Invasive Eumycotic mycetoma of the nasal septum in a post-dialysis patient: A case report

BACKGROUND

Mycetoma is a slowly progressive chronic granulomatous disease of the skin, subcutaneous tissue, and underlying or adjacent cartilage or bone. Most commonly involves the foot region. Other parts such as the knee, arm, leg, head, neck, thigh, perineum, chest, abdominal walls, facial bones, mandible, paranasal sinuses, eyelid, vulva, orbit, and scrotum are seldom affected.

METHODS

This is a rare presentation of Eumycotic mycetoma involving the nasal septum. Surgical debridement is done under local anesthesia. Histopathological examination of debrided specimen guided in the diagnosis and treatment.

RESULTS

Histopathological examination is the one that confirms the diagnosis and rules out the other granulomatous conditions and fungal rhinitis causing septal perforation.

CONCLUSIONS

In an immunocompromised state, we know that mucormycosis and zygomycosis are known to cause aggressive complications like orbital invasion and palatal perforation by vascular route. However, other fungal infections also can lead to septal perforations whenever there is lessened resistance by the mucosal barrier due to trauma (nasal intubations).

Percutaneous Lymphatic Maceration and Glue Embolization for High-output Chylous Ascites after Robot-assisted Laparoscopic Nephrectomy and Lymphadenectomy

To propose minimally invasive percutaneous techniques in the management of high output chylous ascites, a known potential complication of retroperitoneal surgery associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Management has traditionally been based on successful treatment reported in the literature. However, refractory or high-output leaks often prove difficult to treat and there is little evidence on superior management. We report percutaneous maceration and embolization for the management of high-volume abdominal chyle leak after robot-assisted laparoscopic (RAL) radical nephrectomy and lymph node dissection for renal cell carcinoma. A 68-year-old male with incidentally found renal cell carcinoma underwent RAL radical nephrectomy with paraaortic lymph node dissection. He initially improved after surgery but developed significant abdominal pain and distension approximately 7 weeks postoperative. This proved to be chyloperitoneum. Conservative management was initiated, but after continued high-output (>1 L) fluid drainage, we pursued adjunct intervention involving Interventional Radiological percutaneous procedures. This included lymphatic maceration and glue embolization of leaking lymphatics. The patient tolerated the percutaneous procedures well with significant improvement in drain output ultimately leading to complete resolution of ascites without further complication. Similar interventions have previously been reported in the literature for cases of chylothorax with success. However, there is a lack of reports on utilizing this minimally invasive procedure for chyloperitoneum after retroperitoneal urologic surgery. We report our successful experience with percutaneous lymphatic maceration and embolization for high output chylous ascites after RAL radical nephrectomy with lymphadenectomy. We believe that early initiation utilizing these percutaneous techniques can achieve timely resolution and should be considered in the management of these patients.

Robotic Excision of Recurrent Renal Cell Carcinoma Inferior Vena Cava Tumor Thrombus

Background: Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) recurrence can present in nearly any location. Rarely, recurrence is within the venous system. Previous reports of such recurrent tumor thrombectomy have all used an open approach. For the first time, we present robotic excision of recurrent RCC tumor thrombus. Case Presentation: This is a 59-year-old man who was referred to us 3 years after right robotic radical nephrectomy and renal vein tumor thrombectomy with positive margins. He had been lost to follow-up after 1 year. He presented again 3 years after surgery and was found to have recurrence with inferior vena cava (IVC) tumor thrombus to the caudal margin of the liver. He was taken for robotic tumor thrombectomy, which was completed with 900 mL of estimated blood loss, requiring a single unit of packed red blood cells. The surgery was complicated by increased bleeding caused by an undiagnosed arteriovenous fistula between the right renal artery and vein remnants. Conclusion: Robotic excision of recurrent RCC IVC thrombus is a potential treatment for selected patients under the care of experienced robotic surgeons.

Twenty-eight-day prophylaxis with apixaban after radical cystectomy: Early results in safety

488

Background: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) after oncologic surgery is a known risk and therefore guidelines recommend extended VTE prophylaxis up to 4 weeks for these populations. This prophylaxis is often costly and cumbersome to patients, as it requires self-injections with enoxaparin. The FDA has extended the indication for apixaban to include deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) prophylaxis in adults who have undergone hip or knee replacement surgery. The objective of this study was to identify safety concerns with using this prophylaxis for an extended time after radical cystectomy for bladder cancer. Methods: Patients from two institutions who underwent radical cystectomy for bladder cancer were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were included if they were discharged from the hospital with at least 28 days of prophylactic apixaban 2.5 mg BID. Descriptive statistics are used to show patient and outcome characteristics. Results: As of October 2018, 12 patients met inclusion criteria for this study. The median age was 69.5 years (interquartile range: 64.75 to 74 years) and 11 (91.7%) of the patients were male. 3 (25%), 1 (8.3%), 2 (16.7%), 1 (8.3%) and 5 (41.7%) of the patients were pathologic stage T0, Tis, T1, T2, T3/4, respectively, and 2 (16.7%) had node positive disease. Seven (58.3%) of the patients received neoadjuvant chemotherapy prior to radical cystectomy. No patients were identified with a symptomatic or asymptomatic VTE during pre-operative work up or during post-operative stay. No major bleeding events or complications related to the anticoagulant were identified in any patient, and no patient has developed a post-operative VTE including DVT or PE to date. Conclusions: Apixaban is approved for prophylaxis in preventing VTE after major surgery in other surgical specialties. This report shows that in the early stages of investigation of post-discharge use of apixaban, no increase in complications or readmissions have been identified in patients who have undergone radical cystectomy for bladder cancer. This safety, efficacy, and potential superiority needs further investigation.

