IMPROVER (Involving Men with Prostate Cancer in Engaged Research): Assessing Patient Experience With Testing, Diagnosis, And Surveillance.

BACKGROUND: Our understanding of patient experiences with prostate cancer testing for diagnosis and surveillance is limited. The aim of this study was to collaborate with patients and clinicians to understand their lived experience and unmet needs around the early detection, diagnosis and monitoring (active surveillance) of prostate cancer. METHODS: Two focus groups were held with patients (n = 20) and healthcare professionals (n = 16), to identify the main challenges in prostate cancer detection, diagnosis, and monitoring. This information formed the basis of an online questionnaire for broader dissemination. RESULTS: A total of 1138 analyzable responses were obtained from people tested for prostate cancer (69% tested positive) in Europe and the US. Only 29 healthcare professionals completed the survey. Almost one-third of people reported knowing very little/nothing about prostate cancer prior to testing. Prior disease awareness was significantly higher in those who tested negative (P < .0001). Most respondents (n = 857; 75%) felt informed about the steps involved in testing. Receiving written information was a key factor; 91% of those who felt uninformed were not given any written information. Overall, most people felt "satisfied" with the typical prostate cancer tests: PSA, DRE, mpMRI, and biopsy. However, dissatisfaction for prostate biopsy (12%) was almost double that of other tests (P < .0001). Most patients understood why each test was done, and felt that their results and next steps were clearly explained to them; though PSA scored lowest in all of these fields. Apart from PSA, test satisfaction was lower when used repeatedly for surveillance, compared to once-off detection/diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS: Greater public awareness and education around prostate cancer, as well as clear and accessible written information for patients at the beginning of their cancer journey is needed. Further research is needed into alternative, less invasive tests, particularly when used repeatedly in the surveillance population.

Surgical Approach for Partial Nephrectomy in the Management of Small Renal Masses: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis.

Background: A variety of surgical and nonsurgical management options for small renal masses (SRMs) now exist. Surgery in the form of partial nephrectomy (PN) has three different approaches. It is unclear which PN approach, if any, offers superior clinical outcomes. Aim: The aim of this study is to compare outcomes in patients with SRMs <4 cm undergoing PN through the open partial nephrectomy (OPN), laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN), or robotic partial nephrectomy (RPN) approach and to establish the advantages and disadvantages of the various approaches. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted for studies comparing at least two of the above techniques. Eighteen studies and 17,013 patients were included in our study. A network meta-analysis with a frequentist framework was performed. OPN was used as the baseline comparator. The prespecified primary outcome was R0 resection rates. Secondary outcomes included operating time, ischemia time, blood loss, transfusion rates, urine leak rates, significant morbidity, length of stay, and recurrence. Results: There was no significant difference between the techniques in terms of R0 rates, tumor recurrence, urine leak rates, renal function, and >3a Clavien-Dindo complications. LPN had a longer ischemic time and operating time. OPN had a longer length of stay and higher average intraoperative blood loss. RPN had lower blood transfusion rates. Discussion: All approaches are acceptable from an oncological perspective. The minimally invasive approaches (i.e., RPN and LPN) offer advantages in terms of morbidity; however, LPN may increase ischemic time and operative duration. Variations between perioperative outcomes may influence the choice of approach on a case-by-case and institutional basis.

