Bilateral Nerve-sparing Radical Retropubic Prostatectomy Research Articles

Low-Intensity Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy – A New Approach in the Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction after Radical Prostatectomy

Summary The experience accumulated with low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy (LI-ESWT) from international clinical trials has demonstrated its safety, efficacy and good tolerance in treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate the effect of LI-ESWT in patients with ED after bilateral nerve sparing radical surgery for prostate cancer. Twenty-seven patients underwent bilateral nerve sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy (BNSRRP) at the clinic of urology of the university hospital in Pleven between January 2016 and December 2016. Twenty-one of these patients had pre-operative preserved erectile function (EF), as reported according to the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5). Postoperatively, these 21 patients experienced a mild (18-21 points) impairment of EF. In 10 patients (group 1), LI-ESWT was performed. The procedure was performed once a week for 6 weeks with a LI-ESWT (BTL 6000 SWT Topline) instrument. The reading was obtained with IIEF-5 on the third and sixth month after the end of therapy. The other 11 patients (group 2) were used as a control group and did not receive treatment. In 5 patients in group 1, a recovery of EF (> 21 points) as per IIEF-5 was recorded at the third month after treatment. In two patients, the same score was recorded at the sixth month. No improvement was seen in three men in group 1. In the controls (group 2), a spontaneous EF improvement in four patients at sixth month was registered. Despite the small number of patients and their short-term follow-up, our initial results indicate that LI-ESWT is effective, safe and well-tolerated. It could be an alternative for early penis rehabilitation in patients who have undergone BNSRRP.

Preoperative Evaluation of Sexual Function in Patients Undergoing Bilateral Nerve-Sparing Radical Retropubic Prostatectomy

Summary During the last few years, prostate cancer is more frequently diagnosed in young patients. This lays emphasis on the necessity to preoperatively evaluate the sexual function in patients undergoing bilateral nerve sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy (BNSRRP). The aim of our study was to make an objective evaluation of the basic sexual function in patients with clinically localized prostate cancer and candidates for BNSRRP, using internationally validated questionnaires. We also tried to find a correlation between these questionnaires and the individual assessment of candidates, on one hand, and between comorbidities of the patients and degree of erectile dysfunction (ED), on the other hand. From January 2014 to March 2017, at the urology clinic of University Hospital – Pleven, 64 patients opted BNSRRP and reported to have preserved erectile function (EF), wishing to maintain this function after surgery. The patients’ histories and comorbidities were recorded on the day of hospitalization. The subjective assessment of the patients’ potency was compared with International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF). According to the EF domain of the IIEF, baseline EF was assessed in 28 patients. Twelve patients had mild ED, 9 patients had mild to moderate ED, seven patients had moderate, and eight had severe ED. The results showed that a significant number of patients with clinically localized prostate cancer who were candidates for BNSRRP reported to be fully potent but actually had impaired EF preoperatively. There was also a pronounced correlation between concomitant diseases and EF.

Climacturia after Definitive Treatment of Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer treatment results in several sexually related side effects beyond the well studied erectile dysfunction. Climacturia (leakage of urine during orgasm) has been reported after prostatectomy but studies have been limited by multiple factors. In this study we examine the prevalence, causes and impact on orgasm function of climacturia after definitive treatment of prostate cancer with surgery or radiation. A total of 906 anonymous surveys were sent to patients with prostate cancer treated with surgery and/or radiation. Respondents were asked about the presence of urinary leakage, climacturia and various elements related to sexual and orgasmic function. We estimated the prevalence of climacturia, evaluated the differences between those with and without climacturia, and assessed the impact of climacturia on orgasmic function. Overall 412 surveys were returned and available for analysis, and of these respondents 75.2% were sexually active or experiencing orgasms. Climacturia was reported by 22.6% of these respondents, and by 28.3%, 5.2% and 28.6% of those treated with surgery, radiation, or both, respectively (p <0.001). The use of aides to obtain an erection (OR 2.24, 95% CI 1.08-4.93, p = 0.035) and the presence of urinary incontinence (OR 3.09, 95% CI 1.66-5.88, p <0.001) were also associated with climacturia in a multivariate logistic regression model. Climacturia had no significant impact on orgasmic function and satisfaction. Climacturia is experienced by a substantial proportion of men after undergoing definitive treatment of prostate cancer. We found a complex relationship between stress urinary incontinence and climacturia, and noted that the presence of climacturia does not necessarily negatively impact sexual satisfaction.

