Median Prostate Volume Research Articles

Clinically significant prostate cancer detection rate in biopsy-naïve patients with mpMRI and microultrasound topographically discordant lesions: A single-center retrospective analysis

Introduction and objectivesMultiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) has improved the detection of clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa), and microultrasound (micro-US) shows promise in enhancing detection rates. We compared mpMRI-guided targeted biopsy (MTBx) and micro–US-guided targeted biopsy (micro–US-TBx) in biopsy-naïve patients with discordant lesions at micro-US and mpMRI to detect csPCa (grade group ≥2) and clinically insignificant PCa (ciPCa; grade group 1) and assessed the role of nontargeted systematic biopsy (SBx). Material and MethodsWe analyzed 178 biopsy-naive men with suspected PCa and discordant lesions at mpMRI and micro-US. All patients underwent mpMRI followed by micro-US, the latter being performed immediately before the biopsy. Imaging findings were interpreted blindly, followed by targeted and SBx. Median age was 63 years (IQR, 57–70), median prostate-specific antigen level was 7 ng/mL (IQR, 5–9 ng/mL), and median prostate volume was 49 cm^3 (IQR, 35–64 cm^3). Overall, 86/178 (48%) patients were diagnosed with PCa, 51/178 (29%) with csPCa. ResultsMicro-USTBx detected csPCa in 36/178 men (20%; 95% CI: 26–46), and MTBx detected csPCa in 28/178 men (16%; 95% CI: 36–50), resulting in a -8% difference (95% CI: −10, 4; P = 0.022) and a relative detection rate of 0.043. Micro-USTBx detected ciPCa in 9/178 men (5%; 95% CI: 3, 15), while MTBx detected ciPCa in 12/178 men (7%; 95% CI: 5, 20), resulting in a −3% difference (95% CI: −2 to 4; P = 0.2) and a relative detection rate of 0.1. SBx detected ciPCa in 29 (16%) men. mpMRI plus micro-US detected csPCa in 51/178 men, with no additional cases with the addition of SBx. Similarly, MTBx plus micro-USTBx plus SBx detected ciPCa in 35/178 men (20%; 95% CI: 18, 37) compared to 9 (5%) in the micro-US pathway (P = 0.002) and 14/178 (8%; 95% CI: 6, 26) in the mpMRI plus micro-US pathway (P = 0.004). ConclusionsIn conclusion, a combined micro-US/mpMRI approach could characterize primary disease in biopsy-naïve patients with discordant lesions, potentially avoiding SBx. Further studies are needed to validate our findings and assess micro-US's role in reducing unnecessary biopsies.

Preoperative prostatic artery embolization before transurethral resection of the prostate for prostate glands larger than 80 mL: the first randomized controlled trial

BackgroundThis study aimed to evaluate the impact of preoperative prostate artery embolization (PAE) on intraoperative blood loss during transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) in glands larger than 80 cc. Material and methodsA prospective, surgeon-blinded randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted at a single tertiary center. Patients with a prostate volume of more than 80 cc with indications for TURP were randomized (1:1) to the following groups: preoperative prostatic artery embolization followed by TURP (Group A—intervention arm) and TURP alone (Group B—control arm). The primary outcome studied was blood loss measured as the drop in hemoglobin level postoperatively, and the secondary outcome measured was resection efficiency (resected weight per min) and postoperative complication rate. ResultsOur study included 10 patients each in group, A and B. The median prostate volume was 119 mL and 140 mL and the median preoperative hemoglobin was 13.3 g/dL (interquartile range: 12.5 – 14.3 g/dL) and 14.4 g/dL (interquartile range: 10.1–15.2 g/dL) in groups A and B, respectively. Change in postoperative hemoglobin was significantly greater in Group B than in Group A (−1.4 g/dL versus +0.5 g/dL, P = 0.015). There were no significant differences in the weight of resected prostate chips (52 g versus 73 g, P = 0.089) and resection efficiency (0.7 g/min versus 0.6 g/min, P = 0.853) between groups A and B. Two patients in Group B received one unit of red blood cell transfusion compared to only 1 patient in Group A (P = 1.000). One patient from each group had to be brought back to the operation room for hemostasis. ConclusionOur study demonstrated that preoperative prostate artery embolization reduces intraoperative blood loss in men with large prostates undergoing TURP but did not impact resection efficiency or complication rate.

Prospective study of urinary incontinence recovery following endoscopic enucleation of the prostate.

