Ex vivo construction of a novel model of bioengineered bladder mucosa: A preliminary study.

OBJECTIVE: To generate and to evaluate ex vivo a novel model of bioengineered human bladder mucosa based on fibrin-agarose biomaterials. METHODS: We first established primary cultures of stromal and epithelial cells from small biopsies of the human bladder using enzymatic digestion and selective cell culture media. Then, a bioengineered substitute of the bladder lamina propria was generated using cultured stromal cells and fibrin-agarose scaffolds, and the epithelial cells were then subcultured on top to generate a complete bladder mucosa substitute. Evaluation of this substitute was carried out by cell viability and histological analyses, immunohistochemistry for key epithelial markers and transmission electron microscopy. RESULTS: The results show a well-configured stroma substitute with a single-layer epithelium on top. This substitute was equivalent to the control bladder mucosa. After 7 days of ex vivo development, the epithelial layer expressed pancytokeratin, and cytokeratins CK7, CK8 and CK13, as well as filaggrin and ZO-2, with negative expression of CK4 and uroplakin III. A reduction of the expression of CK8, filaggrin and ZO-2 was found at day 14 of development. An immature basement membrane was detected at the transition between the epithelium and the lamina propria, with the presence of epithelial hemidesmosomes, interdigitations and immature desmosomes. CONCLUSIONS: The present results suggest that this model of bioengineered human bladder mucosa shared structural and functional similarities with the native bladder mucosa, although the epithelial cells were not fully differentiated ex vivo. We hypothesize that this bladder mucosa substitute could have potential clinical usefulness after in vivo implantation.

Relationship between biopsy Gleason score and radical prostatectomy specimen Gleason score in patients undergoing sextant vs 12 core biopsies.

OBJECTIVES: Our goal is to analyze the degree of concordance between the Gleason score (GS) obtained in prostate biopsies and the one after radical prostatectomy. The intention is to know whether 12-core biopsy, instead of 6 (sextant biopsy), improves, or not, this correlation. METHODS: A Cohort/prevalence study was conducted on 128 patients who underwent prostate biopsy and subsequent radical prostatectomy. Patients showing biopsy Gleason values greater or equal to 6 were selected as candidates for radical prostatectomy. RESULTS: Mean age of the group of 128 patients was 62.9 years, with a mean PSA value of 8.53ng/ml. There was concordance between biopsy Gleason score and that obtained after radical prostatectomy in 63.28% of cases, while discordance was found in 36.72% of cases. There were not significant statistical differences after comparing results obtained between Gleason score concordance after 6 or 12-core biopsies and that obtained after radical prostatectomy. CONCLUSIONS: We have noticed a low correlation between Gleason score after biopsy when it was compared with that obtained after radical prostatectomy, while these results are similar to those found in the literature. We did not find better results regarding Gleason score correlation after biopsies performed with 12 cores instead of 6.

Relación entre score gleason biópsico y score gleason tras prostatectomía radical en pacientes sometidos a biopsia sextante vs 12 cilindros / Relationship between biopsy gleason score and radical prostatectomy specimen gleason score in patients undergoing sextant vs 12 core biopsies

OBJETIVO: El cáncer de próstata es una patología cada vez más prevalente por la longevidad de la población. Es por ello que cada vez con más frecuencia se somete a los pacientes a realización de biopsia prostática para realizar su diagnóstico de certeza.Nuestro objetivo fue analizar la relación del score gleason obtenido en la biopsia de próstata con el obtenido tras prostatectomía radical. Se pretendió analizar si la obtención de 12 cilindros en lugar de 6 (biopsia sextante) mejora o no esta relación.MÉTODOS: Se realizó un estudio de casos y controles con 128 pacientes (98 casos en los que se obtuvó 6 cilindros y 30 controles en los que se obtuvieron 12 cilindros) que fueron sometidos a biopsia de próstata y posterior prostatectomía radical. Para ello se seleccionaron a pacientes con Gleason biópsico mayor o igual de 6 y candidatos a prostatectomía radical.RESULTADOS: La media de edad de los 128 pacientes incluidos en el estudio fue de 62,9 años, con una media de PSA de 8,53 ng/ml. Se observó igualdad de Score Gleason biopsia/prostatectomía en el 63,28 % de los pacientes y desigualdad en el 36,72 %. Tras comparar los resultados obtenidos entre la relación del score gleason tras extracción de 6 o 12 cilindros y tras prostatectomía radical no se apreciaron diferencias estadísticamente significativasCONCLUSIONES: La correlación gleason biopsia-prostatectomía radical es baja. No apreciamos mejoría significativa para esta correlación el obtener 12 cilindros en lugar de 6(AU)

