Practice Patterns of Korean Urologists Regarding Positive Surgical Margins after Radical Prostatectomy: a Survey and Narrative Review

Background@#There is no clear consensus on the optimal treatment with curative intent for patients with positive surgical margins (PSMs) following radical prostatectomy (RP). The aim of this study was to investigate the perceptions and treatment patterns of Korean urologists regarding the resection margin after RP. @*Methods@#A preliminary questionnaire was prepared by analyzing various studies on resection margins after RP. Eight experienced urologists finalized the 10-item questionnaire.In July 2019, the final questionnaire was delivered via e-mail to 105 urologists in Korea who specialize in urinary cancers. @*Results@#We received replies from 91 of the 105 urologists (86.7%) in our sample population.Among them, 41 respondents (45.1%) had performed more than 300 RPs and 22 (24.2%) had completed 500 or more RPs. In the question about whether they usually performed an additional biopsy beyond the main specimen, to get information about surgical margin invasion during surgery, the main opinion was that if no residual cancer was suspected, it was not performed (74.7%). For PSMs, the Gleason score of the positive site (49.5%) was judged to be a more important prognostic factor than the margin location (18.7%), multifocality (14.3%), or margin length (17.6%). In cases with PSMs after surgery, the prevailing opinion on follow-up was to measure and monitor prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels rather than to begin immediate treatment (68.1%). Many respondents said that they considered postoperative radiologic examinations when PSA was elevated (72.2%), rather than regularly (24.4%). When patients had PSMs without extracapsular extension (pT2R1) or a negative surgical margin with extracapsular extension (pT3aR0), the response ‘does not make a difference in treatment policy’ prevailed at 65.9%. Even in patients at high risk of PSMs on preoperative radiologic screening, 84.6% of the respondents said that they did not perform neoadjuvant androgen deprivation therapy. Most respondents (75.8%) indicated that they avoided nerve-sparing RP in cases with a high risk of PSMs, but 25.7% said that they had tried nerve-sparing surgery. Additional analyses showed that urologists who had performed 300 or more prostatectomies tended to attempt more nerve-sparing procedures in patients with a high risk of PSMs than less experienced surgeons (36.6% vs. 14.0%; P = 0.012). @*Conclusion@#The most common response was to monitor PSA levels without recommending any additional treatment when PSMs were found after RP. Through this questionnaire, we found that the perceptions and treatment patterns of Korean urologists differed considerably according to RP resection margin status. Refined research and standard practice guidelines are needed.

Influence of Daytime or Nighttime Dosing with Solifenacin for Overactive Bladder with Nocturia: Impact on Nocturia and Sleep Quality

We compared changes in nocturia and sleep-related parameters between daytime and nighttime solifenacin dosing in patents with overactive bladder (OAB) and nocturia. We comparatively analyzed the data of a 12-week prospective, open-label, multicenter, randomized study. All 127 patients who presented to 5 centers in Korea for the treatment of OAB with nocturia between January 2011 and December 2013 were enrolled in this study. The patients were divided into 2 groups by medication timing: group 1, daytime (n = 62); and group 2, nighttime (n = 65). The International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), Overactive Bladder Symptom Score (OABSS), and Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS) were used to assess OAB symptoms and sleep quality. We evaluated the parameter changes before and 12 weeks after daytime or nighttime solifenacin administration. Baseline data, which included sex, age, body mass index (BMI), total AIS, IPSS, and OABSS, did not differ between the 2 groups. Total IPSS, OABSS, and total AIS significantly improved after solifenacin administration regardless of timing (P < 0.001). After solifenacin administration, the number of nocturia episodes decreased in the group 1 and 2 (P < 0.001). There were no significant intergroup differences in changes in AIS, IPSS, OABSS, and number of nocturia episodes 12 weeks after solifenacin administration. Treating OAB with solifenacin may improve nocturia and sleep quality, but advantages did not differ significantly by medication timing.

