Performance evaluate of different chemometrics formalisms used for prostate cancer diagnosis by NMR-based metabolomics.

INTRODUCTION: In general, two characteristics are ever present in NMR-based metabolomics studies: (1) they are assays aiming to classify the samples in different groups, and (2) the number of samples is smaller than the feature (chemical shift) number. It is also common to observe imbalanced datasets due to the sampling method and/or inclusion criteria. These situations can cause overfitting. However, appropriate feature selection and classification methods can be useful to solve this issue. OBJECTIVES: Investigate the performance of metabolomics models built from the association between feature selectors, the absence of feature selection, and classification algorithms, as well as use the best performance model as an NMR-based metabolomic method for prostate cancer diagnosis. METHODS: We evaluated the performance of NMR-based metabolomics models for prostate cancer diagnosis using seven feature selectors and five classification formalisms. We also obtained metabolomics models without feature selection. In this study, thirty-eight volunteers with a positive diagnosis of prostate cancer and twenty-three healthy volunteers were enrolled. RESULTS: Thirty-eight models obtained were evaluated using AUROC, accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and kappa's index values. The best result was obtained when Genetic Algorithm was used with Linear Discriminant Analysis with 0.92 sensitivity, 0.83 specificity, and 0.88 accuracy. CONCLUSION: The results show that the pick of a proper feature selection method and classification model, and a resampling method can avoid overfitting in a small metabolomic dataset. Furthermore, this approach would decrease the number of biopsies and optimize patient follow-up. 1H NMR-based metabolomics promises to be a non-invasive tool in prostate cancer diagnosis.

Prediction of semen analysis parameter improvement after varicocoelectomy using 1 H NMR-based metabonomics assays.

BACKGROUND: Varicocoele is the most common correctable cause of male infertility; however, predicting varicocoelectomy outcomes is difficult. "Omics" techniques have been increasingly used to develop new diagnostic and prognostics tools for several male infertility causes, and could be applied to study varicocoele. OBJECTIVES: The objective is to create metabolomics models capable of segregating men who improved semen analysis (SA) parameters or achieved natural pregnancy after microsurgical varicocoelectomy (MV) from those who did not, using hydrogen-1 nuclear magnetic resonance (1 H NMR) spectra of seminal plasma of pre-operative samples. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We recruited 29 infertile men with palpable varicocoele. 1 H NMR spectra of seminal plasma were obtained from pre-operative samples and used to create metabonomics models. Improvement was defined as an increase in the total motile progressive sperm count (TMC) of the post-operative SA when compared to the baseline, and pregnancy was assessed for 24 months after MV. RESULTS: Using linear discriminant analysis (LDA), we created a model that discriminated the men who improved SA from those who did not with accuracy of 93.1%. Another model segregated men who achieved natural pregnancy from men who did not. We identified seven metabolites that were important for group segregation: caprylate, isoleucine, N-acetyltyrosine, carnitine, N-acetylcarnitine, creatine, and threonine. DISCUSSION: We described the use of metabonomics model to predict with high accuracy the outcomes of MV in infertile men with varicocoele. The most important metabolites for group segregation are involved in energy metabolism and oxidative stress response, highlighting the pivotal role of these mechanisms in the pathophysiology of varicocoele. CONCLUSIONS: 1 H NMR spectroscopy of seminal plasma can be used in conjunction with multivariate statistical tools to create metabonomics models useful to segregate men with varicocoele based on the reproductive outcomes of MV. These models may help counseling infertile men with varicocoele regarding their prognosis after surgery.

Injectable semi rigid penile prosthesis: study in rabbits and future perspectives.

