Risk of age-related macular degeneration in men receiving 5α-reductase inhibitors: a population-based cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Recent studies suggest that 5α-reductase inhibitors (5ARIs) for benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) result in abnormal retinal anatomical alteration. OBJECTIVE: To compare age-related macular degeneration (AMD) incidence in BPH patients receiving 5ARIs or tamsulosin. DESIGN: Retrospective, population-based cohort study using new-user and active-comparator design. SETTING: General population. SUBJECTS: Males with BPH, newly receiving 5ARIs or tamsulosin from 2010 to 2018. METHODS: Data were extracted from Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database. We used Cox proportional hazards model with 1:4 propensity score (PS) matching, based on intention-to-treat analysis to determine the risk of incident AMD. Sensitivity analyses included an as-treated approach and weighting-based PS methods. We also separately reported the risks of incident AMD in patients receiving finasteride and dutasteride to determine risk differences among different 5ARIs. RESULTS: We included 13 586 5ARIs users (mean age: 69 years) and 54 344 tamsulosin users (mean age: 68.37 years). After a mean follow-up of 3.7 years, no differences were observed in the risk of incident AMD between 5ARIs and tamsulosin users [hazard ratio (HR): 1.06; 95% confidence intervals (95% CI): 0.98-1.15], with similar results from sensitivity analyses. However, increased risk of incident age-related macular degeneration was observed in patients receiving dutasteride [HR: 1.13; 95% CI: 1.02-1.25], but not in those receiving finasteride [HR: 0.99; 95% CI: 0.87-1.12], in the subgroup analyses. CONCLUSIONS: We found no difference between 5ARIs and tamsulosin regarding the incidence of AMD in BPH patients. However, the risk profiles for AMD differed slightly between dutasteride and finasteride, suggesting that the potency of androgen inhibition is a factor related to AMD incidence.

[Establishment of a predictive scoring model and preventive measures for bladder neck contracture after laparoscopic enucleation of the prostate with urethra preservation].

OBJECTIVE: To establish a predictive scoring model for bladder neck contracture (BNC) after laparoscopic enucleation of the prostate with preservation of the urethra (Madigan surgery) and explore the preventive measures against this postoperative complication. METHODS: We included 362 cases of BPH treated by laparoscopic Madigan surgery from January 2019 to March 2022 (45 with and 317 without postoperative BNC) in the training group and another 120 cases treated the same way in the verification group, collected the clinical data on the patients and evaluated the results of surgery. Using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and multivariate logistic regression, we analyzed the risk factors for postoperative BNC and constructed a predictive scoring model for evaluation of the factors. RESULTS: Compared with the baseline, the IPSS, quality of life (QOL) score and postvoid residual urine volume (PVR) were significantly decreased (P < 0.05) while the maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax) remarkably increased (P < 0.05) in the BPH patients at 3 months after surgery. Eight non-zero characteristic predictors were identified by LASSO regression analysis. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that short clinical experience of the surgeon, concurrent prostatitis, bladder rinse solution temperature <34℃, catheter blockage, urethral balloon injection volume >40 ml and postoperative constipation were independent risk factors for postoperative BNC (P < 0.05). The best cut-off value was 2.36 points in both the training and the verification groups. The results of evaluation exhibited a high discriminability of the predictive scoring model. CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic Madigan surgery is a safe and effective method for the treatment of BPH. Short clinical experience of the surgeon, concurrent prostatitis, bladder rinse solution temperature <34℃, catheter blockage, water injected into the urethral balloon >40 ml and postoperative constipation were independent risk factors for postoperative BNC. The predictive scoring model constructed in this study has a good discriminability and is simple and feasible, contributive to the prediction of postoperative BNC in BPH patients undergoing laparoscopic Madigan surgery.

A Comparative Study of Histotripsy Parameters for the Treatment of Fibrotic ex-vivo Human Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Tissue.