Functional Status in Patients Requiring Nursing Home Stay After Radical Cystectomy

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) in patients who required nursing home (NH) care after radical cystectomy (RC), as this surgery can impair patients' ability to perform ADLs in the postoperative period.

METHODS

Patients undergoing RC were identified in a novel database of patients with at least two NH assessments linked with Medicare inpatient claims. The NH assessment included the Minimum Data Set (MDS)-ADL Long Form (0-28; a higher score equals greater impairment), which quantifies ADLs. Paired t-tests and chi-squared analysis were used for comparisons.

RESULTS

We identified 471 patients that underwent RC and had at least one MDS-ADL assessment. In total, 245 patients lived elsewhere prior to RC and went to an NH after RC, while 122 patients lived in an NH before and after RC. Mean age of the population was 80.7 years (standard deviation 5.7). Of the 245 patients who did not live in a facility before RC, 68% of patients were discharged directly to an NH and 31% were discharged to another location before NH. There was no difference in MDS-ADL score between these groups (16.4 vs 15.0, P = .09). Among the patients who lived in an NH before and after RC, the mean pre- and post-operative MDS-ADL scores were significantly different (12.1 vs 16.6, P<.0001).

CONCLUSION

ADLs, as measured by the MDS-ADL Long Form score, worsen after RC. This should be an important part of the risks and benefits conversation with patients, their families, and caregivers.

Does treatment approach for small renal masses affect survival in patients 70 years old?

658

Background: With the advent of modern imaging techniques small renal masses are being diagnosed more frequently. Many of these masses are benign, and those that are malignant are often low grade and rarely affect the survival. Surveillance is more commonly being advocated as an option for these masses. This study elucidates survival following different treatment approaches. Methods: SEER 18 data from 2004-13 identified 10,477 patients 70 years and older with renal cell carcinoma and tumors greater than or equal to 3 cm. Exclusion criteria included multiple primaries, distant metastasis and node positive disease. Data was collected on demographics, treatment patterns, overall survival and cancer specific survival. Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox regression models were used to compare outcomes. Results: After exclusion 5084 patients remained. The mean age was 76.4 years. The mean tumor size was 2.3cm. Tumor laterality was right in 2610, left in 2467, bilateral in 2 and unspecified in 5. Racial analysis identified 84% of patients as white, 9% as black and 7% as other. Gender split was 51% male. Treatment methods included 791 ablations and 3324 surgical resections (radical or partial nephrectomy). The remaining 969 patients did not have treatment (surveillance). Survival was measured at 60 and 118 months. The overall survival was 75% and 54% respectively for ALL patients, 82% and 62% for ablation, 42% and 19% for surveillance and 82% and 62% for resection. Cancer specific survival was 97% and 96% for ablation, 83% and 74% for surveillance and 96% and 94% for resection. Surgical resection or ablation significantly improved survival at 5 and 10 years (p = < 0.0001). Multivariate analysis showed survival was affected by age and year of diagnosis, but not by tumor size. Conclusions: The significant difference in overall survival suggests appropriate selection of patients for surveillance based on medical comorbidities. Treatment with curative intent improves survival in patients with greater than or equal to 3 cm renal masses, even in patients 70 years and older, and must be offered to patients without significant comorbidities.

Protective Effect of Aqueous Extract of Lagenaria Siceraria (Molina) Against Maximal Electroshock (MES) -Induced Convulsions in Albino Rats

Background The Lagenaria siceraria (Molina) belongs to family Cucurbitaceae, commonly known as bottle guard or calabash in English. All the parts of plant like root, fruit, leaves and flower has been evaluated for its various activities like antioxidant, antihelmintic, cognitive enhancer, anticancer, antianxiety, antidepressant, antihyperlipidemic, fibrinolytic cardio protective and hepatoprotective. Even though it is claimed to have antiepileptic action, no documentation is available. Objective To assess the anticonvulsant activity of aqueous extract of Lagenaria siceraria by Maximal Electroshock seizure induced seizure models on Albino rats. Method Albino rats were taken and divided into five groups, each consisting of five rats. One group was used as control (normal saline 10 ml/kg), one as standard (phenytoin), and three groups for the test drug (aqueous extract of Lagenaria siceraria (AELS) in the doses of 200, 400 and 800 mg/kg) treatment. In MES model, Maximal electrical shock of 150 mA was passed for 0.2 seconds through corneal electrodes after 30 minutes of giving the drugs and normal saline. Different stages of convulsions were noted down along with time spent by the animal in each phase of convulsions. Data were statistically analyzed by One way ANOVA followed by multiple Dunnett's test. Result The mean reduction in hind limb extension phase was 8.2±2.10 after 400 mg/kg of AELS which is highly significant (p<0.001) like phenytoin. AELS at 800 mg/kg exhibited a significant 17±2.64 (p<0.05) protection against tonic extensor phase. Conclusion Aqueous extract of Lagenaria siceraria has anticonvulsant activity.