BACKGROUND: Penile prostheses are the third option in the treatment of erectile dysfunction, however, despite their proven effectiveness, the occurrence of infections, advanced age of patients and comorbidities are the main limiting factors for this treatment modality. In the continuous search for biointegrated, clinically durable and minimally invasive treatment options, a possible model of penile prosthesis was sought through the use of intracavernous bacterial cellulose (BC) gel, in an experimental model of orchiectomized rabbits. METHODS: Thirty adult New Zealand rabbits were equally distributed into three groups: BC; vehicle and control. Each group was then subdivided according to the follow-up time of 3 and 6 months. Bilateral orchiectomy was performed 3 weeks before injection in the BC and vehicle groups. Pachymetry measurements of the penile axis, diameter and length were performed in situ. Histomorphometry analyzes of the corpora cavernosa (CC), thickness of the tunica albuginea, cell density, collagen and elastic fibers post-injection were also performed, in addition to immunohistochemistry for newly formed vessels. RESULTS: The implant of BC increased both the length and thickness of the penis three and six months after the last injection, with a consequent increase in the diameter of the CC. On the other hand, the filling effect was not observed in the control and vehicle groups, confirming the degradation of this tissue after orchiectomy and the effectiveness of BC as a filling agent. Histomorphometry analyzes corroborate the mass effect of BC integrated into the tissue, permeated by predominantly lymphomononuclear inflammatory infiltrate, multinucleated giant foreign body cells, fibroblasts, elastic fibers and newly formed vessels, without degradation or loss of volume, even after six months of implantation. CONCLUSIONS: Biocompatibility and biointegration to the host tissue make BC a prosperous penile filling material, with local application and minimally invasive.

1H NMR-based metabonomics for infertility diagnosis in men with varicocele.

PURPOSE: "Omics" techniques have been used to understand and to identify biomarkers of male infertility. We report on the first metabonomics models created to diagnose varicocele and infertility among men with varicocele. METHODS: We recruited 35 infertile men with varicocele (VI group), 21 fertile men with varicocele (VF group) and 24 fertile men without varicocele (C group). All men underwent standard semen analysis, scrotal duplex ultrasonography, and sexual hormone level measurement. Hydrogen-1 nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) spectra of seminal plasma were used to create metabonomics models to discriminate between men with and without varicocele, and between fertile and infertile men with varicocele. RESULTS: Using the statistical formalisms partial least square discriminants analysis and genetic algorithm-based linear discriminant analysis (GA-LDA), we created two models that discriminated the three groups from each other with accuracy of 92.17%. We also created metabonomics models using orthogonal partial least square discriminants analysis and GA-LDA that discriminated VF group from VI group, with an accuracy of 94.64% and 100% respectively. We identified 19 metabolites that were important in group segregation: caprate, 2-hydroxy-3-methylvalerate, leucine, valine, 3-hydroxybutyrate, lactate, alanine, 4-aminobutyrate, isoleucine, citrate, methanol, glucose, glycosides, glycerol-3-phosphocoline, n-acetyltyrosine, glutamine, tyrosine, arginine, and uridine. CONCLUSIONS: 1HNMR-based metabonomics of seminal plasma can be used to create metabonomics models to discriminate between men with varicocele from those without varicocele, and between fertile men with varicocele from those infertile with varicocele. Furthermore, the most important metabolites for group segregation are involved in the oxidative stress caused by varicocele.

Artificial sphincter "BR - SL - AS 904" in the treatment of urinary incontinence after radical prostatectomy: efficacy, practicality and safety in a prospective and multicenter study

ABSTRACT Purpose: The objective of the present study is to test the efficiency and practicality of a new artificial sphincter "BR - SL - AS - 904" in the control of urinary incontinence in post - PR patients and to evaluate their complications. Patients and Methods: Fifteen patients with incontinence after one year of radical prostatectomy were included prospectively. All patients underwent artificial urethral sphincter (AUS) implant "BR - SL - AS - 904" according to established technique. Independent variables such as free urinary flow, PAD weight test, ICIQ - SF score and urinary symptoms through the IPSS score were compared in different follow-up moments. Results: Patients submitted to AUS implantation did not present trans - operative or post - operative complications related to the surgical act such as: infection, hematoma, erosion or urinary retention. Device was inert to the body during the follow-up, showing an excellent adaptation of the patients, besides the easy handling. The mean age was 68.20 years 40% of the patients had systemic arterial hypertension, 6.7% diabetes mellitus, 6.7% were hypertensive and diabetic, 13.4% were hypertensive, had diabetes and hypercholesterolemia and 26.7% patients had no comorbidities. It was evidenced that the urinary flow peak during the follow-up remained stable. Decreased averages and median PAD weight test were 135.19 to 75.72 and 106.00 to 23.50, respectively. The IPSS score decreased and the quality of life increased (12.33 to 3.40 and 2.50 to 3.20 respectively). The ICQF - SF questionnaire score also showed a decrease, ranging from 16, 71 to 7.33. Conclusion: The artificial sphincter implant "BR - SL - AS 904" was reproducible, safe and effective in the control of urinary incontinence in post - PR patients.

