The grasper-integrated disposable flexible cystoscope is comparable to the reusable, flexible cystoscope for the detection of bladder cancer.

Flexible cystoscopy under local anaesthesia is standard for the surveillance of bladder cancer. Frequently, several reusable cystoscopes fail to reprocess. With the new grasper incorporated single-use cystoscope for retrieval of ureteric stents, we explored the feasibility of using it off-label for diagnosis and the detection of bladder cancer. Consecutive diagnostic flexible cystoscopies between Mar 2016 and Nov 2018 were reviewed comparing the reusable versus the disposable cystoscopes. A total of 390 patients underwent 1211 cystoscopies. Median age was 61.5 years (SD 14.2, 18.8-91.4), males 331 (84.9%) and females 59 (15.1%). Indication for cystoscopy was prior malignancy in 1183 procedures (97.7%), haematuria 19 (1.6%) or bladder mass 7 (0.6%). There were 608 reusable and 603 disposable cystoscopies. There was no significant difference between groups at baseline in age, sex, BMI, smoking status, or prior tumor risk category. There was no significant difference in positive findings (123/608, 20.2% vs 111/603, 18.4%, p = 0.425) or cancer detection rates (95/608, 15.6% vs 88/603, 14.4%, p 0.574) among the two groups, respectively. We conclude that the disposable grasper integrated cystoscope is comparable to reusable cystoscope in the detection of bladder cancer.

Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) overexpression and microvessel density predict survival in the urinary bladder carcinoma.

OBJECTIVE: To study proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) over expression and angiogenesis with their relationship to tumor parameters in squamous cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder in patients who underwent radical cystectomy. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The mean age of the patients was 53.53 years (range; 29-70 years) and the males were 98 of 154. Sections from paraffin embedded tissues were retrieved and stained with antibodies against PCNA for proliferation and CD34 for angiogenesis using immunohistochemical technique. Fisher's exact test was used to evaluate the relationship between categorical variables and the Kaplan-Meier procedure was used to assess survival outcomes. The Cox regression model was used for multivariate analysis. RESULTS: The median follow up period was 65 months. microvessel density (MVD), PCNA, tumor grade, P-stage, DNA ploidy, lymph node status had a significant impact on the 5-year survival of patients in univariate analysis. In Cox proportional hazard model, MVD, PCNA, DNA ploidy and stage sustained their significant impact on survival of the patients. CONCLUSIONS: MVD, PCNA, DNA ploidy and stage are independent prognostic factors in patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder.

Retrograde vaginal methylene blue injection for localization of complex urinary fistulas.

BACKGROUND: Ureterovesical and vesicovaginal fistulae usually are easily diagnosed with standard techniques, including radiology, double-dye test, cystoscopy, and vaginal examination. In a few complex cases, however, the localization of the fistulous orifice may be extremely difficult. METHOD: We describe a novel technique of retrograde vaginal methylene blue testing that may assist in the proper localization of the fistulous opening. RESULTS: Our experience with one case each of ureterovesical and vesicovaginal fistula easily diagnosed with this method proves its efficacy, simplicity, and safety. CONCLUSION: This technique should be reserved for cases of urinary fistulae when all standard diagnostic methods have failed.

Isolated renal hydatid disease in a non-endemic country: a single centre experience.

OBJECTIVE: Isolated renal hydatid disease (HD) is rare in non-endemic countries. Clinical and radiological suspicion warrants appropriate serological tests, preoperative treatment and intra-operative precautions. We present a tertiary care centre experience of isolated renal HD in a non-endemic country. METHODS: We reviewed the medical records of patients with HD treated in the past 20 years. We identified patients with the definitive diagnosis of isolated renal HD and described their management. RESULTS: Of the 119 cases with HD, 6 were found to have isolated renal involvement (5%). Their median age was 46.5 (28-70) years. Five patients presented with flank pain and 1 had an incidentally discovered renal mass. Radiologic investigations raised the suspicion of possible HD in 4 cases, while 2 cases were diagnosed as renal tumours. Computerized tomography showed complex renal cyst in 4, solid renal mass with heterogonous enhancement in 2 and calcification in 5. Eosinophilia and indirect hemagglutination test (IHA) were positive in 3 of the 4 suspected cases. Three cases were treated as renal tumours, while 3 were managed as HD. Four cases had total nephrectomy and 2 had partial nephrectomy. Histopathology revealed that all cases had renal HD. Patients were followed for a median of 7.3 (0.4-11.3) years with no evidence of recurrence. CONCLUSIONS: Isolated renal HD is a challenging preoperative diagnosis in non-endemic countries. The definitive diagnosis is only possible by histopathology. Retrospectively, HD mimicked renal tumours in half the cases and should be considered in the differential diagnosis of renal space occupying lesions.

