Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT Purpose: The external ureteral catheter (EUC) and double-J stent (DJ-stent) are frequently used for drainage in tubeless percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). This study aims to compare the outcomes and effectiveness of these two methods. Materials and Methods: We conducted a detailed literature search using relevant key words on Google Scholar, Europe PMC, Medline, and Scopus databases. Continuous variables were combined using mean difference (MD), while binary variables were analysed using risk ratio (RR) with 95% confidence intervals through random-effects models. Results: Our analysis included nine studies. The results showed that EUC was associated with a significantly lower incidence of stent-related symptoms [RR 0.32 (95% CI 0.19 - 0.54), p < 0.0001, I² = 24%] compared to the DJ-stent. There were no significant differences between EUC and DJ-stent in terms of postoperative fever (p = 0.92), urine leakage (p = 0.21), perinephric collection (p = 0.85), haemoglobin drop (p = 0.06), transfusion rate (p = 0.27), VAS score (p = 0.67), analgesic requirements (p = 0.59), stone-free rate (p = 0.14), duration of surgery (p = 0.10), and duration of hospitalization (p = 0.50). Conclusion: The EUC demonstrated fewer stent-related symptoms than the DJ-stent in tubeless PCNL, while both methods showed comparable safety and efficacy. The choice between EUC and DJ-stent should consider patient preferences and surgeon expertise. Further randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with larger sample sizes are needed to affirm these results.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT Purpose: Prostate Cancer (PCa) is the most common non-cutaneous cancer in males, and Radical Prostatectomy (RP) is among the primary treatments for this condition. Our study aims to investigate the prevalence of climacturia (urine leakage at the moment of the climax), a potential post-RP change related to orgasm. Material and Methods: A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines and registered on the PROSPERO platform. The search was performed using MEDLINE via PubMed. Results: Thirteen studies met the inclusion criteria and were described separately. Within these studies, 5,208 patients were evaluated, among which 1,417 cases of climacturia were identified, with a prevalence of 27.2%. When we analyzed the robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) subgroup, the prevalence of climacturia was 5.7% vs 1.8% the open radical prostatectomy (ORP) subgroup. Conclusion: Climacturia is a frequently underestimated complication by urologists. Given its significant impact on quality of life, it warrants greater attention from specialists following RP.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT Ischemic priapism is a true urologic emergency. Prompt intervention is required to alleviate the compartment syndrome and restore perfusion to the corporal bodies; failure to do so results in irreversible damage, fibrosis, and profound erectile dysfunction. This paper's objective is to review current literature surrounding the management options for ischemic priapism, focusing on newer surgical techniques. A PubMed database search was performed in June 2024, encompassing the terms "priapism," and "surgical management." Articles were reviewed by two authors independently and included if they were deemed to pertain specifically to management of ischemic priapism. In the acute setting (certainly for priapism lasting <24 hours), management is often successful using bedside maneuvers such as aspiration, irrigation, and injection of sympathomimetic agents. For more prolonged priapism, more aggressive intervention is often warranted. Newer tunneling techniques—including penoscrotal decompression and the corporal snake maneuver—have shown promising preliminary results, not just in terms of priapism resolution but also perhaps sexual function recovery.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT Purpose: Currently, detethering surgery (DS) is the modality most extensively utilized to treat primary tethered cord syndrome (TCS). Disappointingly, some children without bladder impairment showed a deterioration of bladder function after surgery, which critically influences the health-related quality of life. It was hypothesized that the DS might have a significant effect on bladder function and psychology. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of DS on bladder function and quality of life in children with primary TCS. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study of 83 patients aged 6 to 10 years who were diagnosed with TCS and underwent DS between 2022 and 2023. The urodynamic parameters and score, psychological-behavioral profile, and lower urinary tract symptoms were compared before and after DS. Additionally, the patients were divided into the normal group and the abnormal group according to the preoperative urodynamics parameters. Results: A total of 66 children fulfilled the criteria, with a mean age at surgery of 89.5 ± 13.7 months. There were statistically significant differences in bladder detrusor sphincter synergy and urodynamic score and no statistically significant difference in the remaining urodynamic parameters and psychological-behavioral items before and after DS. The proportion of bladder dysfunction that improved or did not worsen after surgery was higher in the Abnormal group than in the Normal group. Nevertheless, the detection rate of each psychological behavior abnormality in children with TCS was higher compared with that of normal children, both preoperatively and postoperatively. Conclusions: DS could not considerably ameliorate pre-existing bladder dysfunction and patients exhibiting non-progressive bladder dysfunction could be treated conservatively with close observation. TCS plagues patients all the time even if detethering. Psychological counseling for children with TCS should be strengthened after DS.