Improvement In Qmax Research Articles

Assessing Micturition, sexual function, and endoscopic outcomes one year after Aquablation: a single center prospective study.

Morphological changes in the prostatic urethra and bladder cavity resulting from Aquablation treatment are still unknown. This study aims to assess the safety and efficacy of Aquablation within one-year post-surgery, focusing on both functional and endoscopic outcomes. Prospective enrollment of patients undergoing Aquablation (10/2018-04/2023) included those with baseline International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) ≥ 10, prostate volume from 40 to 80 mL, and Qmax ≤ 12 mL/s. Functional outcomes were evaluated at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months using uroflowmetry (Qmax), and dedicated questionnaires. Cystoscopy at three months assessed ablation quality on a Likert scale (1-poor; 5-excellent). Measurements included cavity length post-treatment and preserved prostatic tissue length at the apex. Additional evaluations encompassed veru-montanum preservation, presence of residual fluffy tissue or mucous flaps, ureteral orifices and bladder trigone injuries. Out of 109 enrolled patients, one-year follow-up displayed significant improvements in Qmax (+ 103.08%), IPSS (-86.36%), and IPSS-QoL (-80.00%). Aquablation had no impact on erectile function and continence, preserving ejaculation in 96.3%. Of the 106 patients undergoing cystoscopy, prostatic urethra patency was satisfactory to perfect in 96.2%, with a median cavity length of 24 ± 8.2mm. Residual median lobe was found in 11.3%, without significant impact on micturition outcomes. Positive outcomes included minimal fluffy tissue and mucosal flaps, and well-preserved ureteral meatuses, verumontanum, and bladder trigone. Aquablation showed efficacy in solving urinary symptoms with minimal impact on ejaculation up to one year post-surgery. A three-month post-surgery endoscopic evaluation supports its safety, efficacy, and conformity with the ablative planning.

Efficacy of the Rezūm System for lower urinary tract symptoms in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia: Long term results from a single centre prospective study.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a prevalent urological condition leading to lower urinary tract symptoms. Minimal invasive surgical treatment (MISTs) such as Rezūm System are emerging aiming to relieve symptoms. We present results from a single centre prospective study. We prospectively followed patients undergoing Rezūm between 2021 and 2023 from a single centre. International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), functional outcomes (maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax) and post-void urinary residual (PVR) and International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5) were assessed at 3, 6, 12 and 24 months. Anterograde ejaculation was assessed at 12 months follow up. Linear mixed-effects models (LMMs) for repeated measures were applied to assess differences in the IPSS, maximum flow rate (Qmax), PVR, and International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5) from baseline (t0) to 3, 6, 12 and 24 months. Results: After adjusting for prostate volume and symptoms severity, significant differences were observed at 3, 6, 12 and 24 months for IPSS (p < 0.001), Qmax (p < 0.001), PVR (p < 0.001) and IPSS-QoL (p < 0.001) from baseline. No statistically significant changes were found in the IIEF-5 scores at 3, 6, 12 and 24 months from baseline. Anterograde ejaculation remained in 98% of patients after treatment. In conclusion, the study's findings indicate that patients undergoing Rezūm treatment experience sustained improvements in IPSS, Qmax, PVR and IPSS-related quality of life up to 24 months following the intervention. Anterograde ejaculation remained in 98% of patients after treatment.

Comparing outcomes of Aquablation versus holmium laser enucleation of prostate in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia: A network meta‐analysis

AbstractIntroductionWater Jet Ablation Therapy (WJAT) and Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP) represent two common surgical treatments for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). Despite their increasing use, there is no study between these two methods. We aim to evaluate their efficacy and safety through a network meta‐analysis (NMA), providing critical insights for clinical decision‐making in the management of moderate to severe lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) due to BPH.MethodsPubmed, EMBASE and Cochrane Library were searched. Randomized controlled trials and prospective single‐arm studies comparing WJAT and HoLEP with TURP, reporting symptom scores, flow rates and adverse events. Data extraction and quality assessments were independently performed. Bayesian modelling in RStudio was used for statistical analysis, evaluating continuous outcomes through mean difference and categorical variables via risk ratios. Risk‐of‐Bias (RoB) and GRADE assessments were performed.FindingsTwenty‐three studies were included (WJAT‐11, HoLEP‐12). Most studies were at some or high risk of bias. At 12 months, the IPSS, Qol, PVR and Qmax improvements were 4.14 points (95% CI: ‐0.34 to 8.64, not‐significant [NS], GRADE‐rating: Low), 0.32‐points (95% CI:‐10.70 to 3.27, NS, GRADE‐rating: Low), 2.45 ml/s (95% CI: ‐1.85 to 7.05, NS, GRADE‐rating: Low), 63.10 ml (95% CI: 39.80 to 87.30, statistically‐significant [SS], GRADE‐rating: Moderate), respectively, all in favour of HoLEP. Haemoglobin‐loss was lower with HoLEP, 1.16 g/dl (95% CI: ‐2.56 to 0.54 mg/dl, NS, GRADE‐rating: Moderate) than WJAT. The risk of incontinence was higher with HoLEP; 4.48 (95% CI: 0.22 to 168.50, NS, GRADE‐rating: Very Low) than WJAT in single–arm analysis. The risk of blood transfusion was higher with WJAT (RR = 0.14; 95% CI: 0.00 to 4.21, NS, GRADE‐rating: Low) than HoLEP. Risk of Total Serious Adverse Events (Clavien‐Dindo grade&gt;3) was higher with HoLEP (RR = 1.12, higher with HoLEP, 95% CI: 0.20 to 12.71, NS, GRADE‐rating: Low) than WJAT. Retreatment was lower with HoLEP (RR = 0.46, 95% CI: 0.02 to 10.54 GRADE‐rating: Low) than WJAT.InterpretationOur study suggests that both HoLEP and WJAT are effective treatments for BPH, both with similar IPSS and QoL improvements. HoLEP excels in functional outcomes, particularly in improving Qmax and PVR. Conversely, WJAT, with its shorter operation time and hospital stays, presents a compelling alternative, particularly for outpatient settings.