2298 ONCOLOGICAL AND FUNCTIONAL MANAGEMENT IN NERVE SPARING RADICAL PROSTATECTOMY: PERIPROSTATIC NEUROVASCULAR BUNDLES EVALUATION WITH MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING AND PROSTATE MAPPING WITH SPECTROSCOPY

You have accessJournal of UrologyImaging/Radiology: Uroradiology1 Apr 20112298 ONCOLOGICAL AND FUNCTIONAL MANAGEMENT IN NERVE SPARING RADICAL PROSTATECTOMY: PERIPROSTATIC NEUROVASCULAR BUNDLES EVALUATION WITH MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING AND PROSTATE MAPPING WITH SPECTROSCOPY Alessandro Sciarra, Stefano Salciccia, Andrea Alfarone, Susanna Cattarino, Valeria Panebianco, Alessandro Gentilucci, Danilo Lisi, Ulderico Parente, Roberto Passariello, and Vincenzo Gentile Alessandro SciarraAlessandro Sciarra Rome, Italy More articles by this author , Stefano SalcicciaStefano Salciccia Rome, Italy More articles by this author , Andrea AlfaroneAndrea Alfarone Rome, Italy More articles by this author , Susanna CattarinoSusanna Cattarino Rome, Italy More articles by this author , Valeria PanebiancoValeria Panebianco Rome, Italy More articles by this author , Alessandro GentilucciAlessandro Gentilucci Rome, Italy More articles by this author , Danilo LisiDanilo Lisi Rome, Italy More articles by this author , Ulderico ParenteUlderico Parente Rome, Italy More articles by this author , Roberto PassarielloRoberto Passariello Rome, Italy More articles by this author , and Vincenzo GentileVincenzo Gentile Rome, Italy More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.juro.2011.02.2544AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookTwitterLinked InEmail INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES The utility of a specific protocol magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) pre or post radical prostatectomy (RRP) to evaluate oncological outcomes and integrity of the nervous periprostatic vascular bundle (NVB) has not previously been analyzed. The aim of the study is to combine a pre intervention MRI spectroscopy assessment for tumour location and introduce a sequence dedicated to MRI morphological assessment of NVB, in order to identify the cancerous invasion in the preoperative staging and anatomic and functional integrity after RRP with nerve sparing technique. Our goal is also to introduce a new MRI morphological alterations classification of the patterns of the NVB using the International Index Erectile Function questionnaire, 5 items (IIEF-5), as the reference standard for analysis of correlation METHODS 53 patients underwent a bilateral nerve-sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy for prostatic adenocarcinoma; pT2 pN0 were included in the analysis. Preoperative MRI spectroscopy and dynamic contrast-enhanced imaging were performed mapping the prostate cancer loci and their relationship with NVB and MRI evaluation of the NVB; post operatively at 1 6 and 12 months from the RRP, two MR sequences with 2D and 3D T2 TSE T2 weighted ISO for the analysis of post-intervention NVB. Both MRI sequences were evaluated independently by two radiologists who graded the morphological changes of the NVB in each sequence, using a 5-point classification of increasing seriousness. The IIEF 5 performed at the same intervals of follow-up and was used as a reference in the analysis of correlation and regression. RESULTS Both two radiologists, classifying the alterations of NVB with 2D T2 MR images, included 13.2% of patients in class 0, 11.3% in Class I, Class II 34%, 24.5% in Class III and Class IV 17%. Using MRI 3D T2 ISO sequences , the 43.3% of patients was included in class 0, 32% class I, class II 11.4%, 7.5% in class III and 5.8% in class IV. In all cases examined the correlation and regression analysis between the 3D T2 ISO classification and IIEF 5 questionnaire used as the reference standard, was statistically significant (p <0.001). CONCLUSIONS In our study, MRI allows to describe with good accuracy the relation between tumor and NVB preoperatively and to analyze the effect of intervention on the NVB postoperatively. © 2011 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 185Issue 4SApril 2011Page: e921-e922 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2011 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Alessandro Sciarra Rome, Italy More articles by this author Stefano Salciccia Rome, Italy More articles by this author Andrea Alfarone Rome, Italy More articles by this author Susanna Cattarino Rome, Italy More articles by this author Valeria Panebianco Rome, Italy More articles by this author Alessandro Gentilucci Rome, Italy More articles by this author Danilo Lisi Rome, Italy More articles by this author Ulderico Parente Rome, Italy More articles by this author Roberto Passariello Rome, Italy More articles by this author Vincenzo Gentile Rome, Italy More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...