Cryotherapy and thermal ablation for renal malignancy over 3cm: Comparative analysis of survival with small renal masses

531

Background: Ablative treatments achieve good oncological outcome for renal parenchymal tumors 3 cm or smaller. Larger renal malignancies are increasingly being treated with ablation. This comparative study determines the survival following ablation in these large renal masses. Methods: Patients undergoing cryotherapy or thermal ablation (Procedure codes 13, 15, or 23) for renal tumors were identified from SEER database (1998-2013). Exclusions: T stage not recorded, more than one primary, metastatic, or node positive disease. Demographics, stage, and overall (OS) and cancer specific survival (CSS) were analyzed. T1a tumors were compared to T1b or T2 tumors. Tumors 3 cm or less were compared to greater than 3 cm. Results: 4886 patients were identified, and 2340 patients met inclusion criteria. The mean age was 66.5 years, 1943 were white, 243 were black, and 1419 were male. The stage distribution included T1a (n=2159), T1b (n=172), and T2 (n=9). 1186 tumors had right sided, 1149 had left ,and the others were bilateral or not specified. 2326 patients had the size recorded and 1637 patients had 3 cm or smaller tumors and 689 tumors were larger than 3 cm. The OS in T1a tumors was 84.4% at 5 years and 69.2% at 9 years. The patients with T1b tumors had 62% at 5 years and 38% at 9 years. The T2 tumors had an OS of 64.8% at 57 months. The 5 yr CSS was 97.4% in the whole group, 97.9% in T1a, and 97.4% in the T1b group. The corresponding 9 yr CSS was 96.9, 97.5, and 96.9%. Comparative CSS in patients with T1a tumors was 98% at 5 years and 97.5% at 9 years. In T1b or greater tumors the 5 and 9 year survival was 90.2%. All patients that survived beyond 5 years were alive at 9 years of follow-up. On analysis by size, tumors 3 cm or less had a 98.4 5-yr and a 98.2 9-yr CSS and tumors that were greater than 3 cm had 95% 5-yr and a 93.9 9-yr survival. On univariate analysis both T1a tumors and tumors smaller than 3 cm had significantly better survival (p=0.001). Conclusions: Ablative therapies for small renal masses can achieve excellent CSS at 97% at 9 years. This study demonstrates that reasonable CSS can be achieved in masses larger than 3 cm and patients with T1b or larger tumors. Further studies are required to address the role of ablative therapies for larger renal masses.

Feasibility and safety study for the use of wound protectors during robotic radical cystectomy and ileal conduit

Robot-assisted laparoscopic radical cystectomy (RALRC) is increasingly being performed for the treatment of muscle-invasive bladder cancer. There is increased tension while performing the ureteroileal anastomosis through a small incision. Patients are at risk to suffer wound and skin complications perioperatively due to possible contamination with bowel contents. The Alexis^® retractor helps with retraction of small incisions potentially reducing tension and also reduces wound infection rates as reported in the colorectal literature. This pilot study evaluates the use of the Alexis^® wound protector (WP) in RALRC with ileal conduit (IC). The WP was used in 15 consecutive patients at a single institution who all underwent RALRC with IC. All patients had preoperative bowel preparations, antibiotics, and had surgical preparation with chlorhexidine with alcohol in the standard fashion. The Alexis^® device was placed following RALRC to protect the skin and fascia during ileal conduit formation. The ileal conduit was then created extracorporeally through the WP in the standard fashion. RALRC with IC was successfully completed in all 15 patients. Patients had no wound complications defined as documentation of cellulitis or hernia on progress or follow-up notes. Using our technique with the WP we had no cases of surgical site infection. Wound barrier protection has been recommended for use in colorectal surgery and we believe that these recommendations translate to RALRC with IC due to the use of bowel to form the urinary diversion. Further studies with the use of WP in this procedure are necessary to validate our findings.

A review of the stage, recurrence, treatment, and outcomes in penile cancer at a tertiary referral center

495

Background: This was a retrospective review analyzing the epidemiological and pathological association of penile cancer as well as the clinical results in patients managed at the University of Missouri Hospital and Clinics (UMHC) and Harry S Truman VA. Methods: Records were obtained of patients with a pathological diagnosis of penile cancer from 2001−2014 at UMHC and at the Harry S Truman VA. These charts were retrospectively reviewed. Information regarding patient demographics, pathology, treatment, and outcomes were recorded. Results: Forty-four patients with a pathologic diagnosis of penile cancer were identified. Mean age at diagnosis was 64 with 41 being White, 2 unknown, 1 Black, and 1 Hispanic. Seventy-two percent had tobacco exposure, with 66% of all patients having smoked greater than 10 years. HPV was present in 20%. Circumcision status was reviewed showing overall 61% were circumcised, with 4.5% being circumcised before the age of 18. Premalignant lesions were identified in 36% of the patients, with condyloma acuminate being the most common followed by Lichen Sclerosus and severe dysplasia. The vast majority (98%) of penile cancers were squamous cell carcinoma (SCCa), with only one patient having a Buschke−Lowenstein tumor. Invasive SCCa without nodal involvement was the most common pathologic stage (41%) followed by nodal positive disease (36%) and CIS (23%). Of those with node positive disease, 56% were dead less than 5 years after nodal involvement. Ninety-nine procedures with curative intent were performed, with a mean of 2.25 procedure per patient. However, only 79 of the procedures led to a sustainable cure. Of those patients with metastatic disease 13.6% underwent chemotherapy and 9.1% received radiation. Conclusions: Our study reflects the trends in stage, recurrence, treatment, and outcomes at two large centers for penile cancer. In this patient group the majority had exposure to tobacco and almost exclusively had SCCa. A durable cure may require multiple operative interventions. Nodal involvement carries a poor prognosis and high risk of death in less than 5 years once diagnosed.

