[Evaluation of the GeSRU-Steps educational video concept (German Society of Residents in Urology e. V.)]

BACKGROUND

Surgical educational videos represent a contemporary, multimedia supplement to surgical education and training. The German Society of Residents in Urology e. V. (GeSRU) developed an educational video platform (steps.GeSRU.de) with free, quality-assured educational videos for urologists, especially for residents.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the GeSRU Steps teaching videos.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Prospectively, 29 GeSRU Steps training videos were made available (03/2019-05/2023) via amboss.com, and an online questionnaire was inserted following the videos. This comprised 12 items on medical, technical, and didactic quality, usefulness for own knowledge acquisition, and sociodemographic data of respondents. Aspects of video quality were assessed with the Acceptability E‑scale and the Global Quality Score.

RESULTS

During the survey period, the GeSRU Steps videos implemented on the amboss.com website were viewed 49,698 times. A total of 474 questionnaires were answered (rate 0.25%). The collective of respondents consisted of 419 (88%) students, 47 (10%) physicians in training, and 5 (1%) specialists; 351 (74%) were female, 107 (23%) were male, and 4 (1%) were diverse. Each educational video was rated a median of 10 times (range 5-65). The six questions of the Acceptability E‑scale and the Global Quality Score were rated good and very good (81.6-95.8%), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

GeSRU teaching videos achieved a very good rating with high user satisfaction. By specific promotion of these teaching videos, which are quality-assured through supervision, the portfolio of surgical videos available at a low threshold can be expanded and can serve as a contemporary education tool.

Radical Prostatectomy on YouTube: Education or Disinformation?

BACKGROUND

YouTube is the second most popular website worldwide. It features numerous videos about radical prostatectomy. The aim of this study was to assess the quality of these videos and screen their benefit for patients and doctors.

METHODS

All videos on YouTube about radical prostatectomy were analysed using a specially developed software (python 2.7, numpy). According to a predefined selection process most relevant videos were analyzed for quality and reliability using Suitability Assessment of Materials (SAM)-Score, Global Quality Score and others.

RESULTS

Out of 3520 search results, 179 videos were selected and analysed. Videos were watched a median of 5836 times (interquartile range (IQR): 11945.5; 18-721546). The median duration was 7.2 minutes (min). 125 of the videos were about robotic prostatectomy. 69 videos each were directly addressed to patients and doctors. Medical content generally was of low quality, while technical quality and total quality were at a high level. Reliability was good.

CONCLUSIONS

Videos on radical prostatectomy on YouTube allow for patient information. While technical quality and reliability are classified as acceptable, medical content was low and warranted preselection. In contrast to Loeb et al. we did not observe a negative correlation between number of views and scientific quality in different scores. Our findings support the need for preselection of videos on YouTube as the potential benefit may vary between videos with the significant risk of low medical quality.

[Polypharmacy and medication review in the context of prehabilitation]

Against the background of typical geriatric multimorbidity and with the particular vulnerability of geriatric patients, polypharmacy deserves special attention. In accordance with the guidelines, medication should not only be reviewed regularly, but also on an ad hoc basis and with each hospital stay-and also in the context of prehabilitation. Thus, not only substances that interfere with the currently planned intervention, anesthesia, or risk of bleeding should be considered, but any medication that increases common risks for geriatric patients. These include drugs that cause or increase a tendency to fall, induce delirium, or alter the comedication through potential drug-drug interactions. Measures to minimize the risk include the following: exact documentation of medications, structured and complete transfer of information, patient and family training about any side effects that may occur, a recall system for possible laboratory checks, and compliance with the instructions for taking the medication.

Prospective Analysis of Versatility and User Satisfaction with a Novel Single-Use Cystoscope with Working Channel

INTRODUCTION

In the present study, a prospective systematic assessment of the clinical utility of the Ambu® aScopeTM 4 Cysto Reverse Deflection with regard to image quality, maneuverability, and navigation in an outpatient and inpatient setting was performed.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A prospective multicenter study was performed for evaluation of the instrument during routine cystoscopy. We evaluated the clinical performance of the instruments using a standardized user questionnaire in different categories including image quality, treatment success, imaging of all areas of the urinary bladder, quality of navigation, flexibility of the endoscope, and satisfaction with the device. Statistical analyses were performed by SPSS using the Kruskal-Wallis and Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney tests. A p value of p ≤ 0.05 was defined as statistically significant.

RESULTS

A total of 200 cystoscopies were performed, and the questionnaire response rate was 100%. The image quality was rated as very good in 65.5% (n = 131), good in 30.5% (n = 61), and neutral in 4% (n = 8) of cases. The criteria for poor or very poor were not mentioned. The characteristic "treatment success based on image quality" was also evaluated as very good in 49% (n = 98) and good in 50.5% (n = 101). The analysis revealed a very good or good overall impression of the examiners in all cases. Replacement of the cystoscope was not necessary during any of the examinations. However, in 3 cases, technical difficulties were documented. Further analysis of the data showed that physicians with less professional experience rated the visualization of the urinary bladder (p = 0.007) and the treatment success with regard to image quality significantly worse (p = 0.007).

CONCLUSION

The Ambu® aScope™ 4 Cysto Reverse Deflection shows high satisfaction values among users in clinical routine. In analogy to other studies with flexible endoscopes, urologists with more professional experience show higher satisfaction values than examiners with less training in flexible endoscopy.

