Effects of Sleeve Gastrectomy on Pelvic Floor Disorders in Female Patients with Severe Obesity: a Prospective Study.

INTRODUCTION: Obesity is associated with pelvic floor disorders (PFD). Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is one of the most effective weight loss methods. Although SG has been found to improve urinary incontinence (UI) and overactive bladder (OAB), its impact on fecal incontinence (FI) remains controversial. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This prospective, randomized study involved 60 female patients with severe obesity who were randomly assigned to two groups: the SG group and the diet group. The SG group underwent SG, while the diet group received a low-calorie, low-lipid diet for 6 months. The patients' condition was assessed before and after the study using three questionnaires: the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Female Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (ICIQ-FLUTS), the Overactive Bladder 8-Question Awareness Tool (OAB-V8), and the Wexner Score (CCIS). RESULTS: After 6 months, the SG group had a significantly higher percentage of total weight loss (%TWL) compared to the diet group (p<0.01). Both groups showed a decrease in the ICIQ-FLUTS, OAB-V8, and CCIS scores (p<0.05). UI, OAB, and FI improved significantly in the SG group (p<0.05), but no improvement was observed in the diet group (p>0.05). The correlation between %TWL and PFD was statistically significant but weak, with the strongest correlation between %TWL and ICIQ-FLUTS score and the weakest correlation between %TWL and CCIS score (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: We recommend bariatric surgery for the treatment of PFD. However, given the weak correlation between %TWL and PFD after SG, further research should explore factors other than %TWL that are effective in recovery, particularly in relation to FI.

Is PSA Still the Best Predictor for Biochemical Recurrence after Radical Prostatectomy in High-Risk Prostate Cancer?

BACKGROUND: Patients with high-risk prostate cancer (PCa) experience heterogeneous oncological outcomes. In this study, we assessed the patients who underwent an RP procedure because of high-risk prostate cancer in subgroups formed according to D'Amico criteria and analyzed the effects of these criteria on biochemical recurrence (BCR) after RP. METHODS: We retrospectively identified high-risk non-metastatic PCa patients who underwent RP between 2006 and 2020 in our hospital. Groups were formed as follows: group 1 consisted of those with an ISUP grade 4 - 5 biopsy, group 2 consisted of those with a clinical stage T2c, group 3 consisted of those with a tPSA level ≥ 20 ng/ml, and group 4 consisted of those with locally advanced disease. Survival analyses were made by Kaplan-Meier test and Log Rank test. A P value <0.05 was accepted as statistically significant. RESULTS: Of all patients, 61.8% were cured by only RP and 38.2% had recurrences. Rates of BCR were significantly different among groups (P = 0.003). In group 1, group 2, group 3, and group 4, BCR rates were 30.8%, 13%, 40.8%, and 70.6%, respectively. Mean BCR-free survival was 82.47 ± 11.64 months. In group 2, BCR-free survival was higher than that in group 3 and group 4 (P1 = 0.020 and P2 = 0.001) and in group 1, BCR-free survival was higher than that in group 4 (P = 0.016). There was no significant difference between group 3 and 4 (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Despite the developments in the imaging technology, an elevated tPSA level remains to be an important predictor for BCR-free survival.

Evaluation of four pre-operative models for prediction of biochemical recurrence after radical prostatectomy in localised prostate cancer.

BACKGROUND: Biochemical recurrence (BCR) can be seen in the early or late period after radical prostatectomy (RP). Various models have been developed to predict BCR. OBJECTIVE: In our study, we evaluated the accuracy of four pre-operative models (GP score, PRIX, D'Amico risk classification, CAPRA) in predicting BCR after RP in Turkish patients. METHODS: Age, preoperative total prostate-specific antigen (PSA) values, clinical stages, total number of cores taken in biopsy, number of positive cores, preoperative biopsy Gleason score (GS), follow-up time and presence of BCR after RP were recorded. BCR was defined as a total PSA value >0.2 ng/dL twice consecutively after RP. Classifications or scoring was performed according to pre-operative models. The 1-, 3- and 5-year BCR-free rates of the patients were determined for each model. Also, the accuracy of four predictive models for predicting 1-, 3- and 5-year BCR was evaluated. RESULTS: For all pre-operative models there was a statistically significant difference between risk groups in BCR-free rates at 1-, 3- and 5-year after RP (P < .001). The Harrell's concordance index for 1-year BCR predictions was 0.802, 0.831, 0.773 and 0.745 for the GP score, PRIX, CAPRA and D'Amico, respectively. For 3-year BCR predictions, it was 0.798, 0.791, 0.723 and 0.714 for the GP score, PRIX, CAPRA and D'Amico and respectively. Finally, The Harrell's concordance index for 5-year BCR predictions was 0.778, 0.771, 0.702 and 0.693 for the GP score, PRIX, CAPRA and D'Amico, respectively. CONCLUSION: In the prediction of BCR, the accuracy of GP scoring and PRIX seems slightly higher than CAPRA and D'Amico risk classification. Surely our results should be supported by head to head comparisons within other larger cohorts.

