Renal Morbidity Following Radical Cystectomy in Patients with Bladder Cancer

Background

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are poor candidates for standard treatments for muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) and may be more likely to experience adverse outcomes when diagnosed with MIBC.

Objective

To investigate factors associated with the development of advanced CKD following radical cystectomy.

Design setting and participants

Using national Veterans Health Administration utilization files, we identified 3360 patients who underwent radical cystectomy for MIBC between 2004 and 2018.

Outcome measurements and statistical analysis

We examined factors associated with the development of advanced CKD (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] of <30 ml/min/1.73 m²) after radical cystectomy using multivariable logistic and proportional hazard regression, with and without consideration of competing risks. We examined survival using Kaplan-Meier product limit estimates and proportional hazard regression.

Results and limitations

The median age at surgery was 67 yr and the mean preoperative eGFR was 69.1 ± 20.3 ml/min/1.73 m². Approximately three out of ten patients (n = 962, 29%) progressed to advanced CKD within 12 mo. Older age (hazard ratio [HR] per 5-yr increase 1.15, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.10-1.20), preoperative hydronephrosis (HR 1.50, 95% CI 1.29-1.76), adjuvant chemotherapy (HR 1.19, 95% CI 1.00-1.41), higher comorbidity index (HR 1.13, 95% CI 1.11-1.16 per point), and lower baseline kidney function (HR 0.75, 95% CI 0.73-0.78) were associated with the development of advanced CKD. Baseline kidney function at the time of surgery was associated with survival. Generalizability is limited due to the predominantly male cohort.

Conclusions

Impaired kidney function at baseline is associated with progression to advanced CKD and mortality after radical cystectomy. Preoperative kidney function should be incorporated into risk stratification algorithms for patients undergoing radical cystectomy.

Patient summary

Impaired kidney function at baseline is associated with progression to advanced chronic kidney disease and mortality after radical cystectomy.

The stanford prostate cancer calculator: Development and external validation of online nomograms incorporating PIRADS scores to predict clinically significant prostate cancer

BACKGROUND

While multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) has high sensitivity for detection of clinically significant prostate cancer (CSC), false positives and negatives remain common. Calculators that combine mpMRI with clinical variables can improve cancer risk assessment, while providing more accurate predictions for individual patients. We sought to create and externally validate nomograms incorporating Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System (PIRADS) scores and clinical data to predict the presence of CSC in men of all biopsy backgrounds.

METHODS

Data from 2125 men undergoing mpMRI and MR fusion biopsy from 2014 to 2018 at Stanford, Yale, and UAB were prospectively collected. Clinical data included age, race, PSA, biopsy status, PIRADS scores, and prostate volume. A nomogram predicting detection of CSC on targeted or systematic biopsy was created.

RESULTS

Biopsy history, Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) density, PIRADS score of 4 or 5, Caucasian race, and age were significant independent predictors. Our nomogram-the Stanford Prostate Cancer Calculator (SPCC)-combined these factors in a logistic regression to provide stronger predictive accuracy than PSA density or PIRADS alone. Validation of the SPCC using data from Yale and UAB yielded robust AUC values.

CONCLUSIONS

The SPCC combines pre-biopsy mpMRI with clinical data to more accurately predict the probability of CSC in men of all biopsy backgrounds. The SPCC demonstrates strong external generalizability with successful validation in two separate institutions. The calculator is available as a free web-based tool that can direct real-time clinical decision-making.

Concordance between patient-reported and physician-reported sexual function after radical prostatectomy

PURPOSE

Accurately tracking health-related quality-of-life after radical prostatectomy is critical to counseling patients and improving technique. Physicians consistently overestimate functional recovery. We measured concordance between surgeon-assessed and patient-reported outcomes and evaluated a novel method to provide feedback to surgeons.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Men treated with radical prostatectomy self-completed the International Index of Erectile Function-6 questionnaire at each postoperative visit. Separately, physicians graded sexual function on a 5-point scale. International Index of Erectile Function -6 score<22 and grade ≥3 defined patient-reported and physician-assessed erectile dysfunction (ED), respectively. Feedback on concordance was given to physicians starting in May 2013 with the implementation of the Amplio feedback system. Chi-square tests were used to assess agreement proportions and linear regression to evaluate changes in agreement after implementation.