Artificial sphincter "BR - SL - AS 904" in the treatment of urinary incontinence after radical prostatectomy: efficacy, practicality and safety in a prospective and multicenter study.

PURPOSE: The objective of the present study is to test the efficiency and practicality of a new artificial sphincter "BR - SL - AS - 904" in the control of urinary incontinence in post - PR patients and to evaluate their complications. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Fifteen patients with incontinence after one year of radical prostatectomy were included prospectively. All patients underwent artificial urethral sphincter (AUS) implant "BR - SL - AS - 904" according to established technique. Independent variables such as free urinary flow, PAD weight test, ICIQ - SF score and urinary symptoms through the IPSS score were compared in different follow-up moments. RESULTS: Patients submitted to AUS implantation did not present trans - operative or post - operative complications related to the surgical act such as: infection, hematoma, erosion or urinary retention. Device was inert to the body during the follow-up, showing an excellent adaptation of the patients, besides the easy handling. The mean age was 68.20 years 40% of the patients had systemic arterial hypertension, 6.7% diabetes mellitus, 6.7% were hypertensive and diabetic, 13.4% were hypertensive, had diabetes and hypercholesterolemia and 26.7% patients had no comorbidities. It was evidenced that the urinary flow peak during the follow-up remained stable. Decreased averages and median PAD weight test were 135.19 to 75.72 and 106.00 to 23.50, respectively. The IPSS score decreased and the quality of life increased (12.33 to 3.40 and 2.50 to 3.20 respectively). The ICQF - SF questionnaire score also showed a decrease, ranging from 16, 71 to 7.33. CONCLUSION: The artificial sphincter implant "BR - SL - AS 904" was reproducible, safe and effective in the control of urinary incontinence in post - PR patients.

Bacterial cellulose to reinforce urethrovesical anastomosis. A translational study.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the efficacy of the cellulosic exopolysaccharide membrane (CEM) as a urethral reinforcement for urethrovesical anastomosis. METHODS: Twenty eight rabbits were submitted to urethrovesical anastomosis with or without CEM reinforcement. The animals were divided into 4 groups: C7, CEM7, C14 and CEM14: (C= only anastomosis or CEM = anastomosis + CEM), evaluated after 7 weeks, and 14 weeks. The biointegration and biocompatibility of CEM were evaluated according to stenosis, fistula, urethral wall thickness, urethral epithelium, rate of inflammation and vascularization. RESULTS: Between the two experimental groups, the difference in the number of stenosis or urinary fistula was not statistically significant. The morphometric analysis revealed preservation of urethral lumen, well adhered CEM without extrusion, a controlled inflammatory process and implant vascularization. The urothelium height remained constant over time after CEM reinforcement and the membrane wall was thicker, statistically, after 14 weeks. CONCLUSION: The absence of extrusion, stenosis or urinary fistula after 14 weeks of urethrovesical anastomosis demonstrates cellulosic exopolysaccharide membrane biocompatibility and biointegration with tendency to a thicker wall.

Bacterial cellulose to reinforce urethrovesical anastomosis. A translational study

Abstract Purpose: To evaluate the efficacy of the cellulosic exopolysaccharide membrane (CEM) as a urethral reinforcement for urethrovesical anastomosis. Methods: Twenty eight rabbits were submitted to urethrovesical anastomosis with or without CEM reinforcement. The animals were divided into 4 groups: C7, CEM7, C14 and CEM14: (C= only anastomosis or CEM = anastomosis + CEM), evaluated after 7 weeks, and 14 weeks. The biointegration and biocompatibility of CEM were evaluated according to stenosis, fistula, urethral wall thickness, urethral epithelium, rate of inflammation and vascularization. Results: Between the two experimental groups, the difference in the number of stenosis or urinary fistula was not statistically significant. The morphometric analysis revealed preservation of urethral lumen, well adhered CEM without extrusion, a controlled inflammatory process and implant vascularization. The urothelium height remained constant over time after CEM reinforcement and the membrane wall was thicker, statistically, after 14 weeks. Conclusion: The absence of extrusion, stenosis or urinary fistula after 14 weeks of urethrovesical anastomosis demonstrates cellulosic exopolysaccharide membrane biocompatibility and biointegration with tendency to a thicker wall.