Can the systemic immune inflammation index be a predictor of BCG response in patients with high-risk non-muscle invasive bladder cancer?

AIM: We aimed to investigate the predictor role of the systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) on Bacille Calmette-Guerin (BCG) response in patients with high-risk non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). METHODS: A total of 96 patients with high-risk NMIBC, who received intravesical BCG, were enrolled in the study. BCG responsive group (group 1) and BCG failure group (group 2) were compared in terms of demographic and pathological data, peripheral lymphocyte, neutrophil and platelet counts, neutrophil lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet lymphocyte ratio (PLR), SII, recurrence-free survival (RFS) and progression-free survival (PFS). The SII was calculated as in the formula: SII = neutrophil × platelet/lymphocyte. The prognostic ability of the SII for progression was analysed with multivariate backward stepwise regression models. RESULTS: The mean follow-up time 34.635 ± 14.7 months. Group 2 had significantly higher SII, peripheral lymphocyte, neutrophil and platelet counts than group 1. An ROC curve was plotted for the SII to predict the BCG failure and the cut-off point was calculated as 672.75. Effect of the SII to the model was statistically significant (P = .003) and a higher SII increased the progression onefold. A tumour greater than 30 mm in size and a high SII together increased the progression 3.6 folds. CONCLUSIONS: The SII might be a successful, non-invasive and low-cost parameter for prediction of BCG failure in patients with high-risk NMIBC. The cut-off value for SII is 672.75 and above this level BCG failure and progression to MIBC might be anticipated. However, these results should be validated in prospective randomised controlled studies with large patient groups.

Effects of platelet-rich plasma on spermatogenesis and hormone production in an experimental testicular torsion model.

BACKGROUND: Platelet-rich plasma is a biological instrument rich in growth factors and cytokines. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of platelet-rich plasma on spermatogenesis and hormone production in an experimental testicular torsion model. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The rats were randomly divided into three groups, including six rats in each group as follows: the first group as the sham group; the second group as the ischemia/reperfusion + Saline group and the third group as the ischemia/reperfusion + platelet-rich plasma group. The left testicles of the ischemia/reperfusion + Saline and ischemia/reperfusion + platelet-rich plasma group were kept in four-hour torsion. Then, the left testicles of ischemia/reperfusion + Saline and ischemia/reperfusion + platelet-rich plasma groups were detorsioned, and intra-testicular 1 cc saline (ischemia/reperfusion + Saline) and 1 cc platelet-rich plasma (ischemia/reperfusion + platelet-rich plasma) were injected. At one month, blood samples were taken from all groups for hormonal evaluation and left orchiectomy was performed. RESULTS: The mean follicle-stimulating hormone level of ischemia/reperfusion + Saline group was significantly higher than ischemia/reperfusion + platelet-rich plasma group (7.78 ± 0.23 vs 6.18 ± 0.28 nmol/l, respectively, P = .004). The mean LH level of ischemia/reperfusion + platelet-rich plasma group was significantly lower than ischemia/reperfusion + Saline group (3.63 ± 0.28 vs 5.68 ± 0.21 nmol/l, respectively, P = .004). The mean total testosterone level of ischemia/reperfusion + platelet-rich plasma group was significantly higher than ischemia/reperfusion + Saline group (8.05 ± 0.24 vs 5.78 ± 0.23 nmol/l, respectively, P = .004). The mean Johnsen scores of ischemia/reperfusion + platelet-rich plasma group were significantly higher than ischemia/reperfusion + Saline group (5.85 ± 0.58 vs 3.93 ± 0.65, respectively, P = .004). The mean Johnsen score of the sham group was significantly higher than ischemia/reperfusion + platelet-rich plasma and ischemia/reperfusion + Saline groups (P = .003 and P = .003, respectively). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: The platelet-rich plasma has beneficial effects on spermatogenesis and reproductive hormone production in testicular torsion. It is easily accessible and applicable. In the future, intra-testicular platelet-rich plasma injection may be used in testicular torsion after detorsion. However, further experimental and large-scale prospective clinical studies are needed to establish a definitive conclusion on this topic.