Histotripsy is a noninvasive focused ultrasound therapy that mechanically fractionates tissue to create well-defined lesions. In a previous clinical pilot trial to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), histotripsy did not result in consistent objective improvements in symptoms, potentially because of the fibrotic and mechanically tough nature of this tissue. In this study, we aimed to identify the dosage required to homogenize BPH tissue by different histotripsy modalities, including boiling histotripsy (BH) and cavitation histotripsy (CH). A method for histotripsy lesion quantification via entropy (HLQE) analysis was developed and utilized to quantify lesion area of the respective treatments. These data were correlated to changes in mechanical stiffness measured by ultrasound shear-wave elastography before and after treatment with each parameter set and dose. Time points corresponding to histologically observed complete lesions were qualitatively evaluated and quantitatively measured. For the BH treatment, complete lesions occurred with >=30s treatment time, with a corresponding maximum reduction in stiffness of -90.9±7.2(s.d.)%. High pulse repetition frequency (PRF) CH achieved a similar reduction to that of BH at 288s (-91.6±6.0(s.d.)%), and low-PRF CH achieved a (-82.1±5.1(s.d.)%) reduction in stiffness at dose >=144s. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that a >~75% reduction in stiffness positively correlated with complete lesions observed histologically, and can provide an alternative metric to track treatment progression.

The GG genotype of rs743572 in CYP17A1 gene regulating the decrease of T/E ratio can be an independent risk factor for MetS-BPH: a retrospective cohort study.

PURPOSE: To confirm if the CYP17A1 gene regulates the ratio of T/E leading to MetS-BPH. METHODS: 824 men, aged 47-88 years, were recruited into this study through consecutive routine physical examination programs and long-term outpatient screening. Several parameters, including SNPs of CYP17A1 gene, total testosterone, estradiol, and the ratio of total testosterone to estradiol (T/E) were obtained for each participant. Based on the diagnosis of BPH, MetS, and MetS-BPH, the participants were divided into BPH and non-BPH groups, MetS and non-MetS groups, and MetS-BPH and non-MetS-BPH groups. Values of the obtained parameters were evaluated using one-way analysis of variance, Student's t-test, Chi-squared test, and logistic regression analysis. RESULTS: SNPs of the CYP17A1 gene, including the rs743572 genotypes (GG, GA, and AA), rs3781287 genotypes (GG, GT, TT), and rs4919686 genotypes (CC, CA, and AA), were present in every group. Only the GG genotype of rs743572 was independently associated with BPH (OR = 5.868, 95% CI: 3.363-7.974, P < 0.001), MetS (OR = 7.228, 95% CI: 3.925-11.331, P < 0.001), and MetS-BPH (OR = 3.417, 95% CI: 1.783-5.266, P < 0.001) after adjusting for age. In the population of genotype GG of rs743572, the decrease in T/E ratio was an independent risk factor for BPH (OR = 839.756, 95% CI: 36.978-1334.263, P = 0.001), MetS (OR = 376.988, 95% CI: 12.980-488.976, P < 0.003), and MetS-BPH (OR = 388.236, 95% CI: 24.869-495.363, P = 0.003). CONCLUSION: The GG genotype of rs743572 in CYP17A1 gene regulating the decrease of T/E ratio can be an independent risk factor for MetS-BPH populations. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: ChiCTR2200057632 "retrospectively registered". DATE OF REGISTRATION: March 15, 2022 "retrospectively registered".

Robotic bladder diverticulectomy with concurrent management of bladder outlet obstruction: A choice to consider.