In vivo ureteroscopic intrarenal pressures and clinical outcomes: a multi-institutional analysis of 120 consecutive patients.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the pressure range generated in the human renal collecting system during ureteroscopy (URS), in a large patient sample, and to investigate a relationship between intrarenal pressure (IRP) and outcome. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A prospective multi-institutional study was conducted, with ethics board approval; February 2022-March 2023. Recruitment was of 120 consecutive consenting adult patients undergoing semi-rigid URS and/or flexible ureterorenoscopy (FURS) for urolithiasis or diagnostic purposes. Retrograde, fluoroscopy-guided insertion of a 0.036-cm (0.014″) pressure guidewire (COMET™ II, Boston Scientific, Marlborough, MA, USA) to the renal pelvis was performed. Baseline and continuous ureteroscopic IRP was recorded, alongside relevant operative variables. A 30-day follow-up was completed. Descriptive statistics were applied to IRP traces, with mean (sd) and maximum values and variance reported. Relationships between IRP and technical variables, and IRP and clinical outcome were interrogated using the chi-square test and independent samples t-test. RESULTS: A total of 430 pressure traces were analysed from 120 patient episodes. The mean (sd) baseline IRP was 16.45 (5.99) mmHg and the intraoperative IRP varied by technique. The mean (sd) IRP during semi-rigid URS with gravity irrigation was 34.93 (11.66) mmHg. FURS resulted in variable IRP values: from a mean (sd) of 26.78 (5.84) mmHg (gravity irrigation; 12/14-F ureteric access sheath [UAS]) to 87.27 (66.85) mmHg (200 mmHg pressurised-bag irrigation; 11/13-F UAS). The highest single pressure peak was 334.2 mmHg, during retrograde pyelography. Six patients (5%) developed postoperative urosepsis; these patients had significantly higher IRPs during FURS (mean [sd] 81.7 [49.52] mmHg) than controls (38.53 [22.6] mmHg; P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: A dynamic IRP profile is observed during human in vivo URS, with IRP frequently exceeding expected thresholds. A relationship appears to exist between elevated IRP and postoperative urosepsis.

Perceptions and Practice Patterns of Urologists Relating to Intrarenal Pressure During Ureteroscopy: Findings from a Global Cross-Sectional Analysis.

Objectives: To explore beliefs and practice patterns of urologists regarding intrarenal pressure (IRP) during ureteroscopy (URS). Methods: A customized questionnaire was designed in a 4-step iterative process incorporating a systematic review of the literature and critical analysis of topics/questions by six endourologists. The 19-item questionnaire interrogated perceptions, practice patterns, and key areas of uncertainty regarding ureteroscopic IRP, and was disseminated via urologic societies, networks, and social media to the international urologic community. Consultants/attendings and trainees currently practicing urology were eligible to respond. Quantitative responses were compiled and analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square test, with subgroup analysis by procedure volume. Results: Responses were received from 522 urologists, practicing in six continents. The individual question response rate was >97%. Most (83.9%, 437/515) respondents were practicing at a consultant/attending level. An endourology fellowship incorporating stone management had been completed by 59.2% (307/519). The vast majority of respondents (85.4%, 446/520) scored the perceived clinical significance of IRP during URS ≥7/10 on a Likert scale. Concern was uniformly reported, with no difference between respondents with and without a high annual case volume (p = 0.16). Potential adverse outcomes respondents associated with elevated ureteroscopic IRP were urosepsis (96.2%, 501/520), collecting system rupture (80.8%, 421/520), postoperative pain (67%, 349/520), bleeding (63.72%, 332/520), and long-term renal damage (26.1%, 136/520). Almost all participants (96.2%, 501/520) used measures aiming to reduce IRP during URS. Regarding the perceived maximum acceptable threshold for mean IRP during URS, 30 mm Hg (40 cm H2O) was most frequently selected [23.2% (119/463)], with most participants (78.2%, 341/463) choosing a value ≤40 mm Hg. Conclusions: This is the first large-scale analysis of urologists' perceptions of ureteroscopic IRP. It identifies high levels of concern among the global urologic community, with almost unanimous agreement that elevated IRP is associated with adverse clinical outcomes. Equipoise remains regarding appropriate IRP limits intraoperatively and the most appropriate technical strategies to ensure adherence to these.

Implementing a physiotherapy led cancer exercise programme in a National Cancer Centre: the FIXCAS study.