Assessment of clinical features and renal functions in Coronavirus disease-19: A retrospective analysis of 96 patients.

BACKGROUND: The most common extra pulmonary organ dysfunction in acute respiratory distress syndrome is acute kidney injury. Current data so far indicate low incidence of AKI in Covid-19 disease. OBJECTIVE: In this retrospective study, we analysed the clinical features of patients diagnosed with Covid-19 and investigated the effect of Covid-19 on kidney function. METHODS: Ninety-six patients diagnosed with Covid-19 were included in our study. Demographic features (Age, gender, co-morbidities), symptoms, thorax CT findings, Covid-19 PCR results and laboratory findings were recorded. The clinical features of the patients were analysed and kidney function values before Covid-19 diagnosis were compared with kidney function values after Covid-19 diagnosis. RESULTS: Most presenting symptom was fever (51%). Most accompanying co-morbidity was hypertension (56%). According to laboratory findings; ferritin, D-dimer and C-reactive protein levels were statistically significantly higher in ARDS group than severe pneumonia and pneumonia group (P = .002, P = .001 and P < .001, respectively). Also lymphocyte levels were statistically significantly lower in ARDS group than severe pneumonia and pneumonia group (P = .042). According to KDIGO criteria 3 (3.1%) patients had AKI during the hospital stay. For all patients, there was statistically significant difference between basal, 1st, 5th and 10th day BUN and SCr levels (P = .024 and P = .018, respectively). For severe pneumonia group there was statistically significant difference between basal, 1st, 5th and 10th day SCr levels (P = .045). CONCLUSION: Our study demonstrated that Covid-19 can cause renal impairment both with pneumonia and ARDS. A large-scale prospective randomised studies are needed to reach final judgement about this topic.

The relationship between anogenital distance and benign prostate hyperplasia-related lower urinary tract symptoms.

Anogenital distance (AGD) is the length between the genitals and anus which shows an androgenic activity in the evolution of the reproductive system in the uterine life. For prostatic evolution and development during the embryological stage, androgen exposure is required. In this study, we aimed to investigate the relationship between AGD and benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH)-related lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). A total of 70 patients who were admitted to our urology clinics with LUTS due to BPH (LUTS group) and 70 patients without LUTS (control group) were included. All patients were administered an International Prostate Symptom Score form. Data including height, weight, body mass index, total prostate-specific antigen, prostate volume and uroflowmetry Qmax values of all patients were evaluated. The AGD of the LUTS and control groups was measured. The mean AGDAS values of the LUTS group were significantly lower than the control group (p = .013). There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of the mean adjusted AGDAP values (p = .241). However, the mean adjusted AGDAS values were significantly lower in the LUTS group than the control group (p = .002). Our study results suggest that AGD may be a useful marker in BPH-related LUTS.

Can second to fourth finger ratio play a role in determining the risk of benign prostatic enlargement.

Benign prostatic enlargement (BPE) is a disease that testosterone plays a role in its aetiology. Second to fourth finger ratio is a marker of prenatal androgenic exposure and may be a risk factor for several androgen-related diseases such as BPE. In this study, we investigated the relationship between the second to fourth finger ratio and BPE. A total of 63 patients with BPE were included for study group, and age-matched 63 healthy patients were included as a control group. Finger was measured by the distance from the proximal crease to the tip by using a digital caliper. The mean age of patients with BPE and non-BPE was 62 ± 8.9 and 61.5 ± 7.1 years respectively. There was statistically significant difference between groups in terms of prostate-specific antigen levels, prostate volumes and international prostate symptom scores. The mean finger ratios for right and left hand were 0.97 ± 0.03, 0.99 ± 0.03(p = .001) and 0.93 ± 0.15, 0.98 ± 0.03(p < .001) for BPE and non-BPE groups respectively. Men with a lower second to fourth finger ratio have higher risk of developing BPE than men without BPE. Therefore, the second to fourth finger ratio, which is indicative of prenatal androgen exposure, can be used as a marker of BPE risk.