OBJECTIVES: Our goal is to analyze the degree of concordance between the Gleason score (GS) obtained in prostate biopsies and the one after radical prostatectomy. The intention is to know whether 12-core biopsy, ins-tead of 6 (sextant biopsy), improves, or not, this correla-tion.METHODS: A Cohort/prevalence study was conducted on 128 patients who underwent prostate biopsy and subsequent radical prostatectomy. Patients showing biop-sy Gleason values greater or equal to 6 were selected as candidates for radical prostatectomy.RESULTS: Mean age of the group of 128 patients was 62.9 years, with a mean PSA value of 8.53ng/ml. There was concordance between biopsy Gleason score and that obtained after radical prostatectomy in 63.28% of cases, while discordance was found in 36.72% of cases. There were not significant statistical differences after comparing results obtained between Gleason sco-re concordance after 6 or 12-core biopsies and that obtained after radical prostatectomy.CONCLUSIONS: We have noticed a low correlation between Gleason score after biopsy when it was com-pared with that obtained after radical prostatectomy, while these results are similar to those found in the lite-rature. We did not find better results regarding Gleason score correlation after biopsies performed with 12 cores instead of 6(AU)

Treatment of ureteral lithiasis with tamsulosin: literature review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: Ninety percent of ureteral calculi <4 mm are expelled over a period of 3 months; if they are >6 mm the elimination possibilities are reduced to 30%. Presently, investigations in the treatment of ureteral lithiasis have the objective of modifying ureter contractibility with the aid of calcium antagonist and alpha-blocking drugs. The objective of this study is to analyze the effect of tamsulosin in the treatment of the distal ureter lithiasis and to make a systematic analysis of the literature. PATIENTS AND METHODS: In a prospective study 70 cases of distal ureter lithiasis were divided into 2 groups: group 1 = 35 cases treated with ibuprofen (600 mg/12 h) and 2,000 ml water/24 h with tramadol on demand, and group 2 = 35 cases with the same treatment as described before plus tamsulosin 0.4 mg/day over 3 weeks. The number of stone-free patients, time to expulsion and the necessity for analgesia were evaluated. A literature review (2002-2007) and meta-analysis of 11 studies was performed. Statistical analysis included relative risk (RR), number needed to treat (NNT) and chi(2) test. RESULTS: Group 1 reported 19 stone expulsions (54.3%) and group 2 30 expulsions [85.7%, chi(2) = 8.23 (p < 0.01), RR = 1.58, NNT = 3 (95% CI 2-9)]. The mean time to expulsion was 14 days in group 1 and 8 days in group 2. No side effects were detected. Meta-analysis included 792 patients: 392 patients in group 1 and 400 patients in group 2. Group 1 reported 211 stone expulsions (53.8%) and group 2 reported 332 expulsions [83%, chi(2) = 78.17 (p < 0.01), RR = 1.54, absolute benefit = 29.2% (95% CI 23-35.3%), NNT = 3 (95% CI 3-4)]. The mean time to expulsion was 9.45 days in group 1 and 6.07 days in group 2 treated with tamsulosin; a significant difference was observed in all studies. CONCLUSIONS: Tamsulosin increases the elimination of distal ureter lithiasis of <10 mm.

[Secondary hyperparathyroidism in advanced prostate cancer]. / Hiperparatiroidismo secundario en el cáncer de próstata avanzado.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: High parathyroid hormone (PTH) concentrations are associated with increased bone resorption and bone matrix degradation. Some studies show elevated PTH concentrations and hypocalcemia in patients with advanced prostate carcinoma, although the pathophysiological significance of these findings is not well defined. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We performed a retrospective study of 60 patients diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer (44 nonmetastatic and 16 metastatic) treated with androgen deprivation. In all patients, PTH, calcium, phosphorus, 25 (OH) vitamin D and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) were determined. Bone scintigraphy had previously been performed. RESULTS: In patients with bone metastases, mean concentrations were as follows: calcium 9.19 mg/dl, phosphorus 3.47 mg/dl, 25 (OH) vitamin D 13.85 ng/ml, PTH 66.8 pg/ml and total PSA 101.27 ng/ml. For those without bone metastases, the results were calcium 9.39 mg/dl, phosphorus 3.38 mg/dl, 25 (OH) vitamin D 20.50 ng/ml, PTH 52.23 pg/ml and total PSA 2.52 ng/ml. PTH levels were significantly higher in patients with prostate cancer and bone metastases than in those without metastases (p=0.03). Vitamin D levels were also significantly lower in this group (p=0.03). There were no differences in other values. CONCLUSIONS: The present study found increased PTH concentrations in patients with advanced prostate cancer. This finding could be useful to predict disease progression.

Spontaneous retroperitoneal abscess as the first clinical manifestation of a non-functioning retroperitoneal paraganglioma.

We demonstrate a novel clinical presentation of paraganglioma not described in the literature. The paraganglioma is a catecholamine secretory, or non-secretory, neuroendocrine tumour that derives from chromaffin cells. Its frequency, with regard to pheochromocytoma, is low, and the abdominal region is the most frequent localisation site, followed in importance by the cervical region. We report the case of a 54-year-old woman diagnosed with a retroperitoneal abscess; after drainage of the lesion, samples indicated necrotic paraganglioma cells, so it was decided to conduct a survey to determine catecholamine levels in urine, and carry out a MIBG gammagraphy, which described a non-functioning retroperitoneal paraganglioma that underwent surgical removal. There was no residual disease after 3-month follow-up.