RESULTS

From 2009 to 2015, 3,053 men completed at least 1 postprostatectomy questionnaire and had a concurrent independent physician-reported outcome. Prior to implementation of feedback in 2013, patients and physicians were consistent as to ED 83% of the time; in 10% of cases, physicians overestimated function; in 7% of cases, physicians, but not patients reported ED. Agreement increased after implementation of feedback but this was not statistically significant, likely owing to a ceiling effect. Supporting this hypothesis, increase in agreement postfeedback was greater during late follow-up (≥12mo), where baseline agreement was lower compared to earlier follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Agreement was higher than expected at baseline; implementation of feedback regarding discrepancies between patient-reported and physician-assessed outcomes did not further improve agreement significantly. Our observed high rate of agreement may be partly attributed to our institutional practice of systematically capturing patient-reported outcomes as part of normal clinical care.

Accuracy of Self-reported Smoking Exposure Among Bladder Cancer Patients Undergoing Surveillance at a Tertiary Referral Center

BACKGROUND

Smoking is a risk factor for developing bladder cancer (BCa). Even though continued exposure after diagnosis may adversely affect prognosis, patients may be reluctant to disclose to their physicians that they are currently smoking, leading to inaccurate reporting of exposure and missed opportunities to deliver smoking-cessation advice and treatment in the context of cancer care.

OBJECTIVE

We examined the extent of misclassification of recent smoking exposure among patients undergoing BCa surveillance.

DESIGN SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

A consecutive sample of 145 patients with a self-reported smoking history and prior initial diagnosis of BCa was recruited from a tertiary referral urology clinic.

OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

Patients were asked if they had smoked a cigarette or used nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) within the past week and whether they lived with a smoker. At the same visit, we collected urine under a biospecimen protocol. We used urinary cotinine, the primary metabolite of nicotine, as an objective biomarker of recent smoking exposure. Nine patients whose urine could not be interpreted for cotinine were excluded. We calculated the smoking status misreporting rate by comparing biochemically verified smoking status (≥31.5 ng/ml vs <31.5 ng/ml) against self-reported current smoking status (yes vs no) while considering recent NRT use.

RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS

Overall, 11% (15 of 136) of patients had cotinine values consistent with current smoking. Of these 15 patients, 7 reported being former smokers, resulting in a 47% misclassification rate. However, three of the seven patients who denied smoking in the past week were currently using NRT. Excluding NRT users, the misclassification rate was 33%.

CONCLUSIONS

Future studies investigating the impact of postdiagnosis nicotine exposure on BCa outcomes should use biochemical verification combined with self-reported smoking exposure to classify patients accurately.

PATIENT SUMMARY

Bladder cancer patients may misreport smoking exposure, thereby missing opportunities for smoking cessation.

Cost-effectiveness analysis of initial management strategies for low-risk prostate cancer

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Background: A proportion of men with low-risk prostate cancer managed expectantly with active surveillance (AS) go on to definitive treatment in part due to initial understaging during transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) guided biopsy. Newer diagnostic tools including genomic tumor profiling, magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, and MR-ultrasound fusion biopsy have been advocated as effective strategies to risk-stratify men prior to entry into AS. We developed a decision analytic model to determine the cost-effectiveness of various initial management options for low-risk prostate cancer. Methods: A decision tree was constructed with repeat TRUS guided biopsy, MR imaging, genomic tumor profiling, and radical prostatectomy as initial management options with downstream Markov nodes to model annual recurring risks of continued AS, definitive treatment, and death from other causes. Value was optimized from the societal perspective over a lifetime horizon. We evaluated model heterogeneity and assumptions on the probability of understaging and test performance characteristics using Monte Carlo microsimulation and probabilistic sensitivity analysis. Results: At a willingness-to-pay (WTP) threshold of $100,000 per quality adjusted life year (QALY), immediate radical prostatectomy and genomic tumor profiling were dominated strategies with higher costs and lower effectiveness. MR imaging with MR-ultrasound fusion biopsy when targetable lesions are identified was the optimal strategy across 93% of simulations with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of $1,096 per QALY. Eliminating uncertainty in our model would lead to cost savings and increased effectiveness. This expected value of perfect information was $516 per patient. Conclusions: With multiple initial management options for low-risk prostate cancer, clinical decision-making can be challenging. Cost-effectiveness analysis demonstrates that image-guided biopsy techniques deliver optimal value from both a patient and societal perspective. However, given the prevalence of low-risk prostate cancer, there is value to be obtained from additional research to optimize management strategies.