Antioxidant Supplementation on Male Fertility-A Systematic Review

Our aim was to review the current literature regarding the effect of antioxidant supplementation (AS) on male fertility parameters, as AS is commonly used to treat male infertility due to the availability and affordability of antioxidants in many parts of the world.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

PubMed, Medline, and Cochrane electronic bibliographies were searched using the modified Preferred Reporting Items for Systemic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to evaluate studies on the benefit of antioxidant therapy on infertile men. Results were analyzed regarding the following aspects: (a) ingredient and dose; (b) potential mechanism of action and rationale for use; and (c) effect on various reported outcomes.

RESULTS

Thus, 29 studies found a substantial positive effect of AS on outcomes of assisted reproductive therapy (ART), WHO semen parameters, and live-birth rate. Carnitines, Vitamin E and C, N-acetyl cysteine, coenzyme Q10, selenium, zinc, folic acid, and lycopene were beneficial ingredients. Nevertheless, some studies did not show a substantial change in one or more factors.

CONCLUSION

AS seems to have a positive effect on male fertility. Environmental factors may play an increasing role in fertility. Further studies are needed to determine the optimal AS combination and the influence of environmental factors.

Evaluation of the Ginsburg Scheme: Where Is Significant Prostate Cancer Missed?

Simple Summary

Systematic biopsy according to the Ginsburg scheme is widely used to complement MRI-targeted biopsy for the diagnosis of prostate cancer. This is the first study to evaluate the distribution of cancerous lesions that were missed by the Ginsburg scheme. We found that significant prostate cancer lesions were missed in 3.6% of patients. The majority of the missed lesions (17/39, 43.6%) were localized within the anterior region of the prostate. Complementing the Ginsburg scheme by adding biopsy cores to this region may be considered in certain patients who were extensively pre-biopsied without a conclusive diagnosis or when targeted biopsy was not possible. Moreover, based on Ginsburg scheme sectors and newly defined blind sectors, we developed a new sector map of the prostate that can be applied to focal therapy planning and for the follow-up management of patients under active surveillance.

Abstract

Background: Systematic biopsy (SB) according to the Ginsburg scheme (GBS) is widely used to complement MRI-targeted biopsy (MR-TB) for optimizing the diagnosis of clinically significant prostate cancer (sPCa). Knowledge of the GBS’s blind sectors where sPCa is missed is crucial to improve biopsy strategies. Methods: We analyzed cancer detection rates in 1084 patients that underwent MR-TB and SB. Cancerous lesions that were missed or underestimated by GBS were re-localized onto a prostate map encompassing Ginsburg sectors and blind-sectors (anterior, central, basodorsal and basoventral). Logistic regression analysis (LRA) and prostatic configuration analysis were applied to identify predictors for missing sPCa with the GBS. Results: GBS missed sPCa in 39 patients (39/1084, 3.6%). In 27 cases (27/39, 69.2%), sPCa was missed within a blind sector, with 17/39 lesions localized in the anterior region (43.6%). Neither LRA nor prostatic configuration analysis identified predictors for missing sPCa with the GBS. Conclusions: This is the first study to analyze the distribution of sPCa missed by the GBS. GBS misses sPCa in few men only, with the majority localized in the anterior region. Adding blind sectors to GBS defined a new sector map of the prostate suited for reporting histopathological biopsy results.

Transperineal prostate biopsies without antibiotic prophylaxis: Safety evaluation of the first 65 patients

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Background: There is an ongoing trend towards perineal prostate biopsies for the detection of prostate cancer. For many reasons the issue of antibiotic prophylaxis in prostate biopsies is becoming more important, especially with quinolone antibiotics being excluded from this indication and an increasing antibiotic resistance. Considering that the perineal biopsy is a sterile procedure, not giving antibiotics for prophylaxis seems to be an alluring approach. Methods: At the General Hospital Leverkusen, transperineal (TP) MRI TRUS fusion biopsies are performed using the Ginsburg Protocol with a template and software-guided approach in general anesthesia. Patients received single dose antibiotics (Ciprofloxacine 500 mg) two hours prior to surgery from Jan 2019 to Aug 2019 (group 1). Starting in Sep 2019, no antibiotics were used for prophylaxis (group 2). Surgical disinfection using Povidone-iodine was performed ahead of every procedure. In this study, postoperative infection rates were assessed. Patients were followed up by telephone interview at least two weeks after biopsy and were asked about the need for postoperative antibiotics to treat regular UTI, fever, prostatitis or for readmission to other hospitals. Results: A total of 180 TP biopsies were performed with a median of 22 cores (min 18, max 28). Out of 115 cases with antibiotic prophylaxis, no patient was readmitted to the hospital due to infection or fever. Group 2 included 65 patients. No one was readmitted with fever or prostatitis. At the time of abstract admission 45 out of 65 patients in this group were followed up by telephone interview. None needed antibiotics and none was readmitted to a hospital elsewhere. Conclusions: The study shows an infection rate of 0 % for perineal prostate biopsies with or without antibiotic prophylaxis. The results argue in favor of perineal prostate biopsies and challenge the dogma of prostate biopsies needing an antibiotic prophylaxis irrespective of the approach. However, a larger prospective multicenter study should be initiated to ensure patient safety.