Hiperparatiroidismo secundario en el cáncer de próstata avanzado / Secondary hyperparathyroidism in advanced prostate cancer

Antecedentes y objetivo Se conoce que concentraciones altas de PTH se asocian con aumento de reabsorción y degradación de la matriz ósea. Algunos estudios evidencian concentraciones elevadas de PTH e hipocalcemia en pacientes con carcinoma de próstata avanzado; sin embargo, su importancia fisiopatológica aún no está bien definida. Material y método Estudio descriptivo retrospectivo de 60 pacientes diagnosticados de cáncer de próstata avanzado (44 no metastásicos y 16 metastásicos) en tratamiento actual con bloqueo hormonal. En todos los casos se hicieron determinaciones de PTH, calcio, fósforo, 25 (OH) vitamina D y antígeno específico de la próstata (PSA). Se les realizó previamente gammagrafía ósea. Resultados Los pacientes con metástasis óseas presentaban unas concentraciones medias de: calcio 9,19mg/dl, fósforo 3,47mg/dl, 25 (OH) vitamina D 13,85ng/ml, PTH 66,8pg/ml y de antígeno prostático total de 101,27ng/ml. Para aquellos que no tenían metástasis óseas las medias fueron: calcio 9,39mg/dl, fósforo 3,38mg/dl, 25 (OH) vitamina D 20,50ng/ml, PTH 52,23pg/ml y antígeno prostático total de 2,52ng/ml. Los pacientes con cáncer de próstata y metástasis óseas presentaron concentraciones de PTH superiores a los no metastásicos de forma estadísticamente significativa (p=0,03). Las concentraciones de vitamina D también fueron significativamente menores en este grupo (p=0,03). No se apreciaron diferencias en el resto de los valores. Conclusiones En este estudio se ha observado un aumento de las concentraciones de PTH en los pacientes con cáncer de próstata avanzado lo que podría implicar valores pronósticos en cuanto a la evolución de la enfermedad (AU)

Background and Objective High parathyroid hormone (PTH) concentrations are associated with increased bone resorption and bone matrix degradation. Some studies show elevated PTH concentrations and hypocalcemia in patients with advanced prostate carcinoma, although the pathophysiological significance of these findings is not well defined. Materials and methods We performed a retrospective study of 60 patients diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer (44 non metastatic and 16 metastatic) treated with androgen deprivation. In all patients, PTH, calcium, phosphorus, 25 (OH) vitamin D and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) were determined. Bone scintigraphy had previously been performed. Results In patients with bone metastases, mean concentrations were as follows: calcium 9.19mg/dl, phosphorus 3.47mg/dl, 25 (OH) vitamin D 13.85ng/ml, PTH 66.8pg/ml and total PSA 101.27ng/ml. For those without bone metastases, the results were calcium 9.39mg/dl, phosphorus 3.38mg/dl, 25 (OH) vitamin D 20.50ng/ml, PTH 52.23pg/ml and total PSA 2.52ng/ml. PTH levels were significantly higher in patients with prostate cancer and bone metastases than in those without metastases (p=0.03). Vitamin D levels were also significantly lower in this group (p=0.03). There were no differences in other values. Conclusions The present study found increased PTH concentrations in patients with advanced prostate cancer. This finding could be useful to predict disease progression (AU)

Renal lithiasis in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism. Evolution and treatment.

OBJECTIVES: The relationship between hyperparathyroidism and lithiasis is quite known, so the study of parathyroid glands is especially mandatory in the face of relapses. Our objective is to analyze both primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) associated with renal lithiasis and the evolution of this condition after parathyroidectomy, as well as to study factors associated with the presence of lithiasis or bone pathology, and carry out a review on bibliography. METHODS: We describe a retrospective study of a series comprising 287 cases of hyperparathyroidism: 237 of them were primary and the remaining 50, secondary. We have included: sex, age, evolution time and symptoms, diagnostic tests (biochemical, radiological and histological). Factors such as number of episodes prior to diagnosis and treatments were analyzed in patients with symptomatic lithiasis to know whether patients exhibited residual lithiasis after the management of calculi or whether patients underwent episodes after parathyroidectomy, or whether or not they were treated. Statistical analysis was carried out through SPSS 15.0 for Windows. RESULTS: Forty five percent of the patients had suffered lithiasis episodes; 50%, osteopenia/osteoporosis; 23%, musculoskeletal pain; 23%, asthenia and/or depressive syndrome. In 13.5% of cases, diagnosis was supported by the presence of hypercalcemia; no other symptoms were detected. We have analyzed factors that favor or inhibit renal lithiasis formation and compared biochemical parameters from the group of primary hyperthyroidism that exhibited lithiasis (41 patients) with those patients who did not (49). We noted that lithiasis patients showed higher values of calcium, alkaline phosphatase, intact PTH, mean PTH, osteocalcin, and chlorine/phosphate, calciuria and phosphaturia indexes. Student's t test on two independent samples revealed significant statistical differences in calcium levels (p<0.05), intact PTH (<.05) and osteocalcin. CONCLUSIONS: Primary hyperparathyroidism patients with lithiasis presented higher values of parathormone, alkaline phosphatase, osteocalcin, and Cl/P and calciuria indexes than lithiasis-free PHPT patients. These patients exhibit objective improvement of symptoms after parathyroidectomy, and rarely a recurrence of lithiasis, a factor that generally coincides with persistence of residual lithiasis.

