Can remote assistance for robotic surgery improve surgical performance in simulation training? A prospective clinical trial of urology residents using a simulator in south america

ABSTRACT Introduction: We aimed to evaluate the role of remote proctoring during the initial training phases of a robotics curriculum using surgical robot skills simulator exercises. Materials and Methods: Prospective randomized study comprising 36 urology residents and junior staff urologists without previous robotic training. Group 1 (G1) performed exercises without any assistance or support, group 2 (G2) received support from in-person proctor, and group 3 (G3) from a remote proctor through a telementoring system. Qualitative and quantitative analyses were conducted for each exercise and group. Results: The overall score approval rates (OSA) for the different skill exercises were Ring Walk 2 (RW2) 83%, Energy Dissection 2 (ED2) 81%, and Ring Walk 3 (RW3) 14%. RW2 OSA was higher on attempt 3 than on attempt 1 (83.3% vs. 63.9%, p=0.032). ED2 OSA rate was higher in attempt 3 than in attempt 1 (80.6% vs. 52.8%, p=0.002). RW2 OSA was similar among the groups. In ED2, both remote and live assistance were significantly related to upper OSA (G1=47.2%, G2=75.0%, G3=83.3%, p=0.002). RW3 had similar OSA among the groups, which can be explained by the high level of difficulty and low OSA in all the groups. However, in a sensitive quantitative analysis, the mean overall score of the participants in RW3 was higher in both proctored groups (G1=24, G2=57.5, G3=51.5, p=0.042). Conclusion: Robotic performance increased significantly over three attempts for simulation exercises of low, medium, but not high-complexity. Proctoring, either in-person or remotely, has a positive impact on approval performance, particularly in intermediate tasks.

Can remote assistance for robotic surgery improve surgical performance in simulation training? A prospective clinical trial of urology residents using a simulator in south america.

INTRODUCTION: We aimed to evaluate the role of remote proctoring during the initial training phases of a robotics curriculum using surgical robot skills simulator exercises. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Prospective randomized study comprising 36 urology residents and junior staff urologists without previous robotic training. Group 1 (G1) performed exercises without any assistance or support, group 2 (G2) received support from in-person proctor, and group 3 (G3) from a remote proctor through a telementoring system. Qualitative and quantitative analyses were conducted for each exercise and group. RESULTS: The overall score approval rates (OSA) for the different skill exercises were Ring Walk 2 (RW2) 83%, Energy Dissection 2 (ED2) 81%, and Ring Walk 3 (RW3) 14%. RW2 OSA was higher on attempt 3 than on attempt 1 (83.3% vs. 63.9%, p=0.032). ED2 OSA rate was higher in attempt 3 than in attempt 1 (80.6% vs. 52.8%, p=0.002). RW2 OSA was similar among the groups. In ED2, both remote and live assistance were significantly related to upper OSA (G1=47.2%, G2=75.0%, G3=83.3%, p=0.002). RW3 had similar OSA among the groups, which can be explained by the high level of difficulty and low OSA in all the groups. However, in a sensitive quantitative analysis, the mean overall score of the participants in RW3 was higher in both proctored groups (G1=24, G2=57.5, G3=51.5, p=0.042). CONCLUSION: Robotic performance increased significantly over three attempts for simulation exercises of low, medium, but not high-complexity. Proctoring, either in-person or remotely, has a positive impact on approval performance, particularly in intermediate tasks.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia surgical treatment trends in the Public Health System in São Paulo, Brazil.