Unexpected Long-term Improvements in Urinary and Erectile Function in a Large Cohort of Men with Self-reported Outcomes Following Radical Prostatectomy

BACKGROUND

It is generally assumed that if a man does not regain urinary continence or erectile function within 12 mo of radical prostatectomy (RP), then the chance of subsequent recovery is low.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the probability of achieving good urinary function (UF) or erectile function (EF) up to 48 mo postoperatively in men who reported poor UF or EF at 12 mo after RP.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

We identified 3187 patients who underwent RP from 2007 through 2013 at a tertiary institution and had extended multidisciplinary follow-up with patient-reported UF and EF scores at ≥12 mo.

INTERVENTION

Open or minimally invasive RP.

OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

Primary outcome was good UF as defined by a urinary score ≥17 (range: 0-21) or good EF as defined by a modified International Index of Erectile Function-6 score ≥22 (range: 1-30). The probability of functional recovery beyond 12 mo was determined by Kaplan-Meier analyses.

RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS

Among patients incontinent at 12 mo, the probability of achieving good UF at 24, 36, and 48 mo was 30%, 49%, and 59%. In patients experiencing erectile dysfunction at 12 mo, the probability of recovering EF at 24, 36, and 48 mo was 22%, 32%, and 40%. On multivariable analyses, 12-mo functional score and age were associated with recovery, but only score was consistently significant.

CONCLUSIONS

Men with incontinence or erectile dysfunction at 12 mo have higher than anticipated rates of subsequent functional improvement. Probability of recovery is strongly influenced by score at 12 mo. Further research should address the impact of ongoing multidisciplinary follow-up care on our observed rates of recovery.

PATIENT SUMMARY

Many prostate cancer patients continue to recover urinary and erectile function after 12 mo. The level of functional recovery by 12 mo is associated with long-term recovery and should be discussed by the physician and patient when deciding on rehabilitative interventions.

Relating prognosis in chromophobe renal cell carcinoma to the chromophobe tumor grading system

Purpose

The chromophobe subtype of renal cell carcinoma (chRCC) has generally been associated with a better prognosis than the clear cell type; however, debate continues as to absolute prognosis as well as the significance of certain prognostic variables. We investigated the significance of pathologic stage and a recently proposed chromophobe tumor grading (CTG) scheme in predicting chRCC outcomes.

Materials and Methods

All available chRCCs were identified from our surgical pathology archives from 1987-2010. Original slides were reviewed to verify diagnoses and stage, and each case was graded following a novel chromophobe tumor grade system criteria. Disease status was obtained from a clinical outcome database, and cancer specific deaths and recurrences were recorded.

Results

Eighty-one cases of chRCC were identified, and 73 had adequate follow-up information available. There were only 3 instances of cancer related recurrence or mortality, which included 1 disease specific mortality and 2 disease recurrences. Pathologic stage and CTG 3 were found to be significantly associated with the recurrences or death from chRCC, but there was no association with CTG 1 and CTG 2.

Conclusions

chRCC is associated with a very low rate of cancer specific events (4.1%) even at a tertiary referral center. In our study, pathologic stage and CTG 3, but not CTG 1 or 2, were significantly associated with the development of these events.

Development of a realistic in vivo bone metastasis model of human renal cell carcinoma

About one-third of patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) have bone metastases. The incidence of RCC is increasing and bone metastatic RCC merits greater focus. Realistic preclinical bone metastasis models of RCC are lacking, hampering the development of effective therapies. We developed a realistic in vivo bone metastasis model of human RCC by implanting precision-cut tissue slices under the renal capsule of immunodeficient mice. The presence of disseminated cells in bone marrow of tissue slice graft (TSG)-bearing mice was screened by human-specific polymerase chain reaction and confirmed by immunohistology using human-specific antibody. Disseminated tumor cells in bone marrow of TSG-bearing mice derived from three of seven RCC patients were detected as early as 1 month after tissue implantation at a high frequency with close resemblance to parent tumors (e.g., CAIX expression and high vascularity). The metastatic patterns of TSGs correlated with disease progression in patients. In addition, TSGs retained capacity to metastasize to bone at high frequency after serial passaging and cryopreservation. Moreover, bone metastases in mice responded to Temsirolimus treatment. Intratibial injections of single cells generated from TSGs showed 100 % engraftment and produced X-ray-visible tumors as early as 3 weeks after cancer cell inoculation. Micro-computed tomography (μCT) and histological analysis revealed osteolytic characteristics of these lesions. Our results demonstrated that orthotopic RCC TSGs have potential to develop bone metastases that respond to standard therapy. This first reported primary RCC bone metastasis model provides a realistic setting to test therapeutics to prevent or treat bone metastases in RCC.