The Effect of Tadalafil 5 mg on Outflow Obstruction due to Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Abstract Background Tadalafil showed efficacy in treatment of LUTS due to BPH. In several clinical studies, it was found to have different mechanisms of actions on prostate through increasing blood supply and oxygenation, decreasing intrprostatic inflammation and relaxation of smooth muscle fibers. Objective to assess the effect of tadalafil on uroflowmetry and IPSS in patients with BPH/LUTS. Patients and Methods This study is prospective, non-randomized; single-arm study that was conducted on patients obtained from outpatient urology clinics of Ain Shams University Hospital &amp; El-Sahel Teaching Hospital in the study period between September 2021 and May 2022. It was conducted on 55 patients with BPH/LUTS who received tadalafil 5 mg daily, IPSS was assessed before starting treatment and after 12 weeks, Uroflowmtery was done before starting treatment, after 4 weeks and 12 weeks of treatment. Results Our study showed that Qmax increased from baseline 10.8±2.0 to 11.5±2.4 in week-4, then to 12.7±2.2 in week-12. The change from baseline to week-4 was 0.6±0.5, the elevation was statistically significant (p &amp;lt; 0.001). The change from baseline to week-12 was 1.9±0.3, the elevation was statistically significant (p &amp;lt; 0.001). The change from week-4 to week-12 was 1.3±0.4, the elevation was statistically significant (p &amp;lt; 0.001). Conclusion In patients with BPH/ LUTS, tadalafil 5 mg once daily resulted in statistically significant improvement in IPSS and Qmax and it was well tolerated.

Predictive Factors for the Successful Outcome of Urethral Sphincter Injections of Botulinum Toxin A for Non-Neurogenic Dysfunctional Voiding in Women.

Dysfunctional voiding (DV) is not uncommon in women with non-neurogenic voiding dysfunction. Because of its unknown pathophysiology, effective and durable treatment is lacking. This study aimed to analyze the results of treatment and predictive factors for a successful outcome of botulinum toxin A (BoNT-A) treatment in female patients with DV. In total, 66 women with DV confirmed by a videourodynamic study (VUDS) were treated with a BoNT-A injection into the urethral sphincter once (n = 33) or several times (n = 33). VUDS was performed before (baseline) and after the BoNT-A treatment. Patients with a global response assessment of the voiding condition of 2 or 3 and a voiding efficiency (VE) of >20% than baseline were considered to have a successful outcome. The baseline demographics, VUDS parameters, and VUDS DV subtypes were compared between the successful and failed groups. Predictive factors for a successful outcome were investigated by logistic regression analyses. Successful and failed outcomes were achieved in 27 (40.9%) and 39 (59.1%) women, respectively. After BoNT-A injections, the maximum flow rate (Qmax), voided volume, and VE all significantly increased, and the postvoid residual (PVR) was slightly improved. No significant difference in the number of injections and medical comorbidity was found between the groups. However, the successful group had a higher incidence of previous pelvic surgery. No significant difference in the treatment outcome was found among patients with different urethral obstruction sites. Significant improvements in Qmax, voided volume, PVR, VE, and the bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) index were noted in the successful group. A lower VE at baseline and a history of surgery were identified as predictive factors for a successful outcome of BoNT-A injections for treating DV. BoNT-A injections into the urethral sphincter can effectively improve VE in 40.9% of women with DV. Women with higher BOO grades and previous pelvic surgery are predicted to have a successful treatment outcome.