Pelvimetric Dimensions do not Impact upon Nerve Sparing or Erectile Function Recovery in Patients Undergoing Radical Retropubic Prostatectomy

The impact of unfavorable pelvic anatomy on the likelihood of having a nerve sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy (RRP) and the potential correlation between pelvic dimensions and recovery of erectile function (EF) after RRP have not been previously evaluated. To determine the impact of different pelvic bony and soft tissue dimensions as well as apical prostate depth on the likelihood of performing bilateral nerve sparing and on recovery of EF after RP. Between November 2001 and June 2007, 644 potent men undergoing RRP had preoperative MRI where pelvimetry was performed with bilateral nerve sparing in 504 men. Outcomes including varying degrees of recovery of EF (level 1: normal; level 2: partial erections routinely sufficient for intercourse; level 3: partial erections occasionally sufficient for intercourse) were assessed. Median follow-up was 44.1 (interquartile range: 29.2, 65.3) months. We evaluated independent predictors of performing a bilateral nerve sparing procedure and of recovery of EF using multivariable Cox proportional hazards methods. Likelihood of performing bilateral nerve sparing as well as recovery of EF after RRP. Patients with higher clinical stage and biopsy Gleason score are less likely to undergo bilateral nerve sparing. Surgeon is also a factor in the likelihood of having bilateral nerve sparing RRP. On multivariate Cox regression analysis, factors predictive of recovery of EF were age, pretreatment erectile function, surgeon, and modified Charlson score. None of the pelvimetric dimensions were significant predictors of any degree of recovery of EF. However, the study is limited by its retrospective nature and by being based on MRI evaluations useful for cancer staging rather than anatomical evaluation of pelvimetric dimensions. We did not find unfavorable pelvic anatomy to impact the likelihood of performing a nerve sparing procedure or to be predictive of any degree of recovery of EF after RRP.

Postoperative Orgasmic Function Increases over Time in Patients Undergoing Nerve-Sparing Radical Prostatectomy

Postprostatectomy orgasmic function (OF) remains poorly defined. To assess OF over time in patients who underwent bilateral nerve-sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy (BNSRRP) for organ-confined prostate cancer (PCa). Baseline data were obtained from 334 consecutive preoperatively sexually active PCa patients at hospital admission; data included a medical and sexual history, IIEF domain scores, and ICIQ-SF. Questionnaire were then completed every 12 months postoperatively, and patients participated in a semistructured interview at the 12-month (191/334 [57.2%] patients), 24-month (95/334 [28.4%] patients), 36-month (42/334 [12.6%] patients), and 48-month (19/334 [5.7%] patients) follow-up (FU). IIEF-OF domain values throughout the FU. Multivariate linear regression analysis (MVA) of the association between predictors (patient's age, IIEF-erectile function [EF], ICIQ-SF, and the use of postoperative proerectile pharmacological treatments) and the IIEF-OF at 12-month, 24-month, and 36-month FU. Preoperative mean (median) IIEF-OF was 7.6 (10). The anova analysis showed an increase of the IIEF-OF values (P = 0.008; F = 4.009) throughout the FU (namely, IIEF-OF 12-month: 6.1 [6]; 24-month: 7.2 [8]; 36-month: 7.3 [8]; and 48-month: 7.7 [9.50]). The 12-month MVA showed that while proerectile oral therapy did not affect postoperative OF (P = 0.150; Beta 0.081), IIEF-OF linearly increased with IIEF-EF (P < 0.001; Beta 0.425). Conversely, IIEF-OF linearly decreased with patient's age (P < 0.001; Beta -0.135) and with ICQ-SF scores (P < 0.001; Beta -0.438). The 24-month and 36-month analyses showed that IIEF-OF still linearly increased with IIEF-EF (P < 0.001; Beta 0.540, and P < 0.001; Beta 0.536 respectively at the 24- and 36-month FU), whereas pharmacological therapy, rate of urinary continence, and patient's age did not significantly affect postoperative OF. Postoperative OF significantly ameliorates over time in patients undergoing BNSRRP. The higher the postoperative EF score, the higher the OF throughout the FU time frame.