[Fusion biopsies for primary diagnosis of prostate cancer : Implementation, benefits, and clinical aspects]

Prostate carcinoma is one of the most common tumors worldwide. Histological confirmation by biopsy is an obligatory part of the diagnostic approach. The main problem of the 10-12-fold transrectal ultrasound-guided (TRUS) biopsy, which has so far been regarded as the gold standard, is the underdiagnosis of clinically significant cancer. MRI-based procedures, so-called fusion biopsies, have shown superior results when compared to conventional biopsies. There are three different approaches (cognitive and software-based MRI/TRUS fusion and in-bore biopsy) with comparable detection rates but differences in the technical aspects and time involvement. In order to reduce fusion errors, targeted biopsies should consist of multiple cores. There is currently no clear preference for the access pathway (transrectal or transperineal), but clinical parameters such as infection risk or location of the tumor can influence the decision. While the German S3 guideline considers MRI prior to primary biopsy to be optional, the 2019 European Association of Urology guidelines already recommend MRI prior to biopsy for all patients. The combination of MRI-targeted and systematic biopsy offers the highest detection rates with the disadvantage that more low-risk tumors are diagnosed. Both the patient and the urologist benefit from an improved informative value of the biopsy when deciding on active surveillance as well as when planning invasive therapies.

Twelve-month prostate volume reduction after MRI-guided transurethral ultrasound ablation of the prostate

PURPOSE

To quantitatively assess 12-month prostate volume (PV) reduction based on T2-weighted MRI and immediate post-treatment contrast-enhanced MRI non-perfused volume (NPV), and to compare measurements with predictions of acute and delayed ablation volumes based on MR-thermometry (MR-t), in a central radiology review of the Phase I clinical trial of MRI-guided transurethral ultrasound ablation (TULSA) in patients with localized prostate cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Treatment day MRI and 12-month follow-up MRI and biopsy were available for central radiology review in 29 of 30 patients from the published institutional review board-approved, prospective, multi-centre, single-arm Phase I clinical trial of TULSA. Viable PV at 12 months was measured as the remaining PV on T2-weighted MRI, less 12-month NPV, scaled by the fraction of fibrosis in 12-month biopsy cores. Reduction of viable PV was compared to predictions based on the fraction of the prostate covered by the MR-t derived acute thermal ablation volume (ATAV, 55°C isotherm), delayed thermal ablation volume (DTAV, 240 cumulative equivalent minutes at 43°C thermal dose isocontour) and treatment-day NPV. We also report linear and volumetric comparisons between metrics.

RESULTS

After TULSA, the median 12-month reduction in viable PV was 88%. DTAV predicted a reduction of 90%. Treatment day NPV predicted only 53% volume reduction, and underestimated ATAV and DTAV by 36% and 51%.

CONCLUSION

Quantitative volumetry of the TULSA phase I MR and biopsy data identifies DTAV (240 CEM43 thermal dose boundary) as a useful predictor of viable prostate tissue reduction at 12 months. Immediate post-treatment NPV underestimates tissue ablation.

KEY POINTS

• MRI-guided transurethral ultrasound ablation (TULSA) achieved an 88% reduction of viable prostate tissue volume at 12 months, in excellent agreement with expectation from thermal dose calculations. • Non-perfused volume on immediate post-treatment contrast-enhanced MRI represents only 64% of the acute thermal ablation volume (ATAV), and reports only 60% (53% instead of 88% achieved) of the reduction in viable prostate tissue volume at 12 months. • MR-thermometry-based predictions of 12-month prostate volume reduction based on 240 cumulative equivalent minute thermal dose volume are in excellent agreement with reduction in viable prostate tissue volume measured on pre- and 12-month post-treatment T2w-MRI.

Vimentin 3 and endothelin in prostate cancer

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Background: An upregulation of vimentin 3, a truncated version of the full length vimentin, with an unknown function, was previously described by our group, in a direct dependency of increased ET-1 levels. We analyzed now vimentin 3 in further genitourinary cancers. Here, we describe our findings how vimentin 3 is part of the signaling pathways from Endothelin-1 (ET-1) and the Endothelin-A-Receptor (ETAR) and how it correlates with aggressive tumor behavior in a PCa cell culture and in human tissue and serum samples from PCa patients. Methods: DU145 cells were cultured. We stimulated with ET-1 with and without artificial downregulation of the ETAR, the ETBR or both receptors. A scratch assay was performed to demonstrate the influence of ET-1. Proteins were then extracted and WB for vimentin full length and vimentin 3 was performed. Additionally we analyzed ET-1 and vimentin 3 in serum from prostate cancer patients using ELISA and we did IF and IHC staining for vimentin 3 in human prostate cancer tissue. Results: Treatment with ET-1 and downregulation of the ETBR lead to a significant increased migration of DU145 cells after 3 and 6 h. The corresponding WB showed increased vimentin 3. ELISA showed increased levels of ET-1 in samples of prostate cancer patients compared to patients with no cancer history. ELISA could also demonstrate elevated levels of vimentin 3 in serum of patients with local disease and significantly elevated values in metastatic prostate cancer patients compared to patients with no cancer history. Conclusions: The data presented shows that ET-1 stimulation leads to overexpression of vimentin 3 in prostate cancer cell cultures and a concomitant aggressive biological behavior. Here we previously described the direct interaction of Vimentin 3 in prostate cancer and the activation mechanism via ET-1 and the ETAR. IHC, IF show an upregulation of the truncated variant Vimentin3 in tissue samples. In an Vimentin 3 ELISA we could show that this truncated variant is increased and therefore represents a potential biomarker. Highest values of vimentin 3 were measured using ELISA in serum of patients with recurrent and metastatic disease also suggesting that vimentin 3 correlates with aggressive tumor behavior.

