCLUSIONS: The Bricker conduit does not seem to halt renal deterioration in children. Negative impact on growth and quality of life, and the anticipated rate of complications are significant limitations of the procedure in the pediatric population.

Holmium:YAG transurethral incision versus laser photoselective vaporization for benign prostatic hyperplasia in a small prostate.

PURPOSE: We assess the perioperative, short-term and long-term functional outcomes of treating bladder outlet obstruction secondary to a small prostate by 1 of 2 laser techniques. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective review using a prospectively maintained database was performed of patients treated for bladder outlet obstruction secondary to a prostate smaller than 40 ml. Patients who were treated with GreenLight™ photoselective vaporization of the prostate or holmium laser transurethral incision of the prostate were included in the study. RESULTS: From January 2002 through December 2010, 191 cases of 1,682 laser prostate surgeries were described. GreenLight photoselective vaporization of the prostate was performed in 144 (75.4%) cases and holmium laser transurethral incision of the prostate was performed in 47 (24.6%) cases. A significantly shorter mean operating time, hospital stay and catheter duration were observed in the holmium laser transurethral incision of the prostate group (30.3 ± 16 minutes, 0.8 ± 0.8 days and 1.3 ± 1.9 days, respectively) than in the photoselective vaporization of the prostate group (45.8 ± 22 minutes, 0.3 ± 0.4 days and 0.4 ± 0.6 days, respectively, p <0.05). At 1 and 5 years after photoselective vaporization of the prostate there were reductions in mean International Prostate Symptom Score, quality of life score and residual urine with improvement in mean maximal flow rate of 57.7% and 62.8%, 58.3% and 57.2%, 65.4% and 73%, and 127.6% and 167.1%, respectively. At 1 and 5 years after holmium laser transurethral incision of the prostate there were reductions in mean International Prostate Symptom Score, quality of life score and residual urine with improvement of mean maximal flow rate of 55.3% and 52.8%, 49.2% and 49%, 45% and 78.1%, and 67.4% and 35.4%, respectively. Subjective and objective urine flow parameters were comparable at different followup points. There was no significant difference between the 2 groups in terms of early and late complications (p >0.05). Reoperation rates were 10.4% and 6.4% in the photoselective vaporization of the prostate and holmium laser transurethral incision of the prostate groups, respectively (p >0.05). The mean estimated cost per holmium laser transurethral incision of the prostate procedure was significantly lower than per photoselective vaporization of the prostate procedure (509.34CAD vs 1,765.92CAD, p = 0.002). CONCLUSIONS: Holmium laser transurethral incision of the prostate and GreenLight photoselective vaporization of the prostate seem to be equally effective, safe and durable surgical treatment options for small prostates even in high risk patients.

Evaluation of acute post-shock wave lithotripsy renal changes by dynamic magnetic resonance imaging: a prospective clinical study.

PURPOSE: We studied acute renal morphological and hemodynamic changes after shock wave lithotripsy of renal stones. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 60 adult patients with a single renal stone 25 mm or less in a radiologically normal urinary tract were eligible for shock wave lithotripsy and included in analysis. Study exclusion criteria were hypertension, diabetes mellitus, previous recent stone management and other contraindications to shock wave lithotripsy. Renal perfusion and morphological changes were evaluated by dynamic magnetic resonance imaging before, and 2 to 4 hours and 1 week after lithotripsy. RESULTS: In all cases there was a statistically significant decrease in renal perfusion 1 week after shock wave lithotripsy compared to before and 2 to 4 hours after lithotripsy (66% vs 71% and 72% of the aortic blood flow, respectively, p <0.05). At 1-week followup 39 unobstructed renal units (65%) showed no significant difference in renal perfusion at any time while 21 (35%) obstructed renal units showed a significant decrease in renal perfusion compared to before and 2 to 4 hours after lithotripsy (63% vs 76% and 75%, p = 0.003 and 0.005, respectively). Hematomas were observed in 7 cases (12%) 2 to 4 hours after lithotripsy, of which 5 were subcapsular and 2 were intrarenal. Three subcapsular hematomas resolved after 1 week. Localized loss of corticomedullary differentiation was observed in 2 patients (3.3%) with intrarenal hematoma 2 to 4 hours after treatment. Generalized loss of corticomedullary differentiation was observed 1 week after lithotripsy in 5 cases (8.3%). CONCLUSIONS: Shock wave lithotripsy alone induces minimal, reversible acute renal morphological changes and does not induce significant changes in renal perfusion. Posttreatment obstruction has a major effect on renal perfusion on the treated side and must be managed urgently.