Treatment of ureteral catheter related symptoms; mirabegron versus tamsulosin/solifenacin combination: a randomized controlled trial / Tratamiento de los sintomas relacionados con los catéteres: mirabegon vs tamsulosina-solifenacina en combinación: un estudio prospectivo randomizado

OBJECTIVES: The double-J (DJ) stents are commonly used to relieve the ureteral obstruction. Besides several known benefits, some of the patients encounter stent-related morbidities with considerable effects on the quality of life, general health situation, sexual matters, and daily work performance. In this study, we evaluated the effectiveness of tamsulosin/solifenacin combination and mirabegron in reducing DJ stent-related symptoms. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 120 patients with 28cm 4.7fr DJ catheter inserted due to ureteral obstruction were included in this study. Patients were randomly divided into three groups of 40 each; group one received only oral hydration for six weeks; group two received 0.4 mg tamsulosin/10 mg solifenacin, and group three received 50 mg mirabegron. Preoperative and after 6 weeks, the VAPS, OAB-q index, and IPSSs forms were filled. RESULTS: The mean age of the patients was 41.60 ± 12.34 years. There was no significant difference between the groups in terms of preoperative and postoperative VAPS values (p>0.05). There was a significant difference in postop IPSSs values (p:0.001). It was higher in the hydration group than tamsulosin/solifenacin and mirabegron groups. Postoperative IPSS value of the hydration group was 21.78 ± 2.54 while the tamsulosin/ solifenacin and mirabegron groups were 15.6 ± 4.37 and 13.65 ± 4.97, respectively. The use of mirabegron and tamsulosin/solifenacin combination alleviates the LUTSs related with DJ stent. There was also a significant difference between groups in terms of postoperative OAB-q values (p:0.001). Postoperative OAB-q values in the tamsulosin/solifenacin group were significantly higher than the mirabegron group. Postoperative OAB-q value of the hydration group was 29.95 ± 5.21, while the tamsulosin/solifenacin and mirabegron groups were 23.68 ± 4.07 and 18.15 ± 4.1, respectively. Our results also showed that, as a beta-3 adrenergic receptor agonist, mirabegron can improve the OAB-q scores. CONCLUSION: Tamsulosin and solifenacin combination is a significantly good treatment option for reducing LUTS associated with DJ stents. Mirabegron single therapy showed good results in treating LUTS and better results in treating OAB symptoms related with DJ stents than other therapies

OBJETIVO: El catéter doble J se utiliza para desobstruir el uréter. A parte de los ya conocidos beneficios, algunos pacientes tienen efectos adversos derivados de llevar el catéter que empeoran su calidad de vida, su vida sexual, sus actividades laborales. En este estudio, evaluamos la efectividad de la tamsulosina/solifenacina en combinación y mirabegron en reducir estos síntomas. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Un total de 120 pacientes con cateteres de 28 cm/4.7 Ch fueron incluidos en el estudio. Los pacientes se randomizaron en 3 grupos, 40 en cada grupo (un grupo recibio hidratación oral durante 6 semanas, otro grupo tamsulosina 0,4 mg/10 mg solifenacina y el tercero 50 mg mirabegron). VAPS, OAB q index y IPSS cuestionarios se rellenaron en el preoperatorio y a las 6 semanas de tratamiento. RESULTADOS: La mediana de edad fue de 41ª. No había diferencias significativas en los grupos en términos de valores VAPS preoperatorios y postoperatorios. Se evidenció una diferencia significativa en los valores IPSS (p = 0,001), ya que fue más elevado en el grupo de hidratación oral que el grupo de tamsulosina/solifenacina y mirabegron. El valor postoperatorio de IPSS en el grupo de hidratación fue de 22, mientras que en la tamsulosina y mirabegron fue de 15 y 13, respectivamente. El uso de mirabegron y tamsulosina mejora los síntomas tracto urinario inferior por el catéter. También se evidencio una diferencia significativa entre los grupos en términos de OAB-q (p = 0,001). Los valores postoperatorios OAB-q en el grupo tamsulosina fueron más altos que en el grupo mirabegron. El valor OAB-q postoperatorio en el grupo de hidratación oral fue de 29, tamsulosina 23 y mirabegron 18, respectivamente. Nuestros resultados también demuestran que mirabegron puede mejorar los resultados de OAB-q. CONCLUSIONES: Tamsulosina/solifenacina es un buen tratamiento para mejorar los STUI asociados a catéteres. Mirabegon demuestra también buenos resultados en el tratamiento de los síntomas de vejiga hiperactiva relacionados en el catéter mejor que otras terapias

Does duration of stenting increase the risk of clinical infection?