Bulbocavernosus reflex testing: a preliminary study on the prognostic factors for potency and response to sildenafil citrate after bilateral nerve-sparing radical prostatectomy

Erectile dysfunction (ED) following radical prostatectomy is of major concern for both patients and caring physicians. We evaluated the bulbocavernosus reflex latency (BCRL) and amplitude (BCRA) following bilateral nerve-sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy (NS-RRP) to predict the response to sildenafil citrate (SC). Patients were recruited in our ED clinic following NS-RRP. Exclusion criteria included preoperative significant ED, neurological disease, and nitrates treatment. Patients were defined as non-responders only after four consecutive unsuccessful trials of 100 mg SC. Twenty patients at least 3 months after surgery were included in this study. Five patients (25%) regained spontaneous erections, although insufficient for vaginal penetration. All of them had normal BCRL and normal BCRA as well as good response to 100 mg SC. Three patients (15%) lacked spontaneous erections and had prolonged BCRL with normal BCRA. This subgroup eventually regained erections using SC. Twelve patients (60%) lacked spontaneous erections and had prolonged BCRL and low BCRA. They failed SC trials and achieved erections using intra-cavernosal injections (ICI) of 10 microg PGE(1). Neurophysiologic evaluation consisting of BCRL and BCRA was found to be useful in the prediction of the response to SC following bilateral NS-RRP. Patients who do not regain an erection, and have abnormal BCRL and BCRA 6 months after surgery, will probably be SC non-responders and may benefit from ICI. A subset of patients with preserved BCRA and prolonged latencies has been shown to have a better chance to respond to SC.

Use of 3D T2-Weighted MR Sequences for the Assessment of Neurovascular Bundle Changes after Nerve-Sparing Radical Retropubic Prostatectomy (RRP): A Potential Diagnostic Tool for Optimal Management of Erectile Dysfunction after RRP

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is one of the complications after radical retropubic prostatectomy (RRP), and recovery of erectile function is quantitatively related to the preservation of the neurovascular bundles (NVBs). The aim of our study was to assess, in patients submitted to a nerve-sparing RRP, the capability of a dedicated 3D isotropic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) T2-weighted sequence in the depiction of postsurgical changes of NVB formation. Fifty-three consecutive patients underwent a bilateral nerve-sparing RRP. Two postoperative magnetic resonance (MR) examinations and International Index of Erectile Function Five-Item (IIEF-5) questionnaire were carried out at 6 and 12 months. Morphological imaging of the postprostatectomy fossa was performed by first acquiring turbo spin echo T2-weighted sequences in the axial and coronal planes and then with 3D T2-weighted isotropic sequence on axial plane. Image findings were scored using a relative 5-point classification (0 = normal; I = mild; II = mild to moderate; III = moderate; IV = severe alterations) and correlated with postoperative IIEF-5 score questionnaire. The degree of association between the alteration score values obtained by postoperative MR morphologic evaluation for MR sequence and IIEF-5 score. Image interpretation was performed by two radiologists, that scoring MR alterations by the use of axial and multiplanar reconstruction 3D T2 isotropic sequence. The radiologists placed 43.30% of patients in class 0 (23/53 normal or quite normal), 32.00% in class I (17/53 mild), 11.40% in class II (6/53 mild to moderate), 7.50% in class III (4/53 moderate), and 5.70% in class IV (3/53 severe). In all cases, the correlation and regression analyses between the 3D T2 isotropic sequence and IIEF-5 score, resulted in higher coefficient values (rho = 0.45; P = 0.0010). The MRI protocol and NVB change classification score proposed in this study would represent an additional tool in the postoperative phase of those patients with ED.

2D and 3D T2-weighted MR sequences for the assessment of neurovascular bundle changes after nerve-sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy with erectile function correlation

The aim of this study was to assess the capability of a 3D isotropic MRI T2-weighted sequence (3D T2 ISO) in the depiction of changes of neurovascular bundles (NVBs) after bilateral nerve-sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy (RRP). Furthermore, our aim was also to introduce a new MRI classification score of the NVB alteration patterns using the International Index Erectile Function Five-Item (IIEF-5) score as standard of reference. Fifty-three consecutive patients were postoperatively submitted to two MR examinations, including both 2D TSE T2-weighted (2D T2) and 3D T2 ISO sequences. Image findings were scored using a relative five-point classification and correlated with the postoperative IIEF-5 score. Radiologists attributed 13.2% of patients to class 0, 11.3% to class I, 34% to class II, 24.5% to class III, and 16.9% to class IV. With 3D T2 ISO images, the same radiologists determined 43.3% class 0, 32% class I, 11.4% class II, 7.5% class III, and 5.7% class IV. In all cases, the correlation and regression analysis between the 3D T2 ISO and IIEF-5 score resulted in higher coefficients values. The 3D sequence correlated most closely with patients' grading of erectile function.

Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of postoperative nightly sildenafil citrate for the prevention of erectile dysfunction after bilateral nerve-sparing radical prostatectomy

Four weeks after bilateral nerve-sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy, men with normal erectile function before surgery were randomized to double-blind sildenafil (50 or 100 mg) or placebo nightly for 36 weeks, followed by an 8-week drug-free period before assessment of erectile function. Enrollment was prematurely ceased and only 76 men completed because, assuming a placebo response rate similar to the published literature (for example, 34% in meta-analysis), the 25% response at blinded interim review suggested a lack of treatment effect. On the contrary, spontaneous erectile function (a combined score of >or=8 for questions 3 and 4 of the International Index of Erectile Function and a positive response to 'Were erections good enough for satisfactory sexual activity?') occurred in only 4% of the placebo group (n=1 of 25) versus 27% (n=14 of 51, P=0.0156, Fisher's exact test) of the sildenafil group. Nightly sildenafil administration for 36 weeks after surgery markedly increased the return of normal spontaneous erections.

Remembered International Index of Erectile Function Domain Scores Are Not Accurate in Assessing Preoperative Potency in Candidates for Bilateral Nerve-Sparing Radical Retropubic Prostatectomy

The reliability of reported postoperative data in patients undergoing nerve-sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy is often limited because the degree of sexual function (SF) has not been assessed objectively both before and after treatment. Most reports include only a retrospective chart review, and there is a question of whether such data are accurate. To test the agreement between a remembered International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) score, which targeted SF regarding a period preceding the surgery by 6 months and a real-time IIEF, 4 weeks prior to surgery, in candidates for bilateral nerve-sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy (BNSRRP). From May 2005 to May 2006, 333 consecutive patients were candidates for BNSRRP at our institution. Upon admission on the day prior to surgery, each patient was asked to complete a set of validated questionnaires including both a remembered and a real-time IIEF. Two-tailed Student's t-test, chi2 test, Pearson correlation coefficient, multivariate regression analyses, and interrater agreement (kappa) were used to test the agreement between the two assessments. Assessing the preoperative SF characteristics of candidates for a BNSRRP, and testing the reliability of a remembered IIEF with the interrater agreement (kappa) test. Mean scores for the remembered IIEF were overall better than the real-time IIEF scores, as supported by direct comparison of the mean IIEF domain scores. Univariate correlation analysis and multivariate regression analysis indicated a significant correlation in the quality of the SF during the two periods. However, the remembered IIEF scores did not show a good statistical agreement with those of the real-time assessment, as demonstrated by the interrater agreement analysis. Because of the lack of significant agreement between remembered and real-time IIEF scores, the present findings indicate that remembered IIEF should not be used to assess SF in a real-life clinical setting in candidates for BNSRRP.

Return of Nocturnal Erections and Erectile Function after Bilateral Nerve-sparing Radical Prostatectomy in Men Treated Nightly with Sildenafil Citrate: Subanalysis of a Longitudinal Randomized Double-blind Placebo-controlled Trial

After bilateral nerve-sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy (BNSRRP), nocturnal and sexually mediated erections may help to preserve normal erectile function (EF). To investigate nocturnal penile tumescence and rigidity (NPTR) in a subset (N = 54 men) from a randomized, double-blind trial (N = 76) of nightly sildenafil after BNSRRP. Inclusion required preoperative "normal" EF (defined as a combined score of >/=8 for International Index of Erectile Function questions 3 (penetration) and 4 (maintained erection after penetration) and NPTR testing (>/=10 continuous minutes of >/=55% rigidity [R >/= 55%] at the base). Postoperative assessments were at weeks 4 (pretreatment), 16, 28, 40 (during 36 weeks of nightly prophylaxis: sildenafil 50 mg [N = 17], 100 mg [N = 18] or placebo [N = 19]), and 48 (after 8 weeks of no erectile dysfunction therapy, when "responders" were delineated by the defined normal EF and a "yes" response to "Over the past 4 weeks, have your erections been good enough for satisfactory sexual activity?"). Base and tip rigidity and tumescence were measured using penile plethysmography. Duration of R >/= 55% and area under the curves for rigidity and tumescence. Postoperatively, rapid profound reduction in nocturnal EF was noted in all groups. There was a gradual dose-dependent improvement in base and tip rigidity in the sildenafil groups but little improvement in the placebo group. Eight weeks after treatment termination (48 weeks postoperatively), 24% (4/17) of 50-mg sildenafil recipients, 33% (6/18) of 100-mg sildenafil recipients, and 5% (1/19) of placebo recipients were responders. Tip R >/= 55% was the most discriminating NPTR measure between nonresponders and responders to sildenafil, in whom it regained baseline (preoperative) levels (whereas base R >/= 55% did not). It was most prolonged in responders to sildenafil 100 mg. In our subset analysis, nightly sildenafil for 9 months post-BNSRRP objectively improved nocturnal erections and pharmaceutically unassisted EF.

