Low-energy Shockwave Therapy in the Management of Wound Healing Following Fournier's Gangrene.

We report on postoperative management of wound healing in four cases of Fournier's gangrene successfully treated with low-intensity shockwave therapy (LI-ESWT). In three cases, LI-ESWT (3 sessions per week with 2000 shockwaves at 3 Hz applied at 0.25 mJ/mm2) was able to close wound dehiscence secondary to plastic surgery with skin flaps. In one patient, LI-ESWT resulted in complete closure of an extensive wound with restoration of the local scrotal and penile skin. This is the first report of successful application of LI-ESWT for this indication. Restoration of local skin rather than wound closure by fibrous tissue could be related to promotion of stem cells, which has been discussed previously for other indications, such as treatment of chronic ulcers and restoration of the pelvic floor.

Evaluation of the "Teaching Guide for Basic Laparoscopic Skills" as a stand-alone educational tool for hands-on training sessions: a pilot study.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Standardization of hands-on training (HoT) has profoundly impacted the educational field in the last decade. To provide quality training sessions on a global scale, the European School of Urology Training group developed a teaching guide for tutors in 2015. Our study aims to understand whether this guide alone can provide information enough to match the performance improvement guaranteed by an expert tutor. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 4 randomized groups of participants underwent HoT sessions with different teaching modalities: an expert surgeon (group 1), an expert E-BLUS tutor (group 2), E-BLUS guide alone (group 3), no tutor (group 4). Groups 1 and 2 were respectively provided with two different tutors to avoid biases related to personal tutor ability. Along the training session, each participant could perform five trials on two E-BLUS tasks: Peg transfer and Knot tying. During trials 1 and 5, completion time and number of errors were recorded for analysis with Pi-score algorithm. The average per-group Pi-scores were then compared to measure different performance improvement results. RESULTS: 60 participants from Italy were enrolled and randomized into four groups of 15. Pi-scores recorded on Peg transfer task were 24,6 (group 1), 26,4 (group 2), 42,2 (group 3), 11,7 (group 4). Pi-scores recorded on Knot tying task were 33,2 (group 1), 31,3 (group 2), 37,5 (group 3), 18,6 (group 4). CONCLUSION: Compared to a human tutor, standardized teaching with the EBLUS guide may produce similar performance improvement. This evidence opens doors to automated teaching and to several novelties in hands-on training.

[50 years of minimally invasive surgery in Urology]. / 50 Jahre Minimal-invasive Chirurgie in der Urologie.

The development of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) in Urology includes transurethral techniques, endourology and extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy, uroradiology as well as laparoscopy and robot-assisted suregry. Based on personal experiences with the introduction of minimal-invasiven procedures since the late seventees we present a historical analysis of the literature aiming to work out the most important milestones of MIS in Urology.The drastic development of MIS in Urology was promoted by the introduction of digital videotechnology, laser technology, advances in electronic surgery together with the excellent performance of mainly German manufacturers of medical devices anf instruments. In this scenario, the good cooperation between urologists, engineers, and interventional radiologists was of upmost importance.The introduction of Robotics led to a decrease of importance of classical laparoscopy. Nevertheless laparoscopy and retroperitoneoscopy underwent significant technological improvements during the last decade including introduction 3D-HD-videosystems and ergonomic platforms (ETHOS-chairR). The monopoly of robotic surgical devices will end this year, because key-patents of Intuitive Surgical will expire. This will lead to an interesing competition in among new manufacturers of robotic surgical devices, which however have to prove that they meet the high quality standard of the current Da Vinci-series. There are also robotic systems used in endourology: Avicenna RoboflexR and the AquaBeamR-System for robot-assisted aquablation therapy of the prostate. While RoboflexR improves the ergonomics of flexbile ureteroscopy, AquaBeamR may for the first time eliminate the surgeon.

Undiagnosed paraganglioma; A challenge during laparoscopic retroperitoneal resection.