OBJECTIVES: To examine the feasibility of implementing a 10-week exercise-based cancer rehabilitation programme in a national cancer centre. DESIGN: A single-arm prospective feasibility study. SETTING: An outpatient physiotherapy department. PARTICIPANTS: Forty de-conditioned cancer survivors (<1 year post completion of treatment). INTERVENTIONS: A 10-week programme of twice weekly group-based supervised exercise sessions. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: A mixed methods approach was used. The primary outcome of the study was feasibility, evaluated in terms of recruitment, adherence, attrition and stakeholder acceptance of the programme. Secondary outcomes examined the effect of the exercise intervention on physical function and quality of life measures. RESULTS: Forty patients (age 60 (SD 10.6) years; n = 12 breast cancer, n = 11 lung cancer, n = 7 prostate cancer, n = 5 colorectal cancer, n = 5 other) participated. In total 82% (n = 33) participants completed the post-programme assessment. Deterioration of health and concerns over COVID-19 were the most common reasons for dropout (both n = 2). Adherence to both the supervised exercise classes and home exercise programme was high (78% and 94% respectively). No adverse events were recorded during the intervention or assessments. Qualitative feedback from stakeholders highlighted the acceptability of the programme as well as many perceived benefits of the exercise programme. Improvements in three quality of life sub-scales (physical function, role function and emotional function), physical activity levels and aerobic fitness levels were found post-intervention. CONCLUSION: It appears feasible to offer a 10-week exercise programme to patients attending a national cancer centre, with adequate recruitment, retention and adherence rates and high acceptability among stakeholders. CONTRIBUTION OF THE PAPER.

ExPeCT: a randomised trial examining the impact of exercise on quality of life in men with metastatic prostate cancer.

PURPOSE: All patients living with cancer, including those with metastatic cancer, are encouraged to be physically active. This paper examines the secondary endpoints of an aerobic exercise intervention for men with metastatic prostate cancer. METHODS: ExPeCT (Exercise, Prostate Cancer and Circulating Tumour Cells), was a multi-centre randomised control trial with a 6-month aerobic exercise intervention arm or a standard care control arm. Exercise adherence data was collected via heart rate monitors. Quality of life (FACT-P) and physical activity (self-administered questionnaire) assessments were completed at baseline, at 3 months and at 6 months. RESULTS: A total of 61 patients were included (69.4 ± 7.3 yr, body mass index 29.2 ± 5.8 kg/m2). The median time since diagnosis was 34 months (IQR 7-54). A total of 35 (55%) of participants had > 1 region affected by metastatic disease. No adverse events were reported by participants. There was no effect of exercise on quality of life (Cohen's d = - 0.082). Overall adherence to the supervised sessions was 83% (329 out of 396 possible sessions attended by participants). Overall adherence to the non-supervised home exercise sessions was 72% (months 1-3) and 67% (months 3-6). Modelling results for overall physical activity scores showed no significant main effect for the group (p-value = 0.25) or for time (p-value = 0.24). CONCLUSION: In a group of patients with a high burden of metastatic prostate cancer, a 6-month aerobic exercise intervention did not lead to change in quality of life. Further exercise studies examining the role of exercise for people living with metastatic prostate cancer are needed. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT02453139) on May 25th 2015.

Upper urinary tract pressures in endourology: a systematic review of range, variables and implications.