Litiasis renal en pacientes con hiperparatiroidismo primario. Evolución y tratamiento / Renal lithiasis in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism. Evolution and treatment

OBJETIVO: La relación hiperparatiroidismo-litiasis renal es bien conocida y el estudio de paratiroideses obligado en paciente con litiasis, sobre todo si hay recidivas. Nuestro objetivo es analizar los casos de HPTP con litiasis renal y su evolución tras paratiroidectomía;estudiar los factores que se asocian a la presencia de litiasis o patología ósea y revisión bibliográfica.MÉTODOS: Estudio descriptivo retrospectivo de una serie de 287 casos de hiperparatiroidismo: 237 primarios,50 hiperparatiroidismos secundarios. Hemos analizado: sexo, edad, tiempo de evolución, clínica, pruebas diagnósticas (bioquímicas, radiológicas e histológicas).En pacientes con clínica de litiasis se ha analizado el número de episodios previos al diagnóstico y su tratamiento,si presentaban litiasis residual tras el tratamiento del cálculo, si sufrieron episodios posteriores a la paratiroidectomíay si fueron tratados o no. Análisis estadísticocon SPSS 15.0 para Windows.RESULTADOS: El 45% de pacientes había presentado episodios de litiasis, 50% osteopenia/osteoporosis, 23% algias osteomusculares, astenia y/o síndrome depresivoel 23%; en el 13,5% de los casos el diagnóstico se realiza tras el hallazgo de hipercalcemia sin otros síntomas.Analizamos factores favorecedores o inhibidores de formaciónde litiasis renal, hemos comparado parámetros bioquímicos del grupo de hiperparatiroidismos primarioscon litiasis (41 pacientes) con grupo sin litiasis (49). Observamos que enfermos con litiasis presentan cifras más elevadas de calcio, fosfatasa alcalina, PTHi, PTHm, osteocalcina, índice cloro/fosfato, calciuria y fosfaturia. Al aplicar el test “t” Student para dos muestras independientesse encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativasen niveles de calcio (p<0,05), PTHi (p<0,05) y osteocalcina...(AU)

OBJECTIVES: The relationship between hyperparathyroidism and lithiasis is quite known, so the study of parathyroid glands is especially mandatory in the face of relapses. Our objective is to analyze both primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) associated with renallithiasis and the evolution of this condition after parathyroidectomy,as well as to study factors associated with the presence of lithiasis or bone pathology, and carry out a review on bibliography.METHODS: We describe a retrospective study of a series comprising 287 cases of hyperparathyroidism: 237 of them were primary and the remaining 50, secondary.We have included: sex, age, evolution time and symptoms, diagnostic tests (biochemical, radiologicaland histological). Factors such as number of episodesprior to diagnosis and treatments were analyzed in patients with symptomatic lithiasis to know whether patients exhibited residual lithiasis after the management of calculi or whether patients underwent episodes after parathyroidectomy, or whether or not they were treated. Statistical analysis was carried out through SPSS 15.0 for Windows.RESULTS: Forty five percent of the patients had suffered lithiasis episodes; 50%, osteopenia/osteoporosis; 23%, musculoskeletal pain; 23%, asthenia and/or depressive syndrome. In 13.5% of cases, diagnosis was supported by the presence of hypercalcemia; no other symptoms were detected.We have analyzed factors that favor or inhibit renal lithiasisformation and compared biochemical parameters from the group of primary hyperthyroidism that exhibited lithiasis (41 patients) with those patients who did not (49). We noted that lithiasis patients showed higher valuesof calcium, alkaline phosphatase, intact PTH, mean PTH, osteocalcin, and chlorine/phosphate, calciuria and phosphaturia indexes. Student’s t test on two independentsamples revealed significant statistical differencesin calcium levels (p<0.05), intact PTH (<0.05) and osteocalcin...(AU)

[Imaging characterization of renal masses. Image atlas]. / Caracterización por la imagen de las masas renales. Atlas por la imagen.

The diagnostic study, analysis and characterization of renal masses and their behavior is one of the key elements for elaborating a surgical or therapeutic strategy, determining the prognosis, and for the follow-up of treatment efficacy in patients with benign or malignant disease. At present, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are the two most reliable, effective and efficient instruments in this context--offering sensitivity and specificity values in excess of 87%, with a diagnostic relaibility of over 90% in application to renal masses of a cystic or complex nature, with nonspecific or specific inflammatory characteristics, or of a primary or secondary neoplastic nature. The aim of this study is to present the principal CT and MRI parameters in relation to renal pathology of this kind, correlating them to the clinical, physiopathological and histopathological data with a view to affording architectural, density, signal intensity and biological behavior parametric information of help in understanding the changes occurring in the renal and retroperitoneal regions secondary to such pathologies.