To investigate the clinical trajectories and identify risk factors linked to post-enucleation urinary incontinence (UI). In this prospective study (April 2020 to March 2022) at a single institution, 316 consecutive patients receiving endoscopic enucleation due to benign prostatic enlargement were included. Patient information and perioperative details were collected. Follow-ups, from 1 to 6 months, assessed postoperative UI using International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Urinary Incontinence Short Form and a four-item pad questionnaire, classified per International Continence Society definitions. Logistic regression analysed predictors at 1 week, while generalised estimating equation assessed risk factors from 1 to 3 months postoperatively. Patients with a median prostate volume of 57 mL underwent enucleation, with 22.5% experiencing postoperative UI at 1 week, 5.6% at 3 months, decreasing to 1.9% at 6 months. Multivariable analysis identified age (>80 years), specimen weight (>70 g), en bloc with anteroposterior dissection, and anal tone (Digital Rectal Examination Scoring System score <3) as potential factors influencing UI. Subgroup analysis revealed that specimen weight was associated with both continuous and stress UI. Anal tone was related to both other types and stress UI, while overactive bladder symptoms were associated with urge UI. In summary, our study elucidates transient risk factors contributing to temporary post-enucleation UI after prostatectomy. Informed decisions and personalised interventions can effectively alleviate concerns regarding postoperative UI.

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound imaging following transperineal laser ablation for lower urinary tract symptoms

ObjectivesTo describe the shape and volume of ablations created by TPLA using multiple fiber configurations. Furthermore, to measure the change in the ablation zone and prostate volume over time, and to assess inter-patient ablation volume variability. MethodsData from a prospective, single center, interventional pilot study including 20 patients is used. All subjects underwent TPLA using the EchoLaser® system, using two to four fibers, depending on prostate size and shape. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) was performed post-treatment and at 1 and 12 months. The prostate and ablation zone volumes were calculated on segmented CEUS imaging. ResultsThe ablation zones were clearly identified on CEUS as non-perfused areas. Depending on fiber configuration, their shape varied from an ellipsoid to a clover profile. Ablation volumes varied from 0.9 (0.6 – 2.2)cm3 using a single fiber and 1800J to 8.7 (3.9 – 19.0)cm3 (median, range) using two fibers and 7200J energy per lobe at one month. At 12 months the majority of the ablation zones showed a volume reduction. Median prostate volume decreased from 78 (37 – 145)cm3 at baseline to 46 (27 – 124)cm3 at 12 months (p=0.0002). There was a relation between prostate volume reduction and Qmax (slope = 0.18) and IPSS (slope = -0.18) improvement. ConclusionsThis study described ablation zone shape and measured the ablation volume following TPLA by various fiber configurations using CEUS, and compared these to functional outcomes. Prostate volume reduced significantly during follow-up. Segmentation showed substantial inter-patient ablation volume variation, which limits treatment predictability and thus accuracy.

Targeted microwave ablation of localised prostate cancer: Initial results of VIOLETTE trial

AbstractObjectiveThe aim of this study was to assess the precision and safety of targeted microwave ablation (TMA) using organ‐based tracking (OBT) fusion, in patients with intermediate risk prostate cancer.Patients and methodWe conducted a prospective, multicentric trial. Eligible patients had a prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) &lt; 20 ng/mL, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)‐visible index tumour of Gleason score 3 + 4, with largest axis ≤15 mm and distant of at least 5 mm from the rectum and apex. TMA was performed with microwave needle applicator using OBT fusion, with a transperineal or a transrectal approach. In this interim analysis, we evaluated precision, safety, urinary and sexual outcomes, and PSA density kinetics.ResultsAt this point, 37 patients were treated in five centres. Median (interquartile range) age is 68 (63–72) years. Baseline median prostate volume and PSA are of 45 (34–57) mL and 8 (6.2–10.8) ng/mL, respectively. Median largest tumour axis on T2W MRI is of 11 mm (10–13). Patients were treated under general anaesthesia or conscious IV sedation in an outpatient setting. Anaesthesia had a median duration of 78 (66–90) min. A median number of 3 (2–4) 12‐W ablations of 2 to 5 min were performed per patient. After a median follow‐up of 6 (2.4–10) months, we observed 58 adverse events (AE) in 22 patients. These were of Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) grade 1, 2 and 3 in 43 (74%), 13 (22%) and 2 (4%) cases. Six (15%) patients had an acute urinary retention, five of which considered as severe AE because of rehospitalisation. We did not observe any significant difference in International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), Male Sexual Health Questionnaire‐ejaculatory dysfunction (MSHQ‐EjD) and International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF5) from baseline to last follow‐up. Median PSA density evolved from 0.2 (0.1–0.3) at baseline to 0.1 (0.07–0.16) at 12 months.ConclusionsThese preliminary results suggest that TMA using OBT fusion is precise and safe in patients with intermediate risk localised prostate cancer. Further inclusions and follow‐up are needed to assess oncological outcome.

Second-generation MOSES 2.0 versus MOSES 1.0 pulse-modulation technologies for holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP).