Hemorrhagic complications of robot-assisted laparoscopic partial nephrectomy for renal masses

621

Background: Partial nephrectomy is the current standard of care for T1a tumors. With advances in laparoscopy and robotic-assisted surgery, RPNx is increasingly being performed for complex renal tumors. However, significant hemorrhagic complications can occur. We review hemorrhagic complications following RPNx. Methods: At our institution 111 RPNx were performed on 110 patients (2011-2015). Demographic data and Nephrometry scores were determined. Total operating time, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative blood transfusion rate, gross hematuria, need for further procedures and mortality were collected. Pathology, including histologic diagnosis, and margin status was recorded. Results: Of 111 RPNx, 110 were done for renal masses and 112 masses were removed. Of these, 77% were malignant and most common commonly Renal Cell Carcinoma, Clear Cell pT1a (51%). Mean operative time was 245 minutes (SD 68), mean blood loss was 297 mL (SD 68), and average length of stay was 2.8 days. Hemorrhagic complications occurred in 21 patients (19%). Five had hematuria and 16 received a transfusion. Four patients required interventional radiology (IR) for angioembolization. Two patients died, one from hemorrhagic complications, and the other from septic shock related to a bowel injury. The most common Nephrometery score was 4a followed by 5a. Of those with hemorrhagic complications the most common Nephrometery score was 8, with 60% being 7 or higher. Among patients needing IR, 75% were 6 or higher and the one patient who died had a score of 11a in the setting of bilateral renal masses. Patients with hemorrhagic complications had a change in hemoglobin and hematocrit from per- to post-operation of 3.06 g/dL and 9.07% respectively compared to 2.34 g/dL and 6.28% for patients with no hemorrhagic complications. Conclusions: RPNx is a safe and nephron-sparing surgery for patients with appropriate renal masses. Significant hemorrhagic complications can occur, commonly managed with blood transfusions or angioembolization. However, catastrophic bleeding can occur in patients with high Nephrometry scores and monitoring in the ICU setting is recommended in high-risk patients.

Survival Outcomes in Men Undergoing Radical Prostatectomy After Primary Radiation Treatment for Adenocarcinoma of the Prostate

PURPOSE

Salvage radical prostatectomy (SRP) is a treatment modality for patients with radio-recurrent prostate cancer but is currently underutilized. We analyzed the survival outcomes in patients receiving SRP for radio-recurrent prostate cancer. The secondary outcome was effect of lymph node dissection on survival following SRP.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) 18 registry was used to identify patients that underwent radical prostatectomy between 1988 and 2010. Search identified 2628 patients with prostate cancer that underwent surgery after radiation. Following exclusion, 364 patients remained. Endpoints included overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS). Effect of pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND) status and number of nodes retrieved were also studied. Kaplan-Meier analysis, log-rank tests, and Cox-proportional hazard models were used, and P < .05 was considered to be significant.

RESULTS

OS was 77.5% at 10 years and 37.3% at 20 years; CSS was 88.6% at 10 years and 72.7% at 20 years. The hazard of mortality was higher in men who did not undergo PLND with a hazard ratio of 1.4 for OS (P = .2) and 2.7 for CSS (P = .01). No significant increase in OS or CC was seen with increasing number of lymph nodes retrieved. Some limitations are inherent to the SEER database and include the lack of hormone manipulation status and PSA data.

CONCLUSIONS

Excellent long-term survival can be achieved with SRP. PLND improves CSS but increasing nodal yield does not significantly improve survival. Small sample sizes limit the overall power of this study.

Does the extent of pelvic lymph node dissection affect long-term survival in men undergoing radical prostatectomy after radiation for adenocarcinoma of the prostate?

67

Background: Salvage prostatectomy (SP) in radiation resistant prostate cancer is feasible in select patients that do not have metastatic disease. The correlation between the extent of pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND) and long-term survival in SP has not been clearly established. This study evaluates the role of PLND on long-term survival outcome in men that underwent radical prostatectomy (RP) following radiation. Methods: SEER 18 registry was searched for patients that underwent RP following radiation for adenocarcinoma of the prostate between 1988 and 2010. The patients were analyzed for demographics, grade and stage, pelvic lymph node status, nodal yield and survival. Patients with metastatic disease, more than one primary cancer and unknown stage were excluded. Results: 364 men were identified. Mean age was 63.6 years and 86.3% were white. Grade differentiation was well (n=12), moderate (n=198), poor (n=150) and unknown (n=4). The T stage was pT2 (n=178), pT3 (n=90) and pT4 (n=96). PLND was performed in 78.6% (n=286) of the patients. The nodal yield was 0-5 (n=75), 6-10 (n=45) and >10 (78). For the 40 patients with positive nodes (PN), 25 (62.5%) had 1 PN, 8 (20%) had 2 PN and 7 (17.5%) had >2 PN. The 10 and 20-year overall survival (OS) was 77.5% and 37.3% and cancer specific survival (CSS) was 88.6% and 72.7%, respectively. The CSS at 20 years was >70% for all grades and stages. On comparison, there was no significant improvement in survival for PLND vs. no PLND (p=0.14) but there was a trend toward improved CSS for patients undergoing PLND. There was no significant improvement (p=0.89) in survival for increasing total nodal yield. CSS at 20 years for N0 and N1 patients was 75% and 65%, respectively. Patients with 0 or 1 PN had similar 20 year CSS of ~75%. Patients with 2 PN had the worst survival with CSS of 30% at 15 years. Conclusions: Good long-term survival can be achieved with RP following radiation therapy. Patients who have node positive disease have similar long-term outcomes to patients that are node negative. However, patients with 2 PN have the worst survival. PLND status and extent of nodal dissection does not significantly confer a survival advantage.