[Current indications of open surgery for the treatment of renal lithiasis. Ureterocalycostomy as definitive treatment for lithiasis in a female with recurrent disease]. / Indicación actual de la cirugía abierta en el tratamiento de la litiasis renal. Ureterocalicostomía como tratamiento definitivo de litiasis en mujer con patología recidivante.

OBJECTIVE: We describe one case of recurrent lithiasis associated with anatomical alteration of the renal pelvis related to previous surgery. METHODS/RESULTS: The patient presented a urinary tract infection episode, complicated with pyonephrosis and septicemia. In the intravenous urography, infectious radiopaque pyelocaliceal multiple and complex lithiasis can be seen, as well as kidney hydronephrosis grade III-IV. Important pyelic sclerosis secondary to previous surgery on the renal unit was seen. Nephrectomy was performed with lower pole nephro-lithotomy and reconstruction of the upper urinary tract through ureterocalicostomy. Two and a half years after surgery, control urogram shows absence of urolithiasis and a slight delay of renal function. CONCLUSIONS: Ureterocalicostomy is indicated in cases of ureteropelvic junction obstruction associated with intrarenal pelvis caused by alterations of fusion, rotation or location of kidney. It is also indicated in cases of severe peripyelic fibrosis secondary to previous pyeloplasty failure or renal surgery. In our case, in addition to the infectious component of lithiasis, an anatomical alteration, probably secondary to previous surgery, caused the chronification of lithiasis. Facing such suspicion a surgical management was undertaken to eliminate the lithiasis and get a correct derivation of the working area of the kidney, in order to prevent further recurrences.

Caracterización por la imagen de las masas renales. Atlas por la imagen / Imaging characterization of renal masses. Image atlas

El estudio diagnóstico, análisis y caracterización de las masas renales y su comportamiento representa uno de los pilares maestros para la elaboración de una estrategia quirúrgica o terapeútica de otros órdenes, en la elaboración de un pronóstico y en el seguimiento de la eficacia terapeútica tanto en casos de patología benigna como maligna. La TC y la RMI representan, en la actualidad, los dos modos más fiables, eficaces y eficientes en tal tipo de análisis y caracterización con índices de sensibilidad y especificidad superiores el 87% y con una fiabilidad diagnóstica superior al 90% dentro de las masas renales, sean quísticas simples o complejas, de orden inflamatorio inespecífico o específico o de origen tumoral primario o secundario de la esfera renal. El propósito de este estudio es el demostrar los principales parámetros de estudio mediante TC y RMI de tales tipos patológicos y correlacionarlos con los datos clínicos, patofisiológicos e histopatológicos para obtener datos paramétricos en arquitectura, densidad, intensidad de señal y comportamiento biológico que nos ayuden a comprender los cambios que se producen en el área renal y retroperitoneal derivados de tales patologías (AU)

The diagnostic study, analysis and characterization of renal masses and their behavior is one of the key elements for elaborating a surgical or therapeutic strategy, determining the prognosis, and for the follow-up of treatment efficacy inpatients with benign or malignant disease. At present, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)are the two most reliable, effective and efficient instruments in this context - offering sensitivity and specificity values in excess of 87%, with a diagnostic relaibility of over 90% in application to renal masses of a cystic or complex nature, with nonspecific or specific inflammatory characteristics, or of a primary or secondary neoplastic nature. The aim of this study is to present the principal CT and MRI parameters in relation to renal pathology of this kind, correlating them to the clinical, physiopathological and histopathological data with a view to affording architectural, density, signal intensity and biological behavior parametric information of help in understanding the changes occurring in the renal and retroperitoneal regions secondary to such pathologies (AU)

Indicación actual de la cirugía abierta en el tratamiento de la litiasis renal. Ureterocalicostomía como tratamiento definitivo de litiasis en mujer con patología renal / Current indications of open surgery for the treatment of renal lithiasis. Ureterocalycostomy as definitive treatment for lithiasis in a female with recurrent dis

OBJETIVO: Presentamos un caso de litiasis recidivante asociado a alteración anatómica de la pelvis renal secundaria a cirugía.MÉTODOS/RESULTADOS: La paciente presenta un episodio de infección urinaria complicada con pionefrosis y septicemia. En la urografía intravenosa se observa litiasis radiodensa infecciosa, pielolocalicial múltiple compleja, sobre riñón con hidronefrosis grado III-IV por importante esclerosis piélica secundaria a cirugía previa sobre dicha unidad renal. Se realiza nefrectomía polar inferior con nefrolitotomía y reconstrucción de la vía urinaria superior mediante uréterocalicostomía. Dos años y medio después de la cirugía la urografía de control refleja ausencia de litiasis y leve retraso de la función renal.CONCLUSIONES: La ureterocalicostomía está indicada en casos de obstrucción de la unión ureteropiélica asociada a una pelvis intrarrenal por alteraciones de la fusión, rotación o localización renal, y en casos de fibrosis peripiélica severa secundaria a una pieloplastía fallida o cirugía renal previa. En el caso presentado además del componente infeccioso de las litiasis, una alteración anatómica, probablemente secundaria a la cirugía previa, provocaba una perpetuación de la clínica litiásica. Ante tal sospecha se impuso una solución de tipo quirúrgico que solucionara en un tiempo tanto la eliminación de la litiasis como una correcta derivación de la zona funcionante del riñón para evitar recidivas posteriores(AU)