OBJECTIVE: To describe and compare the number of surgeries, mortality rate, length of hospital stay, and costs of transurethral resection of the prostate and open prostatectomy for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia, between 2008 and 2018, in the Public Health System in São Paulo, Brazil. METHODS: Ecological and retrospective study using data from the informatics department of the Brazilian Public Health System database. Procedure codes were "open prostatectomy" and "transurethral resection of the prostate." The outcomes analyzed were compared between transurethral resection of the prostate and open prostatectomy according to the hospital surgical volume and presence or absence of a residency program. RESULTS: A total of 18,874 surgeries were analyzed (77% transurethral resection of the prostate) and overall mortality was not statistically different between procedures. Intermediate and high-volume centers had shorter length of hospital stay than low-volume centers for transurethral resection of the prostate (3.28, 3.02, and 6.58 days, respectively, p=0.01 and p=0.004). Length of hospital stay was also shorter for open prostatectomy in high-volume compared to low-volume centers (4.86 versus 10.76 days, p=0.036). Intrahospital mortality was inversely associated with surgical volume for transurethral resection of the prostate. Centers with residency program had shorter length of hospital stay considering open prostatectomy and less mortality regarding transurethral resection of the prostate. Open prostatectomy was 64% more expensive than transurethral resection of the prostate. CONCLUSION: The findings suggest the importance of investing in specialized centers, which could be potential referral centers for surgical cases.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia surgical treatment trends in the Public Health System in São Paulo, Brazil

ABSTRACT Objective To describe and compare the number of surgeries, mortality rate, length of hospital stay, and costs of transurethral resection of the prostate and open prostatectomy for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia, between 2008 and 2018, in the Public Health System in São Paulo, Brazil. Methods Ecological and retrospective study using data from the informatics department of the Brazilian Public Health System database. Procedure codes were "open prostatectomy" and "transurethral resection of the prostate." The outcomes analyzed were compared between transurethral resection of the prostate and open prostatectomy according to the hospital surgical volume and presence or absence of a residency program. Results A total of 18,874 surgeries were analyzed (77% transurethral resection of the prostate) and overall mortality was not statistically different between procedures. Intermediate and high-volume centers had shorter length of hospital stay than low-volume centers for transurethral resection of the prostate (3.28, 3.02, and 6.58 days, respectively, p=0.01 and p=0.004). Length of hospital stay was also shorter for open prostatectomy in high-volume compared to low-volume centers (4.86 versus 10.76 days, p=0.036). Intrahospital mortality was inversely associated with surgical volume for transurethral resection of the prostate. Centers with residency program had shorter length of hospital stay considering open prostatectomy and less mortality regarding transurethral resection of the prostate. Open prostatectomy was 64% more expensive than transurethral resection of the prostate. Conclusion The findings suggest the importance of investing in specialized centers, which could be potential referral centers for surgical cases.

Shedding light on polypragmasy of pain after transurethral prostate surgery procedures: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVE: To evaluate and compare the incidences of post-operative pelvic pain (PPP) in patients undergoing ablation, enucleation and conventional transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines. Using MEDLINE via PubMed and Cochrane CENTRAL, randomised control trials (RCTs) and observational studies reporting PPP rates post-ablation, enucleation or TURP were identified. The risk of biases (RoB) in RCTs and observation studies were assessed using the Cochrane RoB1.0 tool and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale, respectively. RESULTS: 62 studies were included for qualitative analysis, while 51 of them reported number of patients with PPP post-intervention. Three observational studies and 13 RCTs compared the rates of PPP in patients undergoing ablation, enucleation or TURP. The most reported types of PPP are dysuria, abdominal pain and irritative symptoms. The pooled incidence of PPP at 1-month follow-up in patients undergoing ablation, enucleation and TURP were 0.15 (95% CI 0.10-0.22), 0.09 (95% CI 0.04-0.19 and 0.10 (95% CI 0.06-0.15), respectively. PPP is no longer prevalent at 3-months and onwards post-operatively. Ablation is associated with a higher risk of PPP than enucleation (RR 2.19, 95% CI 1.04-4.62) and TURP (RR 2.40, 95% CI 1.03-5.62) in observational studies but not RCTs; and there were no significant differences in the rates of PPP upon comparison of other modalities. CONCLUSION: PPP is common after transurethral benign prostatic hyperplasia surgery. Patients undergoing ablation had a higher rate of post-intervention PPP than those undergoing enucleation and TURP in observational studies.