The role of reference pathology to assess MRI-TRUS fusion prostate biopsies in a tertiary referral center

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Background: Risk stratification for patients diagnosed with prostate cancer (PCa) through MR-TRUS fusion biopsy still relies on Gleason (GL) grading of the biopsy specimens. GL grading of the same sample can differ between pathologists. In our tertiary high-volume center GL grading of the biopsy specimens is crucial for further therapy planning. Methods: Reference pathology of 42 patients after transperineal MR-TURS fusion plus saturation biopsy was assessed by one specialized genitourinary pathologist. GL grading of the original pathology and the reference pathology for the saturation and targeted biopsy cores were compared. Risk groups for this study were set as GL 6 for low, GL 7a and GL 7b for intermediate and GL 8, GL 9 and GL 10 for high-risk. Results: In 42 patients 49 lesions were identified by mpMRI (PI-RADS 3-5) in which 150 biopsy cores were taken. In addition, 709 cores were taken as saturation biopsies. The highest GL grading per patient differed in 18 (43 %) of the cases. In 16 cases, there was a difference within the targeted biopsies but only in 8 cases there was a difference in the saturation biopsies. In 6 cases both saturation and fusion biopsies were different. Taking risk stratification into account there was a misclassification with low- and intermediate risk in 9 (21 %) cases, an intermediate- and high risk in 2 cases and a misclassification within the same risk group in 6 (14 %) cases. In 16 of the 18 differences there was an upgrading of the Gleason score by the reference pathologist whereas only in 2 cases there was a downgrading. Conclusions: The data shows that in times of mpMRIs and transperineal MRI-TRUS fusion biopsies it still is the GL score graded by the pathologist who accounts for many potential therapy plan mistakes. In this study 21 % of the patients were misclassified as GL 6 while reference pathology graded for GL 7a or GL 7b. The demonstrated data suggests that there should be a reference pathology at least for every GL 6 cancer and that the quality of GL grading should be monitored. Also this data again addresses the need for a better risk stratification irrespective of the GL score that can be done in a more objective way with less potential for misclassification.

The role of salvage extended lymph node dissection in patients with rising PSA and PET/CT scan detected nodal recurrence of prostate cancer

BACKGROUND

Non-prostatic bed recurrence of prostate cancer (PCa) is usually treated with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). We analyzed the impact of salvage extended lymph node dissection (sLND) on cancer control in patients with rising PSA and lymph node (LN) metastases.

METHODS

Between 2009 and 2016 we performed sLND in 87 patients with biochemical recurrence (BCR) and positive LNs on ¹⁸FEC and ⁶⁸Ga-PSMA positron emission tomography/X-ray computer tomography (PET/CT) after primary treatment (PT) of PCa. Intra- and postoperative complications according to Clavien-Dindo were assessed and the rates of biochemical response (BR), BCR-free and clinical recurrence (CR)-free survival, as well as time to initiation of systemic treatment were evaluated.

RESULTS

Mean age of patients and mean PSA at sLND was 66.7 years (46-80 years) and 2.63 ng ml^-1 (1.27-3.75 ng ml^-1), respectively. With 87.4% radical prostatectomy (RP) was the most common PT. In all, 57.9% of patients additionally underwent adjuvant/salvage radiation therapy (RT) and 18.4% received ADT before sLND. Complete BR (cBR) was diagnosed in 27.5% of patients and incomplete BR in 40.6%. In total, 62.2% of patients remained without ADT at follow-up. With a median follow-up of 21 months (1-75 months), the cancer-specific mortality rate was 3.7%. The 3-year BCR-free, systemic therapy-free and CR-free survival rates for patients with cBR were 69.3%, 77.0% and 75%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

sLND can be performed without significant complications and achieves an immediate BR, thus allowing a significant postponement of systemic therapy in selected patients with BCR and nodal recurrence of PCa. Therefore, sLND following ⁶⁸Ga-PSMA PET/CT should be considered as part of a multimodal diagnostic and treatment concept for selective patients.

Evaluation of an Automated Analysis Tool for Prostate Cancer Prediction Using Multiparametric Magnetic Resonance Imaging

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the diagnostic performance of an automated analysis tool for the assessment of prostate cancer based on multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) of the prostate.

METHODS

A fully automated analysis tool was used for a retrospective analysis of mpMRI sets (T2-weighted, T1-weighted dynamic contrast-enhanced, and diffusion-weighted sequences). The software provided a malignancy prediction value for each image pixel, defined as Malignancy Attention Index (MAI) that can be depicted as a colour map overlay on the original images. The malignancy maps were compared to histopathology derived from a combination of MRI-targeted and systematic transperineal MRI/TRUS-fusion biopsies.

RESULTS

In total, mpMRI data of 45 patients were evaluated. With a sensitivity of 85.7% (with 95% CI of 65.4-95.0), a specificity of 87.5% (with 95% CI of 69.0-95.7) and a diagnostic accuracy of 86.7% (with 95% CI of 73.8-93.8) for detection of prostate cancer, the automated analysis results corresponded well with the reported diagnostic accuracies by human readers based on the PI-RADS system in the current literature.