Estimating the risk of chronic kidney disease after nephrectomy

INTRODUCTION

To identify factors associated with the development of chronic kidney disease (CKD) after nephrectomy and to create a clinical model to predict CKD after nephrectomy for kidney cancer for clinical use.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We identified 144 patients who had normal renal function (eGFR > 60) prior to undergoing nephrectomy for kidney cancer. Selected cases occurred between 2007 and 2010 and had at least 30 days follow up. Sixty-six percent (n = 95) underwent radical nephrectomy and 62.5% (n = 90) developed CKD (stage 3 or higher) postoperatively. We used univariable analysis to screen for predictors of CKD and multivariable logistic regression to identify independent predictors of CKD and their corresponding odds ratios. Interaction terms were introduced to test for effect modification. To protect against over-fitting, we used 10-fold cross-validation technique to evaluate model performance in multiple training and testing datasets. Validation against an independent external cohort was also performed.

RESULTS

Of the variables associated with CKD in univariable analysis, the only independent predictors in multivariable logistic regression were patient age (OR = 1.27 per 5 years, 95% CI: 1.07-1.51), preoperative glomerular filtration rate (GFR), (OR = 0.70 per 10 mL/min, 95% CI: 0.56-0.89), and receipt of radical nephrectomy (OR = 4.78, 95% CI: 2.08-10.99). There were no significant interaction terms. The resulting model had an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.798. A 10-fold cross-validation slightly attenuated the AUC to 0.774 and external validation yielded an AUC of 0.930, confirming excellent model discrimination.

CONCLUSIONS

Patient age, preoperative GFR, and receipt of a radical nephrectomy independently predicted the development of CKD in patients undergoing nephrectomy for kidney cancer in a validated predictive model.

Preclinical trial of a new dual mTOR inhibitor, MLN0128, using renal cell carcinoma tumorgrafts

mTOR is a rational target in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) because of its role in disease progression. However, the effects of temsirolimus, the only first-generation mTOR inhibitor approved by the FDA for first-line treatment of metastatic RCC, on tumor reduction and progression-free survival are minimal. Second-generation mTOR inhibitors have not been evaluated on RCC. We compared the effects of temsirolimus and MLN0128, a potent second-generation mTOR inhibitor, on RCC growth and metastasis using a realistic patient-derived tissue slice graft (TSG) model. TSGs were derived from three fresh primary RCC specimens by subrenal implantation of precision-cut tissue slices into immunodeficient mice that were randomized and treated with MLN0128, temsirolimus, or placebo. MLN0128 consistently suppressed primary RCC growth, monitored by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), in three TSG cohorts for up to 2 months. Temsirolimus, in contrast, only transiently inhibited the growth of TSGs in one of two cohorts before resistance developed. In addition, MLN0128 reduced liver metastases, determined by human-specific quantitative polymerase chain reaction, in two TSG cohorts, whereas temsirolimus failed to have any significant impact. Moreover, MLN0128 decreased levels of key components of the two mTOR subpathways including TORC1 targets 4EBP1, p-S6K1, HIF1α and MTA1 and the TORC2 target c-Myc, consistent with dual inhibition. Our results demonstrated that MLN0128 is superior to temsirolimus in inhibiting primary RCC growth as well as metastases, lending strong support for further clinical development of dual mTOR inhibitors for RCC treatment.