Transition from open partial nephrectomy directly to robotic surgery: experience of a single surgeon to achieve TRIFECTA

ABSTRACT Introduction: Recent data suggest that robotic platform has become the most accessible minimal invasive surgery even for surgeons without previous training in laparoscopy. Laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN) is a well-stablished procedure, however, with high level of complexity and long learning curve that limit its use. Objective: To describe safety, efficiency and learning curve of a single surgeon without previous experience in LPN to reach "TRIFECTA" at robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN). Patients and Methods: This is a retrospective study, with prospective data collection of 101 patients submitted to RAPN by a single surgeon. In order to analyze the learning curve, sample was chronologically divided in two phases: first phase: P1: 50 first patients, second phase: P2: 51 subsequent patients. TRIFECTA was defined as: ischemia time lower than 25 minutes, negative surgical margin and absence of severe complications (Clavien >2). Results: Mean age of patients was 54 years (SD=11.85), median tumor size was 32mm (SD=17) and surgery was performed with zero ischemia time in 33.6% of patients (29.8% at P1 and 40.9% at P2). Demographic data of patients were similar between both groups, except tumor size (P1=27.5mm vs. P2=35.3mm; p=0.02) and body mass index (BMI) (P1=26.6kg/m2 vs. P2=29kg/m2; p=0.03). Rate of bleeding, surgical time, presence of positive margin and peri-operatory surgical complications were similar in both phases. TRIFECTA was higher in P2 in relation to P1 (P1: 58% vs. P2: 87.8%; p=0.002) and median time of hot ischemia was significantly lower at P2 (P1: 17.3 vs. P2: 11.7; p=0.02). At multivariate analysis independent factors related to TRIFECTA included: chronological phase (OR 10.74; 95% IC: 1.63-70.53; p=0.013) and tumor size (OR 0.95; 95% IC: 0.91-0.99; p=0.024). Conclusion: RAPN seems to be safe and efficient with good functional and oncological results (TRIFECTA) since the beginning. Experience improvement was related to treatment of larger tumors, higher proportion of patients with zero ischemia and higher rate of TRIFECTA.

Transition from open partial nephrectomy directly to robotic surgery: experience of a single surgeon to achieve "TRIFECTA".

INTRODUCTION: Recent data suggest that robotic platform has become the most accessible minimal invasive surgery even for surgeons without previous training in laparoscopy. Laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN) is a well-stablished procedure, however, with high level of complexity and long learning curve that limit its use. OBJECTIVE: To describe safety, efficiency and learning curve of a single surgeon without previous experience in LPN to reach "TRIFECTA" at robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN). PATIENTS AND METHODS: This is a retrospective study, with prospective data collection of 101 patients submitted to RAPN by a single surgeon. In order to analyze the learning curve, sample was chronologically divided in two phases: first phase: P1: 50 first patients, second phase: P2: 51 subsequent patients. TRIFECTA was defined as: ischemia time lower than 25 minutes, negative surgical margin and absence of severe complications (Clavien >2). RESULTS: Mean age of patients was 54 years (SD=11.85), median tumor size was 32mm (SD=17) and surgery was performed with zero ischemia time in 33.6% of patients (29.8% at P1 and 40.9% at P2). Demographic data of patients were similar between both groups, except tumor size (P1=27.5mm vs. P2=35.3mm; p=0.02) and body mass index (BMI) (P1=26.6kg/m2 vs. P2=29kg/m2; p=0.03). Rate of bleeding, surgical time, presence of positive margin and peri-operatory surgical complications were similar in both phases. TRIFECTA was higher in P2 in relation to P1 (P1: 58% vs. P2: 87.8%; p=0.002) and median time of hot ischemia was significantly lower at P2 (P1: 17.3 vs. P2: 11.7; p=0.02). At multivariate analysis independent factors related to TRIFECTA included: chronological phase (OR 10.74; 95% IC: 1.63-70.53; p=0.013) and tumor size (OR 0.95; 95% IC: 0.91-0.99; p=0.024). CONCLUSION: RAPN seems to be safe and efficient with good functional and oncological results (TRIFECTA) since the beginning. Experience improvement was related to treatment of larger tumors, higher proportion of patients with zero ischemia and higher rate of TRIFECTA.