OBJECTIVE: We investigated when an indwelling ureteral catheter should be withdrawn for infection and evaluated the importance of urinary cultures in identifying colonized microorganisms and define the bacterial flora encountered in the study. Moreover, this study tried to determine the clinical role of stent culture in clinical practice. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was conducted between June 2018 and February 2019. Patients with ureteral stent implantation after endoscopic ureteral stone treatment were divided into two groups and each group consisted of 45 patients. Ureteral catheter was removed 15 and 30 days after ureteral stone treatment in group 1 and 2, respectively, and transferred for microbiological examination. The urine culture was obtained before and after ureteral stent implantation. The groups were compared in terms of demographics, urine and catheter cultures results. Urine analysis and catheter culture results were also compared. RESULTS: Demographic data of patients were similar in both groups. 3 patients in group 1 and 12 patients in group 2 had positive urine culture before catheter retraction; 2 of 45 and 6 of 45 patients had positive catheter culture in group 1 and 2, respectively. Although 2 patients in group 1 and 4 patients in group 2 had urine culture sterile, they had growth in catheter culture. In Group 1, 1 of the microorganisms was E. fecalis and 1 was E. coli. In Group 2, 2 cases were E. fecalis, 3 were E. coli and 1 was MRSE. There was no significant difference between the urine analysis results of the patients before catheter retraction and catheter culture positivity. CONCLUSIONS: Pre-operative urine culture does not exclude catheter colonization, and the prolonged duration of the catheter associated with greater colonization and may be associated urinary tract infection. Ureteral catheter should be removed as early as possible.

Treatment of ureteral catheter related symptoms; mirabegron versus tamsulosin/solifenacin combination: A randomized controlled trial. / Tratamiento de los sintomas relacionados con los catéteres: mirabegon vs tamsulosina-solifenacina en combinación: un estudio prospectivo randomizado.

 OBJECTIVES: The double-J (DJ) stents are commonly used to relieve the ureteral obstruction. Besides several known benefits, some of the patients encounter stent-related morbidities with considerable effects on the quality of life, general health situation, sexual matters, and daily work performance. In this study, we evaluated the effectiveness of tamsulosin/solifenacin combination and mirabegron in reducing DJ stent-related symptoms. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 120 patients with 28cm 4.7fr DJ catheter inserted due to ureteral obstruction were included in this study. Patients were randomly divided into three groups of 40 each; group one received only oral hydration for six weeks; group two received 0.4 mg tamsulosin/10 mg solifenacin, and group three received 50 mg mirabegron. Preoperative and after 6 weeks, the VAPS, OAB-q index, and IPSSs forms were filled. RESULTS: The mean age of the patients was 41.60 ± 12.34 years. There was no significant difference between the groups in terms of preoperative and postoperative VAPS values (p>0.05). There was a significant difference in postop IPSSs values (p:0.001). It was higher in the hydration group than tamsulosin/solifenacin and mirabegron groups. Postoperative IPSS value of the hydration group was 21.78 ± 2.54 while the tamsulosin/ solifenacin and mirabegron groups were 15.6 ± 4.37 and 13.65 ± 4.97, respectively. The use of mirabegron and tamsulosin/solifenacin combination alleviates the LUTSs related with DJ stent. There was also a significant difference between groups in terms of postoperative OAB-q values (p:0.001). Postoperative OAB-q values in the tamsulosin/solifenacin group were significantly higher than the mirabegron group. Postoperative OAB-q value of the hydration group was 29.95 ± 5.21, while the tamsulosin/solifenacin and mirabegron groups were 23.68 ± 4.07 and 18.15 ± 4.1, respectively. Our results also showed that, as a beta-3 adrenergic receptor agonist, mirabegron can improve the OAB-q scores. CONCLUSION: Tamsulosin and solifenacin combination is a significantly good treatment option for reducing LUTS associated with DJ stents. Mirabegron single therapy showed good results in treating LUTS and better results in treating OAB symptoms related with DJ stents than other therapies.