Changing trends in presentation, diagnosis and management of renal angiomyolipoma: comparison of sporadic and tuberous sclerosis complex-associated forms.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the changing management of sporadic renal angiomyolipoma and renal angiomyolipoma associated with the tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) during the past 16 years. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the charts of 60 patients with angiomyolipoma seen at our institutions. RESULTS: The median age at presentation was 45 years (range 7-78). The presentation was pain in 30 patients and hematuria in 13; it was incidentally discovered in 17 patients. Of the 60 patients, 43 were females. TSC was present in 14 patients. The median tumor size was 4 cm (range 0.3-40, mean 6.5 +/- 1.1). Of the 60 patients, 31 were followed up expectantly. Surgery or intervention was needed for 29 patients to control hemorrhage or relieve pain or because of the suspicion of malignancy. Of these 29 patients, 12 underwent nephrectomy, 11 partial nephrectomy, and 6 embolization. The patients treated for hemorrhage had a median tumor diameter of 11 cm (range 2-21). Patients were followed up for a mean of 39.3 +/- 5.4 months. The lesions grew an average of 4.7 +/- 3.4 cm for TSC tumors and 0.6 +/- 0.2 cm for sporadic angiomyolipoma tumors. None of the patients developed renal impairment. Patients with TSC presented at a younger age, had larger and bilateral lesions, and were more symptomatic during follow-up. In the past 6 years, a significant trend was seen toward finding tumors in asymptomatic patients and toward the use of conservative or interventional (embolization) treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Renal angiomyolipoma has a slow growth rate. The preservation of renal function was noted in all our patients. A recent shift was noted toward finding smaller tumors in asymptomatic patients and the use of conservative and interventional treatment.

Crural tunica albuginea autograft for corporoplasty: an experimental animal study of hemodynamic, histopathological, and molecular effects in the long term.

INTRODUCTION: Correction of penile deformity caused by Peyronie's disease by a variety of grafts varies in success. A long-term follow-up shows a significant number of graft scarring and erectile dysfunction. The clinical success of autologous crural tunica albuginea graft (TAG) has not resulted in wide application. AIM: To identify in healthy baboons the limitations and merits of autologous crural TAG over 1 year in a way difficult to pursue in humans. METHODS: Under general anesthesia, eight sexually active adult baboons underwent pharmacological cavernosometry (CM) and cavernosography. TAG from crus was implanted in the distal penile shaft. After 6 months, six animals were reevaluated and two were sacrificed, and the penises were excised. After 1 year, the remaining six animals were evaluated and sacrificed. The TAG and underlying corpus cavernosum (CC) were examined histologically and by Western blot analysis for nitric oxide synthase (NOS), neuronal (nNOS), endothelial (eNOS) and inducible (iNOS) isoforms, and transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Sexual activity, CM, cavernosography, histopathology, and Western blot analysis. RESULTS: All animals resumed normal sexual activity 1 month postsurgery. Cavernous pressure was comparable before, at 6 months, and 1 year after surgery. A cavernovenous insufficiency developed in four animals at 6 months, and ceased in two at 1 year. Penile angulation (<20 degrees) was seen in three animals at 6 months, and an additional two at 1 year. Histologically, TAG was indistinguishable from the adjacent tunica with no fibrosis. In CC, iNOS and nNOS decreased at 1 year, whereas there was no change in TGF-beta1 levels. In TAG, there was no significant change in TGF-beta1 and eNOS levels, but there was a significant decrease in iNOS at 1 year. CONCLUSION: Autologous free TAG is associated with normal sexual activity, minimal hemodynamic changes, excellent histological outcome, and no rise in iNOS or TGF-beta1. However, cavernovenous insufficiency, mild penile angulation, and decreased nNOS persisted at 1 year.