Can multiparametric magnetic resonance of the prostate avoid biopsies in patients with elevated PSA and surgical indication for benign prostatic enlargement?

INTRODUCTION: To evaluate the clinical dilemma of men with surgical indication due to benign prostatic enlargement (BPE) and concomitant elevated PSA, we analysed if multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) could safely prescind the prostate biopsy. METHODS: Forty men with surgical indication due to BPE and concomitantly elevated PSA levels were prospectively enrolled and retrospectively analysed. All patients underwent 1.5 Tesla mpMRI prior to TRUS-guided biopsies. In cases where mpMRI was PIRADS 3 with focal lesions, PIRADS 4 or PIRADS 5, additional fragments were obtained with the fusion guided technique. Biopsy histopathological results were used as the standard of reference. Two scenarios were evaluated: scenario 1, considering mpMRI PIRADS 1 and 2 as negative; and scenario 2, considering PIRADS 1, 2 and 3 as negative. Clinically significant prostate cancer (CsPCa) was defined as ISUP ≥ 2. RESULTS: Median age was 68 years, median PSA was 9.41 (6.40-19.54) and median prostatic volume was 116.5 cc (IQR 86.5-155). Scenario 1 mpMRI sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV and accuracy for any prostate cancer on prostate biopsy was 76.9%, 63%, 50%, 85% and 67.5%. For csPCa, they were 87.5%, 59.4%, 35%, 95% and 65%, respectively, for the same measures. Scenario 2 the sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV and accuracy of mpMRI for any prostate cancer on prostate biopsy was 53.8%, 96.3%, 87.5%, 81.3% and 82.5%. For csPCa, they were 75%, 93.8%, 75%, 93.8% and 90%, respectively, for the same measures. CONCLUSION: Prostate mpMRI may prevent unnecessary biopsies in patients with elevated PSA and surgical indications due to BPE, given its high negative predictive value.

Same sized three-way indwelling urinary catheters from various manufacturers present different irrigation and drainage properties.

BACKGROUND: The three-way indwelling urinary catheter (IUC) is used for continuous bladder irrigation and is considered the cornerstone for clinical treatment of patients with macroscopic hematuria. Although there seems to be a logical relationship between catheter size and efficacy of irrigation and drainage, we often observe relevant variations in these parameters between different brands of catheters available on the market. The aim of this study was to compare the mechanical properties of different models of latex and silicone three-way catheters in an in vitro setting that resembles clinical use. METHODS: Three different three-way catheters were evaluated: Gold Silicone-Coated Rusch® (Model A), 100% Silicone Rusch® (Model B) and X-Flow Coloplast® (Model C). Irrigation channel, drainage channel, and overall cross-sectional areas were all digitally measured. Irrigation and drainage channel flow rates were measured and correlated with their corresponding catheter cross-sectional area values. RESULTS: Different catheter models of the same caliber have different internal irrigation port diameters, internal drainage port diameters and internal cuff port diameters. The Model C IUC internal irrigation port diameter is significantly larger than models A and B. When flows were evaluated, we found that in the same model, the increase in caliber of the IUC was related to an increased drainage flow, but not to an increased irrigation flow. CONCLUSION: Precise measurements of the internal architecture of the three-way catheter, rather than relying on the caliber itself, could assist surgeons in choosing the best product for each specific patient, while minimizing complications.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of the safety and efficacy of endoscopic enucleation and non-enucleation procedures for benign prostatic enlargement.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: This study aims to evaluate safety and efficacy of different endoscopic enucleation of the prostate (EEP) techniques, by comparing laser (L-EEP) and non-laser (NL-EEP) procedures; and EEP versus other endoscopic non-enucleation (ENE) surgeries for benign prostatic enlargement (BPE). METHODS: A systematic literature review was performed for randomized clinical trials (RCT) that compared different endoscopic treatments for BPE, between 1982 and 2018. Two analyses were performed: (1) EEP versus ENE; and (2) L-EEP versus NL-EEP. Efficacy was assessed using perioperative data (removed tissue volume, operation time (OT), catheterization time, length of hospital stay); and functional outcomes [IPSS, IIEF-5, maximum flow rate (Qmax), postvoid residual volume (PVR), quality of life (QoL)]. Safety was assessed through complications (Hb and sodium decrease, transfusion rate). Meta-analyses were performed using RevMan® 5.3. RESULTS: Out of 35 RCTs (4066 patients), 31 (3909 patients) evaluated EEP versus ENE, and 4 (327 patients) evaluated L-EEP versus NL-EEP. EEP presented greater Qmax. Also, EEP presented less catheterization time, length of hospital stay, Hb decrease, transfusion rate. OT and bladder injury were greater with EEP. There were no significant differences between other items. L-EEP removed more tissue volume, with a smaller drop in serum Hb. There were no significant differences in other perioperative data, functional outcomes, complications. CONCLUSIONS: EEP and ENE are effective and safe for treating BPE. Perioperative data favors EEP. Statistical differences, with questionable clinical significance in functional outcomes and complication rates were encountered. L-EEP provides greater tissue removal and smaller Hb decrease then NL-EEP, with similar functional profiles.