OBJECTIVES: To systematically review the literature to ascertain the upper tract pressures generated during endourology, the relevant influencing variables and clinical implications. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A systematic review of the MEDLINE, Scopus and Cochrane databases was performed by two authors independently (S.C., N.D.). Studies reporting ureteric or intrarenal pressures (IRP) during semi-rigid ureteroscopy (URS)/flexible ureterorenoscopy (fURS)/percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL)/miniaturized PCNL (mPCNL) in the period 1950-2021 were identified. Both in vitro and in vivo studies were considered for inclusion. Findings were independently screened for eligibility based on content, with disagreements resolved by author consensus. Data were assessed for bias and compiled based on predefined variables. RESULTS: Fifty-two studies met the inclusion criteria. Mean IRP appeared to frequently exceed a previously proposed threshold of 40 cmH2 O. Semi-rigid URS with low-pressure irrigation (gravity <1 m) resulted in a wide mean IRP range (lowest reported 6.9 cmH2 O, highest mean 149.5 ± 6.2 cmH2 O; animal models). The lowest mean observed with fURS without a ureteric access sheath (UAS) was 47.6 ± 4.1 cmH2 O, with the maximum peak IRP being 557.4 cmH2 O (in vivo human data). UAS placement significantly reduced IRP during fURS, but did not guarantee pressure control with hand-operated pump/syringe irrigation. Miniaturization of PCNL sheaths was associated with increased IRP; however, a wide mean human IRP range has been recorded with both mPCNL (lowest -6.8 ± 2.2 cmH2 O [suction sheath]; highest 41.2 ± 5.3 cmH2 O) and standard PCNL (lowest 6.5 cmH2 O; highest 41.2 cmH2 O). Use of continuous suction in mPCNL results in greater control of mean IRP, although short pressure peaks >40 cmH2 O are not entirely prevented. Definitive conclusions are limited by heterogeneity in study design and results. Postoperative pain and pyrexia may be correlated with increased IRP, however, few in vivo studies correlate clinical outcome with measured IRP. CONCLUSIONS: Intrarenal pressure generated during upper tract endoscopy often exceeds 40 cmH2 O. IRP is multifactorial in origin, with contributory variables discussed. Larger prospective human in vivo studies are required to further our understanding of IRP thresholds and clinical sequelae.

Introduction of an advanced nurse practitioner (ANP)-led male lower urinary tract symptom (LUTS) clinic and development of integrated referral pathway.

INTRODUCTION: Ireland's population is living longer, and the prevalence of any LUTS is estimated to be 63-83% in adult men, increasing with age. Ireland has one of the lowest urologists per population ratio in Europe, at approximately 1:127,027. The patients waiting the longest are those with routine benign conditions such as men with LUTS. The impact on quality of life for men experiencing LUTS can be profound. METHODS: Sláintecare funded an ANP post in TUH to develop an integrated referral pathway for male LUTS and develop a secondary care nurse-led clinic for LUTS and tackle the ever increasing new and return waiting lists. The initial focus of this role was on reducing pre-existing outpatient (OP) waiting lists. This is a review of the first 12-month outcomes of this ANP post. RESULTS: A total of 410 new patients were assessed over the 12-month period. The mean waiting time from referral to review was 24 months; however, some referrals dated back to 2014. Four hundred forty-two return patients were reviewed in the 12-month period. All these patients were waiting longer than 18 months for a return appointment. In absence of the ANP-led clinic, there was no capacity for any of these patients to be reviewed in the general urology clinics. Overall outcomes were as follows: 38% were given advice and education and discharged. Treatment was initiated in 42% and follow-up arranged. Physical review was deemed necessary for 11% of patients. Only 6% of patients reviewed required referral back to consultants' clinic. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates the safety, efficacy and financial advantage of an ANP-led clinic for adult men presenting with lower urinary tract symptoms previously triaged by a consultant urologist.

Isolated soft tissue mass of the finger as the first presentation of oligometastatic renal cell carcinoma.

A man in his 70s was referred to plastic surgery with a suspected foreign body in the pulp of his right index finger. An excisional biopsy was performed for a presumed foreign body granuloma. Histology revealed metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC). CT imaging demonstrated a 7.4 cm heterogeneous mass arising from the upper pole of the left kidney consistent with primary renal malignancy, in addition to a 9 mm lung nodule. He underwent an uncomplicated left laparoscopic cytoreductive nephrectomy and made a satisfactory recovery. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of primary mRCC presenting with digital soft tissue metastasis. Cytoreductive nephrectomy with metastasectomy is the preferred management for mRCC where feasible. For unfavourable mRCC cases, first-line systemic therapy is indicated. Adjuvant systemic therapy in mRCC is currently limited to clinical trials, though promising data emerging on the use of pembrolizumab may herald a future shift in practice.

The unintentional spread of misinformation on 'TikTok'; A paediatric urological perspective.