OBJECTIVE: Report our experience of the management of a patient with undiagnosed retroperitoneal paraganglioma and the intraoperative complications that the theatre team faced. CASE REPORT: We present a case of a 36-year-old patient who during oncological follow-up for a previous diagnosis of parotid acinar cell carcinoma was incidentally identified as having an interaortocaval tumour. Following routine preoperative assessment the patient was arranged to undergo a laparoscopic retroperitoneal tumour resection. After minimal tumour manipulation the patient developed cardiac rhythm abnormalities and became hypertensive. The tumour was successfully removed laparoscopically after a cautious inter- aortocaval dissection. Abruptly, prior to extraction of the tumour containing endobag, the patient developed cardiac arrest. Following 35 minutes of life support measures there was a return of spontaneous circulation. The endobag was laparoscopically removed from the abdominal cavity 24 hours later using the initial operative port sites. The patient´s progression was satisfactory and he could be discharged six days postoperatively. CONCLUSIONS: Asymptomatic undiagnosed paragangliomas represent a real challenge during laparoscopic operations. Haemodynamic changes and life-threatening events can arise acutely intraoperatively, where an immediate and coordinated response of the whole theatre team may be required to avoid fatal outcome.

[The future of laparoscopy and robotics in urology]. / Zukunft der Laparoskopie und Robotik in der Urologie.

The introduction of robotics led to a decrease in the importance of classical laparoscopy. Nevertheless laparoscopy and retroperitoneoscopy underwent significant technological improvements during the last decade, including introduction of 4k Ultra HD video technology, 3D-HD-videosystems, minaturised instruments, advanced sealing devices, instruments with 7 degrees of freedom, and ergonomic platforms Ethos Chair®. The monopoly of robotic surgical devices will end in 2019, because key patents of Intuitive Surgical will expire. This will lead to an interesing competition among new manufacturers of robotic surgical devices, which however have to prove that they meet the high quality standard of the current da Vinci series, such as type of console, arrangement of robotic arms, technology of 3D-videosystem, and quality and degrees of freedom of end effectors. There are also robotic systems used in endourology: Avicenna Roboflex® and the AquaBeam®-System for robot-assisted aquablation therapy of the prostate. While Roboflex improves the ergonomics of flexbile ureteroscopy, AquaBeam may for the first time eliminate the surgeon.

Retroperitoneal laparoscopic non-dismembered pyeloplasty for uretero-pelvic junction obstruction due to crossing vessels: A matched-paired analysis and review of literature.

OBJECTIVE: To compare laparoscopic Anderson-Hynes pyeloplasty (LAHP) and retroperitoneal laparoscopic YV-pyeloplasty (LRYVP) in ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJ) in presence of a crossing vessels (CV). METHODS: Our database showed 380 UPJO-cases,who underwent laparoscopic retroperitoneal surgery during the last 2 decades including 206 non-dismembered LRYVP, 157 dismembered pyeloplasties LAHP, and 17 cases of laparoscopic ureterolysis. Among them 198 cases were suitable for a matched-pair (2:1) analysis comparing laparoscopic retroperitoneal non-dismembered LRYVP (Group 1, n = 131) and dismembered LAHP (Group 2, n = 67) in presence of a crossing vessel. Patients were matched according to age, gender, kidney functions, and obstruction grade. Complications were graded according to modified Clavien-classification. RESULTS: Comparative data were similar between both groups (LRYVP vs. LAHP) including mean operating time (112 min vs. 114 min), complication rates (4.2% vs. 7.3%) mainly Grade 1-2 according to Clavien classification, and success rates (90% vs. 89%). These results reflected in the reviewed literature indicate that LRYVP provides the advantage of minimal dissection in case of CV with similar outcome. However, redundant pelvis and anteriorly crossing vessels still require a dismembered pyeloplasty LAHP. CONCLUSION: LRYVP has achieved similar results compared with the previous golden standard of open surgery, especially in case of crossing vessels apart from presence of a redundant pelvis or anteriorly crossing vessel. This can be further improved when using the small access retroperitoneoscopic technique respectively mini-laparoscopy.

Future of robotic surgery in urology.