Tissue slice grafts of human renal cell carcinoma: an authentic preclinical model with high engraftment rate and metastatic potential

OBJECTIVE

Discovery of curative therapies for renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is hampered by lack of authentic preclinical models. Tumorgrafts, generated by direct implantation of patient-derived tissues into mice, have demonstrated superior ability to predict therapeutic response. We evaluated "tissue slice grafts" (TSGs) as an improved tumorgraft model of RCC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Cores of fresh RCC were precision-cut at 300 µm and implanted under the renal capsule of RAG2(-/-)γC(-/-) mice. Engraftment rate, histology, biomarker expression, genetic fidelity, and metastatic potential were evaluated. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was tested as a noninvasive method to measure tumor volume, and response to a targeted therapy was determined.

RESULTS

All 13 cases of RCC engrafted and displayed characteristic histology and biomarkers. TSG volume quantified noninvasively by MRI highly correlated with graft weights, providing a unique tool for monitoring orthotopic growth. Moreover, in 2 cases, cancer cells from TSGs metastasized to clinically relevant sites, including bone. Microarray analysis and DNA sequencing demonstrated a high degree of correlation of global gene expression and von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) status between TSGs and parental tumors. Treatment of TSGs with sunitinib significantly decreased graft weight and mean vessel density compared with controls.

CONCLUSION

The TSG model of RCC faithfully recapitulates tumor pathology, gene expression, genetic mutation, and drug response. The high engraftment rate and metastatic potential of this authentic model, in conjunction with the ability to generate large first-generation animal cohorts and to quantitate tumor volume at the orthotopic site by MRI, proffer significant advantages compared with other preclinical platforms.

Stage I testicular seminoma: a SEER analysis of contemporary adjuvant radiotherapy trends

PURPOSE

Patients with clinical stage I testicular seminoma have historically been treated with adjuvant radiotherapy in the United States. However, nearly 80% of patients on surveillance will not experience relapse and even with relapse, salvage rates approach 100%. It remains unclear how practice patterns have changed with recently accumulating evidence and changes in guidelines. In a population based setting we evaluated contemporary trends and factors that may affect the use of adjuvant radiotherapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 8,151 men diagnosed with stage I testicular seminoma from 2000 to 2009 were identified in the national SEER (Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results) registry. A multivariate regression model was constructed to analyze the association of year, age, race, socioeconomic status, SEER region, pathological stage and tumor size with the administration of adjuvant radiotherapy.

RESULTS

The use of adjuvant radiotherapy decreased significantly from 2000 to 2009. In 2000, 74.7% of patients received radiation, compared with only 37.7% of patients in 2009 (p <0.0001). Later year of diagnosis was significantly associated with decreased odds of receiving adjuvant radiotherapy (p <0.0001, 2000 to 2005 vs 2006 to 2009, OR 0.40, 95% CI 0.36-0.44). Men age 35 years or older (p <0.0002, OR 1.20, 95% CI 1.09-1.32) and men in the highest socioeconomic index quartile (p <0.0001, OR 1.34, 95% CI 1.16-1.54) were more likely to receive adjuvant radiotherapy.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of adjuvant radiotherapy for clinical stage I testicular seminoma has decreased significantly in the last decade. Older age and higher socioeconomic status are associated with higher rates of adjuvant radiotherapy.

Nanoscale proteomic profiling to define diagnostic signatures and biomarkers of therapeutic activity in patients with RCC

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Background: Novel agents that inhibit kinases in the hypoxia and MTOR pathways can achieve response rates of 30-60% in renal cell carcinoma (RCC); however, protein biomarkers to diagnose RCC and guide treatment have not been identified. Methods: We developed the use of two high-throughput, nanoscale immunoassays to profile hypoxia and downstream signaling in clinical specimens from patients with RCC. These automated technologies minimize errors due to manual variability, and make 96 independent measurements per overnight experiment. We used size-based protein separation (Sally Instrument, Protein Simple) to quantify proteins using antibody-specific detection, normalized to loading control. Next, we used a nano-immunoassay with charge-based separation (NIA, Nanopro1000 Instrument, Protein Simple) to distinguish multiple charged modifications of individual proteins, and measure relative ratios of individual unphosphorylated and phosphorylated isoforms. Results: We first optimized assays for proteins in MAPK, PI3K and STAT pathways, and loading controls, to analyze frozen surgical specimens and ex-vivo fine needle aspirates (FNA’s) performed immediately following nephrectomy. We analyzed more than 200 FNA’s from solid tumors, comparing RCC with paired adjacent non-tumor tissue, and other epithelial malignancies. Basal MAPK signaling of tumors varied across 3 logs of expression. Unique to NIA, we analyzed percent phosphorylation and resolved differences in single phosphorylations. Subtle differences in basal MAPK signaling between tumor calls and adjacent non-tumor tissue can distinguish RCC from other malignancies. Lastly, we prospectively collected and analyzed blood peripheral mononuclear cells from 20 RCC patients before and during treatment with standard targeted therapies. Kinase inhibitors can preferentially inhibit or activate specific protein phospho-isoforms. Conclusions: Our studies demonstrate that rapid and quantitative nanoproteomic profiling in very small amounts of clinical specimen may accelerate translational studies for novel diagnostic and predictive biomarkers.