INTRODUCTION: 'TikTok' is a social media application based on the publication of short videos that has accumulated over 1.1 billion users worldwide since its launch in 2016. With the use of 'TikTok' on the rise, there is an increasing tendency for patients or family members to seek medical information online. OBJECTIVE: We aim to assess the authenticity of information being spread on 'TikTok' on common paediatric urological presentations by comparison to current up to date guidelines provided by the European Association of Urology (EAU). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A search for a variety of paediatric urology conditions was performed on 'TikTok'. Videos were subsequently screened based on strict pre-defined criteria. The content and claims of each video were compared to up-to-date guidelines to reveal whether or not they complied with standards set by the European Association of Urology (EAU). Information that correlated with that of the guidelines was then further classified by Oxford levels of evidence. RESULTS: 27 videos met our criteria with a combined total of 6,578,863 views, 308,700 likes and 5782 comments. Only 22.2% of videos contained information that can also be found in guidelines provided by the EAU. None of the included videos contained any cited evidence to reinforce statements that were being made. DISCUSSION: Misinformation lacking scientific evidence has been reported has been reported for various conditions on 'TikTok'. Patients, family members or caregivers without a medical background can have difficult verifying and ensuring the credibility of information posted on social media. CONCLUSION: The evolution of 'TikTok' has allowed the layperson to create content that can potentially reach millions of users worldwide. This study demonstrated that 'TikTok' can be used as a resource for health information, however is currently a pit of misinformation with the potential to cause harm to the user.

En bloc transurethral resection of bladder tumors: A review of current techniques.

INTRODUCTION: Growing interest surrounds the concept of en bloc transurethral resection of bladder tumors (ERBT). Theoretical advantages include improved adherence to oncological principles and potential yield of superior pathological specimens. Multiple ERBT methods exist. This review summarizes the current evidence regarding application of differing techniques and technologies to ERBT. METHODS: A systematic review of MEDLINE/EMBASE/Scopus databases was performed, using terms "en bloc," "ERBT," "bladder," and "urinary bladder neoplasm." Template-based data extraction included technique of ERBT, feasibility, tumor size, activation of obturator nerve reflex, operative complications, detrusor muscle sampling rate, and recurrence data. RESULTS: Multiple approaches to ERBT have evolved, using a variety of energy sources. The feasibility of electrocautery, laser, combined waterjet/electrocautery, and polypectomy snare techniques have been confirmed in achieving ERBT. ERBT appears safe, with a low complication rate. The use of laser energy sources reduces the risk of activating the obturator nerve reflex during lateral wall resections. Otherwise, no energy source is unequivocally superior in achieving ERBT. The rate of detrusor muscle sampling is high with use of ERBT and appears superior to that achieved with conventional TURBT (cTURBT) in multiple comparative studies. A limited number of largely non-randomized trials assess bladder tumor recurrence; current evidence suggests this is similar between ERBT and cTURBT groups. CONCLUSIONS: ERBT using a variety of technologies is feasible and safe, with a high detrusor muscle sampling rate. Further research is required to determine whether rates of residual disease or recurrence can be reduced with ERBT vs. cTURBT.

Circulating Tumour Cell Numbers Correlate with Platelet Count and Circulating Lymphocyte Subsets in Men with Advanced Prostate Cancer: Data from the ExPeCT Clinical Trial (CTRIAL-IE 15-21).

Interactions between circulating tumour cells (CTCs) and platelets are thought to inhibit natural killer(NK)-cell-induced lysis. We attempted to correlate CTC numbers in men with advanced prostate cancer with platelet counts and circulating lymphocyte numbers. Sixty-one ExPeCT trial participants, divided into overweight/obese and normal weight groups on the basis of a BMI ≥ 25 or <25, were randomized to participate or not in a six-month exercise programme. Blood samples at randomization, and at three and six months, were subjected to ScreenCell filtration, circulating platelet counts were obtained, and flow cytometry was performed on a subset of samples (n = 29). CTC count positively correlated with absolute total lymphocyte count (r2 = 0.1709, p = 0.0258) and NK-cell count (r2 = 0.49, p < 0.0001). There was also a positive correlation between platelet count and CTC count (r2 = 0.094, p = 0.0001). Correlation was also demonstrated within the overweight/obese group (n = 123, p < 0.0001), the non-exercise group (n = 79, p = 0.001) and blood draw samples lacking platelet cloaking (n = 128, p < 0.0001). By flow cytometry, blood samples from the exercise group (n = 15) had a higher proportion of CD3+ T-lymphocytes (p = 0.0003) and lower proportions of B-lymphocytes (p = 0.0264) and NK-cells (p = 0.015) than the non-exercise group (n = 14). These findings suggest that CTCs engage in complex interactions with the coagulation cascade and innate immune system during intravascular transit, and they present an attractive target for directed therapy at a vulnerable stage in metastasis.