Risk factors for mortality in fournier's gangrene in a general hospital: use of simplified founier gangrene severe index score (SFGSI)

ABSTRACT Objective To evaluate risk factors for mortality in patients with Fournier's gangrene (FG), with emphasis in the Simplified Fournier Gangrene Severe Index Score (SFGSI). Materials and Methods This was a cross-sectional study that was carried out from January 2010 to December 2014, with 124 patients treated for FG in a General Hospital. Several clinical and laboratory variables, including SFGSI, were evaluated and correlated with mortality through univariate analysis and logistic regression. Results Of the 124 patients, 99 were men (79.8%), the mean age was 50.8±19.5 years and the main comorbidity was diabetes mellitus (51.6%). The mortality rate was 25.8%. Variables that presented independent correlation with mortality were the extension of the lesion to the abdomen (OR=4.0, CI=1.10-14.68, p=0.03), hematocrit (OR=0.81, CI=0.73-0.90, p<0.0001), potassium (OR=2.41, CI=1.13-5.10, p=0.02) and creatinine (OR=2.15, CI= 1.04-4.41, p=0.03). When hematocrit, potassium and creatinine were tested together, as part of the SFGSI, a >2 result was the largest of the independent predictors of mortality (OR=50.2; CI=13.18-191.47; p<0.0001). Conclusion The SFGSI >2 presented a higher correlation with mortality than any variable tested alone. It seems to be a promising alternative to evaluate predictors of mortality in Fournier's gangrene. The main advantage is easy applicability because it contains only three parameters and can be used immediately after patient's admission.

Risk factors for mortality in fournier's gangrene in a general hospital: use of simplified founier gangrene severe index score (SFGSI).

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate risk factors for mortality in patients with Fournier's gangrene (FG), with emphasis in the Simplified Fournier Gangrene Severe Index Score (SFGSI). MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study that was carried out from January 2010 to December 2014, with 124 patients treated for FG in a General Hospital. Several clinical and laboratory variables, including SFGSI, were evaluated and correlated with mortality through univariate analysis and logistic regression. RESULTS: Of the 124 patients, 99 were men (79.8%), the mean age was 50.8±19.5 years and the main comorbidity was diabetes mellitus (51.6%). The mortality rate was 25.8%. Variables that presented independent correlation with mortality were the extension of the lesion to the abdomen (OR=4.0, CI=1.10-14.68, p=0.03), hematocrit (OR=0.81, CI=0.73-0.90, p<0.0001), potassium (OR=2.41, CI=1.13-5.10, p=0.02) and creatinine (OR=2.15, CI=1.04-4.41, p=0.03). When hematocrit, potassium and creatinine were tested together, as part of the SFGSI, a >2 result was the largest of the independent predictors of mortality (OR=50.2; CI=13.18-191.47; p<0.0001). CONCLUSION: The SFGSI >2 presented a higher correlation with mortality than any variable tested alone. It seems to be a promising alternative to evaluate predictors of mortality in Fournier's gangrene. The main advantage is easy applicability because it contains only three parameters and can be used immediately after patient's admission.

Efficacy of bacterial cellulose membrane for the treatment of lower limbs chronic varicose ulcers: a randomized and controlled trial.

Objective: to evaluate the efficacy of Bacterial Cellulose (BC) membrane dressings in the treatment of lower limb venous ulcers. Methods: we carried out a prospective, randomized, controlled study of 25 patients with chronic venous ulcer disease in the lower limbs from the Angiology and Vascular Surgery Service of the Federal University of Pernambuco Hospital and from the Salgado Polyclinic of the County Health Department, Caruaru, Pernambuco. We randomly assigned patients to two groups: control group, receiving dressings with triglyceride oil (11 patients) and experimental group, treated with BC membrane (14 patients). We followed the patients for a period of 120 days. Results: There was a reduction in the wound area in both groups. There were no infections or reactions to the product in any of the groups. Patients in the BC group showed decreased pain and earlier discontinuation of analgesic use. Conclusion: BC membrane can be used as a dressing for the treatment of varicose ulcers of the lower limbs.