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT Purpose: The objective of this study was to evaluate whether morphological (linear measurements) and functional (ADC value) assessments of periprostatic fat can predict the aggressiveness of prostate cancer (PCa) over a 5-year follow-up period. Material and Methods: This retrospective study included patients with histologically proven PCa who underwent 3.0T MRI between July 2016 and June 2018. Clinical and demographic data collected included PSA, PSA density (dPSA), ISUP grade, clinical and pathological staging, and treatment details. MRI-derived parameters were assessed by an experienced radiologist, who measured subcutaneous and periprostatic fat thickness, and calculated ADC values from ROI plots in periprostatic fat. Clinical and MRI parameters were analyzed for associations with biochemical recurrence, systemic metastasis, and PCa-related mortality. Results: After applying exclusion criteria, 109 patients were included. Using the Cox model, dPSA (p<0.01), systemic disease at diagnosis (p<0.01), and mean ADC (p<0.02) were independent predictors of overall survival (OS). For progression-free survival (PFS), only dPSA (p<0.01) and systemic disease at diagnosis (p<0.01) were significant predictors. In the Poisson Model for systemic recurrence risk, dPSA had a relative risk (RR) of 1.04 (95%CI 1.0-1.07, p=0.03), systemic disease at diagnosis had an RR of 63.3 (95%CI 3.7-86.4, p<0.01), and average ADC had an RR of 3.42 (95%CI 1.52-7.69, p<0.01). Conclusions: The ADC value of periprostatic fat may serve as an additional tool for PCa risk stratification, correlating with poorer outcomes such as systemic recurrence and overall survival. If validated by external, prospective, multicenter studies, these findings could impact future therapeutic decisions.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT Purpose: This prospective study aimed to identify risk factors associated with progression to stage 3 chronic kidney disease (CKD) and the occurrence of kidney stone formation or growth following nephrectomy for urolithiasis. Materials and methods: From January 2006 to May 2013, patients undergoing nephrectomy for urolithiasis were enrolled. Renal function was assessed using estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) via the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration equation, while kidney stone events were detected using computed tomography. Results: Among 107 patients followed for an average of 83.5 months, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) significantly increased the risk of progression to stage 3 CKD by 34.79-fold (p=0.004). Age was associated with a 15% increase in the odds of developing stage 3 CKD per year (p=0.01), while higher preoperative eGFR was protective (OR=0.84, p<0.01). DMSA-99mTc values below 15% were less likely to lead to renal function deterioration. New kidney stone formation occurred in 15.9% of patients and stone growth observed in 12.1%. Contralateral kidney stones (p<0.01) and hypercalciuria (p=0.03) were identified as risk factors for kidney stone events. Conclusions: T2DM and age were predictors of CKD progression, while higher preoperative eGFR was protective. Hypercalciuria and contralateral kidney stones increased the risk of kidney stone formation and/or growth post-nephrectomy for urolithiasis.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT Background: Although parasacral TENS (pTENS) has been employed in various centers, there is a lack of studies on how children with overactive bladder (OAB) respond after failing to complete pTENS sessions. This study aimed to describe and assess treatments for OAB in children who did not respond to pTENS. Material and Methods: This retrospective case series examined patients aged 4-17 years. Patients were given subsequent treatment options, including: behavioral therapies; oxybutynin; imipramine; a combination of oxybutynin and imipramine; parasacral percutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (PENS); or a repeat course of pTENS. Outcomes were evaluated using the Dysfunctional Voiding Scoring System (DVSS) and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Results: Thirty children were included, with a median age of 7 years. Patients received one or more treatments. Of these, 70% underwent monotherapy. Among them, 57% experienced complete resolution of symptoms, 28% had partial resolution and were satisfied with the results, and 14% discontinued treatment. 30% out of the whole sample continued to experience bothersome symptoms. Complete response, according to initial subsequent, was achieved in: 54% with intensified behavioral therapies, 33% with oxybutynin, and 50% with imipramine alone. The median DVSS score decreased from 7.0 to 2.0 (p=0.025), while the median VAS score increased from 80 to 100 (p<0.001). Conclusion: Children with OAB refractory to pTENS who received structured subsequent treatments showed partial response in all cases, with complete symptom resolution in half of the patients. More intensive urotherapy, medications, or repeat pTENS in combination with oxybutinin can be effective for managing this challenging condition.