Urological trauma after gynecological and obstetric surgeries.

OBJECTIVE: Gynecological and obstetric surgeries are not uncommon causes of iatrogenic injury of the urinary tract. Herein, we retrospectively report our experience with these injuries over the last 18 years. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Between 1985 and 2003, 120 females (mean age 34.2+/-13.7 years) were included in this study. The types of injury were as follows: vesicovaginal fistula, n=90; ureterovaginal fistula, n=14, ureteric ligation, n=13, vesicouterine fistula, n=2; and ureterouterine fistula, n=1. Definitive repair of such injuries was performed in all cases, including 10 cases of recurrent vesicovaginal fistulae which were treated by means of augmentation cystoplasty or urinary diversion. All patients were evaluated regarding the time and type of surgical intervention and early and late postoperative complications, including failure of primary repair. RESULTS: Of the 80 cases of vesicovaginal fistulae treated with definitive repair, 12 (13.3%) showed recurrence of the fistula. Early ureteric deligation and early or delayed ureteroneocystostomy or ureteric replacement were successful in all cases with ureteric injury. There was no loss of kidney function following the trauma or its repair. CONCLUSIONS: It is mandatory for gynecologists and obstetricians to pay careful attention to the anatomy of the urinary tract in order to avoid its iatrogenic injury. Endourologic means were successful in enabling first aid management of some of these injuries. Early exploration is indicated in cases of ureteric obstruction that present early after trauma. Augmentation cystoplasty, urinary diversion or ileal replacement are indicated in only a few cases.

Outcome of penile cancer in circumcised men.

PURPOSE: We previously reported on a group of patients with post-circumcision carcinoma of the penis. We now study the long-term outcome of these patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the available charts of 22 patients presenting between October 1979 and May 2000. RESULTS: Of 22 patients 18 underwent ritual circumcision with extensive scar development. Median age at diagnosis was 62.4 years. The penile lesion was dorsal and proximally located in 15 patients. Median delay before diagnosis was 12 months. Clinically 14 patients had stage T1-T2 disease, with 13 having no lymph node involvement and none with distant metastasis, 8 patients had stage T3-T4 disease. A total of 15 patients were treated surgically with total penectomy (10) or conservative local excision (5), inguinal lymph node dissection (9) and subsequent penile reconstruction (3). Pathological staging in 15 patients revealed 10 patients with stage T1 and in 8 patients with lymph node dissection none had nodal metastasis. Histopathological classification was 20 squamous cell carcinoma, 1 sarcoma and 1 verrucous carcinoma. Six patients refused surgery and 1 was referred for palliation. Median followup was 14.5 months and median survival was 14.5 months. The 3-year survival was 42% for stage T1-T2 and 13% for T3-T4 (p = 0.0052). Median survival for the surgical group was 34 months whereas for nonsurgical group was 3 months (p = 0.0016). Recurrence-free survival in the surgical group was 50%. CONCLUSIONS: Penile carcinoma in circumcised men is a distinct disease commonly following nonclassic vigorous circumcision. Delayed diagnosis and deferring surgical treatment are associated with increased mortality.

Predictors of outcome after radical cystectomy for bladder cancer in saudi patients; single institution experience.

AIM OF THE STUDY: To evaluate different prognostic factors that may affect disease-specific survival in patients with bladder cancer following radical cystectomy. METHODS: Between July 1975 and December 2000, 229 patients underwent radical cystectomy and urinary diversion for bladder cancer in King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center (KFSH & RC), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. 175 patients had available records for review. Retrospective chart review was done. Demographic, clinical and pathological variables which may affect disease specific survival in bladder cancer patients were pooled. Univariate and multivariate analyses were done with disease specific survival as an end point. RESULTS: Our patients were 140 males (80%) and 35 females (20%). Their mean age was 54 years (range: 21-90 years). The median follow-up period was 1.5 years (range: one month-19 years). Five-year disease specific survival was 44%. On univariate analysis, patients' age, lymph node status, pathological staging and presence of hydronephrosis were significant predictors of disease specific survival. However, only lymph node status (p<0.0001), pathological staging (p=0.0411) & presence of hydronephrosis (p=0.0264) were significant predictors of disease specific survival in multivariate analysis. CONCLUSION: Pathological stage, lymph node status and upper obstructive uropathy are significant prognostic factors in bladder cancer patients after radical cystectomy. These factors may help to define bladder cancer patient groups who require further therapy or enrollment in controlled trials to investigate additional therapy.