Hyperglycaemic crisis secondary to emphysematous pyelonephritis.

A 49-year-old woman presented to the emergency department acutely unwell. Initial investigations revealed hyperglycaemia, ketosis and an acute kidney injury precipitated by urosepsis. She was found to have a new diagnosis of diabetes mellitus (type 2) with a glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) of 156 mmol/mol. CT imaging of the abdomen and pelvis revealed unilateral emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN), radiologically classified as stage 3 severity with gas extending beyond the renal collecting system. Escherichia coli was grown on blood and urine cultures. This was sensitive to second-generation cephalosporin cefuroxime. The patient was managed with fluid resuscitation, intravenous antibiotics and renal system decompression with urinary catheter insertion. She was commenced on an intravenous insulin infusion for hyperglycaemic crisis. This case illustrates a rare presentation of hyperglycaemic crisis precipitated by EPN in a patient without a previously known diagnosis of diabetes, successfully treated with medical management alone. Close clinical and radiological follow-up was arranged to monitor the need for future nephrectomy.

Urological service provision during the COVID-19 period: the experience from an Irish tertiary centre.

PURPOSE: Urological service provision has changed dramatically with the advent of the SARS-CoV-2, necessitating restructuring and reorganization. The aim of this study was to review the reorganization of our unit, map the change in volume of departmental activities and discuss potential solutions. METHODS: Departmental activities over the months of April and May 2020 and 2019 were analysed. Details of admissions, operations, diagnostic procedures, outpatient reviews, morbidities and mortalities were recorded. Operations were performed on two sites, with elective operation transferred to an offsite, COVID-free hospital. RESULTS: Seventy-four emergency operations were performed onsite, with 85 elective operations outsourced. A total of 159 operations were performed, compared with 280 in the same period in 2019. Five (5.0%) of 101 admitted patients to the COVID hospital contracted COVID-19. No patients outsourced to the COVID-free hospital were infected there. Outpatient referrals to urology service decreased from 928 to 481. There was a 66% decrease in new cancer diagnoses. A virtual review clinic was established, with remaining outpatients reviewed through a telephone clinic platform. CONCLUSION: Compared with 2019, we performed fewer operations and outpatient procedures, had fewer admissions and diagnosed fewer patients with new cancers. However, outsourcing elective operation to designated non-COVID hospitals prevented the infection of any patient with COVID-19 in the post-operative period. The use of virtual clinic and telephone clinic has had some success in replacing traditional outpatient visits. The overall significant decrease in operative volume will likely precipitate a mismatch between demand and service provision in the coming months, unless capacity is increased.

Survey on ureTEric draiNage post uncomplicaTed ureteroscopy (STENT).