OBJETIVO: El catéter doble J se utiliza para desobstruir el uréter. A parte de los ya conocidos beneficios, algunos pacientes tienen efectos adversos derivados de llevar el catéter que empeoran su calidad de vida, su vida sexual, sus actividades laborales. En este estudio, evaluamos la efectividad de la tamsulosina/solifenacina en combinación y mirabegron en reducir estos síntomas.MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Un total de 120 pacientes con cateteres de 28cm/4.7 Ch fueron incluidos en el estudio. Los pacientes se randomizaron en 3 grupos, 40 en cada grupo (un grupo recibio hidratación oral durante 6 semanas, otro grupo tamsulosina 0,4 mg/10 mg solifenacina y el tercero 50 mg mirabegron). VAPS, OAB q index y IPSS cuestionarios se rellenaron en el preoperatorio y a las 6 semanas de tratamiento. RESULTADOS: La mediana de edad fue de 41ª. No había diferencias significativas en los grupos en términos de valores VAPS preoperatorios y postoperatorios. Se evidenció una diferencia significativa en los valores IPSS (p=0,001), ya que fue mas elevado en el grupo de hidratación oral que el grupo de tamsulosina/solifenacina y mirabegron. El valor postoperatorio de IPSS en el grupo de hidratación fue de 22, mientras que en la tamsulosina y mirabegron fue de 15 y 13, respectivamente. El uso de mirabegron y tamsulosina mejora los síntomas tracto urinario inferior por el catéter. También se evidencio una diferencia significativa entre los grupos en términos de OAB-q (p=0,001). Los valores postoperatorios OAB-q en el grupo tamsulosina fueron mas altos que en el grupo mirabegron. El valor OAB-q postoperatorio en el grupo de hidratación oral fue de 29, tamsulosina 23 y mirabegron 18, respectivamente. Nuestros resultados también demuestran que mirabegron puede mejorar los resultados de OAB-q. CONCLUSIONES: Tamsulosina/solifenacina es un buen tratamiento para mejorar los STUI asociados a catéteres. Mirabegon demuestra también buenos resultados en el tratamiento de los síntomas de vejiga hiperactiva relacionados en el catéter mejor que otras terapias.

Laparoscopic surgery for upper ureteral calculi in geriatric patients: 5 years experience.

OBJECTIVE: We have reviewed the success of laparoscopic calculi surgeries in geriatric patients. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was performed on the laparoscopic ureterolithotomy surgeries performed at our central between January 2014 and January 2019 to treat upper ureteral calculi in geriatric patients. Among the patients who underwent these surgeries, we evaluated data on 24 cases whose records could be fully retrieved. RESULTS: The age interval of the patients was 60-73 years, and the mean age was 63 ± 3.43 years. The size of the calculi was 19-24 mm, and mean size was 20.2 ± 2.5 mm. Because stone disease was present previously, 5 of these patients underwent endoscopic intervention, whereas two underwent open surgery. Sixteen of these patients had a history of unsuccessful shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) or ureterorenoscopy. The calculi-free rate was 100%. According to the modified Clavien classification, no major perioperative and postoperative complications were observed. The duration of hospital stay was 1-3 days, and the mean duration of stay was 1.6 ± 0.9 days. CONCLUSION: We believe that owing to the high success and low complication rates, laparoscopic ureterolithotomy can be the first option of treatment for geriatric patients with impacted large calculi, with a history of unsuccessful SWL or ureterorenoscopy (semirigid, flexible).

Sensitivity and specificity of Briganti nomogram in Turkish patients undergoing radical prostatectomy and pelvic lymph node dissection.

AIM: To investigate the accuracy of Briganti nomogram in patients who underwent Pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND). METHODS: Hundred and sixty-five patients who underwent radical prostatectomy and PLND between 2012 and 2018 in our clinics were included, and their data were retrospectively screened. RESULTS: The mean age of patients was 63.6 ± 5.8 (range: 49-76) years. Hundred and thirty-five (81.8%) patients had a Briganti score of <5, whereas 30 (18.2%) had a Briganti score of ≥5. The preoperative T-PSA levels, biopsy grades and the incidence of T2b and T2c stages in patients with a Briganti score of ≥5 was significantly higher than that in patients with a Briganti score of <5 (p: .026; p: .000; p: .001, respectively). The incidence of lymph node positivity in patients with a Briganti score of ≥5 (76.7%) was significantly higher than that in patients with a Briganti score of <5 (25.2%) (p: .000). The sensitivity of the Briganti score to detect lymph node positivity was 40.35%, specificity was 93.52%, positive predictive value was 76.67% and the negative predictive value was 74.81%. The accuracy of the test was 75.15%. CONCLUSION: Nomograms provide useful information regarding prostate cancer. Risk estimates should be carefully considered, and treatment decisions should be given with a patient-specific approach.

Three different urogenital carcinoma in an aging patient: a rare case presentation.