OBJECTIVES: To provide a comprehensive overview of the current status of the field of robotic systems for urological surgery and discuss future perspectives. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A non-systematic literature review was performed using PubMed/Medline search electronic engines. Existing patents for robotic devices were researched using the Google search engine. Findings were also critically analysed taking into account the personal experience of the authors. RESULTS: The relevant patents for the first generation of the da Vinci platform will expire in 2019. New robotic systems are coming onto the stage. These can be classified according to type of console, arrangement of robotic arms, handles and instruments, and other specific features (haptic feedback, eye-tracking). The Telelap ALF-X robot uses an open console with eye-tracking, laparoscopy-like handles with haptic feedback, and arms mounted on separate carts; first clinical trials with this system were reported in 2016. The Medtronic robot provides an open console using three-dimensional high-definition video technology and three arms. The Avatera robot features a closed console with microscope-like oculars, four arms arranged on one cart, and 5-mm instruments with six degrees of freedom. The REVO-I consists of an open console and a four-arm arrangement on one cart; the first experiments with this system were published in 2016. Medicaroid uses a semi-open console and three robot arms attached to the operating table. Clinical trials of the SP 1098-platform using the da Vinci Xi for console-based single-port surgery were reported in 2015. The SPORT robot has been tested in animal experiments for single-port surgery. The SurgiBot represents a bedside solution for single-port surgery providing flexible tube-guided instruments. The Avicenna Roboflex has been developed for robotic flexible ureteroscopy, with promising early clinical results. CONCLUSIONS: Several console-based robots for laparoscopic multi- and single-port surgery are expected to come to market within the next 5 years. Future developments in the field of robotic surgery are likely to focus on the specific features of robotic arms, instruments, console, and video technology. The high technical standards of four da Vinci generations have set a high bar for upcoming devices. Ultimately, the implementation of these upcoming systems will depend on their clinical applicability and costs. How these technical developments will facilitate surgery and whether their use will translate into better outcomes for our patients remains to be determined.

In-vivo assessment of barbed suturing thread with regard to tissue reaction and material absorption in a rat model.

AIM: The laparoscopic approach in urological surgery demands a high degree of skill in intracorporeal suturing and knot tying. In an effort to reduce the amount of time required to perform a suture, new materials have been developed that through selfanchorage distribute tension more evenly across the suture and also eliminate the need of knot tying. The goal of this study was to assess the in vivo tissue response to a novel material (V-Loc tm; Covidien) in comparison to established materials (Vicryl, PDS II), in the case of bladder suturing, in a rat model. METHODS: The study included 48 male Wistar rats. All underwent a median abdominal incision, with a 1cm cystotomy, followed by a running suture. The suture material used was either V-Loc absorbable self anchoring thread, Vicryl threaded absorbable suture or monofilament absorbable suture. The abdominal cavity and the bladder suture were macroscopically evaluated at the rats' scheduled death at 3 and 6 weeks. The bladder wall was microscopically assessed by a pathologist, with regard to tissue reaction and suture material degradation. RESULTS: All rats survived the procedure, with the abdominal scar fully healed at week 2. There were no signs of infection or lithiasis during the observation. Macroscopically, at 3 weeks, the suture material was recognizable and visible in all cases, with special mention that the V-Loc thread was considerably more rigid, retaining its shape almost entirely, and provoked more adhesion of the surrounding tissue. At 6 weeks, the suture was indistinguishable in the bladder wall in the case of monofilament absorbable material, barely visible in the case of Vicryl, while the aspect of the V-Loc suture resembled the one at 3 weeks, with the material still clearly visible in the bladder wall, shape almost entirely maintained, and surrounding tissue adherence. Microscopically, at 3 weeks and 6 weeks, all bladder walls examined had regained their structure. At 3 weeks, the monofilament absorbable suture showed intense tissue reaction, with the material already in phagocytosis; at 6 weeks, no clear evidence of leftover material was observed. At 3 weeks, the Vicryl material showed moderate tissue reaction, with phagocytosis initiated between the strands of the material; at 6 weeks, the material was almost entirely absorbed, but with a clear leftover tissue reaction. In the case of the V-Loc suture, due to the hardness of the thread, the material itself could not be cut for analysis with the bladder wall, and the examination could only involve the bladder wall and marks of the thread. Thus, the tissue reaction was minimal, as was the presence of phagocytes at the suture site. The material showed little, if any, signs of absorption after 6 weeks. CONCLUSION: The materials tested all proved equally effective in suturing the bladder wall in a rat model. However, the novel barbed thread proved a consistently low in-vivo absorption rate, while maintaining its rigidity over time. More research is needed to assess the possible clinical implications of these findings.

Small-incision access retroperitoneoscopic technique (SMART) pyeloplasty in adult patients: comparison of cosmetic and post-operative pain outcomes in a matched-pair analysis with standard retroperitoneoscopy: preliminary report.