CONCLUSION

The study revealed comparable diagnostic accuracies for the detection of prostate cancer of a user-independent MAI-based automated analysis tool and PI-RADS-scoring-based human reader analysis of mpMRI. Thus, the analysis tool could serve as a detection support system for less experienced readers. The results of the study also suggest the potential of MAI-based analysis for advanced lesion assessments, such as cancer extent and staging prediction.

The role of salvage extended lymph node dissection (LND) in patients with rising PSA and PET/CT scan detected nodal recurrence of prostate cancer

242

Background: According to the risk constellation recurrence rate of prostate cancer following local therapy is up to 60%. Early salvage radiotherapy already showed a benefit in progression-free survival. We analyzed the impact of salvage extended lymph node dissection on cancer control in patients with rising PSA and nodal recurrence in PET/CT scan. Methods: Between 2003 and 2015 we performed a salvage extended lymph node dissection in 95 patients with rising PSA and nodal recurrence in PET/CT scan after previous local therapy for prostate cancer. The extent of resection field was adjusted to the pre-operative imaging. Results: We identified 95 patients with rising PSA and nodal recurrence in PET/CT scan with a mean age of 66 years (55-76 years). There were no significant intraoperative complications. Postoperatively, 12% had Clavien/Dindo grade 3 complications. Complete PSA response, defined as a postoperative PSA level < 0.2 ng/ml, was diagnosed in 36% of patients. With a median follow-up of 19 months (1-101 months) cancer-specific mortality rate was less than 1%. Median progression-free survival was 7 months (1-43 months). The interval until the initiation of systemic treatment was 12 months (1-43 months). Conclusions: Salvage LND can be performed without significant complications. Immediate complete PSA response can be achieved in one third of patients and systemic therapy can be delayed by one year. For a general treatment recommendation individual predictive markers are currently still missing.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Guided Transurethral Ultrasound Ablation of Prostate Tissue in Patients with Localized Prostate Cancer: A Prospective Phase 1 Clinical Trial

BACKGROUND

Magnetic resonance imaging-guided transurethral ultrasound ablation (MRI-TULSA) is a novel minimally invasive technology for ablating prostate tissue, potentially offering good disease control of localized cancer and low morbidity.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the clinical safety and feasibility of MRI-TULSA for whole-gland prostate ablation in a primary treatment setting of localized prostate cancer (PCa).

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

A single-arm prospective phase 1 study was performed at three tertiary referral centers in Canada, Germany, and the United States. Thirty patients (median age: 69 yr; interquartile range [IQR]: 67-71 yr) with biopsy-proven low-risk (80%) and intermediate-risk (20%) PCa were treated and followed for 12 mo.

INTERVENTION

MRI-TULSA treatment was delivered with the therapeutic intent of conservative whole-gland ablation including 3-mm safety margins and 10% residual viable prostate expected around the capsule.

OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

Primary end points were safety (adverse events) and feasibility (technical accuracy and precision of conformal thermal ablation). Exploratory outcomes included quality of life, prostate-specific antigen (PSA), and biopsy at 12 mo.

RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS

Median treatment time was 36min (IQR: 26-44) and prostate volume was 44ml (IQR: 38-48). Spatial control of thermal ablation was ±1.3mm on MRI thermometry. Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events included hematuria (43% grade [G] 1; 6.7% G2), urinary tract infections (33% G2), acute urinary retention (10% G1; 17% G2), and epididymitis (3.3% G3). There were no rectal injuries. Median pretreatment International Prostate Symptom Score 8 (IQR: 5-13) returned to 6 (IQR: 4-10) at 3 mo (mean change: -2; 95% confidence interval [CI], -4 to 1). Median pretreatment International Index of Erectile Function 13 (IQR: 6-28) recovered to 13 (IQR: 5-25) at 12 mo (mean change: -1; 95% CI, -5 to 3). Median PSA decreased 87% at 1 mo and was stable at 0.8 ng/ml (IQR: 0.6-1.1) to 12 mo. Positive biopsies showed 61% reduction in total cancer length, clinically significant disease in 9 of 29 patients (31%; 95% CI, 15-51), and any disease in 16 of 29 patients (55%; 95% CI, 36-74).

CONCLUSIONS

MRI-TULSA was feasible, safe, and technically precise for whole-gland prostate ablation in patients with localized PCa. Phase 1 data are sufficiently compelling to study MRI-TULSA further in a larger prospective trial with reduced safety margins.

PATIENT SUMMARY

We used magnetic resonance imaging-guided transurethral ultrasound to heat and ablate the prostate in men with prostate cancer. We showed that the treatment can be targeted within a narrow range (1mm) and has a well-tolerated side effect profile. A larger study is under way.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT01686958, DRKS00005311.

Primary melanoma of the prostate: case report and review of the literature

Background

Primary melanoma of the prostate has an extremely rare incidence. Only five cases have been reported in the literature and prognosis is poor. The most likely origin of prostatic melanoma is the transitional epithelium of the prostatic urethra. Surgical care for primary melanoma of mucosal sites is less well established than for primary cutaneous melanoma, but excision of the primary is recommended if the patient has no systemic disease.

Case presentation

Here, we describe a case of primary malignant melanoma of the prostate. A 37-year-old male patient with history of both chemo- and radiation therapy for Hodgkin’s disease was admitted to the University Hospital Heidelberg on suspicion of pleomorphic sarcoma of the bladder. In-house diagnostic work-up revealed a malignant melanoma of the prostate. We then performed radical prostatectomy with extended lymphadenectomy. Despite presumably curative surgery, the patient suffered from early relapse of disease with pulmonary metastasis. Systemic chemotherapy and subsequent immuno-oncologic treatment was thereafter initiated.