Acceptance of and Discontinuation Rate from Erectile Dysfunction Oral Treatment in Patients following Bilateral Nerve-Sparing Radical Prostatectomy

ObjectivesAssess acceptance of and discontinuation rate from erectile dysfunction (ED) treatment in patients after bilateral nerve-sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy (BNSRRP). MethodsWe analyzed acceptance and discontinuation data of 100 consecutive, age-comparable, preoperatively self-reported potent BNSRRP patients who at the discharge from the hospital received a phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor (PDE5-I) prescription. Patients were informed of the pharmacokinetic properties of the available compounds and the option of on-demand versus rehabilitative therapy. Thereafter, patients did not receive any specific counseling throughout the entire follow-up period and freely decided to use or not use any ED therapy. Complete preoperative data were obtained on hospital admission and included a medical and sexual history and the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF). The IIEF was completed every 6 mo postoperatively, and patients participated in a semi-structured interview about the treatment adherence at the 18-mo follow-up. ResultsForty-nine (49%) patients freely decided not to start any ED therapy (group 1). Of the remaining patients, 36 (36%) opted for an as-needed PDE5-I (group 2), whereas 15 (15%) decided to use a daily PDE5-I (group 3). At the 18-mo follow-up, the overall discontinuation rate from both treatment modalities was 72.6% (eg, 72.2% vs. 73.3% in group 2 vs. group 3; p=0.79). Treatment effect below expectations was the main reason for treatment discontinuation, followed by loss of interest in sex due to partner's causes. ConclusionsAlmost 50% of BNSRRP patients freely decided not to start any ED treatment postoperatively. Roughly 73% of patients who started therapy eventually discontinued it.

Preserved Postoperative Penile Size Correlates Well with Maintained Erectile Function after Bilateral Nerve-Sparing Radical Retropubic Prostatectomy

ObjectivesControversial data on penile length after radical retropubic prostatectomy are available. We hypothesised that postoperative penile size correlates to erectile function following bilateral nerve-sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy (BNSRRP). MethodsThirty-three consecutive patients with a preoperative erectile function domain of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-EF) score indicating full potency (≥26) were prospectively enrolled. All patients underwent BNSRRP performed by one high-volume surgeon. All patients were preoperatively evaluated by IIEF-EF, analysis of comorbidities, physical examination, and penile power colour Doppler ultrasound using intracavernosal injection of prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) 20μg plus audiovisual and manual genital stimulation. Penile length and circumference were measured in flaccidity and at maximum erection. Six months postoperative, patients were assessed with the same protocol plus general assessment questions investigating penile structure and function. Statistical analysis was performed with an independent sample t test. ResultsMean patient age was 56.5 yr. We found no difference between the preoperative and the 6-mo postoperative mean IIEF-EF domain score (27.2 vs, 26.7, respectively; p=0.35). No difference was found in penile colour Doppler evaluation between the preoperative and postoperative periods (all p values ≥0.3). We found no differences in penile length and circumference between the preoperative and postoperative evaluation either in the flaccid or in the erect state. Mean flaccid penile length (cm; preop vs. postop): 13.2 vs. 13 (p=0.6). Mean flaccid penile circumference (cm; preop vs. postop): 11.1 vs. 11 (p=0.7). Mean erect penile length (cm; preop vs. postop): 16.8 vs. 16.5 (p=0.08). Mean erect penile circumference (cm; preop vs. postop): 15.6 vs. 15.3 (p=0.2). ConclusionsThis is the first report on penile changes in flaccidity and at maximum erection after BNSRRP in patients treated by one high-volume surgeon. The postoperative preservation of erectile function positively correlated with the maintenance of penile length following surgery. We found no change in penile size after surgery.