Urogenital cancers are frequently encountered in daily practice. Prostate cancer is the second most common type in adult males, and 2-3% of all adult cancers are renal cell carcinoma. Kaposi's sarcoma originates from vascular endothelial cells and is the most common type of sarcoma observed in HIV-positive patients. However, the development of all these types of cancer in a patient without immunodeficiency is very rare. Incidence of urological malignancies increase with aging. In contrast to normal population, patient who have one urological malignancy have increased risk of getting another urological malignancy in a follow-up. So follow-up of this kind of patients is crucial and needs to be done carefully. In this case report, we aimed to discuss a 68-year-old patient who was diagnosed with concurrent prostate and kidney cancer and developed penile Kaposi's sarcoma in follow-up.

Results of purified micronized flavonoid fraction in the treatment of categorized type III chronic pelvic pain syndrome: a randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVES: The management of chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS) is controversial because of the unclear pathogenesis of this disease. In one theory, prostatitis has been proposed to be associated with pelvic venous diseases such as varicocele and hemorrhoids, dilatation of the Santorini plexus. In this study, we investigated the effect of micronized flavonoid fraction (an agent used in venous insufficiency) in the treatment of type III CPPS. METHODS: Patients diagnosed with type III chronic prostatitis were randomized and divided into 3 groups. Group 1 consisted of patients using antibiotics + anti-inflammatory + alpha-blocker (n = 47), Group 2 consisted of patients using antibiotics + anti-inflammatory + purified micronized flavonoid fraction (n = 45), and Group 3 consisted of patients using only purified micronized flavonoid fraction (n = 35). RESULTS: The mean age of the patients was 32.93 ± 4.70 (range; 23-44) years. There was a statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of the 6th month NIH-CPSI (National Institute of Health Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index) total scores (p = .000). Also, it was found that NIH-CPSI total scores at month 12 in Group 3 were significantly higher than those in Group 1 and 2 (p1 = .000, p2 = .002). NIH-CPSI total scores at month 12 in Group 2 were significantly higher than those in Group 1 (p = .000). CONCLUSION: The use of purified micronized flavonoid will decrease prostatic inflammation occurring due to increased perineal venous return.it can also be preferred as part of multimodal therapy because of its profile with relatively less side effects and being more affordable compared with alpha-blockers.

Predictive value of ischaemia-modified albumin in spermatogenesis in an experimental testicular torsion model.

Our aim was to measure the ability of ischaemia-modified albumin (IMA) to predict testicular histopathological damage in the testes of rats with short- and long-term ischaemia using experimental testicular torsion and subsequent reperfusion via detorsion.21 Wistar Albino rats were randomized into three groups. The sham group was subjected to a mid-scrotal incision only. The 4- and 8-hr T/D (Torsion/Detorsion) groups were subjected to left testicular torsion by twisting the testes by 720 degrees counterclockwise. 2 cc venous blood samples were taken from the sham group after the mid-scrotal incision, and from the 4- and 8-hr T/D groups after 4 and 8 hr respectively. After that, the 4- and 8-hr T/D groups were subjected to detorsion. Two days later, orchiectomy was performed. Ischaemia-modified albumin levels were significantly different among the groups at 48 hr prior to orchiectomy (reperfusion; p = .003). Based on the results of the paired comparisons, it was found that IMA levels of the sham group were significantly higher than those of the 4- and 8-hr T/D groups (p = .002 and .009 respectively). Our study has showed that IMA may be used to predict ischaemia/reperfusion injury, which is another complication that may occur following detorsion in testicular torsion.

Assesment of anogenital distance as a marker in diagnosis of prostate cancer.

OBJECTIVES: Anogenital distance (AGD), the distance from the sexual organs to the anus, is a sexually dimorphic feature in mammals. In this study, we investigated the relationship between anogenital distance and prostate cancer (PCa). METHODS: 52 patients diagnosed with PCa and 60 patients with benign prostate hyperplasia as a control group were included in the study. AGDAP (cephalad insertion of the penis to the center of the anus) and AGDAS (posterior base (first fold) of the scrotum to the center of the anus) measurements of patients were done and noted before biopsy. RESULTS: The mean ages of 52 patients diagnosed with PCa and 60 patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) were 67.70 ± 7.74 and 67.03 ± 7.89, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in terms of age and serum testosterone levels of the patients diagnosed with prostate cancer or BPH (p > 0.05). Mean PSA values of patients diagnosed with prostate cancer wto be statistically higher than patients with BPH (p = 0.000). The mean AGDAP measurements of patients diagnosed with prostate cancer were statistically higher than those diagnosed with BPH (p = 0.000) and there was no significant difference in AGDAS measurements.(p = 0.823; p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Androgen exposure is thought to play a role in the development PCa. Also AGD may be an indicator of prenatal androgen activity. In our study, we found a direct correlation between AGDAP and PCa. In order to reach a definitive conclusion, randomized controlled trials with larger sample number are needed.