INTRODUCTION: Acquired bladder diverticula (BD) are associated with bladder outlet obstruction. The aim of our study is to analyse the improvement in lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in patients who underwent robot-assisted bladder diverticulectomy (RABD) combined with transurethral prostatectomy (TURP). MATERIAL AND METHODS: A prospectively single-centre, single surgeon cohort of four patients with posterolateral BD due to bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) undergoing RABD combined with TURP between 2018 and 2023 was analysed. RESULTS: Median age and maximum BD diameter were 73.5 years and 16 cm, respectively. All patients had severe LUTS and elevated postvoid residual (PVR). Preliminary uroflowmetry revealed bladder outlet obstruction with a median of maximum urine flow rate of 8.5 ml/s. The median operative time and blood loss were 212 min and 100 ml, respectively. No intraoperative complications were recorded. The median length of stay was 4 days. The International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and PVR were compared between baseline, 1 month and 6 months after surgery. IPSS significantly decreased from 24 (IQR 24-25) preoperatively compared to the postoperative, at 1 month follow up 7 (IQR 6-8) (p < 0.0001). PVR significantly decreased too from 165 (IQR 150-187) to 35 ml (IQR 25-42) (p < 0.0001). In transitioning from the 1-month follow-up to the 6-month follow-up, no substantial statistical improvement was observed. CONCLUSION: Concomitant performance of TURP with RABD is feasible and safe. Diverticulectomy in addiction at the endoscopic procedure should be discussed with patients who have obstructive lower urinary tract symptoms as viable alternative to single procedure individually performed.

Exploring pharmacological interventions in benign prostate hyperplasia: the role of cost-effectiveness analysis in daily practice and future directions.

INTRODUCTION: Benign Prostate Hyperplasia (BPH) significantly impacts men's health and quality of life, with its prevalence rising with age. This review critically examines the cost-effectiveness of pharmacological interventions for BPH to optimize patient outcomes and healthcare resource utilization. AREAS COVERED: This review explores the integration of cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA) into clinical practice, balancing clinical efficacy with economic efficiency in BPH management. We performed a critical literature search, including recent studies on the economic evaluation of BPH treatments, focusing on pharmacotherapies such as alpha-blockers and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors. Additionally, we discussed the concept of CEA and evaluated the role of medicinal reconciliation and the avoidance of polypharmacy in favor of optimal BPH treatment. EXPERT OPINION: Cost-effectiveness analysis is crucial for evaluating BPH treatments, with evidence suggesting a shift towards surgical interventions may offer greater long-term economic benefits. However, these models must be applied cautiously, considering clinical evidence and patient preferences to ensure equitable and patient-centric healthcare.

Transradial Prostatic Artery Embolization as a Salvage Procedure in a Patient With Severe Deformities and Refractory Hematuria of Prostatic Origin.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia is a common condition causing urinary symptoms in older men. It can sometimes lead to hematuria of prostatic origin, due to increased vascularity of the enlarged gland. If this type of hematuria is severe and refractory to conservative measures, it can be life-threatening. Prostatic artery embolization (PAE) serves as a minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgical interventions, particularly in patients with comorbidities and contraindications to surgery. We present a case of a 79-year-old male with refractory hematuria of prostatic origin (RHPO), multiple comorbidities, and significant deformities of the left upper and both lower limbs. The patient was treated with PAE via the right radial artery, a less common approach in interventional radiology. The procedure was successful and led to a complete resolution of hematuria, with no complications. This report highlights the importance of adapting treatment for complex patients and shows that PAE can be safe and effective in such cases.

[Botulinum toxin in male lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS): What can we expect?] / Botulinumtoxin bei Symptomen des unteren Harntraktes beim Mann ("male LUTS"): Was darf man erwarten?

During the last two decades botulinum toxin has also conquered urology. Botulinum toxin reduces the contractility and sensitivity of the detrusor muscle and relieves pain. It is therefore a promising drug whose use in men also appears promising. The following article highlights the practical relevance of botulinum toxin for male lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). But first of all, a distinction must be made between use in male LUTS due to benign prostate syndrome (BPS) and use in cases of overactive bladder (OAB) alone. A differentiated diagnosis and treatment of male LUTS is therefore essential.

Awareness and compliance of urologists in the Middle East with minimally invasive surgical devices for the management of benign prostate hyperplasia.

