Magnetic resonance imaging to detect vesico-symphyseal fistula following robotic prostatectomy

Pubic complications following radical prostatectomy are rare. Osteitis pubis typically presents with symptoms related to irritation of the pubic rami including pain with ambulation and adduction of the leg. A 60-year-old male with prostatic adenocarcinoma underwent uneventful robotic assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy. The patient noted the onset of severe pubic pain exacerbated by ambulation approximately one month post-surgery. An abdominal/pelvic CT scan was negative for acute pathology. Due to continued discomfort, a multiplanar MRI of the pelvis was performed with and without intravenous contrast material (20 ml Omniscan). The MRI demonstrated irregularity of the bladder base and proximal urethra with a fistulous tract extending anteriorly in direct communication with the pubic symphysis joint space. Vague periarticular marrow edema-like signal and enhancement at the pubic symphysis was thought to represent osteitis pubis. The patient's symptoms resolved after one month of urethral catheter drainage, intravenous antibiotics, and anti-inflammatory therapy.

Erosion of inferior vena caval filter noted during robotic assisted laparoscopic partial nephrectomy

Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) filters are mechanical devices implanted to provide prophylaxis against pulmonary emboli in patients for whom standard anticoagulation is either inadequate or contraindicated. A 67-year-old female with a 10-year-old indwelling IVC filter underwent robotic assisted laparoscopic partial nephrectomy for a right upper pole renal mass. Renal hilum dissection was complicated by adhesions secondary to eroded IVC filter struts. IVC filter erosion is a well-described phoenomena in both the radiologic and surgical literature. As many as 25% of filters are noted to be radiographically eroded; however, the incidence of clinically significant erosion is much less. Given the placement of endovascularly delivered IVC filters in close proximity to many urologic operative fields, it is important for urologists to be aware of the potential of eroded devices when pursuing para-caval dissections.