Enhancing continence post holmium laser enucleation of the prostate: assessment of novel technique through randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Transient urinary incontinence (UI) is distressing event following holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP). Novel technique namely, veil sparing HoLEP (VS-HoLEP), was proposed to improve early continence outcome. In this trial (NCT03494049), VS-HoLEP was compared to standard HoLEP (St-HoLEP). METHODS: VS-HoLEP entails early apical separation with sparing of ventral apical mucosal veil proximal to the verumontanum. Eligible symptomatic BPH patients were randomly allocated to St-HoLEP (91) and VS-HoLEP (89). The primary outcome was UI as depicted by one-hour pad test at one month postoperatively. Other outcome measures include all perioperative parameters, complications, and urinary outcome measures at different follow-up points. RESULTS: Median preoperative prostate size was 138 (50:282) and 128 (50:228) mL in St-HoLEP and VS-HoLEP groups respectively. At one month the number of patients with positive one-hour pad test was 21 (23.1%) and 10 (11.4%) in St-HoLEP and VS-HoLEP groups respectively (P 0.047). The difference was significantly in favor of VS-HoLEP considering the number of patients reporting UI, the number of patients with positive one-hour pad test as well as the grade of UI reported at one and 4 months. The difference was not statistically significant at 12 months. The median time to patients' reported continence was 8 (1-52) and 1.5 (1-52) weeks in St-HoLEP and VS-HoLEP groups respectively (P≤0.005). The technique independently predicted positive one-hour pad test at one and four months respectively. At twelve months presence of DM (diabetes mellitus) and more percent PSA reduction independently predicted positive one-hour pad test. CONCLUSIONS: Veil sparing HoLEP enhances significantly early postoperative urine continence both subjectively and objectively. Optimization of the surgical technique could cut short the number of leaking patients and reduce the degree as well as the duration of transient postoperative urine leak.

Greenlight laser (XPS-180watt) prostatectomy for treatment of benign prostate obstruction, Pursuit of durability.

Objectives: To report 5-year outcomes, need and predictors of retreatment post greenlight laser photoselective vaporization (GL.PVP) and vapo-enucleation (GL.PVEP), as long-term data on safety and efficacy of GL.PVP and GL.PVEP and on the prostate using XPSTM system are still pending. Patients and methods: Primary outcome was the need for retreatment (medical treatment and reintervention) for recurrent BOO. Time-to-event (retreatment) analysis, perioperative events, change in the urinary outcome measures at different follow-up visits, early and late complications and PSA kinetics were reported. Results: Between September 2014 and April 2017, 248 patients underwent GL/XPS procedures. GL.PVP and GL.PVEP were carried out for 157 (63.3%) and 91 (36.7%) patients with mean prostate sizes of 60 ± 18 and 100 ± 22 cc, respectively. After a mean duration of 62 ± 9-month follow-up, overall retreatment rate (medical and interventional) was 23% (57 patients). It was comparable between both GL.PVP and GL.PVEP cases: 38 (24.2%) and 19 (20.9%) patients, P = 0.5, respectively. Significantly more surgical reintervention rate was reported after GL.PVP compared to GL.PVEP (P = 0.03). In retreatment group, more intraoperative bleeding (P = 0.02), early postoperative hematuria (P = 0.03), higher median preoperative PSA (P = 0.02) and less postoperative one-year percent PSA reduction (P = 0.02) were detected. Lower postoperative one-year percent PSA reduction independently predicts retreatment with a cut-off point of 64.2% (58.2% sensitivity, 73.4% specificity, AUC 0.647, 95% CI 0.52-0.76).Median (range in months) time to event was 20 (1-60) for all cases and 13.5 (1-42) and 30 (18-60), P = 0.7, for GL.PVP and GL.PVEP groups, respectively. Conclusion: Greenlight laser XPS is an effective, durable and versatile tool in treating benign prostatic obstruction. Durability of the outcome is predictable with more postoperative PSA reduction.

A randomized controlled trial evaluating low-intensity shockwave therapy for treatment of persistent storage symptoms following transurethral surgery for benign prostatic obstruction.

BACKGROUND: Low-intensity shockwave therapy (Li-SWT) can improve bladder function through enhancement of angiogenesis and nerve regeneration and suppression of inflammation and overactivity. In this trial, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Li-SWT on persistent storage symptoms after transurethral surgery (TUS) for benign prostatic obstruction (BPO). METHODS: Between July 2020 and July 2022, 137 patients with persistent storage symptoms; urgency episodes/24 h ≥ 1 and daytime frequency ≥8, for at least three months after TUS for BPO were randomly allocated to Li-SWT versus sham versus solifenacin 10 mg/day in 3:1:1 ratio. The primary end point was the percent reduction from baseline in overactive bladder symptom score (OABSS) at 3-month follow-up. The changes in 3-day voiding diary parameters, quality of life (QoL) score, peak flow rate and residual urine at 3 and 6-month follow-up were compared. Treatment-related adverse effects were also evaluated. RESULTS: Baseline data were comparable between groups. The percent reduction from baseline in OABSS at 3-month follow-up was significantly higher in Li-SWT compared to sham (-55% versus -11%), and it was comparable between Li-SWT and solifenacin-10 (-55% versus -60%). Li-SWT achieved significant improvement like solifenacin-10 in 3-day voiding diary parameters and QoL score at 3-month follow-up. This improvement remained comparable between Li-SWT and solifenacin-10 at 6-month follow-up. No adverse effects related to Li-SWT were noted apart from tolerable pain during the procedure. Solifenacin-10 was associated with bothersome adverse effects in 73% of the patients with 11.5% discontinuation rate. CONCLUSIONS: Li-SWT ameliorates persistent storage symptoms and promotes QoL after TUS for BPO, with comparable efficacy and better tolerance compared to solifenacin.