Objectives: The objective is to assess urologists' awareness of and compliance with available minimally invasive devices (MIDs) for the management of benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH). Methods: An online Internet-based survey was sent to urologists through E-mail. Baseline characteristics included age, location and duration of practice, and number of prostatectomies performed in the previous 12 months. Awareness is based on the surgeons' opinions about their advantages and drawbacks. Results: A total of 308 participants responded to the survey; 87.0% were most aware of Rezum, followed by Urolift (59.1%), Aquablation (33.1%), and combined temporary implantable nitinol device (iTIND), and Zenflow (17%). In the past 12 months, 84.1% used MIDs in their practice. A total of 47.1% of respondents believe that these devices have comparable outcomes with the traditional interventions, 52.9% are unsure of their long-term benefits, and 71% feel that it is too early to judge. Forty-three percent believe that these devices are reserved only for high-risk patients, and 52% recommend that they should be available in their centers. Most respondents (90.9%) prefer Rezum, Urolift (28.2%), and Aquablation (12.6%) because they are less invasive, less time-consuming, and have few complications. Interestingly, 59% recommend MIDs to their family members. Conclusions: Most respondents are more aware of Rezum, Urolift, and Aquablation than iTIND and Zenflow. In addition, most respondents agree that these MIDs and traditional prostate interventions have comparable outcomes despite the former lacking long-term outcome assessment. High cost and no long-term data may influence the widespread acceptance of these MIDs.

Analysis of urinary retention after endoscopic prostate enucleation and its subsequent impact on surgical outcomes.

PURPOSE: Postoperative urinary retention (PUR) is a common complication after prostate enucleation, which leads to an increased length of hospital stay and decreased postoperative satisfaction. This study determined the predictive factors of postoperative urine retention within 1 month after prostate enucleation and investigated whether PUR influences surgical outcomes at the 2-week, 3-month, and 6-month follow-up time points. METHODS: Data were collected from the electronic medical records of 191 patients with benign prostatic obstruction (BPO) during October 2018 to September 2021. Of them, 180 patients who underwent thulium laser or plasma kinetic enucleation of the prostate (ThuLEP, PKEP) were separated into the PUR group (n = 24) and the non-PUR (NPUR) group (n = 156). Uroflowmetry and the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) questionnaire were followed up at 2 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months postoperatively. RESULTS: The PUR group had a significantly higher percentage of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) than the NPUR group. Postoperatively, compared with the NPUR group, the PUR group had significantly less improvement in changes in the IPSS Quality of Life scores at 2 weeks, the total IPSS(International Prostate Symptom Score) at all follow-up times, the IPSS-S(IPSS storage subscores) at 2 weeks and 3 months, and the IPSS-V(IPSS voiding subscores) at all follow-up times. Predictive factors for PUR include lower preoperative maximum urinary flow (Qmax), lower preoperative total IPSS, and higher operation time. CONCLUSION: Lower preoperative Qmax, lower IPSS scores, and longer operation time were risk factors for PUR. Furthermore, PUR could be a prognostic factor for prostatic enucleation surgical outcomes.

Unveiling the intricate connection between per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and prostate hyperplasia.

The presence of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in various everyday products has raised concerns about their potential impact on prostate health. This study aimed to investigate the effects of different types of PFAS on prostate health, including PFDeA, PFOA, PFOS, PFHxS, and PFNA. To assess the relationship between PFAS exposure and prostate injury, machine learning algorithms were employed to analyze prostate-specific antigen (PSA) metrics. The analysis revealed a linear and positive dose-dependent association between PFOS and the ratio of free PSA to total PSA (f/tPSA). Non-linear dose-response relationships were observed between the other four types of PFAS and the f/tPSA ratio. Additionally, the analysis showed a positive association between the mixture of PFAS and prostate hyperplasia, with PFNA having the highest impact followed by PFOS. These findings suggest that elevated serum levels of PFDeA, PFOA, PFOS, and PFNA are linked to prostate hyperplasia. Therefore, this study utilized advanced machine learning techniques to uncover potential hazardous effects of PFAS exposure on prostate health, specifically the positive association between PFAS and prostate hyperplasia.

Surgical outcomes of endoscopic enucleation of the prostate in community aging males with or without preoperative urinary retention.