Comparison of three different tools for prediction of seminal vesicle invasion at radical prostatectomy

BACKGROUND

Statistical prediction tools are increasingly common, but there is considerable disagreement about how they should be evaluated. Three tools--Partin tables, the European Society for Urological Oncology (ESUO) criteria, and the Gallina nomogram--have been proposed for the prediction of seminal vesicle invasion (SVI) in patients with clinically localized prostate cancer who are candidates for a radical prostatectomy.

OBJECTIVES

Using different statistical methods, we aimed to determine which of these tools should be used to predict SVI.

DESIGN, SETTINGS, AND PARTICIPANTS

The independent validation cohort consisted of 2584 patients treated surgically for clinically localized prostate cancer at four North American tertiary care centers between 2002 and 2007.

INTERVENTIONS

Robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy.

OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

Primary outcome was the presence of SVI. Traditional (area under the receiver operating characteristic [ROC] curve, calibration plots, the Brier score, sensitivity and specificity, positive and negative predictive value) and novel (decision curve analysis and predictiveness curves) statistical methods quantified the predictive abilities of the three models.

RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS

Traditional statistical methods (ie, ROC plots and Brier scores) could not clearly determine which one of the three SVI prediction tools should be preferred. For example, ROC plots and Brier scores seemed biased against the binary decision tool (ESUO criteria) and gave discordant results for the continuous predictions of the Partin tables and the Gallina nomogram. The results of the calibration plots were discordant with those of the ROC plots. Conversely, the decision curve indicated that the Partin tables represent the best strategy for stratifying the risk of SVI, resulting in the highest net benefit within the whole range of threshold probabilities.

CONCLUSIONS

When predicting SVI, surgeons should prefer the Partin tables over the ESUO criteria and the Gallina nomogram because this tool provided the highest net benefit. In contrast to traditional statistical methods, decision curve analysis gave an unambiguous result applicable to both continuous and binary models, providing an insight into clinical utility.

Continued improvement of perioperative, pathological and continence outcomes during 700 robot-assisted radical prostatectomies

BACKGROUND

Several robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) series have reviewed the impact of the initial learning curve on perioperative outcomes. However, little is known about the impact of experience on urinary and sexual outcomes. Herein, we review the perioperative, pathological and functional outcomes of our initial 700 consecutive procedures with at least 1 year follow up.

METHODS

From 2003-2006, 700 consecutive men underwent RARP at a single, academic institution. Perioperative data and pathologic outcomes were prospectively collected. Validated, UCLA-PCI-SF36v2 quality-of-life questionnaires were also obtained at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months following surgery. Outcomes between groups (cases 1-300, 301-500, and 501-700) were compared.

RESULTS

Mean operative time (OT) and blood loss significantly decreased during the experience (286, 198, 190 min; p <or= 0.001; 266, 190, 169 ml; p <or=0.001). Positive surgical margin (PSM) rate decreased in pT2 patients (15% versus 10% versus 7%; p = 0.03) despite operating on men with higher grade disease (biopsy GS>or=7 in 24%, 40%, 44%; p <or= 0.001). At 12 months postRARP, pad free continence rate was 81% when self reported and 62% when assessed by the UCLA-PCI-SF36v2 questionnaire in the initial group. Continence rates improved to 93% and 75%, respectively, for cases 501-700 (p <or= 0.05). Furthermore, significant improvement in continence rates between consecutive case groups was observed at all postoperative time points. Potency rate was 83% (bilateral nerve preservation) and 56% (unilateral nerve preservation) at 12 months when self reported and 63% and 37% respectively by the UCLA-PCI-SF36v2. No significant differences in sexual function were noted with increased experience.