(220) LESSONS LEARNED FROM REZUM IN PATIENTS WITH SIGNIFICANT MEDIAN LOBE

Abstract Introduction Convective water vapor thermal therapy (Rezum) can have varied outcomes based on prostate architecture. Objective We sought to compare the efficacy of traditional Rezum therapy with steam treatment of the median lobe to transurethral resection for the median lobe, and Rezum treatment for the lateral lobes of the prostate (Rezurp). Methods A single-surgeon series between 2019 and 2024 analyzed standard BPH outcomes. The rate of retreatment, complications, and a global assessment: “Knowing what you know now, would you like to repeat the procedure?” were utilized. Significant median lobe was defined as ≥1 cm of intravesical protrusion for Rezurp patients and ≥ 2 median lobe treatments required for standard Rezum. Results Follow-up assessments were performed for 89/105 patients in the Rezurp group and 107/138 patients in the Rezum group. There was no significant difference in baseline characteristics between the two groups, as shown in Table 1. In the Rezum group, the median IPSS before surgery was 25 (20–28), while the median score after surgery was 9 (5–15), and in the Rezurp group, the median IPSS before surgery was 22.5 (19–28), and the median score after surgery was 5 (3–9.7). The changes were statistically significant for both groups (P &amp;lt; 0.001). For the IPSS quality-of-life (QoL) scores, the median in both groups was 4 (mostly not satisfied) before surgery and 2 (mostly satisfied) after surgery. The changes in QoL scores were significant in both (P &amp;lt; 0.001). In the Rezum group, the median Q-max was 7.9 and 13.1 before and after surgery, while in the Rezurp group, it was 8.0 and 17.1, respectively, and the changes were significant for both (P = 0.001). In addition, changes in post-voiding residue were significant in both groups (P = 0.001) (Table 2). In the Rezum group, 62% (67 patients) were on alpha-blockers before surgery, whereas only 15.8% (17 patients) continued after surgery. For the Rezurp group, 71.9% (64 patients) were on alpha-blockers before surgery, compared to 10.1% (9 patients) afterward. The discontinuation of alpha-blockers was significant for both groups (P = 0.001). Furthermore, changes in stopping the use of 5-alpha reductase inhibitors were significant for both groups (P = 0.001). The changes in stopping PDI-5 were not significant in both groups (P = 0.38). Regarding retreatment, 5.6% (5 out of 89) of patients in the Rezurp group required a retreatment procedure, compared to 14.9% (16 out of 107) in the Rezum group. The retreatment rate was significantly higher in the Rezum group (P = 0.03). When asked if they would repeat the procedure, 91% (81 out of 89) in the Rezurp group expressed interest, compared to 72% (77 out of 107) in the Rezum group. The interest in repeating the procedure was significantly higher in the Rezurp group (P = 0.001). Conclusions Although both Rezum therapy and Rezurp resulted in significant improvements in Q-max, PVR, IPSS, and QoL, the Rezurp group had a significantly lower rate of retreatment. Disclosure No.

Does concordance between preoperatively measured prostate volume and enucleated weight predict outcomes in endoscopic enucleation of the prostate? Results from the REAP database.

We aimed to determine if preoperative prostate volume-enucleated weight concordance predicts short-term anatomical endoscopic enucleation of the prostate (AEEP) outcomes using the REAP international database. 649 patients with data on both preoperative ultrasound-derived prostate volume and enucleated specimen weight were analyzed. Linear regression was used to investigate the effect of volume-weight concordance on postoperative outcomes. Model residuals were used to divide the cohort into 3 centiles: (1) less-than-expected enucleated specimen weight; (2) appropriate concordance between prostate volume and specimen weight; (3) more-than-expected specimen weight. Outcomes were also analyzed with only enucleated weight as a predictor (comparing ≤ 80g and > 80g). There was a trend towards more-than-expected enucleated specimen weight with increased age (p = 0.006). There was an increasing trend of operation time (p = 0.012) and enucleation time (p = 0.015) as specimen weight increased, and a decreasing trend of postoperative acute urinary retention (p = 0.005). Laser type, enucleation method, and early apical release were similar. In correlation analysis, greater-than-expected prostate weight was associated with greater Qmax improvement at 3 months. Prostate weight alone did not appear to be a significant predictor of outcomes. If enucleated specimen weight is more than expected according to preoperative ultrasound volume measurement, greater Qmax improvement and less postoperative acute urinary retention is expected. Although precision may be limited by ultrasound approximation and inexact specimen weight measurements, these shortcomings are similar in real-world clinical practice. Overall, preoperative prostate volume and actual enucleated specimen weight should be interpreted in the context of each other to predict clinical outcomes.