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to investigate the surgical outcomes of endoscopic enucleation of the prostate in older males with or without preoperative urinary retention (UR). MATERIAL AND METHODS: We conducted a study on selected patients with symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) who underwent either thulium:YAG laser (vela XL) prostate enucleation (ThuLEP) or bipolar plasma enucleation of the prostate (B-TUEP) at the geriatric urology department of our institution. The studied patients were categorized into two groups, namely the UR group and the non-UR group, on the basis of whether they experienced UR in the 1 month preceding their surgery. Their clinical outcomes following prostate endoscopic surgery were evaluated and analyzed. RESULTS: Our results revealed comparable outcomes for operation time, length of hospital stay, percentage of tissue removed, re-catheterization rate, and urinary tract infection rate within the 1 month between the B-TUEP and ThuLEP surgery groups, regardless of UR history. However, the non-UR B-TUEP group experienced more blood loss relative to the non-UR ThuLEP group (P = .004). Notably, patients with UR exhibited significantly greater changes in IPSS total, IPSS voiding, and prostate-specific antigen values relative to those without UR. CONCLUSIONS: Both ThuLEP and B-TUEP were effective in treating BPH-related bladder outlet obstruction. Our study identified more pronounced changes in IPSS total, IPSS voiding, and prostate-specific antigens within the UR group. Moreover, the rate of postoperative UR in this group was not higher than that observed in the non-UR group. Our study also revealed that the presumed benefits of laser surgery in reducing blood loss were less pronounced for patients with UR.

Effects of a proprietary mixture of extracts from Sabal serrulata fruits and Urtica dioica roots (WS® 1541) on prostate hyperplasia and inflammation in rats and human cells.

Introduction: Phytotherapeutics, particularly extracts from Sabal serrulata (saw palmetto) fruit or Urtica dioica (stinging nettle) root, are popular for the treatment of male lower urinary symptoms in many countries, but their mechanism of action is poorly understood. We performed in vivo and in vitro studies to obtain deeper insight into the mechanism of action of WS® 1541, a proprietary combination of a Sabal serrulata fruit and an Urtica dioica root extract (WS® 1473 and WS® 1031, respectively) and its components. Methods: We used the sulpiride model of benign prostatic hyperplasia in rats and tested three doses of WS® 1541 in comparison to finasteride, evaluating weight of prostate and its individual lobes as well as aspects of inflammation, oxidative stress, growth and hyperplasia. In human BPH-1 cells, we studied the effect of WS® 1473, WS® 1031, WS® 1541 and finasteride on apoptosis, cell cycle progression and migrative capacity of the cells. Results: WS® 1541 did not reduce prostate size in sulpiride treated rats but attenuated the sulpiride-induced changes in expression of most analyzed genes and of oxidized proteins and abrogated the epithelial thickening. In vitro, WS® 1473 and WS® 1031 showed distinct profiles of favorable effects in BPH-1 cells including anti-oxidative, anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effects, as well as inhibiting epithelial-mesenchymal-transition. Conclusion: This data supports a beneficial effect of the clinically used WS® 1541 for the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms associated with mild to moderate benign prostate syndrome and provides a scientific rationale for the combination of its components WS® 1473 and WS® 1031.