To report our initial experience with enhanced MOSES 2.0 technology in patients who underwent holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), in comparison to those who underwent HoLEP with MOSES 1.0 technology at our institution. We retrospectively reviewed data of patients who underwent HoLEP using MOSES 1.0 or MOSES 2.0 pulse-modulation technology from December 2020 to September 2023. Preoperative and intraoperative parameters, postoperative outcomes, as well as perioperative complications were collected and analyzed. A total of 196 patients were included in the study. Among them, 146 patients underwent MOSES 1.0 HoLEP, while 50 had MOSES 2.0 HoLEP. No statistically significant differences in preoperative characteristics were observed between the two groups. The median prostate volume for the MOSES 1.0 and MOSES 2.0 HoLEP groups was 109cc and 117.5cc, respectively. Patients in the MOSES 2.0 group had a shorter median enucleation time (52.5 vs. 42.5min, p < 0.001) and hemostasis time (8 vs. 6min, p = 0.002), along with lower laser energy usage (101 vs. 86.4kJ, p = 0.012), when compared to those in the MOSES 1.0 cohort. Postoperative outcomes, including IPSS, QoL, Qmax, and PVR, were comparable between the two groups at 1, 3, and 6 months postoperative. The incidence of hospital readmission (p = 0.42), as well as one-month postoperative urge urinary incontinence (p = 0.2) and stress urinary incontinence (p = 0.13) were also comparable between the cohorts. HoLEP with second-generation MOSES 2.0 technology is a safe and effective treatment option for BPH. It offers notable improvements, including reduced enucleation and hemostasis times, while using less energy when compared to MOSES 1.0.

Role of Ultrasound Elastography versus Ultrasound Guided Biopsy in Detection of Cancer Prostate

Abstract Background Prostate cancer detection has evidently evolved through the past years. Ultrasound is already established in PCA diagnosis, with introduction of adjuvant techniques to ultrasonography promoting its capabilities in PCA diagnosis. Elastography technique was introduced for the first time in the 90s, it is an easy procedure with high capabilities in diagnosis and can be at same session with US increasing its specificity. Aim of the Work The aim of this study is to define the effect of US elastography in early detection of cancer prostate. Patients and Methods This study was prospectively carried on 22 male patients having prostatic lesions, (between June 2020 to November 2022), the mean age of all cases was 63.5 years, with a median of PSA of 30.6 ng/mL, a median prostatic volume of 65 mL. This study was performed in the ultrasound unit/ radiology department of the Police Medical Complex at New-Cairo. Patients were referred from the outpatient clinic of the urology department. Results We found that to differentiate between benign and malignant lesions the best stiffness cut-off value would be between 35 and 37 kPa, sensitivity 83.3%, specificity 70%, PPV 76.9% and NPV 77.7% and accuracy 77.2%. Conclusion Elastography is an easy procedure that provides diagnostic extra tool which can be easily done in the same session with the B-mode ultrasound examination and improves its specificity for detection of prostatic cancer. It has proven benefit in differentiating benign form malignant lesions and optimizing the results of prostate biopsies.

Consistent predictive ability of prostate-specific antigen density prediction model for clinically significant prostate cancer across age strata.

Prebiopsy prostate-specific antigen density (PSAD) is a well-known predictor of clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa). Since prostate-specific antigen(PSA) and prostate volume (PV) increase normally with aging, PSAD thresholds may vary. The purpose of the study was to determine if PSAD was predictive of csPCa in different age strata. We retrospectively reviewed our institutional database for patients who underwent multiparametricmagnetic resonance imaging (MRI) between January 2016 and December 2021. We included patients who had post-MRI prostate biopsies. Based on age, we divided our cohort into four subgroups (groups 1-4): <55, 55-64, 65-74, and ≥75 years old. PSAD accuracy was estimated by the area under the curve (AUC) as a predictive model for differentiating csPCa between the groups. CsPCa was defined as a Gleason Grade Group 2 or higher. Three different PSAD thresholds (0.1, 0.15, and 0.2) were tested across the groups for sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value(NPV). Chi-square and analysis of variance tests were used for bivariate analysis. All analyswere completed using R 4.3 (R Core Team, 2023). Among 1913 patients, 883 (46.1%) had prostate biopsies. In groups 1, 2, 3, and 4, there were 62 (7%), 321 (36.4%), 404 (45.8%), and 96 (10.9%) patients, respectively. Median PSA was 5.6 (interquartile range 3.4-8.1), 6.2 (4.8-9), 6.8 (5.1-9.7), and 9 (5.6-13), respectively (p < 0.01). Median PV was 42.3 (30-62), 51 (36-77), 55.5 (38-85.9), and 59.3 (42-110) mL, respectively (p < 0.01). No difference was observed in median PSAD between age groups 1-4 (0.1 [0.07-0.16], 0.11 [0.08-0.18], 0.1 [0.07-0.19], and 0.1 [0.07-0.2]), respectively (p = 0.393). CsPCa was diagnosed in 241 (27.3%) patients, of which 10 (16.1%), 65 (20.2%), 121 (30%), and 45 (46.7%) were in groups 1-4, respectively (p < 0.001). For groups 1-4, the PSAD AUC for predicting csPCa was 0.75, 0.68, 0.71, and 0.74. While testing PSAD threshold of 0.15 across the different age groups (1-4), the PPV vs.NPV was 39.1 vs. 93.2, 33.6 vs. 87, 50.9 vs. 80.8, and 66.1 vs. 64.7, respectively. PSAD prediction model was found to be similar among different age groups. In young patients, PSAD had a high NPV but low PPV. With increasing age, the opposite trend was observed, likely due to higher disease prevalence. While PSAD thresholds may be less useful in older patients to rule out higher-grade prostate cancer, the clinical consequences of these diagnoses require a case-by-case evaluation.