Objetivo: avaliar a eficácia de curativos com membrana de Celulose Bacteriana (CB) no tratamento de úlceras venosas de membros inferiores. Métodos: estudo prospectivo, randomizado e controlado de 25 pacientes com úlceras decorrentes de doença venosa crônica nos membros inferiores provenientes do Serviço de Angiologia e Cirurgia Vascular do Hospital de Clínicas da Universidade Federal de Pernambuco e da Policlínica do Salgado da Secretaria Municipal de Saúde, Caruaru, Pernambuco. Os pacientes foram distribuídos aleatoriamente em dois grupos: grupo controle, que recebeu curativos com óleo de triglicerídeos (11 pacientes) e grupo experimental, tratado com membrana de CB (14 pacientes). Os pacientes foram acompanhados por um período de 120 dias. Resultados: houve uma redução na área de ferida em ambos os grupos. Não houve infecção ou reações ao produto em nenhum dos grupos. Pacientes do grupo CB mostraram diminuição da dor e interrupção mais precoce do uso de analgésicos Conclusão: a membrana de CB pode ser usada como curativo para o tratamento de úlceras varicosas dos membros inferiores.

A new material to prevent urethral damage after implantation of artificial devices: an experimental study

ABSTRACT Objective To validate the application of the bacterial cellulose (BC) membrane as a protecting barrier to the urethra. Materials and Methods Forty female Wistar rats (four groups of 10): Group 1 (sham), the urethra was dissected as in previous groups and nothing applied around; Group 2, received a 0.7cm strip of the BC applied around the urethra just below the bladder neck; Group 3, received a silicon strip with the same dimensions as in group 2; Group 4, had a combination of 2 and 3 groups being the silicon strip applied over the cellulosic material. Half of the animals in each group were killed at 4 and 8 months. Bladder and urethra were fixed in formalin for histological analysis. Results Inflammatory infiltrates were more intense at 4 months at lymphonodes (80% Grade 2), statistically different in the group 2 compared with groups 1 (p=0.0044) and 3 (p=0.0154). At 8 months, all samples were classified as grade 1 indicating a less intense inflammatory reaction in all groups. In group 2, at 8 months, there was a reduction in epithelial thickness (30±1μm) when com-pared to groups 1 (p=0.0001) and 3 (p<0.0001). Angiogenesis was present in groups 2 and 4 and absent in group 3. In BC implant, at 4 and 8 months, it was significant when comparing groups 4 with 1 (p=0.0159). Conclusion BC membrane was well integrated to the urethral wall promoting tissue remodeling and strengthening based on morphometric and histological results and may be a future option to prevent urethral damage.

Efficacy of bacterial cellulose membrane for the treatment of lower limbs chronic varicose ulcers: a randomized and controlled trial / Eficácia da membrana de celulose bacteriana no tratamento de úlceras venosas de membros inferiores: estudo randomizado e controlado

ABSTRACT Objective: to evaluate the efficacy of Bacterial Cellulose (BC) membrane dressings in the treatment of lower limb venous ulcers. Methods: we carried out a prospective, randomized, controlled study of 25 patients with chronic venous ulcer disease in the lower limbs from the Angiology and Vascular Surgery Service of the Federal University of Pernambuco Hospital and from the Salgado Polyclinic of the County Health Department, Caruaru, Pernambuco. We randomly assigned patients to two groups: control group, receiving dressings with triglyceride oil (11 patients) and experimental group, treated with BC membrane (14 patients). We followed the patients for a period of 120 days. Results: There was a reduction in the wound area in both groups. There were no infections or reactions to the product in any of the groups. Patients in the BC group showed decreased pain and earlier discontinuation of analgesic use. Conclusion: BC membrane can be used as a dressing for the treatment of varicose ulcers of the lower limbs.