The Headache of Post-Transurethral Prostate Surgery Pyuria: Pursuit for Evidence.

Objective: To prospectively assess early post-transurethral prostate surgery (TUPS) urinalysis changes and bacteriuria with its clinical relevance. Methods: Patients with benign prostate obstruction enrolled for TUPS were prospectively assessed. Patients were assessed at 2, 4, 8, 12, and 24 weeks postoperatively by the dysuria-visual-analogue-scale (DVAS), international prostate symptom scores (IPSS)-quality of life, uroflow, and postvoid residual. Routine urinalysis was performed before discharge and at all visits. Midstream urine culture (MSUC) was performed before discharge, and 4 and 12 weeks postoperatively. Results: At final analysis, 152 patients were evaluable. Significant pyuria was reported in 52%, 96.1%, 94.1%, 71.7%, 78.9%, and 52.5% in, before discharge, 2-, 4-, 8-, 12-, and 24-week urinalysis postoperative, respectively. The mean time to nonsignificant pyuria (95% confidence interval [CI]) was 19.1 (17.5-20.7), 20.1 (17.3-22.9), 15.8 (12.8-18.8), and 14 (10.3-17.8) weeks after prostate resection, vaporization, enucleation, and incision, respectively (p = 0.03). Regardless the TUPS technique, half of patients had significant pyuria at 24 weeks postoperative. MSUC was positive in 37/152 (24.3%), 3/152 (2%), 23/152 (15.1%), and 5/152 (3.3%) preoperatively, before discharge, and 4 and 12 weeks postoperative, respectively. Only positive preoperative urine leukocyte esterase independently predicted positive 4-week MSUC (odds ratio 3.8, 95% CI 1.3-11.1, p = 0.013). No significant correlation was found between IPSS or DVAS and positive MSUC, nor between IPSS and postoperative pyuria at different follow-up points (p > 0.05). However, the degree of postoperative dysuria was significantly correlated with postoperative pyuria count by urinalysis at 2 weeks (r = 0.69, p = 0.03), 8 weeks (r = 0.26, p = 0.001), and 12 weeks (r = 0.23, p = 0.004). Conclusion: There is a persistent but gradually declining pyuria and microhematuria following TUPS up to 6 months postoperative. An earlier resolution was noted following prostate incision and enucleation. While routine urine analysis screening in these months would be of no clear clinical value, a routine urine culture would be of a reasonable significance at 1 month postoperatively.

Trifecta in flexible ureteroscopy for treatment of renal and upper ureteral calculi: A multicenter study.

Purpose: To determine predictors for missing trifecta in patients who underwent flexible ureteroscopy (FURS) for treatment of renal and upper ureteric calculi. Patients and Methods: The data of adult patients with renal or upper ureteral stones who underwent FURS from June 2021 through December 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. Stone-free status (no residual stones > 3 mm) was evaluated after 3 months with non-contrast CT. Modified Clavien classification was used to grade complications. A stone-free status after a single intervention of FURS without complications was defined as trifecta. Patients were divided into two groups (trifecta and non-trifecta). Risk factors for missing trifecta were compared between both groups using univariate and multivariate analyses. Results: Three hundred twenty-three patients with mean age 48.9 ± 13 years and mean stone length 16 ± 5.9 mm were included. The trifecta criteria were applicable for 250 patients (71%). On multivariate analysis, risk factors for missing trifecta were stone multiplicity (OR: 3.326, 95%CI: 1.933-5.725) and non-experienced surgeons (OR: 1.819, 95%CI: 1.027-3.220). Conclusions: Multiple stones and performance of FURS by non-experienced surgeons are the independent risk factors for missing trifecta of FURS.

Extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy for renal stones in pediatric patients: a multivariate analysis model for estimating the stone-free probability.

OBJECTIVES: To define factors affecting the stone-free rate of extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy in the treatment of pediatric renal calculi, and to establish a regression model for pretreatment prediction of stone-free probability. METHODS: From January 1999 through February 2012, 207 children with mean age 6.4 ± 3.8 years underwent shockwave lithotripsy with Dornier Lithotripter S for treatment of renal stones. The stone-free rate was evaluated 3 months after the last shockwave lithotripsy session with non-contrast computed tomography. Treatment success was defined as complete clearance of the stones with no residual fragments. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent risk factors and to predict the probability of being stone free. RESULTS: The mean length of the stone was 11.6 ± 4 mm. The stone-free rate was 71%. Independent factors that adversely affect stone-free rate were increasing stone length and calyceal site of the stone. Relative risks for not being free of stones were 1.123 for stone length, 2.673 for stones in the upper or middle calyx and 4.208 for lower calyx stones. CONCLUSION: Stone length and location are prognostic factors determining stone-free rate after shockwave lithotripsy for renal calculi in pediatric patients. Based on our analysis, shockwave lithotripsy should be recommended for renal pelvis stones up to 24 mm, upper or middle calyceal stones up to 15 mm and lower calyceal stones up to 11 mm.