Significance of Neurovascular Bundle Formation Observed on Preoperative Magnetic Resonance Imaging Regarding Postoperative Erectile Function After Nerve-Sparing Radical Retropubic Prostatectomy

To investigate the significance of variations in neurovascular bundle (NVB) formation observed on preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) regarding postoperative potency after nerve-sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy (RRP). Preoperative MRI was performed in 93 patients who underwent bilateral nerve-sparing RRP for clinically localized prostate cancer and were followed up for at least 12 months after surgery. Judging from the MRI scans, patients were categorized into three groups: group 1, patients with no definite NVB observed on MRI, group 2, those with probable NVB formation observed on MRI but not definite, and group 3, those with NVB more definitely observed on MRI. Patients' erectile function status was assessed preoperatively and postoperatively using the International Index Erectile Function 5-item (IIEF-5) questionnaire. Of the 93 patients, 40.9% were in group 1, 21.5% in group 2, and 37.6% in group 3 according to the MRI findings. The patient characteristics, including age, serum prostate-specific antigen, pathologic Gleason score, and preoperative IIEF-5 scores, were not significantly different among the three groups. However, the changes in the IIEF-5 scores after bilateral nerve-sparing RRP demonstrated a significantly larger decrease for group 1 compared with groups 2 and 3. Similar trends were observed when patients 60 years old or younger and those older than 60 years were analyzed separately. In patients with no definite NVB formation observed on MRI, the nerves associated with erectile function may run along both sides of the prostate and spread more anteriorly than those with the NVB more definitely observed. Thus, to preserve the NVBs completely at all times, it would be important to widely dissect the lateral aspects of the prostate during nerve-sparing RRPs.

Predictive Factor to Regain Erectile Function after Bilateral Nerve Sparing Radical Retropubic Prostatectomy in Korean Men

Purpose: To investigate the significance of various preoperative factors with regard to postoperative erectile function in Korean men undergoing a bilateral nerve sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy (BNSRRP), using the validated Korean version of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5). Materials and Methods: Between March 2004 and March 2005, 83 consecutive patients, who underwent a BNSRRP, with preoperative IIEF-5 scores greater than 13, were retrospectively analyzed. All patients were asked to answer the IIEF-5 questionnaire during the preoperative period and 1 year postoperatively. The responses were stratified on the basis of the clinical characteristics and the preoperative predictive factors for regaining a normal erectile function (NEF: IIEF-5 score≥18) investigated. Results: At the baseline, 56 patients (67.5%) had NEF. At the 1 year follow-up after the BNSRRP, 58 (70.5%) patients reported a return of a sufficient erection for sexual intercourse, with or without oral phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, but 37 (44.6%) patients regained a NEF. Of these 37 patients, 15 (40.5%) were able to spontaneously regain a NEF, but 22 (59.5%) needed the help of oral PDE5 inhibitors. When the patients were divided according to postoperative NEF and erectile dysfunction (ED: 14≤IIEF-5 score<18), the preoperative IIEF-5 score was the only significant factor for predicting postoperative NEF after a BNSRRP in univariate (p=0.018) and multivariate analyses [p=0.030, odds ratio: 3.482, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.125-10.774]. Changes in the IIEF-5 score after a BNSRRP significantly decreased for those with preoperative NEF compared with ED (-6.1±5.24 vs. -9.1±7.34, p=0.039). Conclusions: Our data indicated that preoperative erectile function, as assessed using the IIEF-5 questionnaire, was an independent variable for predicting the recovery of erectile function after a BNSRRP when performed in Korean men. (Korean J Urol 2007;48:283-290)

695: There is no Significant difference between on-Demand PDE5-I Vs PDE5-I As Rehabilitative Treatment in Patients Treated by Bilateral Nerve-Sparing Radical Retropubic Prostatectomy

695: There is no Significant difference between on-Demand PDE5-I Vs PDE5-I As Rehabilitative Treatment in Patients Treated by Bilateral Nerve-Sparing Radical Retropubic Prostatectomy

Baseline Potency in Candidates for Bilateral Nerve-Sparing Radical Retropubic Prostatectomy