RESUMO Objetivo: avaliar a eficácia de curativos com membrana de Celulose Bacteriana (CB) no tratamento de úlceras venosas de membros inferiores. Métodos: estudo prospectivo, randomizado e controlado de 25 pacientes com úlceras decorrentes de doença venosa crônica nos membros inferiores provenientes do Serviço de Angiologia e Cirurgia Vascular do Hospital de Clínicas da Universidade Federal de Pernambuco e da Policlínica do Salgado da Secretaria Municipal de Saúde, Caruaru, Pernambuco. Os pacientes foram distribuídos aleatoriamente em dois grupos: grupo controle, que recebeu curativos com óleo de triglicerídeos (11 pacientes) e grupo experimental, tratado com membrana de CB (14 pacientes). Os pacientes foram acompanhados por um período de 120 dias. Resultados: houve uma redução na área de ferida em ambos os grupos. Não houve infecção ou reações ao produto em nenhum dos grupos. Pacientes do grupo CB mostraram diminuição da dor e interrupção mais precoce do uso de analgésicos. Conclusão: a membrana de CB pode ser usada como curativo para o tratamento de úlceras varicosas dos membros inferiores.

A new material to prevent urethral damage after implantation of artificial devices: an experimental study.

OBJECTIVE: To validate the application of the bacterial cellulose (BC) membrane as a protecting bar-rier to the urethra. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty female Wistar rats (four groups of 10): Group 1 (sham), the urethra was dissected as in previous groups and nothing applied around; Group 2, received a 0.7cm strip of the BC applied around the urethra just below the bladder neck; Group 3, received a silicon strip with the same dimensions as in group 2; Group 4, had a combination of 2 and 3 groups being the silicon strip applied over the cellulosic material. Half of the animals in each group were killed at 4 and 8 months. Bladder and urethra were fixed in formalin for histological analysis. RESULTS: Inflammatory infiltrates were more intense at 4 months at lymphonodes (80% Grade 2), statistically different in the group 2 compared with groups 1 (p=0.0044) and 3 (p=0.0154). At 8 months, all samples were classified as grade 1 indicating a less intense inflammatory reaction in all groups. In group 2, at 8 months, there was a reduction in epithelial thickness (30±1µm) when com-pared to groups 1 (p=0.0001) and 3 (p<0.0001). Angiogenesis was present in groups 2 and 4 and absent in group 3. In BC implant, at 4 and 8 months, it was significant when comparing groups 4 with 1 (p=0.0159). CONCLUSION: BC membrane was well integrated to the urethral wall promoting tissue remodeling and strengthening based on morphometric and histological results and may be a future option to prevent urethral damage.

A wet dressing for male genital surgery: A phase II clinical trial

ABSTRACT Purpose: This study was to confirm the safety and efficacy of BC dressing when used in surgical male wound healing at the urogenital area. Methods: Open, non-controlled clinical study of phase II. A total of 141 patients, among those children, adolescents and adults with hypospadias (112), epispadias (04), phymosis (13) and Peyronie's disease (12) that had a BC dressing applied over the operated area after surgery. A written informed consent was obtained from all participants. Study exclusion criteria were patients with other alternative treatment indications due to the severity, extent of the injury or the underlying disease. The outcomes evaluated were efficacy, safe and complete healing. The costs were discussed. Results: In 68% patients, the BC dressing fell off spontaneously. The BC was removed without complications in 13% of patients at the outpatient clinic during the follow-up visit and 17% not reported the time of removal. In 3% of the cases, the dressing fell off early. Complete healing was observed between 8th and 10th days after surgery. The BC dressings have shown a good tolerance by all the patients and there were no reports of serious adverse events. Conclusion: The bacterial cellulose dressings have shown efficacy, safety and that can be considered as a satisfactory alternative for postoperative wound healing in urogenital area and with low cost.

A wet dressing for male genital surgery: A phase II clinical trial.