Preliminary clinical practice of radical prostatectomy without preoperative biopsy.

At present, biopsy is essential for the diagnosis of prostate cancer (PCa) before radical prostatectomy (RP). However, with the development of prostate-specific membrane antigen positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PSMA PET/CT) and multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI), it might be feasible to avoid biopsy before RP. Herein, we aimed to explore the feasibility of avoiding biopsy before RP in patients highly suspected of having PCa after assessment of PSMA PET/CT and mpMRI. Between December 2017 and April 2022, 56 patients with maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) of ≥4 and Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS) ≥4 lesions who received RP without preoperative biopsy were enrolled from two tertiary hospitals. The consistency between clinical and pathological diagnoses was evaluated. Preoperative characteristics were compared among patients with different pathological types, T stages, International Society of Urological Pathology (ISUP) grades, and European Association of Urology (EAU) risk groups. Fifty-five (98%) patients were confirmed with PCa by pathology, including 49 (89%) with clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa, defined as ISUP grade ≥2 malignancy). One patient was diagnosed with high-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (HGPIN). CsPCa patients, compared with clinically insignificant prostate cancer (cisPCa)andHGPIN patients, were associated with a higher level of prostate-specific antigen (22.9ng/mL vs. 10.0ng/mL, P=0.032), a lower median prostate volume (32.2mL vs. 65.0mL, P=0.001), and a higher median SUVmax (13.3 vs. 5.6, P<0.001). It might be feasible to avoid biopsy before RP for patients with a high probability of PCa based on PSMA PET/CT and mpMRI. However, the diagnostic efficacy of csPCa with PI-RADS ≥4 and SUVmax of ≥4 is inadequate for performing a procedure such as RP. Further prospective multicenter studies with larger sample sizes are necessary to confirm our perspectives and establish predictive models with PSMA PET/CT and mpMRI.

The impact of prostate volume estimation on the risk-adapted biopsy decision based on prostate-specific antigen density and magnetic resonance imaging score.

Utility of prostate-specific antigen density (PSAd) for risk-stratification to avoid unnecessary biopsy remains unclear due to the lack of standardization of prostate volume estimation. We evaluated the impact of ellipsoidal formula using multiparametric magnetic resonance (MRI) and semi-automated segmentation using tridimensional ultrasound (3D-US) on prostate volume and PSAd estimations as well as the distribution of patients in a risk-adapted table of clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa). In a prospectively maintained database of 4841 patients who underwent MRI-targeted and systematic biopsies, 971 met inclusions criteria. Correlation of volume estimation was assessed by Kendall's correlation coefficient and graphically represented by scatter and Bland-Altman plots. Distribution of csPCa was presented using the Schoots risk-adapted table based on PSAd and PI-RADS score. The model was evaluated using discrimination, calibration plots and decision curve analysis (DCA). Median prostate volume estimation using 3D-US was higher compared to MRI (49cc[IQR 37-68] vs 47cc[IQR 35-66], p < 0.001). Significant correlation between imaging modalities was observed (τ = 0.73[CI 0.7-0.75], p < 0.001). Bland-Altman plot emphasizes the differences in prostate volume estimation. Using the Schoots risk-adapted table, a high risk of csPCa was observed in PI-RADS 2 combined with high PSAd, and in all PI-RADS 4-5. The risk of csPCa was proportional to the PSAd for PI-RADS 3 patients. Good accuracy (AUC of 0.69 and 0.68 using 3D-US and MRI, respectively), adequate calibration and a higher net benefit when using 3D-US for probability thresholds above 25% on DCA. Prostate volume estimation with semi-automated segmentation using 3D-US should be preferred to the ellipsoidal formula (MRI) when evaluating PSAd and the risk of csPCa.

A novel technique for thulium laser enucleation of the prostate: anterior releasing with ThuLEP (ARTh technique)