OBJECTIVES: To present small-incision access retroperitoneoscopic technique pyeloplasty (SMARTp), a novel mini-laparoscopic approach for management of uretero-pelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) in adults including comparison with the standard retroperitoneoscopic technique (SRTp). METHODS: In a non-randomised study, we matched 12 adult patients treated from August to November 2010 by SMARTp with 12 patients treated with SRTp from January to November 2010. Mini-laparoscopic retroperitoneal space was created with a home-made 6-mm balloon trocar. One 6-mm (for 5-mm 30° telescope) and two 3.5-mm trocars (for 3-mm working instrument) were used. SRTp was performed with 11- and 6-mm trocar. Primary endpoints included evaluation of cosmetic appearance and post-operative pain evaluated respectively by the patient and observer scar assessment scale (POSAS) and analogue visual scale (VAS). Secondary endpoints were comparison between operative and functional parameters. RESULTS: Cosmetic cumulative results were statistically significant in favour of SMARTp (POSAS: 37.9 vs. 52.4; P = 0.002). A better trend has been shown by post-operative pain (first to fourth day VAS), although not statistically significant (4.2 vs. 4.9, P = 0.891). No differences were recorded in terms of operative time, pre- and post-operative Hb difference, DJ-stent removal and resistive index (RI) improvement. The SMARTp group showed a faster drain removal (2.4 vs. 3.4 day, P = 0.004) and discharge (4.5 vs. 5.4 day P = 0.017). CONCLUSIONS: Preliminary data support SMARTp as safe procedures in experienced hands, providing better cosmetic results compared to SRTp. Further studies and clinical randomised trial performed in a larger population sample are requested.

Complications in 2200 consecutive laparoscopic radical prostatectomies: standardised evaluation and analysis of learning curves.

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP) represents an established treatment modality for localised prostate cancer. OBJECTIVE: To report standardised complication rates for LRP, evaluate the development of complication rates over time, and show changes within the learning curves of laparoscopic surgeons. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: We conducted a standardised analysis of 2200 consecutive patients who underwent LRP between 1999 and 2008 at a single institution. INTERVENTION: LRP was performed using a transperitoneal (n=871) or extraperitoneal (n=1329) retrograde Heilbronn technique. Five surgeons operated on 96% of the patients. MEASUREMENTS: Complications were classified according to the modified Clavien system. Total complication rates and changes over time were analysed. Three generations of surgeons were defined for evaluation of learning curves. RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS: Minor complications occurred in 21.7% of patients (Clavien 1: 6.8%; Clavien 2: 14.9%); anaemia requiring transfusion (10.4%) dominated. Early reinterventions were necessary in 6.7% of patients (Clavien 3a: 3.6%; Clavien 3b: 1.5%; Clavien 4a: 1.5%; Clavien 4b: 0.1%). Late Clavien 3b complications occurred in 4.7% of patients-most of them anastomotic strictures. Mortality was 0.1% (Clavien 5). There was a significant decrease in overall complication rates over time, resulting predominantly from decreasing Clavien 1-2 events. Learning curves of third-generation surgeons plateaued earlier compared to the first generation (250 vs 700 cases). The limitation of this study is that data concerning comorbidity were not included. CONCLUSIONS: LRP is a safe procedure characterised by an acceptable profile of complications. Specifically, few major complications are reported. According to the complication rates, the learning curve of third-generation surgeons is significantly shorter compared to first- and second-generation surgeons.

Laparoscopic and open stone surgery.

INTRODUCTION: Due to the increasing spread and technical enhancement of endourological methods, open surgery for renal and ureteral calculi almost disappeared. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Based on an actual review of literature, we describe indications, technique and clinical importance of the open and laparoscopic management of urolithiasis. RESULTS: In Europe and Northern America, the surgical therapy of urolithiasis only plays a role in cases of very large or hard stones, after failure of shock wave lithotripsy, percutaneous nephrolithotripsy or ureteroscopic stone removal and in cases of abnormal renal anatomy. However, in emerging markets with different structures and funding of the health care system and with a limited access to endourological procedures, these techniques still have a higher importance. Particularly in Europe laparoscopic surgery is emerging because calculi can be removed from almost all locations within kidney and ureter using a transperitoneal or retroperitoneal access. Functional outcomes and complication rates are comparable to open surgery. The benefits of laparoscopy are: less postoperative pain, shorter hospital stay, faster reconvalescence, and better cosmetic results. CONCLUSIONS: Although open and laparoscopic removal of renal and ureteral calculi is only performed in a limited number of cases in daily urological practice, they may be superior to the endourological techniques in some circumstances. Therefore, they should be considered as a part of the urological armamentarium.