Radical Prostatectomy in Korean Men Aged 75-Years or Older: Safety and Efficacy in Comparison with Patients Aged 65-69 Years

Prostate cancer is the most common type of male cancer worldwide. Although radical prostatectomy (RP) is advised for prostate cancer in patients with a life expectancy of more than 10 years by various guidelines, most elderly men still do not undergo the procedure regardless of increasing life expectancy. This study aimed to determine whether RP is suitable for patients with prostate cancer aged 75 years or older. A retrospective study of patients who underwent RP at 6 institutions between 2005 and 2012 was conducted. Patients were divided into 2 groups at the time of surgery: 65-69 years (younger group) and 75 years or older (older group). We compared clinical characteristics, pathological results, complication rates, and recurrence-free survival between the two groups. Compared with the younger group, the older group had significantly higher preoperative serum prostate-specific antigen level, pre- and postoperative Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status grade, hypertension prevalence, and Gleason score at biopsy and RP. However, except urinary incontinence, there were no statistically significant differences in the peri- and post-operative complications. After median follow-up periods of 36 months (younger group) and 40 months (older group), the biochemical recurrence-free survival rates were not significantly different (P = 0.581). Although the urinary incontinence rate was higher in the older group, RP was a suitable option for selected Korean men aged 75 years or older with limited complication rates and excellent outcomes similar to those for patients aged 65-69 years.

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Bladder Neck Contracture After Radical Prostatectomy

PURPOSE: To evaluate the prevalence of bladder neck contracture (BNC) and its risk factors in patients undergoing radical prostatectomy in Korea. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We analyzed data from 488 patients with prostatic cancer who underwent radical prostatectomy performed by seven surgeons in seven hospitals, including 365 open radical prostatectomies (ORPs), 99 laparoscopic radical prostatectomies (LRPs), and 24 robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomies (RARPs). Patients with BNCs were compared with those without BNCs to identify the risk factors for BNC occurrence. RESULTS: Overall, BNCs occurred in 21 of 488 patients (4.3%): 17 patients (4.7%) who underwent ORP, 4 patients (4%) who underwent LRP, and no patients who underwent RARP. In the univariate analysis, men with BNCs had a longer length of time before drain removal (12 days vs. 6.8 days, p<0.001), which reflected urinary leakage through the vesicourethral anastomosis. In the multivariate analysis, the length of time before drain removal was the only predictor of BNC (odds ratio, 1.12; p=0.001). Intraoperative blood loss was higher in patients with BNC, but the difference was not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: The most significant factor related to BNC occurrence after radical prostatectomy in our study was the length of time before drain removal, which reflects urinary leakage from the vesicourethral anastomosis. The proper formation of a watertight anastomosis to decrease urinary leakage may help to reduce the occurrence of BNC.

Current Status of Laparoendoscopic Single-Site Surgery in Urologic Surgery

Since the introduction of laparoscopic surgery, the promise of lower postoperative morbidity and improved cosmesis has been achieved. Laparoendoscopic single-site surgery (LESS) potentially takes this further. Following the first human urological LESS report in 2007, numerous case series have emerged, as well as comparative studies comparing LESS with standard laparoscopy. However, comparative series between conventional laparoscopy and LESS for different procedures suggest a non-inferiority of LESS over standard laparoscopy, but the only objective benefit remains an improved cosmetic outcome. Challenging ergonomics, instrument clashing, lack of true triangulation, and in-line vision are the main concerns with LESS surgery. Various new instruments have been designed, but only experienced laparoscopists and well-selected patients are pivotal for a successful LESS procedure. Robotic-assisted LESS procedures have been performed. The available robotic platform remains bulky, but development of instrumentation and application of robotic technology are expected to define the actual role of these techniques in minimally invasive urologic surgery.

Current Status of Laparoendoscopic Single-Site Surgery in Urologic Surgery

Since the introduction of laparoscopic surgery, the promise of lower postoperative morbidity and improved cosmesis has been achieved. Laparoendoscopic single-site surgery (LESS) potentially takes this further. Following the first human urological LESS report in 2007, numerous case series have emerged, as well as comparative studies comparing LESS with standard laparoscopy. However, comparative series between conventional laparoscopy and LESS for different procedures suggest a non-inferiority of LESS over standard laparoscopy, but the only objective benefit remains an improved cosmetic outcome. Challenging ergonomics, instrument clashing, lack of true triangulation, and in-line vision are the main concerns with LESS surgery. Various new instruments have been designed, but only experienced laparoscopists and well-selected patients are pivotal for a successful LESS procedure. Robotic-assisted LESS procedures have been performed. The available robotic platform remains bulky, but development of instrumentation and application of robotic technology are expected to define the actual role of these techniques in minimally invasive urologic surgery.