Can we improve the prediction of stone-free status after extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy for ureteral stones? A neural network or a statistical model?

PURPOSE: We evaluated whether an artificial neural network (ANN) can improve the prediction of stone-free status after extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) (Dornier Medical Systems, Inc., Marietta, Georgia) for ureteral stones compared to a logistic regression (LR) model. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between February 1989 and December 1998, 984 patients with ureteral stones, including 780 males and 204 females with a mean age +/- SD of 40.85 +/- 10.33 years, were treated with ESWL. Stone-free status at 3 months was determined by urinary tract plain x-ray and excretory urography. Of all patients 919 (93.3%) were free of stones. The impact of 10 factors on stone-free status was studied using an LR model and ANN. These factors were patient age and sex, renal anatomy, stone location, side, number, length and width, whether stones were de novo or recurrent, and stent use. An LR model was constructed and ANN was trained on 688 randomly selected patients (70%) to predict stone-free status at 3 months. The 10 factors were used as covariates in the LR model and as input parameters to ANN. Performance of the trained net and developed logistic model was evaluated in the remaining 296 patients (30%), who served as the test set. The sensitivity (percent of correctly predicted stone-free cases), specificity (percent of correctly predicted nonstonefree cases), positive predictive value, overall accuracy and average classification rate of the 2 techniques were compared. Relevant variables influencing the construction of the 2 models were compared. RESULTS: Evaluating the performance of the LR and ANN models on the test set revealed a sensitivity of 100% and 77.9%, a specificity of 0.0% and 75%, a positive predictive value of 93.2% and 97.2%, an overall accuracy of 93.2% and 77.7%, and an average classification rate of 50% and 76.5%, respectively. LR failed to predict any nonstone free cases. LR and ANN identified stone location and stent use as important factors in determining the outcome, while ANN also identified stone length and width as influential factors. CONCLUSIONS: ANN and LR could predict adequately those who would be stone-free after ESWL for ureteral stones. The neural network has a higher ability to predict those who fail to respond to ESWL.

Prediction of success rate after extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy of renal stones--a multivariate analysis model.

OBJECTIVES: To define prognostic factors that affect the success rate after extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy (ESWL) of renal calculi and to estimate the probability of stone-free status using a regression analysis model. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Between February 1992 and February 2002, 2954 patients with single or multiple radiopaque renal stones (<30 mm) underwent ESWL monotherapy. The results of treatment were evaluated after 3 months of follow-up. Treatment success was defined as complete clearance of the stones with no residual fragments. The stone-free rate was correlated with stone features and patient characteristics using the chi2 test. Factors found to be significant using the chi2 test were further analyzed using multivariate regression analysis. RESULTS: At 3-month follow-up, the overall stone-free rate using ESWL monotherapy was 86.7%. Failure to disintegrate the stones was observed in 7.3% of cases (n = 216) and failure to clear the fragmented stones occurred in 6% (n = 177). Repeat ESWL was needed in 53% of cases. Static steinstrasse occurred in 4.9% of cases (n = 146) and post-ESWL auxiliary procedures were required in 4% (n = 118). Using the chi2 test, patient age (p < 0.001), stone size (p < 0.001), location (p < 0.001), number (p < 0.001) and nature (p = 0.003), radiological renal picture (p < 0.001) and congenital renal anomalies (p < 0.001) had a significant impact on the stone-free rate. Multivariate analysis excluded stone nature from the logistic regression model while other factors maintained their statistically significant effect on success rate, indicating that they were independent predictors. A regression analysis model was designed to estimate the probability of stone-free status after ESWL. The sensitivity of the model was 83%, the specificity 91% and the overall accuracy 87%. CONCLUSION: Patient age, stone size, location and number, radiological renal features and congenital renal anomalies are prognostic factors determining stone clearance after ESWL of renal calculi. Our regression model can predict the probability of the success of ESWL with an accuracy of 87%.