“Laser vaporization of the prostate: A comparative study between ejaculatory preserving and non-ejaculatory preserving technique”

ABSTRACT Introduction and objectives Laser vaporization techniques have emerged as a prominent alternative to transurethral prostate resection in managing benign prostatic obstruction (BPO). This study focuses on assessing the effectiveness of the ejaculatory preserving laser vaporization of the prostate technique compared to the conventional non-ejaculatory approach in managing BPO. Patients and Methods Our study was performed between August 2022 and September 2023. The study included 120 patients with bladder outlet obstruction, due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Patients were randomly assigned to two groups: the first underwent conventional non-ejaculatory preserving laser vaporization of the prostate (n = 80), while the second group underwent the innovative ejaculatory preserving laser vaporization technique using diode laser (n = 40). We assessed baseline International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), maximal flow rate (Qmax), post voiding residual urine volume (PVRU), semen volume (semen analysis). Parameters were re-evaluated 3 months post-surgery and the change in sexual satisfaction was evaluated using a scale from 1 (much less satisfied) to 5 (much more satisfied) in response to a question. Results The mean age (±SD) of participants was 59.6 (±7.9) and 57.6 (±7.8) for the non-ejaculatory preserving and ejaculatory preserving groups, respectively, with no statistical difference between groups. Both groups showed significant reduction in IPSS (p < 0.001), improvement in Qmax (p < 0.001), and decline in PVRU (p < 0.001), postoperatively. However, the ejaculatory preserving technique led to a significant improvement in antegrade ejaculation, postoperative semen volume and sexual satisfaction compared to the non-ejaculatory preserving technique (p < 0.001). Conclusions The ejaculatory preserving technique effectively preserved antegrade ejaculation, semen volume and sexual satisfaction compared to the non-ejaculatory preserving technique. However, the later yielded better outcomes in terms of IPSS and urine flow. Both techniques demonstrated significant improvements across all parameters compared to baseline. Further research with extended follow-up periods is needed to fully understand the long-term postoperative effects with this technique.

733 Rezum Water Vapour Thermal Therapy for Treatment of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms: A Prospective Single-Centre Analysis

Abstract Aim Benign prostatic enlargement (BPE) is a chronic disorder of the prostate with an increasing prevalence. In recent years, different minimally invasive treatment options for lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) secondary to BPE have been introduced. One of these technologies, Rezum, uses heat from radiofrequency generated water vapour to ablate prostatic tissue. Our study aims to investigate the safety and efficacy of Rezum through a consecutive series of patients who underwent the procedure in our department. Method A prospective study was conducted involving thirty-eight men with moderate-severe LUTS undergoing Rezum between January 2022 and February 2023. To measure efficacy, quantitative data was collected through pre-and post-operative international prostate symptom score (IPSS), quality of life score (QoL), simplified international index of erectile function (IIEF-5) checklists, and uroflowmetry to measure maximum flow rate (Qmax) and post-void residual (PVR). Patients were followed up to determine if there had been any side effects. Results The mean number of Rezum injections was 3.8 to each lateral lobe, and 0.81 to the median lobe. The results show a significant improvement in IPSS (24.1 to 9.8), QoL (4.8 to 2.0), and Qmax (10.4 to 16.8). There was no reduction in erectile function with the IIEF-5 actually slightly increasing (13.4 to 15.2). Conclusions Our single-centre prospective analysis shows that Rezum is a safe and effective minimally invasive treatment option for men with troublesome LUTS secondary to BPE. Rezum is a promising technology that could be offered to patients who wish to preserve their sexual function and discontinue their BPE medications.

A Systematic Review and Single-Arm Meta-Analysis on the Efficacy of High-Intensity, Focused Ultrasound for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Treatment: A Forgotten Option?

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerousenlargement of prostate tissue, commonly affecting older men. This condition leads to lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), which significantly affect the quality of life. Over time, extensive research has been conducted regarding BPH treatment, exploring various treatment options. High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a non-invasive treatment modality that has shown promise in initial studies. However, evidence regarding its long-term efficacy and safety remains inconclusive. This study evaluates HIFU's safety and efficacy for BPH treatment, identifying gaps for future research. The study conducted comprehensive searches across the PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane Central, and ClinicalTrials.gov databases, covering English-language articles from 1994 to 2023. Inclusion criteria focused on peer-reviewed studies, with more than 10 patients utilizing ultrasound image-guided HIFU for BPHwhile excluding other HIFU modalities lacking ultrasound image guidance. Data extraction targeted primary outcomes (peak flow rate, International Prostate Symptom Score(IPSS), postvoid residual volume) and secondary outcomes (treatment time, follow-up duration). Statistical analysis utilized a random effects model with heterogeneity assessed by I² statistics and the Q test, alongside subgroup analysis based on study design. The risk of bias assessment employed the Cochrane Collaboration tool for randomized controlled trials and the methodological index for nonrandomized studies. Among 560 identified articles, 12 studies with 522 patients met the inclusion criteria. Primary outcomes showed improvements in Qmax (1 month: 2.50 ml/s, 12 months: 6.22 ml/s) and IPSS (1 month: -9.37 points, 12 months: -11.60 points). Reported complications included transient hematuria, hematospermia, and urinary retention. HIFU presents significant clinical improvements in treating BPH, albeit with slow progression attributed to specific techniques and the ablative approach. Manageable complication profiles are observed, yet study design flaws hinder a comprehensive evaluation of HIFU efficacy. The authors suggest areas for clinical optimization, emphasizing the necessity of further research.