Outcomes of Transurethral Removal of Intravesical or Intraurethral Mesh Following Midurethral Sling Surgery

PURPOSE: To present outcomes of transurethral removal (TUR) of intravesical or intraurethral mesh after midurethral slings. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a retrospective chart review of 23 consecutive women: 20 with intravesical mesh and 3 with intraurethral mesh. RESULTS: To remove the mesh, transurethral resection with an electrode loop (TUR-E) was used in 16 women and transurethral resection with a holmium laser (TUR-H) was used in 7. The median follow-up was 2.1 months. Twenty-six percent of the women (6/23) had a mesh remnant: 6.2% (1/16) of the women treated with TUR-E and 71.4% (5/7) of the women treated with TUR-H. Of the 5 women treated with TUR-H, 3 underwent concomitant transvaginal removal. On the follow-up cystoscopic exam, a mesh remnant was observed in 3 women (1 treated with TUR-E and 2 treated with TUR-H). Vesico-vaginal fistulas were found in 2 women during and after TUR-E, respectively. Stress urinary incontinence recurred in 1 woman. CONCLUSIONS: TUR-E has a high success rate but carries a risk of bladder perforation. Complete resection using TUR-H depends on the location of the mesh and the range of motion of the instrument.

A Case of Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy for a Prostatic Stromal Tumor of Uncertain Malignant Potential

Prostatic stromal tumor of uncertain malignant potential (STUMP) is a rare neoplasm with distinctive clinical and pathological characteristics. Here we report a case of laparoscopic radical prostatectomy performed in a patient with prostatic STUMP.

A Case of Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy for a Prostatic Stromal Tumor of Uncertain Malignant Potential

Prostatic stromal tumor of uncertain malignant potential (STUMP) is a rare neoplasm with distinctive clinical and pathological characteristics. Here we report a case of laparoscopic radical prostatectomy performed in a patient with prostatic STUMP.

Comparison of Laparoscopic and Open Partial Nephrectomies in T1a Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Korean Multicenter Experience

PURPOSE: We analyzed a series of patients who had undergone laparoscopic partial nephrectomies (LPNs) and open partial nephrectomies (OPNs) to compare outcomes of the two procedures in patients with pathologic T1a renal cell carcinomas (RCCs). MATERIALS AND METHODS: From January 1998 to May 2009, 417 LPNs and 345 OPNs were performed on patients with small renal tumors in 15 institutions in Korea. Of the patients, 273 and 279 patients, respectively, were confirmed to have pT1a RCC. The cohorts were compared with respect to demographics, peri-operative data, and oncologic and functional outcomes. RESULTS: The demographic data were similar between the groups. Although the tumor location was more exophytic (51% vs. 44%, p=0.047) and smaller (2.1 cm vs. 2.3 cm, p=0.026) in the LPN cohort, the OPN cohort demonstrated shorter ischemia times (23.4 min vs. 33.3 min, p<0.001). The LPN cohort was associated with less blood loss than the OPN cohort (293 ml vs. 418 ml, p<0.001). Of note, two patients who underwent LPNs had open conversions and nephrectomies were performed because of intra-operative hemorrhage. The decline in the glomerular filtration rate at the last available follow-up (LPN, 10.9%; and OPN, 10.6%) was similar in both groups (p=0.8). Kaplan-Meier estimates of 5-year local recurrence-free survival (RFS) were 96% after LPN and 94% after OPN (p=0.8). CONCLUSIONS: The LPN group demonstrated similar rates of recurrence-free survival, complications, and postoperative GFR change compared with OPN group. The LPN may be an acceptable surgical option in patients with small RCC in Korea.