CONCLUSIONS

A prolonged learning curve is observed for EBL, OT and pT2-PSM. In addition, to the best of our knowledge, this is first series demonstrating a continued improvement in urinary continence with increased RARP experience.

The cemented all-polyethylene acetabular cup: factors affecting survival with emphasis on the integrated polyethylene spacer: an analysis of the effect of cement spacers, cement mantle thickness, and acetabular angle on the survival of total hip arthroplasty

Four hundred seven primary total hip arthroplasties were performed using a cemented, direct compression molded all-polyethylene acetabular component. Based on a double-blinded randomization schedule, one group received acetabular cups with cement spacers made from polyethylene integrated into the cup, whereas the other group received the same acetabular cups with the polyethylene spacers removed. Patients were followed up for an average of 6.5 years. During this follow-up period, there were 3 revisions for acetabular cup loosening and 40 acetabular cups that had a global radiolucent line at least 1 mm wide. Acetabular cups with polyethylene spacers were found to have a significantly higher initial rate of failure (P < .0380) when compared with cups without cement spacers. Yet, polyethylene spacers resulted in a significantly thicker and more uniform cement mantle in zones 1, 2, and 3 (P < .0001). Cups initially placed at an angle of 45.0 degrees to 50.5 degrees had the highest survival rate compared with all possible angle ranges (P < .0158).

The effect of femoral notching during total knee arthroplasty on the prevalence of postoperative femoral fractures and on clinical outcome

BACKGROUND

The treatment of a supracondylar femoral fracture following total knee arthroplasty is complicated by the presence of the prosthetic components. Anterior femoral notching during arthroplasty has been implicated as a contributing risk factor for femoral fracture. We retrospectively reviewed the effect of anterior femoral notching on the subsequent occurrence of a periprosthetic supracondylar fracture of the distal aspect of the femur and the outcomes of primary total knee arthroplasty in such patients.

METHODS

The prevalence and depth of femoral notching were determined on a review of the lateral radiographs by observers blinded to the clinical results of 1089 consecutive total knee replacements performed in 1997 and 1998. Linear and logistic regression modeling was used to analyze the relationship between femoral notching and the prevalence of supracondylar femoral fracture, postoperative range of motion, the Knee Society score, and the Knee Society functional and pain scores.

RESULTS

Femoral notching was performed in 325 (29.8%) of the 1089 knees in our series. During an average follow-up period of 5.1 years, only two supracondylar femoral fractures occurred, both in femora treated without notching. Femoral notching was not associated with an increased rate of fracture (p = 1.000) or with significant differences in the measures of outcome (range of motion [p = 0.117], knee score [p = 0.967], functional score [p = 0.861], need for a lateral release [p = 0.234], or postoperative pain [p = 0.948]).

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated no difference in knees managed with or without notching of the anterior distal aspect of the femur with respect to the occurrence of a supracondylar fracture, range of motion, Knee Society score, Knee Society function, or pain.

Simultaneous bilateral versus unilateral total hip arthroplasty an outcomes analysis

This study compared the morbidity, mortality, and outcomes of 900 simultaneous bilateral total hip arthroplasties in 450 patients and 450 unilateral total hip arthroplasties. Pulmonary complications were significantly higher in the simultaneous bilateral group (1.6% vs 0.7%; P < .0312). Fourteen (3.1%) patients in the simultaneous bilateral group and 18 (4%) patients in the unilateral group died within the first postoperative year. Patients with mortality in the first postoperative year were significantly older (69.8 vs 62.3 years; P < .0012). Long-term patient survival, the prosthetic survival, and functional outcomes were not significantly different between groups. Simultaneous bilateral total hip arthroplasty has advantages where both hips are symptomatic and has less risk in younger patients with understanding of the increased risk of pulmonary complications.

The role of cemented sockets in 2004: is there one?