Comparison of Ventral Inlay and Dorsal Onlay Urethroplasty for Female Urethral Stricture

ObjectiveTo compare the outcomes of Ventral inlay buccal mucosal graft urethroplasty (VIBMGU) with dorsal onlay buccal mucosal graft urethroplasty (DOBMGU) for the treatment of Female urethral stricture (FUS). Material and MethodsThis study included women who underwent either VIBMGU or DOBMGU between January 2016 and June 2023. The preoperative AUA symptom scores, maximal urinary flow rate (Qmax), post-void residual volume (PVR) on ultrasonography, and length and location of the stricture were obtained from a prospectively maintained electronic database. The data obtained from the patient’s last visit was compared with the preoperative values for this study. The primary outcome was the success rate. The secondary outcomes were changes in AUA score, PVR, and Qmax. The patient's last follow-up visit was considered for the duration of the follow-up. ResultsSeventy-three patients were treated for BMGU for FUS. Forty-six patients underwent VIBMGU, and 27 patients underwent DOBMGU. The median duration of follow-up was 27.5 11.00-55.00) versus 14 (7.00-17.00) months respectively. The success rates of VIBMGU and DOBMGU were 89.13% and 88.89% respectively. There was a reduction in AUA scores and PVR and an improvement in Qmax postoperatively in both groups. The difference in the reduction in AUA scores between the VIBMGU and DOBMGU groups was statistically significant. The difference was not statistically significant in terms of reduction in PVR and improvement in Qmax between the two groups. ConclusionThe ventral inlay technique can provide equal results to the dorsal technique with the added advantage of vaginal sparing. This is the single largest series in the literature on female urethral stricture with the largest follow-up period of 90 months.

Long-term outcomes after treatment with Optilume BPH Four-year results from the EVEREST study.

The purpose of this study was to gather initial safety and efficacy data with the Optilume® BPH Catheter System for the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). A total of 80 men with moderate-to-severe LUTS secondary to BPH were enrolled and treated with the Optilume BPH Catheter System. Symptoms were evaluated using the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia-Impact Index (BPH-II). Improvement in urinary flow and relief of obstruction was evaluated by way of peak urinary flow rate (Qmax) and postvoid residual urine volume (PVR). Subjects were prospectively queried for adverse events at each study visit, and relatedness to the study device was evaluated by the investigators, as well as centrally adjudicated by the study principal investigator. Previous reports of symptom improvement in this cohort were maintained through four-year followup, with a significant reduction in IPSS and IPSS quality of life maintained through four years (-12.1, -2.8, respectively). Clinically meaningful improvement in Qmax was maintained in the majority of subjects, with an average improvement from baseline of +5.6 mL/sec. No treatment-related adverse events were reported in the long-term followup period. Long-term followup through four years for subjects treated with the Optilume BPH Catheter System indicates durable outcomes in symptom improvement and functional improvement in flow rate. These results indicate the unique mechanism of action for Optilume BPH successfully achieves an immediate mechanical effect that is maintained long-term through incorporation of paclitaxel to maintain patency.

Tamsulosin 0.8 mg daily dose in management of BPH patients with failed tamsulosin 0.4 mg monotherapy and unfit for surgical intervention

AimThis study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of administering double-dose tamsulosin (0.8 mg) for treating patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) who have not responded to the standard single dose of tamsulosin (0.4 mg) and are deemed unsuitable for transurethral resection (TUR) intervention.Materials and methodsBetween November 2022 and July 2023, we prospectively analyzed 111 patients who were experiencing severe BPH symptoms. These patients received a double dose of tamsulosin for one month. We collected baseline characteristics such as age, body mass index, and underlying medical conditions. Various parameters including the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, prostate volume, peak urinary flow rate (Qmax), voided volume, and post-void residual volume were evaluated before and after treatment.ResultsAll 111 patients completed the study. The mean age, PSA level, and prostate volume were 63.12 ± 4.83 years, 3.42 ± 0.93 ng/ml, and 50.37 ± 19.23 ml, respectively. Of these patients, 93 showed improvement in Qmax, post-void residual volume, and IPSS score (p-value = 0.001). The total IPSS score and total Qmax improved from 24.03 ± 2.49 and 7.72 ± 1.64 ml/sec to 16.41 ± 3.84 and 12.08 ± 2.37 ml/sec, respectively.ConclusionDouble-dose 0.8mg tamsulosin as an alpha-blocker therapy appears to be a viable temporary management option for BPH patients who have not responded to the standard single dose 0.4mg tamsulosin and are not suitable candidates for TUR intervention.