Comparison of Laparoscopic and Open Partial Nephrectomies in T1a Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Korean Multicenter Experience

PURPOSE: We analyzed a series of patients who had undergone laparoscopic partial nephrectomies (LPNs) and open partial nephrectomies (OPNs) to compare outcomes of the two procedures in patients with pathologic T1a renal cell carcinomas (RCCs). MATERIALS AND METHODS: From January 1998 to May 2009, 417 LPNs and 345 OPNs were performed on patients with small renal tumors in 15 institutions in Korea. Of the patients, 273 and 279 patients, respectively, were confirmed to have pT1a RCC. The cohorts were compared with respect to demographics, peri-operative data, and oncologic and functional outcomes. RESULTS: The demographic data were similar between the groups. Although the tumor location was more exophytic (51% vs. 44%, p=0.047) and smaller (2.1 cm vs. 2.3 cm, p=0.026) in the LPN cohort, the OPN cohort demonstrated shorter ischemia times (23.4 min vs. 33.3 min, p<0.001). The LPN cohort was associated with less blood loss than the OPN cohort (293 ml vs. 418 ml, p<0.001). Of note, two patients who underwent LPNs had open conversions and nephrectomies were performed because of intra-operative hemorrhage. The decline in the glomerular filtration rate at the last available follow-up (LPN, 10.9%; and OPN, 10.6%) was similar in both groups (p=0.8). Kaplan-Meier estimates of 5-year local recurrence-free survival (RFS) were 96% after LPN and 94% after OPN (p=0.8). CONCLUSIONS: The LPN group demonstrated similar rates of recurrence-free survival, complications, and postoperative GFR change compared with OPN group. The LPN may be an acceptable surgical option in patients with small RCC in Korea.

The Outcome of Laparoscopic Retroperitoneal Ureterolithotomy for the Management of Upper Ureteral Stones Larger than 10 mm: A Comparison with Rigid Ureteroscopic Removal of Stones with Lithoclast(R)

PURPOSE: We evaluated the outcome of laparoscopic retroperitoneal ureterolithotomy (LRU) and compared the results with the rigid ureteroscopic removal of stones with the Lithoclast(R) (rigid URS) for the management of large upper ureteral stones (> or =10 mm). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between July 2002 and March 2008, rigid URS and LRU were performed in 37 and 24 patients, respectively. We evaluated the outcomes of each procedure and compared the success rate according to the location (above and below the L3 level by the third intervertebral disc of the lumbar spine) and size of the stones (10-15 mm and > or =15 mm in diameter). RESULTS: The overall success rate for rigid URS and LRU were 70.3% (26/37) and 91.7% (22/24), respectively (p=0.059). For rigid URS, the success rate was 50.0% (8/16) and 85.7% (18/21) for stones above and below the L3 level (p=0.030), respectively, and 85.7% (23/28) and 33.3% (3/9) for stones 10-15 mm and > or =15 mm in diameter, respectively (p=0.011). For LRU, the success rate was 92.3% (12/13) and 90.9% (10/11) for stones above and below the L3 level, respectively (p=0.902), and 50.0% (1/2) and 95.5% (21/22) for stones 10-15 mm and > or =15 mm in diameter, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: LRU demonstrated a high success rate regardless of the location and size of the stones. The outcomes with rigid URS were more varied. These results suggest that LRU is a feasible alternative for large upper ureteral stones that are 15 mm or more in size or located above the intervertebral disc between the third and fourth lumbar vertebrae.

Initial Experience of Laparoscopic Simple Prostatectomy in Patients with Large Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia / 대한비뇨기과학회지

PURPOSE: Simple prostatectomy has been a mainstay of therapy for patients with large prostatic adenoma. We describe laparoscopic approach for resection of large prostatic adenoma as an alternative to open simple prostatectomy. MATERIALS AND METHODSaterials and Methods: From July 2006 to May 2007 we performed Laparoscopic simple prostatectomy on 10 patients who were diagnosed with clinically benign prostate hyperplasia(maximal urine flow rate(MFR) or=12 scores, and prostate weight > or=75g). The steps of our extraperitoneal 5 port technique were longitudinal cystotomy, subcapsular plane development, enucleation of the obstructing prostatic adenoma, insertion of Spongospan into the prostatic fossa, traction of 22Fr balloon catheter and suture repair of cystotomy. RESULTS: We successfully performed the operation in all cases without conversion. The mean patient age is 68.1 years old(60-73). The mean preoperative PSA, prostate volume were 8.8ng/ml(1.8-16.9), 97g(74.1- 120.6). The mean operating time and estimated blood loss were 204min (160-275) and 720ml(300-1,200). The resected mass weight was 45.5g (23-70). There were no major complications. The mean hospitalization stay and drain remove days were 11.3 days(9-14) and 5.6 days(4-8). The mean preoperative MFR, IPSS/quality of life(QoL) and were 2.8ml/sec(0-9.6), 25/5(14-35/4-6) and 270ml(250-310). At 3 months postoperatively, the mean MFR, IPSS/QoL and residual urine volume were 15.6ml/sec(12-23), 10/2.6(5-12/2-4) and 16.75(10-40). CONCLUSIONS: Laparoscopic simple prostatectomy could be a useful method for the treatment of large benign prostate hyperplasia. However, more experiences and comparative studies are needed to document the safe and effect compared to open prostatectomy and transurethral resection of prostate.