Conclusion

Since prostatic melanoma is a rare disease and a melanoma metastasis of unknown primary is the differential diagnosis, a multidisciplinary approach including early imaging to rule out possible metastases and to search for another potentially existing primary is advisable. To prevent complications related to local tumor progression and to receive tissue for mutational analysis, we recommend complete surgical resection to reduce the tumor mass. Novel immune and targeted oncologic therapies can lead to an improved survival in some cases and support of clinical trials is needed.

Transrectal Ultrasound (US), Contrast-enhanced US, Real-time Elastography, HistoScanning, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), and MRI-US Fusion Biopsy in the Diagnosis of Prostate Cancer

CONTEXT

Debates on overdiagnosis and overtreatment of prostate cancer (PCa) are ongoing and there is still huge uncertainty regarding misclassification of prostate biopsy results. Several imaging techniques that have emerged in recent years could overcome over- and underdiagnosis in PCa.

OBJECTIVE

To review the literature on transrectal ultrasound (TRUS)-based techniques (contrast enhancement, HistoScanning, elastography) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based techniques for a nonsystematic overview of their benefits and limitations.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A comprehensive search of the PubMed database between August 2004 and August 2014 was performed. Studies assessing grayscale TRUS, contrast-enhanced (CE)-TRUS, elastography, HistoScanning, multiparametric MRI (mpMRI), and MRI-TRUS fusion biopsy were included. Publications before 2004 were included if they reported the principle or the first clinical results for these techniques.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Grayscale TRUS alone cannot detect PCa foci (detection rate 23-29%). TRUS-based (elastography) and MRI-based techniques (MRI-TRUS fusion biopsy) have significantly improved PCa diagnostics, with sensitivity of 53-74% and specificity of 72-95%. HistoScanning does not provide convincing or homogeneous results (specificity 19-82%). CE-TRUS seems to be user dependent; it is used in a low number of high-volume centers and has wide ranges for sensitivity (54-79%) and specificity (42-95%). For all the techniques reviewed, prospective multicenter studies with consistent definitions are lacking.

CONCLUSIONS

Standard grayscale TRUS is unreliable for PCa detection. Among the techniques reviewed, mpMRI and MRI-TRUS fusion biopsy seem to be suitable for enhancing PCa diagnostics. Elastography shows promising results according to the literature. CE-TRUS yields very inhomogeneous results and might not be the ideal technique for clinical practice. The value of HistoScanning must be questioned according to the literature.

PATIENT SUMMARY

New imaging modalities such as elastography and magnetic resonance imaging/transrectal ultrasound fusion biopsies have improved the detection of prostate cancer. This may lower the burden of overtreatment as a result of more precise diagnosis.

The impact of HistoScannin in prostate cancer detection: A sextant-specific analysis of detection and on tumor volume

96

Background: In the search of optimized screening for prostate cancer (PCa), HistoScanning (HS) has been introduced to support detection and assessment of cancer foci. The aim of our study was the evaluation of the impact of HS in the diagnosis of prostate cancer by a comparison with the histopathological results after prostatectomy. Methods: 282 patients between 37 and 75 years with histologically confirmed, organ-confined PCa that were scheduled for radical prostatectomy underwent transrectal ultrasound prior to surgery. HS was evaluated compared to histology that was performed on removed prostates as to: 1) prediction of overall tumor volume and 2) accuracy of HS in detection of PCa lesions bigger than 0.2 or 0.5 ml, respectively, separated for each sextant. Results: HS tends to underestimate volume of cancerous lesions, particularly larger lesions > 8 ml. Using a 0.2 ml detection threshold, specificity and sensitivity of HS was between 29%-68% and 46-78%, depending on the sextant. For a 0.5 ml detection threshold, sextant-specific specificity increased to 59-92% and sensitivity decreased to 16-54%. Stratification according to pre-operational PSA-values did not improve performance characteristics of HS. Separate analysis of data from low grade tumor after d’Amico criteria showed that HS is not able to reliably detect these tumors. Conclusions: Overall, our study does not support a significant contribution of HS to PCa diagnostics.

Volumetry may predict early renal function after nephron sparing surgery in solitary kidney patients

We investigate the impact of the residual kidney volume measured by tumor volumetry on preoperative imaging in predicting post-operative renal function. Nephron sparing surgery (NSS) in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the standard treatment for T1 kidney tumors. Resection of kidney tumors in solidary kidneys needs precise preoperative counseling of patients regarding post-operative renal function.

Patients planned for renal tumor surgery who underwent prior nephrectomy on the contralateral side were included. We identified 35 patients in our database that underwent NSS in solitary kidneys and met the inclusion criteria. Tumor volumetry was performed on computer tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with the Medical Imaging Interaction Toolkit (MITK). Clinical and pathological data were assessed. Follow-up data included renal function over 3 years.

Mean age was 64 ± 8.1 years. Mean tumor volume on imaging was 27.5 ± 48.6 cc. Mean kidney volume was 195.2 ± 62.8 cc and mean residual kidney volume was 173.4 ± 65.3 cc. We found a correlation between renal function (MDRD) and residual kidney volume on imaging 1-week post-surgery (p = 0.038). Mid- and long-term renal function was not associated with residual kidney volume.