Objectives: To assess the feasibility of conducting a randomised controlled trial (RCT) to assess whether avoiding ureteric drainage is superior to performing ureteric drainage after Uncomplicated Ureteroscopy and/or Flexible Ureterorenoscopy (URS/FURS) treatment of a urinary tract stone in improving patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) and 30-day unplanned readmission rates. A secondary objective was to understand current practice of urologists regarding ureteric drainage after uncomplicated URS/FURS (UU). Material and methods: We undertook an online survey of urologists, circulated amongst members of international urological societies and through social media platforms. Uncomplicated URS/FURS was defined as completion of URS/FURS treatment for a urinary tract stone, with the absence of: ureteral trauma, residual fragments requiring further lithotripsy procedures, significant bleeding, perforation, prior urinary tract infection or pregnancy. The ureteric drainage options considered included an indwelling stent, stent on a string or a ureteric catheter. The primary outcome was to determine the proportion of urologists willing to take part in a RCT, randomising patients after UU to a "no ureteric drainage" arm or ureteric drainage arm. Secondary outcomes included determining in their current practice, the proportion of clinicians performing routine ureteric drainage after UU, the reasons for performing ureteric drainage following UU and their preferred optimal duration for ureteric drainage if it is used. The study was reported according to the Checklist for Reporting Results of Internet E-Surveys (CHERRIES). Results: Total of 468 respondents from 45 countries took part in the survey, of whom 303 completed the entire survey (65%). The majority agreed that they would be willing to randomise patients (244/303, 81%) in the proposed RCT. Perceived lack of equipoise to randomise was the most common reason for not being willing to participate (59/303, 19%).92% (308/335) reported that they use ureteric drainage after UU. This was most often due to wanting to prevent possible complications from post-operative ureteric oedema (77%) or to aid passage of small fragments (43%). Complexity of the case (i.e. impacted stone 90%) and length of the procedure (46%) were the most important intraoperative factors influencing the decision to use ureteric drainage post procedure. If required, the median stated ideal duration of ureteric drainage was 5 days (IQR: 3-7 days) after UU. If having UU personally, 30% would want no stent postoperatively and over half would prefer a stent on a string. Conclusion: We have highlighted wide variation in practice regarding ureteric drainage after UU. Our results support the feasibility of an RCT evaluating if no ureteric drainage is superior to ureteric drainage in improving PROMs and 30-day unplanned readmission rates following UU.

Men's sexual help-seeking and care needs after radical prostatectomy or other non-hormonal, active prostate cancer treatments.

OBJECTIVE: To examine prostate cancer (PCa) survivors' sexual help-seeking intentions, behaviours, and unmet needs. METHODS: In this prospective cohort study, men who underwent active, non-hormonal treatment completed baseline (N = 558) and 6-month follow-up (N = 387) questionnaires. Theory of planned behaviour (TPB) constructs (sexual help-seeking intention, perceived behavioural control (PBC), subjective norm, attitude), masculine values (e.g., sexual importance/priority, emotional self-reliance), sex life and functioning, sexual supportive care needs, distress (anxiety, depression), and sexual help-seeking behaviour were assessed. RESULTS: Most men (M age = 64.6 years; M years post-diagnosis = 4.0) received prostatectomy (93%), reported severe erectile dysfunction (52%), ≥ 1 unmet sexual care need (66%), and sought help from a doctor (baseline 52%, follow-up 42%). Sexual care needs were significantly associated with poorer erectile function, reduced satisfaction with sex-life, valuing sex as important/integral to identity (masculine values), and increased depression (p ≤ 0.001). Sexual help-seeking intentions were significantly associated with valuing sex as important/integral to identity, recent help-seeking, greater confidence/control, perceiving support from important others, and positive attitudes, for sexual help-seeking (p < 0.001). Significant predictors of sexual help-seeking (follow-up) were baseline intentions, recent help-seeking (p < 0.001), and increased anxiety (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Men's unmet sexual care needs, sexual help-seeking intentions, and behaviour appear driven by the importance/value attributed to sex, distress, positive feelings, support from others, and confidence for help-seeking. Psychosocial providers are well-placed to address men's concerns, yet few sought their assistance. Interventions to improve men's access to effective sexual care are needed, particularly focused on reframing masculine values about the importance of sex and leveraging TPB-based predictors of help-seeking.

Implementation of a nurse-led lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) clinic reduces general urology clinic workload in a Model 4 Hospital: a pilot study in Tallaght University Hospital.