Initial Experience of Laparoscopic Simple Prostatectomy in Patients with Large Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia / 대한비뇨기과학회지

PURPOSE: Simple prostatectomy has been a mainstay of therapy for patients with large prostatic adenoma. We describe laparoscopic approach for resection of large prostatic adenoma as an alternative to open simple prostatectomy. MATERIALS AND METHODSaterials and Methods: From July 2006 to May 2007 we performed Laparoscopic simple prostatectomy on 10 patients who were diagnosed with clinically benign prostate hyperplasia(maximal urine flow rate(MFR) or=12 scores, and prostate weight > or=75g). The steps of our extraperitoneal 5 port technique were longitudinal cystotomy, subcapsular plane development, enucleation of the obstructing prostatic adenoma, insertion of Spongospan into the prostatic fossa, traction of 22Fr balloon catheter and suture repair of cystotomy. RESULTS: We successfully performed the operation in all cases without conversion. The mean patient age is 68.1 years old(60-73). The mean preoperative PSA, prostate volume were 8.8ng/ml(1.8-16.9), 97g(74.1- 120.6). The mean operating time and estimated blood loss were 204min (160-275) and 720ml(300-1,200). The resected mass weight was 45.5g (23-70). There were no major complications. The mean hospitalization stay and drain remove days were 11.3 days(9-14) and 5.6 days(4-8). The mean preoperative MFR, IPSS/quality of life(QoL) and were 2.8ml/sec(0-9.6), 25/5(14-35/4-6) and 270ml(250-310). At 3 months postoperatively, the mean MFR, IPSS/QoL and residual urine volume were 15.6ml/sec(12-23), 10/2.6(5-12/2-4) and 16.75(10-40). CONCLUSIONS: Laparoscopic simple prostatectomy could be a useful method for the treatment of large benign prostate hyperplasia. However, more experiences and comparative studies are needed to document the safe and effect compared to open prostatectomy and transurethral resection of prostate.

Predictive Factors of the Long-term Medical Treatment Failure in Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia / 대한비뇨기과학회지

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to identify the clinical baseline factors that affect failure of medical treatment(and especially surgical treatment) for benign prostatic hyperplasia(BPH) in spite of long-term medication. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 802 men who were over 50 years of age with BPH were enrolled for this study. Patients were allocated to a medication group and a surgical treatment group(after having at least a 12 month duration of medication). We compared the differences between the two groups for their initial International Prostate Symptom Score(IPSS), the uroflowmetry, the prostate volume, the postvoid residual urine and the serum prostate specific antigen(PSA). RESULTS: 397 patients had surgical treatment following medication due to BPH progression(acute urinary retention, aggravating LUTS) and 405 patients were given maintenance medical treatment during follow-up. Statistically significant differences were found in the IPSS(23.3+/-6.6 vs. 12.7+/-8.4), the prostate volume(53.5+/-28.1ml vs. 38.3+/-12.6ml), the maximal flow rate(7.8+/-4.7ml/sec vs. 12.7+/-5.4ml/sec), the postvoid residual urine volume(92.7+/-144.4cc vs. 36.5+/-147.1cc), and the PSA(6.1+/-7.6ng/ml vs. 2.8+/- 2.8ng/ml) between the surgical and medication groups. According to the area under the curve(AUC), the IPSS, prostate volume, maximal flow rate, postvoid residual urine volume and PSA are important in descending order. According to the receiver operating characteristic(ROC) curve- based prediction of the surgical intervention, the best cutoff value for the IPSS and prostate volume were 17(area under ROC curve: 0.83) and 40ml (area under ROC curve: 0.68), respectively. Conclusions: The results show that BPH patients with more severe IPSS (>or=17) and a larger prostate volume(>40ml) have a higher risk of surgical intervention, and this suggests that the IPSS and prostate volume may be useful predictors at the initial visit for surgical intervention.