Patterns and trends in management of locoregional prostatic adenocarcinoma with PSA ≥20 ngm/ML

172

Background: Extremely high prostate specific antigen (PSA) at diagnosis has traditionally precluded a surgical approach for prostate cancer. This database study evaluates the national trends in management of patients with high PSA at prostate cancer diagnosis. Methods: Men age 75 or less with a diagnosis of prostatic adenocarcinoma and a PSA of 20ngm/ml and over were identified from the SEER 18 Database (2004 to 2009). Exclusion criteria included patients with metastatic disease at diagnosis, more than one primary cancer, unknown stage, unknown Gleason score, unknown treatment, or diagnosis at autopsy. Patients were analyzed for demographics, stage at presentation, treatment patterns, and survival using appropriate statistics. Results: A total of 15,485 patients with PSA between 20 and 98.8ngm/ml were identified. Mean age at diagnosis was 64±7.3 years. A total of 4,510 (29.1%) patients did not receive any definitive treatment (NDT group), 6,503 (52%) received Radiation, and 4,472 (28.9%) underwent surgery. A total of 531 patients underwent adjuvant radiation after surgery. The mean PSA of patients who underwent surgery (47.3ngm.ml) or RT (44.3 ngm/ml) was lower than the patients who did not have any definitive treatment (50.9 ngm/ml). Increasing age and increasing T and N stage were associated with a trend towards a surgical approach while Gleason score and PSA levels were not associated a trend towards surgery. Increasing age and Gleason score were associated with an increasing trend towards radiation while increasing PSA, T stage, and N stage were associated with a decreasing trend towards radiation. Increasing age and PSA was associated with an increasing trend towards NDT, while an increasing stage was associated with a reduced trend towards NDT. The N stage and Gleason score did not predict a trend for the NDT. Conclusions: The PSA level, even when very high, is not the sole factor that determines whether or not patients with prostate cancer receive surgery. Nationwide trends suggest that while radiation is the most common treatment modality undertaken by patients with PSA over 20 ngm/ml, patients younger than age 50 are more likely to undergo surgery irrespective of the PSA level.

Micropapillary bladder cancer: Stage at presentation and treatment outcome—Analysis of 121 patients from a cancer database

289

Background: The micropapillary variant of transitional cell cancer(MPTCC) is an aggressive pathological subtype of bladder cancer and radical cystectomy is recommended for patients with non−muscle invasive disease. This study compares the treatment patterns and survival outcome in 121 patients. Methods: Patients with MPTCC (code 8131) were identified from the Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results (SEER 17) database. Data was analyzed for demographics, stage, treatment, overall (OS) and cancer specific survival (CSS). Appropriate statistical tests were used. Results: 121 patients were identified (2001−08). Mean age was 73.3 years, 76.9% were male (76.9%, n=93), 82.7% were Caucasian. 40.5% (n=49) had non−muscle invasive (NMI) disease and 59.5% had muscle−invasive disease (MI) at diagnosis. The T stage was Ta or Tis (n=17), T1 (n=32), T2 (n=38) T3 (n=20) and T4 (n=14). 23 patients had node positive disease, the nodal status was not known in 4 patients. 10 patients had distant metastasis. Surgical procedures performed include, TURBT (n=83), Radical cystectomy (n=34), pelvic exenteration (n=1) and partial cystectomy (n=3). 8 patients received post−operative radiotherapy. The mean OS was 64.9, 42.9, 16.1 and 50.2 months and the mean CSS was 81.2, 56.3, 15.7 and 64.4 months for NMI, MI, distant and the whole group respectively. The 5−year OS was 40%, 54% and 34% and the 5 year CSS was 62%, 53% and 82% for the whole group, MI and NMI respectively. All patients with distant disease were dead by 28 months. On analysis of CSS by treatment type the 5−yr CSS for NMI was 81% (n=36) after TURBT and 100% (n=3) after Radical surgery. For MI disease the 3−yr CSS was 66% after TURBT (n=18) and the 5−yr CSS was 54% after radical surgery (n=29). On multivariate analysis, higher stage and age were associated with worse survival. TURBT was associated with better survival. Conclusions: MPTCC is a rare variant of TCC. 81% survival can be achieved with TURBT for non-muscle invasive MPTCC.