In conclusion, renal volumetry may predict early renal function after NSS.

Comparative analysis of transperineal template saturation prostate biopsy versus magnetic resonance imaging targeted biopsy with magnetic resonance imaging-ultrasound fusion guidance

PURPOSE

Multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging and magnetic resonance imaging targeted biopsy may improve the detection of clinically significant prostate cancer. However, standardized prospective evaluation is limited.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 294 consecutive men with suspicion of prostate cancer (186 primary, 108 repeat biopsies) enrolled in 2013 underwent 3T multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (T2-weighted, diffusion weighted, dynamic contrast enhanced) without endorectal coil and systematic transperineal cores (median 24) independently of magnetic resonance imaging suspicion and magnetic resonance imaging targeted cores with software registration (median 4). The highest Gleason score from each biopsy method was compared. McNemar's tests were used to evaluate detection rates. Predictors of Gleason score 7 or greater disease were assessed using logistic regression.

RESULTS

Overall 150 cancers and 86 Gleason score 7 or greater cancers were diagnosed. Systematic, transperineal biopsy missed 18 Gleason score 7 or greater tumors (20.9%) while targeted biopsy did not detect 11 (12.8%). Targeted biopsy of PI-RADS 2-5 alone overlooked 43.8% of Gleason score 6 tumors. McNemar's tests for detection of Gleason score 7 or greater cancers in both modalities were not statistically significant but showed a trend of superiority for targeted primary biopsies (p=0.08). Sampling efficiency was in favor of magnetic resonance imaging targeted prostate biopsy with 46.0% of targeted biopsy vs 7.5% of systematic, transperineal biopsy cores detecting Gleason score 7 or greater cancers. To diagnose 1 Gleason score 7 or greater cancer, 3.4 targeted and 7.4 systematic biopsies were needed. Limiting biopsy to men with PI-RADS 3-5 would have missed 17 Gleason score 7 or greater tumors (19.8%), demonstrating limited magnetic resonance imaging sensitivity. PI-RADS scores, digital rectal examination findings and prostate specific antigen greater than 20 ng/ml were predictors of Gleason score 7 or greater disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared to systematic, transperineal biopsy as a reference test, magnetic resonance imaging targeted biopsy alone detected as many Gleason score 7 or greater tumors while simultaneously mitigating the detection of lower grade disease. The gold standard for cancer detection in primary biopsy is a combination of systematic and targeted cores.

Evaluation of the ESUR PI-RADS scoring system for multiparametric MRI of the prostate with targeted MR/TRUS fusion-guided biopsy at 3.0 Tesla

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS) proposed by the European Society of Urogenital Radiology (ESUR) for detection of prostate cancer (PCa) by multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) in a consecutive cohort of patients with magnetic resonance/transrectal ultrasound (MR/TRUS) fusion-guided biopsy.

METHODS

Suspicious lesions on mpMRI at 3.0 T were scored according to the PI-RADS system before MR/TRUS fusion-guided biopsy and correlated to histopathology results. Statistical correlation was obtained by a Mann-Whitney U test. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) and optimal thresholds were calculated.

RESULTS

In 64 patients, 128/445 positive biopsy cores were obtained out of 95 suspicious regions of interest (ROIs). PCa was present in 27/64 (42%) of the patients. ROC results for the aggregated PI-RADS scores exhibited higher areas under the curve compared to those of the Likert score. Sensitivity/Specificity for the following thresholds were calculated: 85 %/73 % and 67 %/92 % for PI-RADS scores of 9 and 10, respectively; 85 %/60 % and 56 %/97 % for Likert scores of 3 and 4, respectively [corrected.

CONCLUSIONS

The standardised ESUR PI-RADS system is beneficial to indicate the likelihood of PCa of suspicious lesions on mpMRI. It is also valuable to identify locations to be targeted with biopsy. The aggregated PI-RADS score achieved better results compared to the single five-point Likert score.

KEY POINTS

• The ESUR PI-RADS scoring system was evaluated using multiparametric 3.0-T MRI. • To investigate suspicious findings, transperineal MR/TRUS fusion-guided biopsy was used. • PI-RADS can guide biopsy locations and improve detection of clinically significant cancer. • Biopsy procedures can be optimised, reducing unnecessary negative biopsies for patients. • The PI-RADS scoring system may contribute to more effective prostate MRI.

Histology core-specific evaluation of the European Society of Urogenital Radiology (ESUR) standardised scoring system of multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) of the prostate

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System (PIRADS) in multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) based on single cores and single-core histology. To calculate positive (PPV) and negative predictive values (NPV) of different modalities of mpMRI.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We performed MRI-targeted transrectal ultrasound-guided perineal prostate biopsies on 50 patients (mean age 66 years, mean PSA level of 9.9 ng/mL) with suspicion of prostate cancer. The biopsy trajectories of every core taken were documented in three dimensions (3D) in a 3D-prostate model. Every core was evaluated separately for prostate cancer and the performed biopsy trajectories were projected on mpMRI images. PIRADS scores of 1177 cores were then assessed by a histology 'blinded' uro-radiologist in T2-weighted (T2W), dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE), diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS).