Thulium laser enucleation of the prostate (ThuLEP) is a highly effective approach to the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia. We present here a description of the “ARTh Technique” and the benefits it offers in terms of improved visualization, short operation times, and easy recognition of the dissection plane, describing specifically the anterior release (AR) technique using ThuLEP(Th). Included in this retrospective study were 32 consecutive patients operated on between January 2022-November 2022. Parameters were measured before and after the procedure: the International Prostate Symptom Score(IPSS), maximum flow rate(Qmax), post-void residual urine(PVR) prostate-specific antigen(PSA), prostate volume, operation-time, morcellation-time, catheterization-time and presence of transient urinary incontinence, and compared. The median age of patients undergoing enucleation of the prostate using the ARTh technique was 64 years (range: 44–83). The median prostate volume of the patients was 83.5 ml(50–128 ml), preoperative-IPSS was 24.8(15–33), postoperative-IPSS was 7(5–11), preoperative-Qmax was 8.1 ml/Sects. (5–11.5 ml/sec), postoperative-Qmax was 26.9 ml/Sect. (20.8–34 ml/sec), preoperative-PVR was 145 ml(75–258 ml), postoperative-PVR was 36.2 ml(0–66 ml), total operation time was 51.4 min(28–82 min), enucleation time was 36.9 min(19–51 min) and morcellation time was 15.3 min(8–27 min). The ARTh technique is a safe procedure that allows the surgeon to easily recognize and adhere to the defined dissection plane, thus decreasing operation times, significantly reducing the rate of postoperative transient urinary incontinence (TUI).

Transperineal Laser Ablation of the Prostate for Symptomatic Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: Long-Term Follow-Up in 40 Patients

PurposeTo evaluate the durability, effectiveness, and safety of transperineal laser ablation (TPLA) of the prostate. Materials and MethodsPatients with symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) underwent TPLA with a 1,064-nm continuous-wave diode laser. International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), quality of life (QoL), postvoid residual (PVR), and prostate volume were evaluated at baseline and successive timepoints. ResultsForty prospectively enrolled patients had follow-up of ≥36 months; median duration of follow-up was 57 months (range, 36–76 months). Compared with baseline, the median reduction in IPSS at 12-month follow-up was 74% (interquartile range [IQR], 60%–81%) (P < .001). Median QoL score at 12 months was improved from 5 (IQR, 4–5) at baseline to 1 (IQR, 0–1) (P < .001). Median PVR at 12 months decreased from 108 mL (IQR, 38–178 mL) to 13.5 mL (IQR, 0–40.5 mL) (P < .001), a median reduction of 88% (IQR, 61%–100%). At 12 months, median prostate volume was significantly reduced from 66 mL (IQR, 48.5–86.5 mL) to 46 mL (IQR, 36–65 mL) (P < .001), a median reduction of 32% (IQR, 21%–45%). For all of these parameters, the benefit of TPLA persisted at last follow-up, and all changes were statistically significant compared with baseline. There were no intraprocedural adverse events; periprocedural adverse events consisted of 1 case of prostatitis and 1 case of urinary tract infection (both Society of Interventional Radiology [SIR] Grade I). ConclusionsTPLA for symptomatic BPH produced durable benefits across a range of clinical outcomes and was well tolerated in follow-up at median duration of 57 months.

Systematic review and network meta-analysis of re-intervention rates of new surgical interventions for benign prostatic hyperplasia.

To assess the re-intervention rates of new surgical benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) interventions, as the clinical durability of new surgical interventions for BPH is not widely known. A critical review of new surgical BPH therapies namely 'UroLift®', 'Aquablation', 'Rezum', 'prostatic artery embolisation (PAE)' and 'temporary implantable nitinol device (iTIND)' was performed on PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and Embase databases between May 2010 and December 2022 according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) statement. All relevant articles were reviewed, and the risk of bias was evaluated using the Cochrane risk assessment tool and Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Of the 32 studies included, there were 10 randomised controlled trials and 22 prospective observational cohorts. A total of 2400 participants were studied with a median patient age of 66 years, a median prostate volume of 51.9 mL, and a median International Prostate Symptom Score of 22. The lowest re-intervention rate at 12 months was for Aquablation at 0.01%, followed by Rezum at 0.02%, iTIND at 0.03%, and PAE at 0.05%. Network meta-analysis (NMA) showed that the best-ranked treatment at 12 months was transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), followed by Aquablation, iTIND, Rezum, and UroLift. Re-intervention rates with these new BPH interventions are comparable, although some interventions reported better outcomes than TURP in the shorter term. While this systematic review and NMA showed that the re-intervention rate with these new surgical BPH interventions appears to be comparable to TURP in the short term, further studies are required to directly compare these various BPH procedures.

Nutritional Supplement With Fermented Soy in Men With an Elevated Risk of Prostate Cancer and Negative Prostate Biopsies: General and Oncological Results From the Prospective PRAECAP Trial

Introduction & ObjectivesTo investigate the effect of a dietary supplement containing fermented soy on PSA, IPSS, changes in prostate volume and prostate cancer development after a 6-month challenge in men at increased risk of prostate cancer and negative previous biopsies. Materials & MethodsPatients with an elevated risk of PCa, defined by either 1 of the following criteria: PSA > 3 ng/ml, suspect lesion at digital rectal examination (DRE), suspect lesion at transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) / magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and previous negative prostate biopsies (at least 8 cores) within 12 months before inclusion. Statistical analysis was carried out using a non-parametric one-sided paired Wilcoxon rank sum test, chi-square test and Fisher's exact test. ResultsIn this trial, 94 patients where eligible for analysis. A PSA response was detected in 81% of the cases. In 25.8% (24/93) of patients, a decrease of at least 3 points on the IPSS was observed. The median prostate volume did not statistically change after 6 months (p=0.908). Patients with PSA modulation required fewer investigations and had fewer positive biopsies (p<0.001) and significantly fewer ISUP≥3 lesions (p=0.02). ConclusionsWe observed a significantly lower PSA level after a 6-month challenge with a fermented soy-containing supplement, and an effect on IPSS in a subset of patients. Prescribing a fermented soy supplement in patients with an increased PCa risk could lead to a better selection of patients at real increased risk of having occult PCa.