Effect of metabolic syndrome on pathologic features of prostate cancer

OBJECTIVE

The prevalence of metabolic syndrome has been increasing worldwide, however its association with prostate cancer (CaP) is unclear. We reviewed patients undergoing robot assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) to evaluate if those with metabolic syndrome had more aggressive disease.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A prospective database of patients undergoing RARP between January 2005 and December 2008 (n = 2756) was queried for components of metabolic syndrome (BMI ≥ 30 and ≥ 2 of the following: hypertension, diabetes or elevated blood glucose, and dyslipidemia; n = 357). Patients with no components of metabolic syndrome were used as controls (n = 694). Biopsy and final pathology were compared between the 2 groups using all controls, and using best-matched controls (n = 357) based on greedy matching by propensity score.

RESULTS

Compared with unmatched controls, metabolic syndrome patients had higher pathology Gleason grade (≥ 7: 78% vs. 64%, P < 0.001) and higher pathologic stage (≥ T3 disease: 43% vs. 31%, P < 0.001). After controlling for confounders, those with metabolic syndrome when compared with best-matched controls had maintained the greater pathology Gleason grade (≥ 7: 78% vs. 64%, P < 0.001) and pathologic stage (≥ T3 disease: 43% vs. 32%, P < 0.001). They also had significantly greater pathologic upgrading of Gleason grade 6 adenocarcinoma found on biopsy compared with best-matched controls (63% vs. 45%, P < 0.001). On pathology, a 2-fold increase in Gleason 8 and greater was noted between patients with metabolic syndrome and best-matched controls (15% vs. 8%).

CONCLUSIONS

After controlling for confounders, patients with metabolic syndrome were found to have higher Gleason grade and tumor stage on final pathology and were more likely to have upgrading.

Management of rectal injury during robotic radical prostatectomy

OBJECTIVES

To review the incidence and management of rectal injury in 4400 consecutive cases of robotic radical prostatectomy at a single institution.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

From September 2001 to September 2009, 4400 patients underwent robotic radical prostatectomy. We reviewed the intraoperative and postoperative data from patients with rectal injuries. Once recognized, the rectal injuries were closed in 2 layers. Clear liquids were started the day after surgery. Healing of the vesicourethral anastomosis was confirmed by cystography 5-14 days postoperatively.

RESULTS

Rectal injuries were identified in 10 patients (0.2%). The mean patient age was 58.6 years (range 44-68), and the mean body mass index was 25.8 kg/m(2) (range 22-29). The mean prostate-specific antigen level was 7.1 ng/mL (range 0.9-14.8), and the mean prostate weight was 58.9 g (range 22-102). The clinical stage was T1c, T2a, and T2c in 7, 2, and 1 patient, respectively. The preoperative Gleason score was 6, 7, and 8 in 3, 3, and 4 patients, respectively. All rectal injuries were diagnosed and repaired intraoperatively. Of the 10 patients, 9 had an uneventful postoperative course. The average urethral catheterization time for these patients was 14 days (range 6-21). One patient had gross fecal spillage and developed a rectourethral fistula requiring a delayed diverting colostomy. No perioperative mortality occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

We found a low incidence of rectal injury during robotic radical prostatectomy. We have also demonstrated that rectal injuries can be managed primarily with meticulous closure with minimal morbidity.

Can laparoscopic ileocolic resection be performed with comparable safety to open surgery for regional enteritis: data from National Surgical Quality Improvement Program

Laparoscopic ileocolic resection is feasible for Crohn's disease but few studies adjust for the various preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative variables that may confound comparisons with open surgery. The aim of this study is to compare outcomes after laparoscopic (LICR) and open ileocolic resection (OICR) performed for regional enteritis using National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) data. Retrospective evaluation of data prospectively accrued into the NSQIP database for patients undergoing ileocolic resection for Crohn's by LICR and OICR was performed. LICR (n = 104) and OICR (n = 203) groups had similar age (P = 0.1), body mass index (P = 0.9), smoking history (P = 0.6), steroid use (P = 0.7), diabetes (P = 0.3), serum albumin (P = 0.07), and American Society of Anesthesiologists class (P = 0.13). LICR group had more female patients (P = 0.005). Complications including surgical site infections (P = 0.5), wound dehiscence (P = 1), pneumonia (P = 0.1), deep vein thrombosis (P = 0.3), pulmonary embolism (P = 1), urinary infection (P = 0.1), and return to the operating room (P = 0.2) were similar. LICR had shorter length of hospital stay than OICR (P < 0.001). In current practice, as observed with the NSQIP data, LICR, performed by experienced surgeons, is comparable in safety to OICR and is associated with a shorter hospital stay.

Can Laparoscopic Ileocolic Resection be Performed with Comparable Safety to Open Surgery for Regional Enteritis: Data from National Surgical Quality Improvement Program

Laparoscopic ileocolic resection is feasible for Crohn's disease but few studies adjust for the various preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative variables that may confound comparisons with open surgery. The aim of this study is to compare outcomes after laparoscopic (LICR) and open ileocolic resection (OICR) performed for regional enteritis using National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) data. Retrospective evaluation of data prospectively accrued into the NSQIP database for patients undergoing ileocolic resection for Crohn's by LICR and OICR was performed. LICR (n = 104) and OICR (n = 203) groups had similar age ( P = 0.1), body mass index ( P = 0.9), smoking history ( P = 0.6), steroid use ( P = 0.7), diabetes ( P = 0.3), serum albumin ( P = 0.07), and American Society of Anesthesiologists class ( P = 0.13). LICR group had more female patients ( P = 0.005). Complications including surgical site infections ( P = 0.5), wound dehiscence ( P = 1), pneumonia ( P = 0.1), deep vein thrombosis ( P = 0.3), pulmonary embolism ( P = 1), urinary infection ( P = 0.1), and return to the operating room ( P = 0.2) were similar. LICR had shorter length of hospital stay than OICR ( P < 0.001). In current practice, as observed with the NSQIP data, LICR, performed by experienced surgeons, is comparable in safety to OICR and is associated with a shorter hospital stay.