OBJECTIVE: We describe one case of recurrent lithiasis associated with anatomical alteration of the renal pelvis related to previous surgery.METHODS/RESULTS: The patient presented a urinary tract infection episode, complicated with pyonephrosis and septi-cemia. In the intravenous urography, infectious radiopaque pyelocaliceal multiple and complex lithiasis can be seen, as well as kidney hydronephrosis grade III-IV. Important pyelic sclerosis secondary to previous surgery on the renal unit was seen. Nephrectomy was performed with lower pole nephro-lithotomy and reconstruction of the upper urinary tract through ureterocalicostomy. Two and a half years after surgery, control urogram shows absence of urolithiasis and a slight delay of renal function.CONCLUSIONS: Ureterocalicostomy is indicated in cases of ureteropelvic junction obstruction associated with intrare-nal pelvis caused by alterations of fusion, rotation or location of kidney. It is also indicated in cases of severe peripyelic fibrosis secondary to previous pyeloplasty failure or renal sur-gery. In our case, in addition to the infectious component of lithiasis, an anatomical alteration, probably secondary to previous surgery, caused the chronification of lithiasis. Fa-cing such suspicion a surgical management was undertaken to eliminate the lithiasis and get a correct derivation of the working area of the kidney, in order to prevent further recu-rrences(AU)

Tratamiento de la litiasis vesical con láser / The treatment of bladder lithiasis with laser

OBJETIVO: El uso del láser para litotricia endoscópica, comienza en 1968 al utilizar Mulvaney un láser de rubí sin éxito, posteriormente se probaron láser de CO2 y Neodymio-YAG. Con el láser pulsado de colorante y el láser de alexandrita se obtienen unos rendimientos energéticos que oscilan de 30 a 200 mJ, su capacidad de fragmentación no es universal y esta limitada a pequeños cálculos, generalmente ureterales, por lo que no han sido alternativa terapéutica en la litiasis vesical. El láser de Holmio genera pulsos de energía de 400-2500 mJ, capaz de fragmentar todo tipo de cálculos. El Objetivo de este trabajo es analizar los resultados de la litotricia vesical endoscópica con láser de holmio YAG. MÉTODOS: En el periodo de 2006-2008 hemos tratado 21 casos de litiasis vesical, con tamaños de 1 a 4 cm. en pacientes de 8-76 años, 6 mujeres y 15 hombres, que corresponden a: Cuatro casos de litiasis infantil, 3 de ácido úrico, 1 caso de cistina, litiasis de oxalato y/o fosfato cálcico en 7 casos, 5 casos de litiasis vesical sobre extremo inferior de doble jota, 1 caso de litiasis en ureterocele intravesical. El tratamiento se ha realizado con un equipo Dornier Medilas de 20 watios de Holmio-YAG como fuente de energía, que se ha aplicado a través de cistoscopios infantil-adulto o ureteroscopios de 7-8.5 Ch. semirrígido y flexible. El control post-operatorio se ha realizado con radiografía simple de aparato urinario y ecografía. Realizamos estudio de factores de riesgo litógeno y análisis de los fragmentos del cálculo. RESULTADOS: Los 21 casos descritos corresponden a litiasis vesical secundaria o tipo II. En todos los casos se ha comprobadola ausencia de litiasis residual con estudios de imagen y se han corregido los factores de riesgo litógeno con procedimientos médicos o quirúrgicos. CONCLUSIONES: Consideramos que hoy, la litotricia vesical endoscópica con láser de holmio si es alternativa terapéutica. A pesar de que existen múltiples opciones de tratamiento endoscópico,la litotricia transuretral con láser de holmio ofrece buenos resultados con un bajo porcentaje de complicaciones (AU)