Alternative Therapies to Bacillus Calmette-Guérin Shortage for Nonmuscle Invasive Bladder Cancer in Brazil and Other Underdeveloped Countries: Management Considerations.

Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) plays a cornerstone role in the management of nonmuscle invasive urothelial carcinoma of the bladder. However, there has been a worldwide intermittent BCG shortage in recent years that may affect the care of patients with bladder cancer and pose difficult clinical decisions to urologists and clinical oncologists. This literature review aims to clarify alternatives to BCG during a shortage and propose measures to replace BCG, mainly in Brazil and probably in other low- and middle-income countries, where not all studied and commonly suggested treatments are available.

Should aspirin be suspended prior to robot-assisted radical prostatectomy? A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Low-dose aspirin use has been correlated with an increased risk of bleeding and overall complications in surgical and invasive diagnostic procedures. In this review, our aim was to analyze the current literature on whether robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) is feasible and safe in patients taking low-dose aspirin perioperatively. METHODS: A systematic review was performed identifying a total of 767 studies, published between January 2000 and September 2017, with five of these studies meeting the inclusion criteria for the meta-analysis, totalizing 1481 patients underwent RARP. Patients were divided into two groups: taking aspirin (group A) and those not taking aspirin (group B) perioperatively. RESULTS: There were no significant differences between groups in the overall [group A 10.7% versus group B 15.7%, risk ratio (RR) 0.83; p = 0.45; I 2 = 0%] or major complication rates (group A 1% versus group B 3%, RR 0.98; p = 0.98; I² = 0%), rate of cardiovascular events (group A 1.4% and group B 0.5%, RR 2.06; p = 0.24; I 2 = 9%), blood loss (group A 278 ml versus group B 307 ml, SMD -0.12; p = 0.91; I 2 = 96%), or hospital length of stay [group A 4 days (3-5) and group B 4 days (3-4), SMD -0.09; p = 0.52; I² = 0%]. There was a slightly higher blood-transfusion rate in group A (2.6%) versus group B (1.6%) (RR, 5.05; p = 0.04; I 2 = 0%). CONCLUSION: Continued aspirin use in the perioperative period does not correlate with an increase in surgical morbidity, blood loss, or hospital length of stay. There was a slightly higher blood-transfusion rate in patients taking low-dose aspirin (group A) perioperatively.

Analysis of the association between bladder carcinoma and arsenic concentration in soil and water in southeast Brazil