Long-term outcomes after local excision and radical surgery for anal melanoma: data from a population database

PURPOSE

Anal melanoma is rare and associated with a poor outcome. Previous studies that have reported outcomes after surgical treatment are limited by both small number of participants and treatment at single centers only. This study evaluates survival of patients undergoing surgery for anal melanoma from a prospective, population-based database.

METHODS

Characteristics and survival of patients undergoing rectal resection or local excision for anal melanoma of the anus, anal canal, and overlapping region of the rectum from 1982 to 2002 were obtained from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results database and compared.

RESULTS

A total of 160 patients were included in the study. Details of previous surgical procedures were available for 109 of the study patients: 60 (55%) underwent local excision and 49 (45%) rectal resection. Patients who underwent local excision were significantly older (73.5 vs 65.1 years, P < .001), whereas those who had undergone rectal resection had a greater proportion of regional disease (73.5% vs 16.7%, P < .001). The median survival of the 2 groups was similar (rectal resection vs local excision: 17 vs 28 months, P = .3). Rectal resection and local excision were associated with similar survival for patients in both regional (P = .6) and localized (P = .95) stages. Outcomes for patients who were appropriately pathologically staged after rectal resection depended on localized vs regional stage (5-year survival: 43.1% vs 12.5%, P = .17). Survival for patients in localized and regional stages who underwent rectal resection was similar to that for patients with corresponding clinical stage who underwent local excision.

CONCLUSION

Survival of patients with anal melanoma is similar after local excision or rectal resection irrespective of whether patients have localized or regional stage of disease.

Is survival reduced for patients with anal cancer requiring surgery after failure of radiation? Analysis from a population study over two decades

Chemoradiotherapy is the standard treatment for anal cancer. Surgery is reserved for failure of therapy, but there are limited data examining outcomes after surgery. From a prospective population-based database on radiation and surgical therapy, we compare outcomes for patients with anal cancer undergoing rectal resection after radiation with patients undergoing radiation alone. Patients undergoing surgical resection of the rectum after initial radiation (SRT) for squamous cell carcinoma of the anus, anal canal, cloacogenic zone, and overlapping lesions of the rectum and anal canal from 1983 to 2002 were identified from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results database. Patient and tumor characteristics of SRT were compared with those of patients who underwent radiation alone (RT). Survival was calculated by the Kaplan-Meier test. There were 1202 patients undergoing RT and 48 patients undergoing SRT. RT and SRT had similar median age, gender, and grade of tumor. SRT had more patients with regional stage of disease (66.7 vs 42.4%, P = 0.001). Mean survival for SRT was, however, similar to RT (103 vs 96 months, P = 0.8). For patients with localized stage, survival for SRT and RT was similar (105 vs 98 months, P = 0.7). For patients with regional stage, survival for SRT and RT was similar (95 vs 83 months, P = 0.6). The presence of regional disease appears to be associated with surgical resection after radiotherapy. Mean survival for such patients is comparable to that of patients undergoing radiation alone. Because radiation is combined with chemotherapy, this suggests that salvage surgery after failure of therapy results in outcomes comparable to combination therapy alone.

Is Survival Reduced for Patients with Anal Cancer Requiring Surgery after Failure of Radiation? Analysis from a Population Study over Two Decades

Chemoradiotherapy is the standard treatment for anal cancer. Surgery is reserved for failure of therapy, but there are limited data examining outcomes after surgery. From a prospective population-based database on radiation and surgical therapy, we compare outcomes for patients with anal cancer undergoing rectal resection after radiation with patients undergoing radiation alone. Patients undergoing surgical resection of the rectum after initial radiation (SRT) for squamous cell carcinoma of the anus, anal canal, cloacogenic zone, and overlapping lesions of the rectum and anal canal from 1983 to 2002 were identified from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results database. Patient and tumor characteristics of SRT were compared with those of patients who underwent radiation alone (RT). Survival was calculated by the Kaplan-Meier test. There were 1202 patients undergoing RT and 48 patients undergoing SRT. RT and SRT had similar median age, gender, and grade of tumor. SRT had more patients with regional stage of disease (66.7 vs 42.4%, P = 0.001). Mean survival for SRT was, however, similar to RT (103 vs 96 months, P = 0.8). For patients with localized stage, survival for SRT and RT was similar (105 vs 98 months, P = 0.7). For patients with regional stage, survival for SRT and RT was similar (95 vs 83 months, P = 0.6). The presence of regional disease appears to be associated with surgical resection after radiotherapy. Mean survival for such patients is comparable to that of patients undergoing radiation alone. Because radiation is combined with chemotherapy, this suggests that salvage surgery after failure of therapy results in outcomes comparable to combination therapy alone.