Interaction of patient age and high-grade prostate cancer on targeted biopsies of MRI suspicious lesions.

To evaluate the interaction of patient age and Prostate Imaging-Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS) score in determining the grade of prostate cancer (PCa) identified on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-targeted biopsy in older men. From a prospectively accrued Institutional Review Board-approved comparative study of MRI-targeted and systematic biopsy between June 2012 and December 2022, men with at least one PI-RADS ≥3 lesion on pre-biopsy MRI and no prior history of PCa were selected. Ordinal and binomial logistic regression analyses were performed. A total of 2677 men met study criteria. The highest PI-RADS score was 3 in 1220 men (46%), 4 in 950 men (36%), and 5 in 507 men (19%). The median (interquartile range [IQR]) patient age was 66.7 (60.8-71.8) years, median (IQR) prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level was 6.1 (4.6-9.0) ng/mL, median (IQR) prostate volume was 48 (34-68) mL, and median (IQR) PSA density was 0.13 (0.08-0.20) ng/mL/mL. Clinically significant (cs)PCa and high-risk PCa were identified on targeted biopsy in 1264 (47%) and 321 (12%) men, respectively. Prevalence of csPCa and high-risk PCa were significantly higher in the older age groups. On multivariable analyses, patient age was significantly associated with csPCa but not high-risk PCa; PI-RADS score and the interaction of age and PI-RADS score were significantly associated with high-risk PCa but not csPCa. In our cohort, the substantial rate of high-risk PCa on MRI-ultrasound fusion targeted biopsies in older men, and its significant association with MRI findings, supports the value of pre-biopsy MRI to localise disease that could cause cancer mortality even in older men.

Influence of Prostate Volume on the Incidence of Complications and Urinary Incontinence Following Thulium Fiber Laser Enucleation of the Prostate: Results from Multicenter, Real-world Experience of 2732 patients

BackgroundThe use of the new thulium fiber laser in enucleation of the prostate (ThuFLEP) has been introduced recently. ObjectiveTo evaluate complications and urinary incontinence (UI) after ThuFLEP in small and large prostate volume (PV). Design, setting, and participantsWe retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent ThuFLEP in six centers (from January 2020 to January 2023). The exclusion criteria were concomitant lower urinary tract surgery, previous prostate/urethral surgery, prostate cancer, and pelvic radiotherapy. Outcome measurements and statistical analysisPatients were divided into two groups: group 1: PV ≤80 ml; group 2: PV >80 ml. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate the independent predictors of overall UI. Results and limitationsThere were 1458 patients in group 1 and 1274 in group 2. There was no significant difference in age. The median PV was 60 (61-72) ml in group 1 and 100 (90-122) ml in group 2. En bloc enucleation was employed more in group 1, while the early apical release technique was used more in group 2. The rate of prolonged irrigation for hematuria, urinary tract infection, and acute urinary retention did not differ significantly. Blood transfusion rate was significantly higher in group 2 (0.5% vs 2.0%, p = 0.001). There was no significant difference in the overall UI rate (12.3% in group 1 vs 14.7% in group 2, p = 0.08). A multivariable regression analysis showed that preoperative postvoiding urine residual (odds ratio 1.004, 95% confidence interval 1.002-1.007, p < 0.01) was the only factor significantly associated with higher odds of UI. A limitation of this study was its retrospective nature. ConclusionsComplications and UI rates following ThuFLEP were similar in patients with a PV up to or larger than 80 ml except for the blood transfusion rate that was higher in the latter. Patient summaryIn this study, we looked at outcomes after thulium fiber laser in enucleation of the prostate stratified by PV. We found that blood transfusion was higher in men with PV >80 ml, but urinary incontinence was similar.