Prostate Artery Embolization as Minimally Invasive Treatment for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: An Updated Systematic Review.

Background/Objectives: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) has a significant impact on the quality of life of symptomatic patients. In patients manifesting lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), prostatic arterial embolization (PAE) has become a topic of interest in recent years. The purpose of this systematic review is to analyze and review techniques and clinical outcomes of patients who underwent endovascular treatment of BPH, with a special focus on the comparison of surgical and endovascular procedures. Methods: Through the major scientific databases, 1225 articles were selected from the initial research utilizing specific keywords and medical subject headings. Based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria established for selecting relevant studies for our purposes, the systematic analysis of the literature was conducted on a total of seven articles. Results: We collected data on 718 male patients (408 patients underwent PAE and 310 received TURP). The technical success rate varied from 86% to 100% for TAE and was 100% for TURP. During a 12-month follow-up period, both PAE and TURP were comparable on the reduction in IPSS and QoL questionnaire, while TURP showed significant improvements in Qmax and in the reduction in prostate volume. Length and cost of hospitalization were lower for PAE. Complication and adverse events rates were higher in the TURP group rather than in the PAE group (60.6% vs. 35.5%). Conclusions: Prostatic artery embolization represents an emerging minimally invasive procedure for BPH. According to previously released clinical studies, quality-of-life and urological symptom scores of the PAE group were comparable to those of the TURP group. Our research strengthens the evidence supporting the effectiveness and safety of PAE as a therapy for LUTS related to BPH.

Efficacy in Using Urodynamic Parameters of Intravesical Electrical Stimulation for Detrusor Underactivity.

Intravesical electrical stimulation (IVES) remains a controversial therapy for detrusor underactivity (DUA). The purpose of this study is to determine the efficacy of IVES in patients with DUA using pre- and post-IVES urodynamic parameters. Intravesical electrical stimulation procedure is performed using a specific catheter equipped with an internal electrical electrode (cathode). The anode is subsequently affixed to the lower abdomen (suprapubic). Afterward, this specialized catheter is connected to a stimulator. Patients undergo a series of 12 IVES procedures in 1 month with the following predetermined parameters: 20 mA amplitude, 20 Hz frequency, 200 µs pulse width, and 60 minutes stimulation time. Patients underwent a follow-up urodynamic examination 1 month after the IVES series is completed. After IVES, several notable changes were observed, including an increase in Qmax from 7.28 ± 5.24 to 7.29 ± 4.09 (P=.030), a decrease in post-void residual (PVR) from 73.03 ± 43.91 to 62.07 ± 39.10 (P=.005), and an increase in PDet@tQmax from 17.10 ± 12.35 to 18.87 ± 12.47 (P=.009). The aetiologies of DUA were categorized into 3 groups: chronic obstruction (CO), idiopathic (Idio), and neurological disorder (ND). The CO group exhibited significant changes in urodynamic parameters, specifically Qmax (P=.001), PVR (P=.001), and PDet@Qmax (P=.035). Similarly, the idiopathic group also demonstrated improvements in Qmax (P=.008), PVR (P=.037), and PDet@ Qmax (P=.033). Intravesical electrical stimulation has been shown to have a positive effect on patients diagnosed with DUA, particularly those whose DUA is idiopathic or due to chronic obstruction.

Outcomes of urethral meatal preservation ventral urethroplasty for female urethral stricture: a series of cases.

To present a series of cases with our initial experience and short-term outcomes of a modified vaginal mucosal flap urethroplasty. Patients diagnosed with urethral stricture and operated by the same operative technique between January 2012 and January 2018 were followed for at least 6 months. Uroflowmetry and clinical outcomes were evaluated. Nineteen patients were included with an average age of 56.4 years, mean preoperative Qmax of 5.3 ml/s, and PVR of 101.4 mL. After 6 months of the procedure, the mean Qmax improved to 14.7 mL/s (p<0.05), PVR decreased to 47.3 mL (p<0.05), and 84.2% of all patients reported improvement in clinical self-reported symptoms. There was an improvement in symptoms such as voiding effort in 84.2% of patients, weak stream (89.5%), and recurrent urinary tract infection (85.7%). The success rate (absence of symptoms and normal Qmax with no significant PVR) of the procedure was 84.2%. The described technique was considered effective for the treatment of female urethra stricture, with a high clinical success rate and an objective improvement of Qmax and decrease in PVR after 6 months of the procedure.