OBJECTIVES: The use of laser for endoscopic lithotripsy started in 1968 when Mulvaney tried a ruby laser without success; Later on, the CO2 laser and the Nd: YAG were tried. With the pulsed dye and alexandrite lasers energetic performances between 30 and 200 mJ are obtained, their capacity of fragmentation is not universal and is limited to small stones, generally ureteral stones, so that it has not been a therapeutic alternative for bladder lithiasis. The holmium laser generates energy pulses of 400-2500mJ, it is able to fragment every type of stone. The objective of this work is to analyze the results of endoscopic bladder lithotripsy with holmium-YAG laser. METHODS: In the period between 2006-2008 we treated 21 cases of bladder lithiasis, with a stone size between 1 and 4 cm in patients from 8-76 years, six women and 15 men, which correspond to: four cases of infantile lithiasis, 3 of uric acid, one case of cystine, seven cases of calcium oxalate and/or phosphate, five cases of bladder lithiasis growing around a double J catheter, and one case of lithiasis within an intravesical ureterocele. Treatment was performed with a 20W Dornier Medilas holmium-YAG equipment, applied using children/adult cystoscopes or 7-8.5 Ch ureteroscopes, both semirigid and flexible. Post operative control included KUB x-ray and ultrasound. We performed a study of lithogenic risk factors and stone fragments analysis. RESULTS: The 21 cases described are all secondary or type II bladder lithiasis. In all cases the absence of residual lithiasis was checked with imaging studies and the lithogenic risk factors were corrected with medical or surgical procedures. CONCLUSIONS: We consider that today bladder endoscopic lithotripsy with holmium laser is a therapeutic alternative. Despite there are multiple options for endoscopic treatment, transurethral lithotripsy with holmium laser offers good results with a low complication rate (AU)

Criterios clínicos y radiológicos en la decisión terapéutica del reflujo vesicoureteral. Un análisis retrospectivo de nuestra experiencia / Clinical and radiological criteria for the therapeutic decision for vesicoureteral reflux. Retrospective analysis of our experience

Objetivo: Establecer, en base a nuestra experiencia, unos esquemas terapéuticos del reflujo vesicoureteral en el niño, apoyándonos en resultados clínicos y radiológicos, observando cómo han ido evolucionando las indicaciones y tiempos de tratamiento con el advenimiento de las técnicas endoscópicas. Métodos: Se han analizado los pacientes con reflujo vesicoureteral tratados en dos periodos de similar duración: el primero (106 pacientes), entre 1995 y marzo 2001 (fecha en que se introdujeron las técnicas endoscópicas); el segundo, (138 pacientes), desde esa fecha hasta marzo de 2007. En todos los pacientes se estudiaron variables clínicas, diagnósticas y terapéuticas, así como el resultado obtenido. Resultados: El número de pacientes tratados aumentó en el segundo período, en él disminuyó ostensiblemente (de 24 a 7) el número de pacientes que requirieron reimplantación vesicoureteral. La proporción de éxitos del tratamiento endoscópico ascendió al 94,9%, no apreciándose diferencias significativas en función de la edad o el grado de reflujo, aunque se observa un mayor porcentaje de fracasos en niños menores de 3 años y en reflujos de alto grado. La presencia de malformaciones asociadas no se relacionó con una peor evolución tras el tratamiento. Conclusiones: En aquellos reflujos donde el tratamiento médico no ha sido eficaz, persistiendo o empeorando el mismo, y como alternativa a la cirugía abierta (con buenos resultados pero con una morbilidad no desdeñable), el tratamiento endoscópico se convierte en una alternativa de eficacia similar y mínimamente agresiva. Proponemos un esquema orientativo para establecer las indicaciones de cada estrategia terapéutica en función del grado de reflujo y su evolución clínica (AU)

Objectives: According to our experience, we present a proposal for the treatment of vesicoureteral reflux, based on both clinical and radiological evidences. We also describe how the introduction of endoscopic procedures has influenced the evolution of treatment indications as well as the time intervals for treatment. Methods: We have analysed all cases of vesicoureteral reflux treated in our Department in two periods of similar length: The first one (106 patients) comprised from 1995 to March 2001 (when endoscopic procedures were introduced). The second one (138 patients), comprised from March, 2001 to March 2007. Clinical, diagnostic, therapeutic and outcome-related variables were studied for all cases. Results: The number of patients was higher in the se-cond period. In this period the number of cases requiring ureteral reimplantation decreased with respect to the first one (from 24 to 7). The success rate with endoscopic treatment reached 94,9%, with no significant differences regarding age or grade of reflux, although higher rates of failures were observed in children aged less than 3 years old and in high-grade reflux. The association of reflux with other malformations was not related with a worse evolution after treatment. Conclusions: Endoscopic treatment, due to its similar efficacy and low aggressiveness, should be considered a valid alternative to open surgery (which offers good results but non-negligible comorbidity) for persistent reflux in which medical treatment has not been useful. We propose a tentative therapeutic scheme to establish the indications for each type of treatment depending on the grade of reflux and its clinical evolution (AU)

[The treatment of bladder lithiasis with laser]. / Tratamiento de la litiasis vesical con láser.