Retroperitoneal Laparoscopic Nephrectomy for Inflammatory Renal Diseases / 대한비뇨기과학회지

PURPOSE: Retroperitoneal laparoscopic nephrectomy for inflammatory renal conditions remains technically challenging, but can prevent intraperitoneal contamination by inflammatory or pathologic materials and decrease the risk of visceral injury or peritoneal morbidity. We evaluated retroperitoneal laparoscopic nephrectomy in terms of feasibility, safety, and efficacy in inflammatory renal disease. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between March 2003 and June 2006, retroperitoneal laparoscopic nephrectomy was performed in 39 patients with benign renal disease. Of the 39 patients, 18(group 1) had inflammatory renal diseases with perinephric stranding on CT, which was confirmed as an adhesion during surgery. The remaining 21 patients(group 2) had nonfunctioning kidneys without significant inflammation. Intraoperative and postoperative clinical parameters were analyzed and compared between the 2 groups. RESULTS: Retroperitoneal laparoscopic nephrectomy was successful in all 39 patients without conversion to open surgery. Group 1 included tuberculous pyelonephritic kidney(n=11), xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis (n=3), pyonephrosis(n=2) and renal abscess(n=2). Group 2 included chronic pyelonephritis(n=12), ureteropelvic junction obstruction(UPJ) stricture(n=6), and cystic disease(n=3). The mean operating time and the mean estimated blood loss were significantly different between the 2 groups(p<0.001). The mean time to oral intake and ambulation, and the mean duration of hospitalization were not different between the 2 groups. There were 1 major and 2 minor complications in group 1 and 2 minor complications in group 2. CONCLUSIONS: Retroperitoneal laparoscopic nephrectomy is a feasible and safe treatment modality in inflammatory renal diseases as well as other benign renal diseases.

Laparoscopic Partial Cystectomy for Adenocarcinoma of the Bladder / 대한비뇨기과학회지

From February 2004 to August 2005, 3 patients with muscle invasive bladder adenocarcinoma were identified as candidates for partial cystectomy, and they underwent laparoscopic partial cystectomy. Case 1 and case 2 were primary bladder adenocarcinoma with a pathologic stage of T3aN0M0 and T2bN0M0, respectively, and case 3 was metastatic bladder adenocarcinoma from gastric cancer. The mean surgical time was 213 minutes(range: 140-300). The blood loss was 117cc(range: 60-220), respectively. There were no significant complications after surgery. During a mean follow-up period of 22 months, case 1 and case 2 with primary adenocarcinoma did not have local or systemic recurrence, but case 3 with metastatic adenocarcinoma had intra-abdominal recurrence without local recurrence. Laparoscopic partial cystectomy is a safe, feasible, minimally invasive alternative to open partial cystectomy for treating selected cases of patients with muscle invasive bladder adenocarcinoma.

Initial Experience of Laparoscopic Adrenalectomy with Retroperitoneal Approach / 대한비뇨기과학회지