miR-1202 regulates BPH-1 cell proliferation, apoptosis, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition through targeting HMGCL.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is the expansion of the prostate gland that results in urinary symptoms. Both the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and the Wnt signaling pathway are associated with BPH pathology. In this study, we find that miR-1202 is increased in BPH samples. Overexpression of miR-1202 in TGF-ß-treated BPH-1 cells enhances cell survival and DNA synthesis and inhibits cell apoptosis, whereas miR-1202 inhibition partially abolishes the effects of TGF-ß on BPH-1 cells. miR-1202 overexpression reduces E-cadherin level but elevates vimentin, N-cadherin, and snail levels, whereas miR-1202 inhibition partially attenuates the effects of TGF-ß on EMT markers. Regarding the Wnt/ß-catenin pathway, miR-1202 overexpression significantly enhances, whereas miR-1202 inhibition partially decreases, the promotive effects of TGF-ß on Wnt1, c-Myc, and cyclin D1 proteins. 3-Hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA lyase (HMGCL) is a direct downstream target of miR-1202, and miR-1202 inhibits HMGCL expression through binding to its 3'UTR. Overexpression of HMGCL significantly reduces the effect of miR-1202 overexpression on the phenotypes of BPH-1 cells by inhibiting cell survival and promoting apoptosis. Similarly, HMGCL overexpression has the opposite effects on EMT markers and the Wnt/ß-catenin signaling, and markedly alleviates the effects of miR-1202 overexpression. Finally, in the BPH rat model, Ki67 and vimentin levels are elevated, but E-cadherin and HMGCL levels are reduced. In conclusion, miR-1202 is upregulated in benign prostatic hyperplasia; miR-1202 enhances epithelial cell proliferation, suppresses cell apoptosis, and promotes EMT by targeting HMGCL. The Wnt/ß-catenin pathway may participate in the miR-1202/HMGCL axis-mediated regulation of BPH-1 cell phenotypes.

Transurethral bipolar enucleation using a TUEB loop for large benign prostatic hyperplasia: a retrospective cohort study.

PURPOSE: We aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of transurethral enucleation with bipolar system (TUEB) regardless of the prostate size using a specially developed TUEB loop. METHODS: A total of 251 patients who underwent TUEB were categorized into two groups depending on the prostate volume (PV): small-PV (≤ 80 mL) group, 133 patients; large-PV (> 80 mL) group, 118 patients. Comparisons of background information and treatment outcomes were performed between the groups. RESULTS: Operation (113.5 vs 166.4 min), enucleation (49.4 vs 68.1 min), and morcellation (11.4 vs 26.4 min) times were longer and hemoglobin decreased significantly (0.84 vs 1.30 g/dL) in the large PV group. However, the enucleation efficiency (enucleated weight per enucleation time; 0.71 vs 0.97 g/min) and prostate-specific antigen reduction rate (24.6% vs 16.1%) were significantly better in the large-PV group, with similar enucleation rates (enucleated weight per transitional zone volume; 82% vs 81%). The International Prostate Symptom Score, uroflowmetry maximum flow rate, and post-void residual urine in both groups improved at 3, 6, and 12 months compared with baseline. No patient underwent blood transfusion. There were no differences in the frequency of postoperative clot retention, urethral stricture, or stress incontinence at 3, 6, and 12 months. CONCLUSION: TUEB using a TUEB loop resulted in high levels of satisfaction regarding the enucleation efficiency, efficacy, and safety for BPH surgery regardless of the prostate size. TUEB should be considered one of the best treatment options for large BPH that is uncontrollable with medication.

Initial experience with thulium fiber laser for prostate enucleation: Analysis of the intraoperative and short-term outcomes in a prospective, multicenter cohort.

INTRODUCTION: Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate has rapidly become the gold standard for the surgical treatment of benign prostate hyperplasia, although thulium fiber laser (TFL) has also been postulated as an effective and safe alternative for prostate enucleation. The aim of this study is to describe our initial experience with the TFL for endoscopic enucleation of the prostate. MATERIAL AND METHODS: All patients proposed to TFL prostate enucleation were included in the analysis, regardless their prostate volume, catheter status and severity of symptoms, in 3 centers. Preoperative characteristics, intraoperative times and functional 3-months follow-up variables were collected, along with complications. RESULTS: Fifty-six patients were available, with a mean age of 68.7 years. Enucleation and morcellation efficiencies were 2.04 and 7.47 g/min, respectively. Median hospital stay was one day. Comparable functional data, pre and 3-month post-surgery was: mean prostate volume 88.9 vs 21.3 g, maximum urinary flow 13.2 vs 27.3 ml/s, post-void residual volume 149 vs 7.8 ml, prostatic specific antigen level 11.2 vs 1 ng/ml, and International Prostate Symptom Score 20.75 vs 3.96. Fourteen out of 56 (25%) patients presented with complications grade ≤2, according to the Clavien-Dindo classification. DISCUSSION: With wider evidence for other urological indications, very recent evidence about the suitability of TFL for prostate enucleation has arisen, since the first case described in 2021. Our results seem to back up these previous successful experiences as long as we obtained good intraoperative and short term follow-up functional results. However, there is still a need of longer follow-up data. CONCLUSIONS: TFL represents a novel technology for prostate enucleation, with a good intraoperative and short follow-up functional results, and a safety profile similar to the observed for those techniques that have been wider used for this indication. Further studies with longer follow-up periods and comparative with these other techniques are necessary.