OBJECTIVES: The use of laser for endoscopic lithotripsy started in 1968 when Mulvaney tried a ruby laser without success; Later on, the CO2 laser and the Nd:YAG were tried. With the pulsed dye and alexandrite lasers energetic performances between 30 and 200 mJ are obtained, their capacity of fragmentation is not universal and is limited to small stones, generally ureteral stones, so that it has not been a therapeutic alternative for bladder lithiasis. The holmium laser generates energy pulses of 400-2500 mJ, it is able to fragment every type of stone. The objective of this work is to analyze the results of endoscopic bladder lithotripsy with holmium-YAG laser. METHODS: In the period between 2006-2008 we treated 21 cases of bladder lithiasis, with a stone size between 1 and 4 cm in patients from 8-76 years, six women and 15 men, which correspond to: four cases of infantile lithiasis, 3 of uric acid, one case of cystine, seven cases of calcium oxalate and/or phosphate, five cases of bladder lithiasis growing around a double J catheter, and one case of lithiasis within on intravesical ureterocele. Treatment was performed with a 20W Dornier Medilas holmium-YAG equipment, applied using children/adult cystoscopes or 7-8.5 Ch ureteroscopes, both semirigid and flexible. Post operative control included KUB x-ray and ultrasound. We performed a study of lithogenic risk factors and stone fragments analysis. RESULTS: The 21 cases described are all secondary or type II bladder lithiasis. In all cases the absence of residual lithiasis was checked with imaging studies and the lithogenic risk factors were corrected with medical or surgical procedures. CONCLUSIONS: We consider that today bladder endoscopic lithotripsy with holmium laser is a therapeutic alternative. Despite there are multiple options for endoscopic treatment, transurethral lithotripsy with holmium laser offers good results with a low complication rate.

Tratamiento de la litiasis renal con bifosfonatos / The treatment of renal lithiasis with biphosphonates

OBJETIVO: El tratamiento actual de la hipercalciuria aún es controvertido, no recomendándose la restricción de calcio ya que puede producir un balance negativo con importantes consecuencias en el metabolismo óseo. En adultos, el uso de bifosfonatos (alendronato sódico) ha mostrado buena respuesta. Los bifosfonatos son análogos sintéticos del pirofosfato endógeno, el pirofosfato es la forma más simple del fosfato, Fleisch en 1968 demostró que el pirofosfato inorgánico inhibe la precipitación del fosfato cálcico. La diferencia entre los diferentes bifosfonatos está en el margen de seguridad entre su efecto inhibidor de la resorción ósea y el efecto inhibidor de la mineralización, su aplicación más difundida ha sido como inhibidores de la resorción ósea. El objetivo de este trabajo, es analizar el efecto clínico y bioquímico de los bifosfonatos en enfermos con hipercalciuria, osteopenia y litiasis renal. MÉTODOS: En el periodo de 1996-2006 hemos tratado 25 casos de litiasis renal recidivante asociada a hipercalciuria y perdida de masa ósea primaria o secundaria. En todos los casos se ha realizado tratamiento con alendronato sódico y aporte oral de calcio equivalente a 1000-1200 mg/día. Analizamos, tolerancia y adherencia al tratamiento, efectos secundarios, efectos bioquímicos en sangre y orina, efectos sobre mineralización ósea y evolución de la actividad litiásica antes y después del tratamiento. RESULTADOS: Todos los pacientes han seguido las recomendaciones de administración del fármaco (alendronato sódico 10 md/día o 70 mg/semana), han manifestado buena tolerancia y no se han producido efectos secundarios relevantes ni abandonos del tratamiento. En el 76% de los casos se ha producido remisión de la actividad litógena y en el 24% se ha reducido la actividad litiásica, en todos los casos ha aumentado la mineralización ósea. CONCLUSIONES: En este grupo seleccionado de pacientes con litiasis recidivante y osteopenia, el tratamiento con bifosfonatos solos o asociados a tiacidas ha obtenido buenos resultados en el control de la litiasis renal y desmineralización ósea. La ampliación de sus indicaciones debe analizarse en un estudio randomizado multicéntrico

OBJECTIVES: Current treatment of hypercalciuria is still controversial, not being recommended calcium restriction since it may cause a negative balance with important consequences to bone metabolism. In adults, the use of biphosphonates (sodium alendronate) has shown a good response. Biphosphonates are synthetic analogs of the endogenous pirophosphate. Pirophosphate is the simplest form of phosphate. In 1968, Fleisch demonstrated that inorganic pirophosphate inhibits the precipitation of calcium phosphate. The differences between various biphosphonates are in the safety margin between their inhibitor effect for bone resorption and the inhibitor effect for mineralization; bone resorption inhibition has been their most widely spread application. The objective of this work is to analyze the clinical and biochemical effect of biphosphonates in patients with hypercalciuria, osteopenia and renal lithiasis. METHODS: From 1996 to 2006 we treated 25 cases of recurrent renal lithiasis associated with hypercalciuria and primary or secondary bone mass loss. All cases were treated with sodium alendronate and oral calcium (1000-1200 mg/day). We analyze tolerance and treatment compliance, side effects, biochemical effects on blood and urine, effect on bone mineralization, and the outcome of lithiasic disease before and after treatment. RESULTS: All patients have followed the recommendations for the administration of the drug (sodium alendronate 10 mg/day or 70 mg/week), have had good tolerance without relevant side effects, and no one quit treatment. 76% of the cases have had remission of the lithogenesis activity and 24% reduction, and all cases have had an increase of bone mineralization. CONCLUSIONS: In this group of selected patients with recurrent lithiasis and osteopenia the treatment with biphosphonates alone or associated with thiazide diuretics has given good results in renal lithiasis control and bone demineralization. The extension of indications should be analyzed in a multicentric randomized study