BACKGROUND: With among the lowest urologist per population ratios in Europe, the demand for urology specialist review in Ireland far exceeds supply. Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) account for a significant number of referrals. The traditional paradigm of every patient being reviewed in a consultant-led clinic is unsustainable. New models of care with nurse-led clinics represent an opportunity to optimise limited resources. METHODS: Existing long-waiting male LUTS referrals were triaged to a specialist nurse-led LUTS clinic. After urology CNS assessment, charts were reviewed by a consultant urologist and a plan formulated. Relevant data were prospectively collected and analysed. RESULTS: Fifty-eight new male patients with LUTS were seen over a 6-month period with an average waiting time of 15.8 months. Patients were assessed with uroflowmetry, IPSS and DRE. Mean age was 64, IPSS 14.5, Qmax 18.3 ml/s and PVR 89 ml. Thirty patients (52%) were discharged directly with lifestyle modification and medical therapy. Twenty-eight patients (48%) required one or more further investigations and subsequent review; 11 had flexible cystoscopy, 4 had urodynamics, 5 had prostate MRI, and 2 patients were listed for surgery (TURP and circumcision). The remaining 10 patients were for review post trial of lifestyle modifications and/or medical treatment. After review/investigations, 4 more patients were discharged. A total of 32 patients (55%) were discharged or listed for surgery after initial assessment. This total increased to 62% after a second review/investigations. CONCLUSION: Introduction of a CNS-led LUTS clinic has significantly reduced the number of patients requiring follow-up in general urology clinics, representing a quality improvement in service provision.

Platelet cloaking of circulating tumour cells in patients with metastatic prostate cancer: Results from ExPeCT, a randomised controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Circulating tumour cells (CTCs) represent a morphologically distinct subset of cancer cells, which aid the metastatic spread. The ExPeCT trial aimed to examine the effectiveness of a structured exercise programme in modulating levels of CTCs and platelet cloaking in patients with metastatic prostate cancer. METHODS: Participants (n = 61) were randomised into either standard care (control) or exercise arms. Whole blood was collected for all participants at baseline (T0), three months (T3) and six months (T6), and analysed for the presence of CTCs, CTC clusters and platelet cloaking. CTC data was correlated with clinico-pathological information. RESULTS: Changes in CTC number were observed within group over time, however no significant difference in CTC number was observed between groups over time. Platelet cloaking was identified in 29.5% of participants. A positive correlation between CTC number and white cell count (WCC) was observed (p = 0.0001), in addition to a positive relationship between CTC clusters and PSA levels (p = 0.0393). CONCLUSION: The presence of platelet cloaking has been observed in this patient population for the first time, in addition to a significant correlation between CTC number and WCC. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClincalTrials.gov identifier NCT02453139.

Evaluating liquid biopsies for methylomic profiling of prostate cancer.

BACKGROUND: Liquid biopsies offer significant potential for informing on cancer progression and therapeutic resistance via minimally invasive serial monitoring of genetic alterations. Although the cancer epigenome is a central driving force in most neoplasia, the accuracy of monitoring the tumor methylome using liquid biopsies remains relatively unknown. OBJECTIVES: to investigate how well two types of liquid biopsy (urine and blood) capture the prostate cancer methylome, and may thus serve as a non-invasive surrogate for studying the tumor epigenome. METHODS: A cohort of four metastatic treatment naïve prostate cancer (PCa) patients was selected. Matched biopsy cores (tumor and histologically matched-normal), post-DRE, pre-biopsy urine, and peripheral blood plasma were available for each subject. DNA methylation was profiled utilizing the Infinium® MethylationEPIC BeadChip (Illumina) and analysed using the RnBeads software. Significantly (FDR adjusted P < 0.05) differentially methylated probes (DMPs) between tumor and MN were identified and examined in the liquids (done at a grouped and individual subject level). RESULTS: DNA methylation analysis of urine and blood in men with metastatic PCa showed highly correlated patterns between the different liquid types (ρ = 0.93, P < 0.0001), with large contributions from non-tumor sources. DNA methylation profiles of liquids were more similar between subjects, than intra-individual liquid-tumor correlations. Overall, both urine and plasma are viable surrogates for tumor tissue biopsies, capturing up to 39.40% and 64.14% of tumor-specific methylation alterations, respectively. CONCLUSION: We conclude that both urine and blood plasma are easily accessible and sensitive biofluids for the study of PCa epigenomic alterations.