The comparative analysis of the three dilatation techniques in percutaneous nephrolithotomy: Which one is safer?

OBJECTIVES: Introduction of the "access sheet" is one of the most important steps steps of the percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL) intervention. In creating the access tract, various dilatators (balloon, metal) are used and different need-based dilatation tools were developed. In this study, we aimed to compare the mechanical Amplatz dilatation (AD), balloon dilatation (BD) and one-shot dilatation (OSD) methods in a retrospective manner. METHODS: A total of 182 patients (127 males and 55 females), who underwent PNL surgery in Urology Department of Fatih Sultan Mehmet Research and Training Hospital between January 2016 and September 2018, were included in this study. RESULTS: The average age was 47.34 ± 12.68 years (age range 15-80) and average BMI was 27.15 ± 5.01 kg/m2 (range between 17.12 and 40.75 kg/m2). There was a prominent difference in terms of operation duration (p = 0.032). Meaningful difference was found among the groups in terms of dilation fluoroscopy time (p = 0.001), with a notable shorter time in OSD group than the others (p < 0.05). Beside this, there was no difference between the AD and BD groups in terms of fluoroscopy times (p > 0.05). Also, there was no difference among the groups by Clavien complication rate (p > 0.05). There was a prominent difference among the groups in terms of hemoglobin decrement (p = 0.012; p < 0.05). The hemoglobin decrease in OSD group was significantly lower than in AD and BD groups (p < 0.05; p < 0.01). On the contrary, there was no meaningful difference between AD and BD groups with this regard (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: As a result, we have concluded that the use of OSD modality in PNL interventions could be superior to other methods with respect to its feasibility, cost-effectiveness, shorter radiation exposure / fluoroscopy time and it could be a preferable way of treatment especially in developing countries.

Increased neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio in testicular cancer.

OBJECTIVE: Testicular cancers, which are less common than other cancers, are important in terms of being seen in young people. Physical examination, imaging, laboratory and tumor markers are used for diagnosis. There are some studies of some blood parameters that can be involved in inflammation and tumorogenesis. We retrospectively compared hematological values measured in our patients who were diagnosed with testicular tumor in comparison with patients with similar age group who underwent varicocelectomy repair. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross-sectional retrospective study included 120 patients who underwent radical inguinal orchiectomy for testicular tumor between January 2010 and December 2018, and 171 patients who underwent varicocelectomy as a control group. Patients with an active infection and hematological disorders were excluded from the study. We evaulated hematological parameters including neutrophil (NEU), lymphocyte (LYM), platelet (PLT) count, and mean platelet volume. The study was conducted on 291 patients. divided in two groups: tumor (n = 120) and varicocele (n = 171). RESULTS: There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of PLT / lymphocyte ratio and mean platelet volume (MPV) levels (p > 0.05). The neutrophil /lymphocyte ratio (NLR) of the tumor group was significantly higher than the varicocele group (p = 0.001; p < 0.05). There was a statistically significant difference between the tumor stages in terms of PLT / Lymphocyte ratios (p = 0.006; p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: There was only a statistically significant increase in NLR values in the testicular tumor group compared to the varicocele group. Larger, randomized controlled studies are needed at this field.

Strangulated inguinal hernia accompanied by paratesticular leiomyosarcoma.

Sarcomas that arise from the spermatic cord constitute 2.1% of soft tissue sarcomas and are observed at a rate of 1% to 2% in the genitourinary system. A 74-year-old patient presented at the emergency department with complaints of groin pain and swelling persisting for 3 days. On physical examination, a firm mass that was approximately 5x5 cm in size and could not be reduced was observed at the right inguinal area as well as a right inguinal hernia. Computed tomography revealed a large hernia sac in the right inguinal area and a mass that was 77x55 mm in size within the hernial sac. A radical orchiectomy and hernia repair were performed. A diagnosis of leiomyosarcoma was made based on the pathological evaluation of the mass. At the 7-month postoperative follow-up, no local relapse or distant metastasis was found. To conclude, although paratesticular leiomyosarcoma is rare, it should be kept in mind as one of the possible diagnoses for older patients presenting with an inguinal mass.