ObjectivesTo assess the baseline erectile function (EF) of patients with clinically localized prostate cancer (pCa), who are candidates for a bilateral nerve-sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy (BNSRRP) to (a) objectively rate the preoperative self-reported subjective patient’s EF and (b) investigate possible correlations between preoperative EF and demographic data and comorbidities. Materials and methodsTwo-hundred-thirty-four patients, who verbally self-reported they were preoperatively fully potent and strongly motivated to maintain postoperative EF, underwent a BNSRRP. A comprehensive medical and sexual history was obtained on hospital admission the day prior to surgery. Subjectively reported potency rate was compared with the scores of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF). ResultsThe EF domain of the IIEF showed a baseline normal EF in only 43% of the subjects. In contrast, 13% had a mild erectile dysfunction (ED), 8% had a mild to moderate ED, 8% complained of a moderate ED, and as many as 28% reported severe EF impairment. Interestingly, 38% of the patients with severe ED did not attempt any intercourse during the last 4 weeks prior to surgery. ConclusionsA significant proportion of patients with clinically localized pCa and self-reported total potency already had suffered from ED preoperatively. Incorrect timing of questionnaires administration, the potential influence of preoperative patient’s psychological distress, and the implication of the patient’s partner’s psychological and sexual health may be contributing factors to the contradictory finding. The preoperative use of validated questionnaire may help to identify patients who can actually expect to regain potency following a BNSRRP.

Acetyl- l-carnitine plus propionyl- l-carnitine improve efficacy of sildenafil in treatment of erectile dysfunction after bilateral nerve-sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy

Objectives To determine whether propionyl- l-carnitine (PLC) plus acetyl- l-carnitine (ALC) improves the effectiveness of sildenafil in restoring sexual potency after bilateral nerve-sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy. Methods We analyzed the data from 96 patients who had undergone bilateral nerve-sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy: 33 were given placebo (group 1), 32 used PLC 2 g/day plus ALC 2 g/day plus sildenafil 100 mg when needed (group 2), and 35 used sildenafil alone (group 3). The studied variables were sexual function (assessed through sexual behavior interviews and the International Index of Erectile Function), peak systolic velocity and end-diastolic velocity of cavernosal arteries (assayed by dynamic echo-color Doppler), the percentage of patients able to achieve a positive intracavernous injection test, and side effects. Results Placebo proved ineffective and sildenafil and sildenafil plus ALC and PLC proved effective. The International Index of Erectile Function-15 scores of the group 2 patients were significantly greater than those of group 3 in the following domains: erectile function, sexual intercourse satisfaction, orgasm, and general sexual well-being. The drugs did not significantly modify the score in the sexual desire domain or in the peak systolic velocity or end-diastolic velocity of the cavernosal arteries. Sexual behavior interviews revealed that 2 of 29 in group 1, 28 of 32 in group 2, and 20 of 39 in group 3 attained satisfactory sexual intercourse ( P <0.01). Only group 2 had a significantly increased percentage of patients with a positive intracavernous injection test after therapy (36.4% versus 63.6%; P <0.01). ALC plus PLC did not significantly improve the side effects of sildenafil. Conclusions PLC and ALC proved to be safe and reliable in improving the efficacy of sildenafil in restoring sexual potency after bilateral nerve-sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy.

Local steroid application during nerve‐sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy

To evaluate the effect on potency rates after surgery of applying local steroids to the neurovascular bundles (NVBs) of the prostate after bilateral nerve-sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy (BNS-RRP). Sixty potent men undergoing BNS-RRP for clinically localized prostate cancer were prospectively randomized equally into two groups. In group 1, 10 mL of betamethasone cream 0.1% was applied locally to both NVBs, and group 2 had only the usual BNS-RRP with no corticoid cream. Complications and potency were evaluated at 3, 6 and 12 months in all patients and compared between the groups. At 12 months, 57% and 60% of patients were potent in group 1 and 2, respectively; the respective mean International Index of Erectile Function (5-item) scores were 14.76 and 15.43 (P = 0.59). Potency rates at 3, 6 and 12 months were not significantly different between the groups, and the continence rates at 12 months were also similar, with 93% and 90% of patients in groups 1 and 2 being continent, respectively. Ten and five patients in groups 1 and 2, respectively, required a blood transfusion (P = 0.23). There were no fistulae, wound dehiscence or rectal perforations. One patient in group 2 presented 4 months after RRP with a bladder neck contracture. Local application of betamethasone does not improve or expedite the recovery of erectile function after BNS-RRP, but there were no complications associated with its use.