(018) Predictors of the Conduct of Nerve Sparing During Radical Prostatectomy

Abstract Introduction The association between nerve-sparing (NS) status at the time of radical prostatectomy (RP) and functional outcomes is well described; however, our profession lacks insight as to whether patient factors such as age and baseline erectile function influence surgeon behavior when it comes to nerve-sparing during RP. Objective We analyzed predictors associated with bilateral nerve damage/resection at the time of RP. Methods The study included patients who underwent RP with surgeon-reported NS scoring. The NS outcome of the right and left sides were independently scored between 1-4: 1 = completely preserved, 2 = partially preserved, 3 = partially damaged, and 4 = completely resected; scores of 1 or 2 indicate nerve-sparing and scores of 3 or 4 indicate non-nerve-sparing. We classified overall NS status as bilateral, unilateral, or not-spared. Demographics, ED-related comorbidities, pre-RP digital rectal exam (DRE), most recent prostate biopsy (bx) results, and pre-RP IIEF Erectile Function Domain (EFD) were analyzed. Pre-RP prostate MRI was used to define prostate volume (PV). EFD score &amp;lt; 24 defined non-functional erections. We created a multivariable (MV) model to define predictors of poorer NS status. The model included patient age, pre-RP EFD, PV, PSA, DRE, noted possible extracapsular extension (ECE) on pre-RP MRI, number of positive bx cores, and predominant Gleason (G) score on bx. Results 3805 men met inclusion criteria. Median age was 64 (57, 67) years. Median pre-RP EFD score was 26 (15, 30); 41% had a pre-RP EFD score &amp;lt; 24. Median PV and PSA were 35 (27, 47) mL and 5.7 (4.2, 8.4) ng/dL, respectively. 64% had a normal pre-RP DRE. Median total bx cores 12 (9, 14). Median positive bx cores 4 (2, 7). Distribution of bx pathology: 17% G6, 64% G7, 10% G8, 8% G9, &amp;lt;1% G10. 65% had predominant G3 and 34% G4 pathology. 26% of MRI reports noted some degree of suspicion for ECE. NS status at RP: bilateral (69%), unilateral (20%), non-spared (11%). Median NS score was 3 (2, 4). On MV analysis, abnormal DRE, number of positive bx cores, and predominance of G4 were predictive of non-NS surgery. Most notably, the non-oncological factors – older patient age and a pre-RP EFD &amp;lt; 24 – were also predictive of non-NS surgery (Table). Conclusions While patient age and baseline erectile function (EF) are not necessarily predictors of a patient’s interest in preserving EF, these non-oncologic factors were identified as predictors of non-NS surgery in this analysis. Surgeons should define the individual patient’s sexual function goals prior to RP. Disclosure No.

(015) The Association Between Prostate Volume and Erectile Function Recovery Following Radical Prostatectomy

Abstract Introduction The relationship between prostate volume (PV) and erectile function recovery (EFR) after radical prostatectomy (RP) has not been well studied. Objective We aimed to evaluate PV as a predictor of EFR 24 months after RP. Methods We included men who underwent RP with surgeon-reported nerve-sparing score (NSS) and 2-year follow up who had documentation of pre-RP PV on MRI and baseline functional erections (pre-RP IIEF-EFD scores ≥ 24). Demographics, ED-related comorbidities, pathological features, PDE5i use, and total testosterone (T) levels were recorded. At 12 months post-RP, patients scored PDE5i use 0-3; 0 never, 1 sometimes, 2 regularly, 3 routinely. NSS on each side (R/L) was scored on a 1-4 scale: 1 complete preservation, 2 near-complete preservation, 3 partial resection, 4 complete resection. Scores of 1 or 2 indicate nerve-sparing and scores of 3 or 4 indicate non-nerve-sparing. We then classified overall NS status as bilateral, unilateral, or non-spared. At 24 months post-RP, EFD score ≥ 24 defined functional erections, ≤ 10 severe ED. Multivariable analysis (MVA) evaluated predictors of EFD score ≥ 24 as well as EFD ≤ 10 after RP; patient age, number of comorbidities, baseline EF, NSS, PDE5i use, and PV were analyzed. Results 1741 men were included. Median age was 60 (55, 65) years. 36% had ≥ 2 comorbidities. Median PV was 33 (26, 44) mL with 12% having PV ≥ 60 mL. Median pre-RP IIEF-EFD score was 29 (27, 30). Grade group 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 comprised 12%, 68%, 15%, 2%, and 3% of the cohort, respectively. NSS: bilateral (82%), unilateral (15%), non-spared (3%). Median PDE5i use score within 4 weeks of the 12 month post-RP visit was 1 (0, 1); reported PDE5i use was 44% never, 39% sometimes, 13% regularly, and 4% routinely. At 24 months post-RP, median EFD was 22 (9, 28), and 56% had EFD &amp;lt; 24. Men with post-RP EFD &amp;lt; 24 had greater PV (41 ± 26 mL) vs men with EFD ≥ 24 (36 ± 17 mL, p&amp;lt;0.001). 67% of the men with EFD &amp;lt; 24 had a PV ≥ 60 mL vs 33% of men with EFD ≥ 24 (p=0.02). On MVA, predictors of EFD ≥ 24 included bilateral NS, age and PV. Predictors of EFD ≤ 10 included bilateral NS and age. At 24 months post-RP, neither routine PDE5i use nor a higher comorbidity index were predictive of EF outcome. Conclusions Among men with functional erections pre-RP, larger PV is associated with a poorer EFR at 24m post-RP independent of degree of nerve-sparing, age, and PDE5i use. Disclosure No.