PURPOSE: This study was to confirm the safety and efficacy of BC dressing when used in surgical male wound healing at the urogenital area. METHODS: Open, non-controlled clinical study of phase II. A total of 141 patients, among those children, adolescents and adults with hypospadias (112), epispadias (04), phymosis (13) and Peyronie's disease (12) that had a BC dressing applied over the operated area after surgery. A written informed consent was obtained from all participants. Study exclusion criteria were patients with other alternative treatment indications due to the severity, extent of the injury or the underlying disease. The outcomes evaluated were efficacy, safe and complete healing. The costs were discussed. RESULTS: In 68% patients, the BC dressing fell off spontaneously. The BC was removed without complications in 13% of patients at the outpatient clinic during the follow-up visit and 17% not reported the time of removal. In 3% of the cases, the dressing fell off early. Complete healing was observed between 8th and 10th days after surgery. The BC dressings have shown a good tolerance by all the patients and there were no reports of serious adverse events. CONCLUSION: The bacterial cellulose dressings have shown efficacy, safety and that can be considered as a satisfactory alternative for postoperative wound healing in urogenital area and with low cost.

The Biocompatibility of a Cellulose Exopolysaccharide Implant in the Rabbit Bladder When Compared With Dextranomer Microspheres Plus Hyaluronic Acid.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate biocompatibility of a cellulosic exopolysaccharide (CEC) as bulking agent in rabbit urinary bladder. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The experimental study was developed at the Nucleus for Experimental Surgery or UFPE. The new agent was injected into the bladder of the adult rabbits using a small abdominal incision. Animals were injected with 0.2 mL of dextranomer microspheres (Dx) plus hyaluronic acid and CEC. The animals were studied after 3 days (G1), 90 days (G2), and 11 months (G3). The biocompatibility was evaluated according to the histologic parameters (presence of blood vessels, inflammatory reaction, and collagen deposition) by a quantitative analysis. The Student paired t test was used for continuous variables, and the scores were compared through the chi-square test. RESULTS: Both materials were structurally homogeneous and free from inflammatory cells or blood vessels (G1). In 3-month samples (G2), CEC areas were densely invaded by fibroblasts and blood vessels. Dx areas were fragmented but still homogeneous and free from cells or blood vessels. Samples from 3 and 11 months showed a significant difference in favor of CEC especially concerning preservation of material in the implant site, as well as the presence of neovascularization. This experimental study represents a positive outcome in terms of reflux resolution in the long term. Further studies may be necessary to confirm its efficacy when in clinical use. CONCLUSION: The CEC exhibited low inflammatory response and integrated with the host tissue better than Dx in the long-term follow-up.

A wet dressing for hypospadias surgery.

INTRODUCTION: One of the main problems faced by surgeons involved in male genitalia surgeries, in particular in children with hypospadias, is the type of dressing and its use during the post-operatory period. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From a multidisciplinary project involving the use of sugarcane biopolymer membrane developed in the last 10 years, produced by bacterial action over sugarcane molasses, we developed a multiperforated pellicle that, when applied around the penis, protects the surgical field. It is a proven inert material that does not induce any reaction on the surgical field and can be left in situ maintaining the same characteristics during a long period of time without the need of replacement. This multiperforated tape can involve several times the penis shaft and due to its adhesiveness it hardly loosens. We compared the use of this dressing with a commercial one (made by polyurethane). Thirty patients with hypospadias were randomly selected for the use of this new type of dressing in the last 18 months. A similar group of patients used a similar commercial dressing made of polyurethane (Tegaderm) according to the same criteria of use. For safety reasons, we applied one or two sutures without the inclusion of the skin using an absorbable suture in order to prevent early detachment. A small gauze was left for 24 hours in order to absorb any possible bleeding. We recommended the irrigation of the dressing with water or saline at least three or four times a day and the patient was allowed to bath. The dressing did not need any special care and if not removed it usually detached spontaneously after 10 to 14 days. RESULTS: The tolerance to the material was satisfactory and there were no adverse reactions on the penile surface. In two cases of the biopolymer group the dressing detached spontaneously on the first and third days, respectively. In two cases of the polyurethane group it was observed major edema. The grade of satisfaction of the patients and their relatives was excellent on the biopolymer group. CONCLUSION: This dressing produced by a polysaccharide is a promising alternative for the treatment of children and adolescents submitted to genital surgery. Its main advantage is the possibility of several washes along the day without the need of any other manipulation.