(210) Four-Year Surgical and Sexual Function Outcomes of Rezum Therapy Across a Broad Range of Prostate Volumes

Abstract Introduction Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) often leads to the development of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), which can result in significant deterioration in quality of life (QoL). Rezum therapy has demonstrated efficacy in alleviating LUTS secondary to BPH across a broad range of prostate volumes (PVs). However, there is a scarcity of long-term real-world data on Rezum outcomes across a wide range of PVs. Objective To evaluate surgical and sexual function Rezum outcomes over a 4-year period in patients with PVs &amp;lt;30cc, 30-80cc, or &amp;gt;80cc. Methods A retrospective study was conducted on patients from a multiethnic population treated with Rezum between 2017 and 2019. Patients were stratified into three cohorts based on PV: &amp;lt;30cc, 30-80cc, or &amp;gt;80cc. Outcome measures, including International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), QoL, International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF)-Erectile and Orgasmic function, maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax), BPH medication usage, adverse events (AEs), and decisional regret scores were collected and compared at baseline and 1-, 3-, 6-, 12-, and/or 48-months follow-up. Results A total of 252 patients were analyzed, with 35 (13.9%), 196 (77.8%), and 21 (8.3%) patients in the 30cc, 30-80cc, and &amp;gt;80cc cohorts, respectively. The &amp;gt;80cc cohort was significantly older (66.9 years [8.1]) than the &amp;lt;30cc cohort (63.4 years [8.5], p = 0.02). The &amp;lt;30cc cohort had a significantly higher baseline IPSS (21 [15-28]) and QoL (5 [4-6]) than the 30-80cc (IPSS 17 [10-23], p = 0.003; QoL 4 [3-5], p=0.02) and &amp;gt;80cc (IPSS 16 [6.5-22.5], p = 0.01; QoL 4 [3-5], p = 0.006) cohorts. The number of injections utilized per lateral prostatic lobe significantly increased with PV (&amp;lt;30cc: 1 injection [0-1] vs 30-80cc: 2 injections [1-2] vs &amp;gt;80cc: 3 injections [2-3.5], p &amp;lt; 0.001). When compared to baseline, the combined cohort saw significant percent changes at 48-months in IPSS (-70.6%, p &amp;lt; .001), QoL (-80%, p &amp;lt; .001), and Qmax (52%, p = 0.003). Within each PV cohort, significant improvements in IPSS and QoL were found at all follow-ups when compared to baseline. Qmax improvements were significant only in the 30-80cc cohort at all follow-ups. There were no significant differences in percent changes in IPSS, QoL, or Qmax between cohorts at 3-, 6-, 12-, or 48-months when compared to baseline. The &amp;lt;30cc and 30-80cc cohorts had significant decreases in BPH medication usage as early as 3-months that remained durable through 48-months (all p &amp;lt; 0.05). The &amp;gt;80cc cohort experienced a significant decrease in BPH medication usage at 3-months but it did not remain durable to 12- or 48-months. No significant differences in postoperative AEs or decision regret scores were observed between cohorts. There were no significant changes in erectile function and orgasmic function at 12-months within cohorts. No significant differences were found in 48-months reoperation rates between the &amp;lt;30cc, 30-80cc, and &amp;gt;80cc cohorts (0% vs 4.9% vs 5%, p = 0.49). Conclusions Rezum effectively improved LUTS secondary to BPH irrespective of PV, with improvements being durable over 4 years. However, patients with PVs &amp;gt;80cc should be counseled on the possibility of continuing their BPH medications following treatment. Disclosure No.

(205) Functional Outcomes in Non-Transecting Excision-Anastomosis Urethroplasty for Lengthy (≥2cm) Urethral Strictures