Cement fixation of the acetabular cup in total hip arthroplasty (THA) has evolved through multiple generations of cement technology. Whereas cement technology has produced improvements in cemented femoral fixation, the cemented socket still produces inconsistent results. Even with our current knowledge that cemented cups require exposure of cancellous bone, a clean and dry socket, and adequate bony coverage of the cup, surgeons such as myself are unable to control radiolucency at the bone-cement interface. The technical difficulty of cementing the acetabular cup has led to the increasing prevalence of cementless acetabular cups. Although cementless fixation has resulted in increased incidence of osteolysis, the surgical procedure is less technically demanding, and the long-term mechanical fixation results have been more consistent. Given the experiential learning curve that most orthopedic surgeons face with cemented fixation of the acetabular cup component, the role of the cemented socket in THA today is limited.

Long-term deterioration of joint evaluation scores

We investigated the long-term changes in the Harris Hip and Knee Society scores (HSS and KSS) to determine whether they result from overall functional decline rather than actual changes in the condition of the prosthesis. The HHS for 106 total hip arthroplasties with a minimum follow-up of ten years, no medical complications after operation and no evidence of radiological loosening, and the KSS for 264 total knee arthroplasties with a minimum follow-up of 12 years and no medical complications after operation or signs of radiographical loosening were evaluated.

There were statistically significant drops in the functional scoring components of the joint evaluation systems despite no loosening of the prostheses or other significant medical complications. The HHS declined at an average of 0.67 points per year from between three and ten years after operation (p < 0.0001). Contributing to this were deterioration in gait and limp (p < 0.0004), the use of support aids (p < 0.0001), the distance walked (p < 0.0001) and the ability to climb stairs (p < 0.0455). The functional component of the KSS declined significantly at an average 0.88 points per year betwen the third and 12th years (p < 0.0001). There were significant declines in every component of the functional score including the distance walked (p < 0.0001), the ability to climb stairs (p < 0.0001) and the use of support aids (p < 0.0001). The knee score component of the KSS did not decline significantly (p < 0.9750). The combination of functional and pain scores within the HHS system leads to an inaccurate decline in the entire score. The decline of HHS and Knee Society functional scores in total joint arthroplasties, in the absence of implant-related problems, suggests that deterioration in the functional capacity of ageing patients is an important factor in longitudinal studies using these scoring systems.

Intra-operative findings in varus osteoarthritis of the knee. An analysis of pre-operative alignment in potential candidates for unicompartmental arthroplasty

Interest in unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) for the treatment of medial compartment osteoarthritis has increased in recent years with apparent improvement in the long-term results. This is a result of improved surgical technique, patient selection, and implant design. In an effort further to improve patient selection we analysed the relationship between the pre-operative alignment of the knee and the anatomical findings at the time of surgery. We compared these findings with the indications for UKA. From 4021 total knee arthroplasties we compared intra-operative observations with the pre-operative clinical data in order to identify knees with isolated, medial, compartment changes, which would have been ideal candidates for UKA. We found that only 247 of the knees (6.1%) met anatomical qualifications for isolated, medial, unicompartmental osteoarthritis, and of these, only 168 (4.3%) met clinical standards ideal for UKA. Preoperative alignment showed a significant relationship with patterns of disease. Logistic regression revealed a relationship between pre-operative alignment and intraoperative findings resembling a Gaussian distribution. Patients with a pre-operative varus alignment of 7 degrees were slightly more likely to be selected for UKA. But the further the anatomical alignment in either direction varies from 7 degrees of varus, the more unlikely it is for the knee to exhibit a disease pattern of isolated, medial, unicompartmental osteoarthritis.

Total joint arthroplasty in the extremely elderly: hip and knee arthroplasty after entering the 89th year of life

The goal of this study was to evaluate the complications and efficacy of total joint arthroplasty in the extremely elderly and compare the survival with the normal age-matched population. One hundred one joint arthroplasties (45 total knee arthroplasties [TKAs], 56 total hip arthroplasties [THAs]) were performed in 83 patients 89 years old and older. Over an average follow-up period of 2.5 years, 26 (31%) of the patients died. Three patients (3.6%) died within the first 2 months' postoperatively. The perioperative medical complication rate (excluding deaths) was 14%. Significant improvements were noted in pain scores, Harris Hip Scores, and Knee Society Scores. The survival of patients in their nineties who undergo total joint arthroplasty is at least equal to the survival of an age-matched population for 2.5 years following surgery. With careful patient selection and patient care to minimize medical complications, total joint arthroplasty can be an excellent option for patients who are age 89 and older.