Incidence of urinary incontinence following endoscopic laser enucleation of the prostate by en-bloc and non- en-bloc techniques: a multicenter, real-world experience of 5068 patients.

We aim to evaluate the incidence of incontinence following laser endoscopic enucleation of the prostate (EEP) comparing en-bloc (Group 1) versus 2-lobe/3-lobe techniques (Group 2). We performed a retrospective review of patients undergoing EEP for benign prostatic enlargement in 12 centers between January 2020 and January 2022. Data were presented as median and interquartile range (IQR). Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate factors associated with stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and mixed urinary incontinence (MUI). There were 1711 patients in Group 1 and 3357 patients in Group 2. Patients in Group 2 were significantly younger (68 [62-73] years vs 69 [63-74] years, P = 0.002). Median (interquartile range) prostate volume (PV) was similar between the groups (70 [52-92] ml in Group 1 vs 70 [54-90] ml in Group 2, P = 0.774). There was no difference in preoperative International Prostate Symptom Score, quality of life, or maximum flow rate. Enucleation, morcellation, and total surgical time were significantly shorter in Group 1. Within 1 month, overall incontinence rate was 6.3% in Group 1 versus 5.3% in Group 2 ( P = 0.12), and urge incontinence was significantly higher in Group 1 (55.1% vs 37.3% in Group 2, P < 0.001). After 3 months, the overall rate of incontinence was 1.7% in Group 1 versus 2.3% in Group 2 ( P = 0.06), and SUI was significantly higher in Group 2 (55.6% vs 24.1% in Group 1, P = 0.002). At multivariable analysis, PV and IPSS were factors significantly associated with higher odds of transient SUI/MUI. PV, surgical time, and no early apical release technique were factors associated with higher odds of persistent SUI/MUI.

The bladder neck preservation in robot assisted radical prostatectomy: Surgical and pathological outcome.

The post-prostatectomy incontinence is influenced by multiple elements, anatomic components and biological factors. The bladder neck preservation, more accurate during robot assisted radical prostatectomy, works on two anatomic components responsible for post-prostatectomy continence. The bladder neck preservation spares the internal sphincter, which is responsible for passive continence, and results in earlier return to continence and lower rates of post-prostatectomy incontinence. Moreover, this surgical technique spares the zone of urothelium coaptation and provides primary resistance to the urine to maintain postprostatectomy continence. The potential risk of bladder neck positive surgical margins (PSM) may prevent the usage of the bladder neck preservation. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the surgical and pathological outcome in prostate cancer patients underwent robot assisted radical prostatectomy with bladder neck preservation. Prospectively, we have collected demographic, clinical, surgical and pathological data of prostate cancer patients underwent robot assisted radical prostatectomy with bladder neck preservation, from January 2014 to December 2016, in Urological Clinic of the University of Padua. Moreover, it was valued the presence of alterations or continuous solutions of specimen external capsule, attributable to the surgical technique of bladder neck preservation, by microscopic and macroscopic pathological analysis. According to D'Amico risk classification, 40 patients (45.4%) had a low risk neoplasia, 35 patients (39.8%) had an intermediate risk neoplasia, 13 patients (14.8%) had an high risk neoplasia. The median prostatic volume, valued on specimen, was 30.84 cc (21.5-44.75 cc). The median prostatic weight, valued on specimen, was 51 gr (36-67 gr). The pathological stage of disease was pT2a in 11 cases (12.5%), pT2b in 37 cases (42.1%), pT3a in 28 cases (31.8%), pT3b in 12 cases (13.6%). The pathological stage of lymph node involvement was pNx in 17 cases (19.3%), pN0 in 66 cases (75%), pN1 in 5 cases (5.7%). The prostate cancers diagnosed had a Gleason score at specimen of 6 in 10 cases (10.4%), 7 (3+4) in 30 cases (34.1%), 7 (4+3) in 20 cases (22.7%), 8 in 19 cases (21.6%) and 9 in 9 cases (10.2%). The prostatic base was involved by neoplasia in 14 patients (15.9%); of these, 5 patients (35.7%) had bladder neck PSM. The patients with bladder neck PSM had: a pathological stage of disease as pT3a in 2 cases (40%) and pT3b in 3 cases (60%); a pathological stage of lymph node involvement as pN0 in 2 cases (40%) and pN1 in 3 cases (60%); a Gleason score at specimen of 8 in 3 cases (60%) and 9 in 2 cases (40%); multiple PSM. Nobody had alterations or continuous solutions of specimen external capsule, attributable to surgical technique of bladder neck preservation. The bladder neck preservation, during robot assisted radical prostatectomy, is a safe oncological procedure resulting in a good functional outcome, about post-prostatectomy continence, working on two anatomic components responsible for post-prostatectomy continence. The bladder neck PSM are linked to neoplasia with adverse pathological features, rather than the bladder neck preservation.