Abstract Introduction Spongiosal sparing non-transecting anastomotic bulbar urethroplasty has rapidly become the preferred technique for many reconstructive urologists due to reported improvement in postoperative erectile function outcomes. For strictures &amp;lt;2cm, non-transecting techniques without the use of graft augmentation are typically deployed. However, for lengthy bulbar strictures (≥2cm), many advocate for oral mucosa substitution urethroplasty due to the theoretical concern of penile shortening, tethering, or other erectile function related side effects. Although effective, substitution bulbar urethroplasty is associated with additional graft harvest morbidity and may have lower success rates relative to non-substitution non-transecting techniques. Objective We describe outcomes of an extended non-transecting excision-anastomosis urethroplasty for lengthy urethral strictures without the use of graft augmentation. Methods A tertiary center’s urethroplasty database was queried for patients that underwent non-transecting bulbar urethroplasty from 2017-2023. Patients with penile urethral strictures or concurrent urethroplasty procedures were excluded. Stretch penile length (SPL) was assessed by applying gentle traction on the penis and measuring from the base of the penis to the tip of the glans. SPL was assessed perioperatively and at 3-6 month follow-up. Urethral stricture recurrence was defined as need for repeat urethral intervention. Urethral stricture length was determined by intra-operative measurement. Accordingly, patients were then stratified based on stricture length (&amp;lt;2 cm vs ≥2 cm) and tested for association between categorical outcomes (worsening erectile function and reconstructive success) and continuous outcomes (change in SPL) using Fischer’s exact test and Mann Whitney U test. Results A final cohort of 90 patients were identified, with a median urethral stricture length of 1.5 cm (range 0.5-6cm). In addition to dorsal urethrotomy (median 3cm), ventral mucosectomy was performed in 29 (32%) patients (median 2cm). Early postoperative complications occurred in 13 (15%) including UTI (N=4), contrast extravasation at VCUG (N=3), and epididymo-orchitis (N=3). At a median follow up of 13 months (IQR 4-18), a total of 5.5% (5/90) developed stricture recurrence. The overall median change in SPL was 0% (IQR 0-6.7%). De novo ED occurred in 7% (5/67). When stratified by stricture length ≥2cm (N=41) and &amp;lt;2cm (N=49) median length of urethrotomy was 3 cm (2.6-4.0) vs 2 cm (2.0-3.0; p &amp;lt;0.001), respectively. Those with strictures ≥2 cm had greater decreases in relative SPL (median 3.5% vs. 0%, p = 0.003) and higher absolute PVR (median 71 ml vs. 34 ml, p =0.03) at 3 months after surgery. There were no significant differences in relative improvement of Qmax or PVR, stricture recurrence (8% vs 4%), worsening erectile function (10% vs 6%), or complication rates (15% vs 14%) between groups (p-value&amp;gt; 0.05 for all comparisons). Conclusions Spongiosal sparing non-transecting urethroplasty is an effective surgical option for patients with lengthy urethral strictures. It offers comparable relative improvement in functional (Qmax, PVR) and erectile function outcomes, while having a modest impact on SPL all while avoiding the morbidity of graft harvesting. Disclosure No.

Thirty versus 60-Watt thulium laser enucleation of prostate: Toward the development of low-power anatomical enucleation of the prostate.

We aimed to study whether using 30 W versus 60 W thulium enucleation of the prostate (ThuLEP) would affect postoperative outcomes in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). We prospectively identified male patients with moderate or severe lower urinary tract symptoms due to BPH. We randomized patients into 30 W (Group 1) or 60 W (Group 2) thulium yag laser with a 550 μm laser fiber and a 26 Fr continuous flow resectoscope. We collected data related to prostate size, enucleation time, morcellation time, laser time, perioperative complications, and 1-year functional outcomes. A total of 120 patients were included, with a mean age of 67 years and a mean prostate size of 105 g. The preoperative characteristics were similar across both groups. The mean operative time was shorter in the 60 W group, 74 ± 27 vs. 91 ± 33 min in the 30 W group (P = 0.001), and the mean laser time was 55 ± 20 in 60 W versus 71 ± 25 in 30 W (P = 0.0001). The mean hospital stay was 1 day in both groups and at 1-year follow-up; there was a similar improvement in mean Qmax and International Prostate Symptom Score symptom scores. Both 30 and 60 W ThuLEP provided a safe and comparable outcome with a relatively shorter operative time for the 60 W groups. Perhaps using a 30-W setting would be beneficial in the early learning curve or cases with more bleeding capsular perforators; besides, the financial benefit of manufacturing low-cost low-power devices that may help in the widespread of AEEP.

Propensity score-matched analysis comparing perioperative, functional, and safety outcomes between thulium fiber laser and bipolar enucleation of the prostate performed by a single surgeon with two years of follow-up.

To compare perioperative, functional, and safety outcomes between thulium fiber laser enucleation of the prostate (ThuFLEP) and bipolar enucleation of the prostate performed by a single surgeon with use of propensity score (PS)-matched analysis. Data were from 675 patients, 422 of whom underwent ThuFLEP and bipolar enucleation by a single highly experienced surgeon. ThuFLEP was performed with Fiberlase U1 (IRE Polus Ltd.). Perioperative parameters, safety, and functional outcomes, such as International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), quality of life (QoL), postvoid residual volume (PVR), and maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax) were assessed. To control for selection bias, a 1:1 PS-matched analysis was carried out using the following variables as covariates: total prostate volume, preoperative IPSS and early sphincter release. Of 422 patients, 370 (87.7%) underwent ThuFLEP and 52 (12.3%) underwent bipolar enucleation. Operation, enucleation, and morcellation time were comparable between groups before and after PS-matched analysis (p=0.954, p=0.474, p=0.362, respectively). Functional parameters (IPSS, QoL, PVR, Qmax) were also comparable between groups at every time point before and after PS matching. Significant improvements in IPSS, QoL score, Qmax, and PVR were observed during the 24-month follow-up period for both ThuFLEP and bipolar enucleation without any significant differences between groups. Early and late postoperative complications before and after PS-matched analysis were similar. ThuFLEP was comparable to bipolar enucleation in perioperative characteristics, improvement in voiding parameters, and complication rates. Both procedures were shown to be effective and safe in the management of benign prostatic hyperplasia.