RESULTS

The PIRADS score was significantly higher in cores positive for cancer than in negative cores. There was a significant correlation between the PIRADS score and histopathology for every modality. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis showed excellent specificity for T2W (90% peripheral zone/97% transition zone) and DWI (98%/97%) images regardless of the prostate region observed. These numbers decreased for DCE (80%/93%) and MRS (76%/83%). All modalities had NPVs of 99%, if a PIRADS score threshold of 2 (for T2W, DCE, and MRS) or 3 (for DWI) was used. However, PPVs were low.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results show that PIRADS scoring is feasible for clinical routine and allows standardised reporting. PIRADS can be used as a decision-support system for targeting of suspicious lesions. mpMRI has a high NPV for prostate cancer and, thus, might be a valuable tool in the initial diagnostic evaluation.

Prostate magnetic resonance imaging at 3 Tesla: Is administration of hyoscine-N-butyl-bromide mandatory?

AIM: To evaluate the value of administration of hyoscine-N-butyl-bromide (HBB) for image quality magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the prostate.

METHODS: Seventy patients were retrospectively included in the study. Thirty-five patients were examined with administration of 40 milligrams of HBB (Buscopan^®; Boehringer, Ingelheim, Germany); 35 patients were examined without HBB. A multiparametric MRI protocol was performed on a 3.0 Tesla scanner without using an endorectal coil. The following criteria were evaluated independently by two experienced radiologists on a five-point Likert scale: anatomical details (delineation between peripheral and transitional zone of the prostate, visualisation of the capsule, depiction of the neurovascular bundles); visualisation of lymph nodes; motion related artefacts; and overall image quality.

RESULTS: Comparison of anatomical details between the two cohorts showed no statistically significant difference (3.9 ± 0.7 vs 4.0 ± 0.9, P = 0.54, and 3.8 ± 0.7 vs 4.2 ± 0.6, P = 0.07) for both readers. There was no significant advantage regarding depiction of local and iliac lymph nodes (3.9 ± 0.6 vs 4.2 ± 0.6, P = 0.07, and 3.8 ± 0.9 vs 4.1 ± 0.8, P = 0.19). Motion artefacts were rated as “none” to “few” in both groups and showed no statistical difference (2.3 ± 1.0 vs 1.9 ± 0.9, P = 0.19, and 2.3 ± 1.1 vs 1.9 ± 0.7, P = 0.22). Overall image quality was rated “good” in average for both cohorts without significant difference (4.0 ± 0.6 vs 4.0 ± 0.9, P = 0.78, and 3.8 ± 0.8 vs 4.2 ± 0.6, P = 0.09).

CONCLUSION: The results demonstrated no significant effect of HBB administration on image quality. The study suggests that use of HBB is not mandatory for MRI of the prostate at 3.0 Tesla.

Critical evaluation of MRI-targeted TRUS-guided transperineal fusion biopsy for detection of prostate cancer

e16063

Background: Precise staging of prostate cancer (PC) is essential for individualized treatment decisions. However, the majority of transrectal biopsies are negative for prostate cancer or show imprecise results. Additionally, the rate of upgrading in Gleason scores between biopsy and prostatectomy specimen is around 30-40%. MRI/TRUS fusion has shown encouraging results for detecting clinically significant prostate cancer. Methods: 412 consecutive patients with suspicion of PC were prospectively included in our database. The median age of patients was 65 years (range 42-84). Mean PSA level was 9.56 ng/ml (± 7.9ng/ml, SD). 55% of men had previous TRUS-guided biopsies, 45% underwent primary biopsy. Imaging data and biopsy results were analyzed and a self-designed questionnaire was send to all men regarding further clinical history and adverse effects of the biopsy. Results: In 236 of 412 (57.3%) biopsy samples showed PC. 71.6% of biopsy proven PC were clinically significant (D’Amico criteria). On multiparametric (mp)-MRI, 120 men were reported as highly suspicious for PC and in these tumor detection rate was 83.3% (100/120). In patients without cancer-suspicious MRI-lesions, 31,8% (42/132) men were diagnosed with significant disease (Table 1). Regarding adverse effects, 152 patients (49%) reported hematuria after biopsy. 9 patients (2%) needed temporary catheterization after biopsy due to prostate swelling. In three patients (0.7%) febrile urinary tract infection occurred after biopsy. Major limitation is the limited follow-up of 12-months of biopsy-negative patients. Conclusions: MRI-targeted TRUS-guided transperineal fusion biopsy provides high detection rates of clinically significant tumors. mp-MRI still has its limitations, and therefore systematic biopsies should currently not be omitted. The morbidity of the transperineal saturation approach is reasonable and mainly self-limiting. [Table: see text]

Pediatric case report on magnetic resonance imaging/transrectal ultrasound-fusion biopsy of rhabdomyosarcoma of the bladder/prostate: a new tool to reduce therapy-associated morbidity?

Rhabdomyosarcomas are the most common soft tissue sarcomas in children. Here we present management of an 18-month-old boy with metastatic rhabdomyosarcoma of the bladder/prostate. After radiochemotherapy, high-spatial-resolution 3-Tesla multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed regressive systemic disease but a residual mass at the right seminal vesicle. For histologic re-evaluation, 3-dimensional-controlled stereotactic MRI/transrectal ultrasound (TRUS)-fusion biopsy specimens were taken. Because histologic analysis showed nonvital tissue, a decision could be made against adjuvant radical cystoprostatectomy. Advanced 3-Tesla imaging and MRI/TRUS-fusion biopsies in children are feasible and represent an effective tool to examine suspicious pelvic lesions. Depending on histology, this can lead to a significant reduction of therapy-associated morbidity.