ABSTRACT In approximately 50% of cases of bladder carcinoma, an associated predisposing factor can be established. The main factors are exposure to tobacco, arsenic (As) ore and aromatic compounds. Arsenic is a metalloid with a low average concentration in the earth's crust, and one of the most dangerous substances for human health. The present study aims to evaluate the incidence of hospitalization and mortality from bladder neoplasia and its possible association with As concentration in water and soil in two of the most critical regions of Brazil: the states of São Paulo and Minas Gerais. We have investigated bladder cancer hospitalization and mortality in the states of Sao Paulo and Minas Gerais during 2010-2014. Water and soil samples were analyzed and As concentrations were established. Data were obtained through the Department of Informatics of the Brazilian Unified Health System. Correlation was made with water samples from São Paulo and with data on soil analysis from Minas Gerais. The results revealed no direct association in the distinctive municipalities. Areas with high environmental As concentration had a low bladder cancer rate, while areas with normal as levels had similar cancer rates. The quantitative variables did not present a normal distribution (p < 0.05). In conclusion, we did not observe a correlation between as concentration in water or soil and bladder cancer's hospitalization and mortality rates in the states of São Paulo and Minas Gerais.

Analysis of the association between bladder carcinoma and arsenic concentration in soil and water in southeast Brazil.

In approximately 50% of cases of bladder carcinoma, an associated predisposing factor can be established. The main factors are exposure to tobacco, arsenic (As) ore and aromatic compounds. Arsenic is a metalloid with a low average concentration in the earth's crust, and one of the most dangerous substances for human health. The present study aims to evaluate the incidence of hospitalization and mortality from bladder neoplasia and its possible association with As concentration in water and soil in two of the most critical regions of Brazil: the states of São Paulo and Minas Gerais. We have investigated bladder cancer hospitalization and mortality in the states of São Paulo and Minas Gerais during 2010-2014. Water and soil samples were analyzed and As concentrations were established. Data were obtained through the Department of Informatics of the Brazilian Unified Health System. Correlation was made with water samples from São Paulo and with data on soil analysis from Minas Gerais. The results revealed no direct association in the distinctive municipalities. Areas with high environmental As concentration had a low bladder cancer rate, while areas with normal as levels had similar cancer rates. The quantitative variables did not present a normal distribution (p < 0.05). In conclusion, we did not observe a correlation between as concentration in water or soil and bladder cancer's hospitalization and mortality rates in the states of São Paulo and Minas Gerais.

Sensibilidade e especificidade da citologia anal com escova no diagnóstico das lesões clínicas provocadas pelo papilomavírus humano, comparando uma com duas coletas / Sensibility and specifity of anal cytology with cytobrush in the HPV induced clinical lesions diagnosis, comparing one to two smears

OBJETIVO: comparar os resultados da coleta única com duas amostras para avaliar se haverá melhora da sensibilidade e especificidade do exame. MÉTODO: Foram 112 doentes masculinos HIV-positivo com doença anal pregressa ou atual pelo Papilomavírus humano (HPV). As lesões HPV induzidas foram observadas em 58 deles. Colhemos material do canal anal utilizando duas escovas (cytobrush) Comparamos estatisticamente os resultados da primeira amostra com a soma das duas coletas. RESULTADOS: dos 58 doentes com lesões clínicas, a primeira amostra confirmou a doença em 40 (69 por cento) e a soma das duas coletas revelou lesões em 51 (88 por cento). Os resultados mostraram sensibilidade de 69 por cento com a primeira coleta e 88 por cento quando somadas as duas amostras. Essa diferença foi confirmada estatisticamente. A especificidade foi menor para as duas amostras, porém sem diferença estatística. CONCLUSÃO: Concluímos que a sensibilidade foi maior e a especificidade foi semelhante quando os resultados foram obtidos com a somação das duas amostras da citologia anal.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to know if two smears may have better sensibility and specificity than a unique smear for anal cytology. METHOD: There were 112 patients, males, HIV-positive, with current or previous anal HPV-induced lesions. Proctological examination revealed clinical disease in the anal canal of 58 of them. Smears were collect with cytobrushes. We compared results of the first smear to a sum of this with a second one. RESULTS: First smear was positive in 40 patients (69 percent), and with both smears this incidence reached 88 percent. Results showed sensibility of 69 percent to the unique smear, and 88 percent when both were summed. Statistics revealed significant difference. Specificity was higher when both smears were summed, but statistics showed no difference. CONCLUSION: We concluded sensibility of anal cytology was better and specificity was similar when results were obtained with a sum of two smears.