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT Purpose: To investigate the effect of chronic stress on testicular morphology in adult Wistar rats, as well as the impact of comfort food consumption on these parameters. Material and methods: 32 Wistar rats (10 weeks old) were divided into four groups: control (C), stressed (S), control + comfort food (C+CF), and stressed + comfort food (S+CF). Chronic stress was induced by the restraint method during 8 weeks in groups S and S+CF, while groups C and C+CF were maintained under normal conditions. Groups C and S received a standard rat chow diet, while groups C+CF and S+CF received both the standard chow and comfort food (Froot Loops®). After 8 weeks of experiment, all animals were euthanized and the testes were collected for histomorphometric, immunohistochemical and gene expression analysis. Results: Comfort food was preferred over standard chow in groups C+CF and S+CF, but this preference was more preeminent in stressed animals (S+CF). The consumption of comfort food resulted in testicular weight reduction. The seminipherous epithelium was reduced in group S in comparison to controls. While comfort food also reduced the epithelium in C+CF in comparison to controls, for group S+CF the comfort food ameliorated the stress-induced damage. The cell proliferation rate and the relative expression of StAR and BLC2 genes were similar between the groups. Conclusion: Both chronic stress and comfort food consumption resulted in morphological alterations of the testes but the consumption of comfort foods during chronic stress partially prevented the stress-induced detrimental effects on testes.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT Background: To compare Gleason 7 (3+4) and (4+3) prostatic adenocarcinoma (PC) with different prognostic criteria through immunohistochemical analysis with anti-PSA, anti-Ki 67 and anti-AMARC antibodies. Methods: We analyzed 221 surgical specimens from patients between 40 and 86 years-old (mean=63) with PC. The immunohistochemical study was performed with anti-PSA, anti-Ki 67 and anti-AMARC. The microscopic fields were photographed with an Olympus DP70 digital camera coupled to an Olympus BX51 microscope and archived in TIFF. Proportion and intensity criteria were used to quantify the anti-PSA antibody and for the anti-Ki 67 antibody, the quantification by similarity of this antibody in breast carcinomas. Anti-AMACR protein expression was based on four scores: negative, weak, moderate and strong. The statistical analysis was performed with the Graph Pad Prism 5 program. Results: In the Gleason score 7 (3+4) we had 91.72% in pT2 and 8.27% in the pT3 group; 8.27% recurrences, of which 90.90% in the pT2 group. In the Gleason score 7 (4+3) we had 77.27% in the pT2 group and 22.72% in the pT3 group and 10.22% of relapses, of which 66.66% in the pT2 group and 33.33% in the pT3 group. In 6.81% of cases there was an increase in the anti-Ki 67 index and in 2.27% of the cases, there was an increase in the immunoexpression of anti-p53 when comparing Gleason score 7 (3+4) with Gleason score 7 (4+3). Conclusion: Our study confirmed differences in the Gleason score 7 (3+4) and Gleason score 7 (4+3) of PC when comparing prognostic criteria. Anti-Ki 67 and anti-PSA antibody immunostaining showed a positive correlation as the Gleason score 7 increased from (3+4) to (4+3).

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT Introduction: In the last two decades, several Da Vinci robotic platforms have been released in the market, revolutionizing the field of robotic-assisted surgery (1, 2). The system has seen numerous modifications, with several Da Vinci® robotic models being introduced, each featuring ongoing technological advancements in ergonomics, instrumentation, high-definition imaging, EndoWrist™ technology, and single-port surgery capabilities (3, 4). Building on this, the new generation Da Vinci 5 robot promises significant hardware and software improvements, with the potential for enhanced operative performance (2, 5). In this video, we will illustrate several technical advancements of the Da Vinci 5. Material and methods: We performed a video compilation comparing the Da Vinci 5 and Da Vinci Xi during radical prostatectomy. The video will highlight the technical modifications of the new platform, showcasing the advancements and improvements in the Da Vinci 5 system. Additionally, this video will illustrate key aspects of the surgery, including anterior bladder neck access, lateral bladder dissection from the prostate, posterior prostate dissection and anastomosis. Surgical technique: We performed our RARP technique with our standard approach in all patients (6–8). With this new platform, we maintained our conventional technique without any modifications or adaptions from the trocar placement until anastomosis. The beginning of the case is performed as usual, we first identify the anterior bladder neck and then complete its dissection with Maryland and Scissors. Then, we proceed to the posterior bladder neck dissection, seminal vesicles control and nerve-sparing. In sequence, we control the prostate arterial pedicles with hem-o-lok clips and then we perform the apical dissection until dividing the urethra. Finally, we perform the hemostasis, posterior reconstruction (Rocco's technique) and anastomosis with barbed suture. Results: The Da Vinci 5 features several key upgrades. The first part of our video described the console, patient cart, and energy tower modifications. The console has been ergonomically redesigned for a flat neck posture to decrease muscle fatigue, and the handgrip now includes a rubber surface for better grip (9). The patient cart, similar to the previous generation, has updated helm interfaces and integrated commands with the console and vision tower. In sequence, we described the instrument modifications and the step-by-step technique showing the DV5 and DV-Xi. Force feedback instruments provide three degrees of tactile feedback, enhancing tissue manipulation. A new security system ensures instruments can only be inserted when clear of tissues and obstructions, reducing the risk of errors. Another modification regards the ability to switch instruments and camera. Conclusion: While using and evaluating the DV5 in more than 100 cases, we noticed some improvements in the ergonomics and digital interface. The intraoperative performance was similar among the platforms and all procedures were performed without intraoperative complications or problems with the system. However, we are still evaluating the long-term outcomes and potential clinical advantages provided by this new platform.