Value of Ultrasound Guidance in Placement of Hemodialysis Access Catheters in Patients with End-Stage Renal Disease

The increasingly frequent use of ultrasound for the placement of central venous catheters has shown improved results. This study examined the role of ultrasound in the placement of hemodialysis access catheters in patients with end-stage renal disease. The subjects were all end-stage renal disease patients admitted to our hospital between January 2004 and April 2005 and who underwent ultrasound-guided placement of a hemodialysis catheter in a central vein. All patients underwent perioperative ultrasound assessment of the venous access site, followed by fluoroscopic confirmation of the catheter placement. Data from medical charts and the hospital computer system were subjected to statistical analysis. A total of 126 patients underwent ultrasound-guided placement of a hemodialysis catheter in a central vein; 58 had undergone prior placement of a central vein catheter, but 69 had not. Patients in the later group had a 100 per cent success rate in catheter placement after ultrasound assessment of one central vein. Among patients who had previously undergone central vein catheterization, 29 had jugular venous occlusion, 12 had bilateral jugular venous occlusion and thus required placement of femoral venous catheters and, 15 patients had jugular vein stenosis and 2 patients had the jugular vein thrombosed. The use of ultrasound to assess the central veins facilitated the identification of vein suitable for catheterization and the avoidance of occluded central veins. This protocol is effective and improves patient safety.

Value of ultrasound guidance in placement of hemodialysis access catheters in patients with end-stage renal disease

The increasingly frequent use of ultrasound for the placement of central venous catheters has shown improved results. This study examined the role of ultrasound in the placement of hemodialysis access catheters in patients with end-stage renal disease. The subjects were all end-stage renal disease patients admitted to our hospital between January 2004 and April 2005 and who underwent ultrasound-guided placement of a hemodialysis catheter in a central vein. All patients underwent perioperative ultrasound assessment of the venous access site, followed by fluoroscopic confirmation of the catheter placement. Data from medical charts and the hospital computer system were subjected to statistical analysis. A total of 126 patients underwent ultrasound-guided placement of a hemodialysis catheter in a central vein; 58 had undergone prior placement of a central vein catheter, but 69 had not. Patients in the later group had a 100 per cent success rate in catheter placement after ultrasound assessment of one central vein. Among patients who had previously undergone central vein catheterization, 29 had jugular venous occlusion, 12 had bilateral jugular venous occlusion and thus required placement of femoral venous catheters and, 15 patients had jugular vein stenosis and 2 patients had the jugular vein thrombosed. The use of ultrasound to assess the central veins facilitated the identification of vein suitable for catheterization and the avoidance of occluded centralveins. This protocol is effective and improves patient safety.

Complicated Appendicitis–Is the Laparoscopic Approach Appropriate? A Comparative Study with the Open Approach: Outcome in a Community Hospital Setting

Good outcome has been reported with the laparoscopic approach in uncomplicated appendicitis, but a higher incidence of postoperative intraabdominal abscesses has been reported after laparoscopic appendectomy in complicated appendicitis. This retrospective comparative study compares outcome after laparoscopic (LA) and open appendectomy (OA) in complicated appendicitis. All patients who had LA or OA for complicated appendicitis between January 2003 and February 2006 were included in the study. Data collection included demographics, operative time, estimated blood loss, length of stay (LOS), complications, readmission, and reoperative rates. The primary end points for analysis were postoperative intraabdominal abscess and complication rates and secondary end points were LOS and operative time. All data were analyzed on an intent-to-treat basis. Of 104 patients, 43 patients underwent LA and 61 had OA. The mean age (24.8 ± 16.5 versus 31.3 ± 18.9, P = 0.08) in the LA group was lower than the OA group because there was a significantly higher proportion of pediatric patients (34.8% versus 14.8%, P = 0.02) who had LA. There was no significant difference in gender (female/male, 14/29 versus 27/34, P = 0.3) or American Society of Anesthesiologists class distribution (American Society of Anesthesiologists 1/2/3/4/, 35/7/1/0 versus 45/12/3/1, P = 0.68) between the two groups. The operative time (100.5 ± 36.2 versus 81.5 ± 29.5 minutes, P = 0.03) was significantly longer and the estimated blood loss (21 mL versus 33 mL, P = 0.01) was lower in LA when compared with OA, but there was no significant difference in the number of patients with preoperative peritonitis versus abscesses (7/36 versus 13/48, P = 0.6) in both groups. There was no difference in the median LOS (6 [interquartile range 5–9] versus 6 [interquartile range 4–8], P = 0.7) in the two groups. The conversion rate in LA was 18.6% (n = 8). There was also no significant difference in the complication (17/43 [39.5%] versus 21/61 [34.4%], P = 0.54), reoperative (3/43 [7%] versus 0/61 [0%], P = 0.07), and 30-day readmission (5/41 [11.6%] versus 3/61 [4.9%], P = 0.23) rates between the two groups. The rate of postoperative intraabdominal abscesses was significantly higher in the LA group when compared with the OA group (6/43 [14%] versus 0/61 [0%], P = 0.04) and the wound infection (1/43 [2.3%] versus 5/61 [8.2%], P = 0.4) and pulmonary complication (0/43 [0%] versus 3/61 [4.9%], P = 0.26) rate was higher in the OA group. There was no mortality in the LA group, but there was one mortality in the OA group resulting from postoperative myocardial infarction. Laparoscopic appendectomy can be performed in patients with complicated appendicitis with a comparative operative time, LOS, and complication rates but results in a significantly higher intraabdominal abscess rate and lower wound infection rate when compared with OA.