Prostate and gut: Any relationship? A narrative review on the available evidence and putative mechanisms.

BACKGROUND: Gut microbiome is a community of microorganisms that lives in the human intestine and exerts various functions on the host, including metabolic, immunoregulatory, and control over cell proliferation. Gut microbiome alterations have been associated with various pathological conditions, such as diabetes mellitus, obesity, and cardiovascular diseases. Gut-prostate axis is explained by the association between gut microbiome quantitative and functional alterations along with increased intestinal epithelial permeability with prostatediseases. However, the pathophysiological mechanisms and clinical importance of this association are not completely clarified yet. METHODS: We conducted a narrative review of the most relevant articles in the Medline (US National Library of Medicine, Bethesda, MD, USA), Scopus (Elsevier, Amsterdam, The Netherlands) and Web of Science Core Collection (Thomson Reuters, Toronto, ON, Canada) databases. No chronological restrictions were applied, and the most related papers published until December 2023 were included. RESULTS: Gut microbiota (GM) and its metabolites are capable of modifying host androgen level, as well as prostate cancer (PCa) therapy response. Moreover, patients with inflammatory bowel disease have higher rates of prostatitis-like symptoms and a potential risk of developing PCa. CONCLUSIONS: There is evidence that interventions on the GM and its metabolites have a high potential to serve as diagnostic and therapeutic tools for prostate diseases, including PCa.

Defining minimal invasive surgical therapy for benign prostatic obstruction surgery: Perspectives from a global knowledge, attitude, and practice survey.

Objective: To scrutinize the definitions of minimal invasive surgical therapy (MIST) and to investigate urologists' knowledge, attitudes, and practices for benign prostatic obstruction surgeries. Methods: A 36-item survey was developed with a Delphi method. Questions on definitions of MIST and attitudes and practices of benign prostatic obstruction surgeries were included. Urologists were invited globally to complete the online survey. Consensus was achieved when more than or equal to 70% responses were "agree or strongly agree" and less than or equal to 15% responses were "disagree or strongly disagree" (consensus agree), or when more than or equal to 70% responses were "disagree or strongly disagree" and less than or equal to 15% responses were "agree or strongly agree" (consensus disagree). Results: The top three qualities for defining MIST were minimal blood loss (n=466, 80.3%), fast post-operative recovery (n=431, 74.3%), and short hospital stay (n=425, 73.3%). The top three surgeries that were regarded as MIST were Urolift® (n=361, 62.2%), Rezum® (n=351, 60.5%), and endoscopic enucleation of the prostate (EEP) (n=332, 57.2%). Consensus in the knowledge section was achieved for the superiority of Urolift®, Rezum®, and iTIND® over transurethral resection of the prostate with regard to blood loss, recovery, day surgery feasibility, and post-operative continence. Consensus in the attitudes section was achieved for the superiority of Urolift®, Rezum®, and iTIND® over transurethral resection of the prostate with regard to blood loss, recovery, and day surgery feasibility. Consensus on both sections was achieved for EEP as the option with the better symptoms and flow improvement, lower retreatment rate, and better suitable for prostate more than 80 mL. Conclusion: Minimal blood loss, fast post-operative recovery, and short hospital stay were the most important qualities for defining MIST. Urolift®, Rezum®, and EEP were regarded as MIST by most urologists.