PURPOSE: A laparoscopic adrenalectomy has become the treatment of choice for an adrenal mass. However, there have been few reports on retroperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomies (RLA) in Korea. The results of retroperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomies were compared with those of a transperitoneal approach to evaluate efficacy of the former approach. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between September 1999 and August 2006, 28 consecutive patients, with surgical adrenal disease, underwent a laparoscopic adrenalectomy via either a retroperitoneal (RLA, n=18) or transperitoneal approach (TLA, n=10). The groups were matched for age (years, p=0.79) and body mass index (kg/m2, p=0.53). The mean tumor sizes were 4.2 (1.6-7.5) and 3.9cm (2.2-7.0) in RLA and TLA groups, respectively (p= 0.90). RESULTS: A RLA was found to be comparable to a TLA in terms of operative time (115 vs. 128 minutes, p=0.61), estimated blood loss (217 vs. 191cc, p=0.92), hospital stay (5.5 vs. 6.1 days, p=0.45), return to diet (0.4 vs. 0.5 days, p=0.68), time to ambulation (0.6 vs. 1.0 days, p=0.11), analgesic requirements (Ketorolac tromethamine, 110 vs. 88mg, p=0.07), time to drain removal (4.2 vs. 5.1 days, p=0.17) and mean specimen weight (24.7 vs. 17.8 g, p=0.14). One case in each group was converted to open surgery for control of bleeding. CONCLUSIONS: A retroperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomy is as safe, minimally invasive and effective as the transperitoneal approach for the treatment of adrenal lesions that require surgery.

Clinical Manifestations and Indications for Management of Ureteroceles in Adults / 대한비뇨기과학회지

PURPOSE: To review the clinical manifestations, indications and the management outcomes of adult patients with ureteroceles. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between 1995 and 2006, 20 adult patients (9 females, 3 males) with ureteroceles were investigated for their clinical symptoms, type of ureterocele and renal function. The outcomes of surgical or conservative management, according to the patients' symptoms were also individually analyzed. The median follow-up was 38 months (12-50 months). RESULTS: The ages at diagnosis of the ureteroceles ranged from 19 to 70 years (mean 37.9 years). The ureterocele-related symptoms were flank pain (3), hematuria (1) and lower urinary tract symptoms (4). Two cases were incidentally detected with ultrasound (1) or computed tomography (1), and another 2 patients presented with non-specific flank pain or a hematuria. Eight patients exhibited an intravesical single system and 4 were associated with upper pole of a duplex system. Only one patient had an ectopic ureterocele, in which the orifice was located in the mid-urethra. The ureterocele-related symptoms were managed using a transurethral incision (5) or resection (1) of the ureterocele, with ureteroscopic stone retrieval (2). The symptoms were resolved after surgery, and there were no recurrence of symptoms or any deterioration of the renal function during follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: To diagnose an ureterocele in adult patients requires a high index of suspicion, as not all patients present with the typical clinical manifestations associated in children. Our results suggested that ureterocele-related symptoms are the main indication for surgery in adult patients. While methods with lower morbidity may be a useful, expectant treatment, they may also be an appropriate option for the management of incidentally detected ureteroceles.

The Influence of Chlormadinone Acetate on the Total and Free Serum Prostate Specific Antigen Levels in Men with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia / 대한비뇨기과학회지

PURPOSE: Chlormadinone acetate (CMA) therapy for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) may lower the serum prostate specific antigen (PSA) level. However, little is known about the effect of CMA on the total or free serum PSA levels of PSA. Such information would be important since PSA testing is useful for prostate cancer screening. Thus, we prospectively studied the effect of CMA therapy on the total and free serum PSA levels. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The patients with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and BPH who were aged over 50 years were treated with 50mg CMA for 6 months. Men with a PSA level greater than 10ng/ml were excluded to reduce the likelihood of including cases of occult prostate cancer. Those with suspicious findings on the digital rectal examination and serum PSA testing were biopsied to rule out prostate cancer. alpha- blocking agents were permitted to treat the men with LUTS. Serum levels of the total and free PSA were measured at the study baseline and after approximately 3 and 6 months. The prostate volume (PV) was assessed by transrectal ultrasonography. RESULTS: The analysis included 170 patients with a mean age of 67.9 years, a baseline PV of 47.3ml and a baseline total PSA of 4.1ng/ml. The total PSA levels declined from 4.1ng/ml at baseline to 2.0ng/ml after 6 months of treatment (50.7% decrease, p<0.01). The mean percent free PSA (21% to 22% at baseline) was not significantly altered by CMA treatment. The PSA levels and PV at baseline did not affect the rate of decline of PSA. CONCLUSIONS: The total PSA serum levels decreased by an average of 50% during CMA therapy, but the percent free PSA did not change significantly. This information is potentially useful in the interpretation of the PSA data that's used for early detection of prostate cancer in the men receiving CMA.