Transperineal drainage of prostate abscesses: A minimally invasive, low-risk management strategy that yields satisfactory results

Objectives

In this narrative review, we aim to present two cases of transperineal drainage of prostate abscesses with a good clinical outcome. Furthermore, we reviewed the literature on this treatment approach and aim to propose a minimally invasive protocol for managing this rare condition.

Patients and Methods

Our patients are 33- and 61-year-old males who both underwent uncomplicated transperineal drainage of prostate abscess with the use of a Precision Point device with rapid clinical improvement and complete resolution of the abscess within the follow-up period. We used PubMed to conduct a literature search and included and evaluated 16 relevant case reports and case series in which the authors utilized transperineal drainage techniques for prostatic abscesses.

Results

Our first patient was young and very unwell with sepsis and a pulmonary embolism. He had a complex abscess extending through the prostate to the left pelvic side wall. Trans-gluteal drainage of the pelvic side-wall collection was required in addition to transperineal drainage of the prostate abscess. After drainage and a prolonged course of antibiotics, he achieved resolution of the abscess by 7 weeks with ejaculatory function intact. Our second patient who was very keen on the preservation of ejaculatory function had multiple small abscesses and underwent transperineal drainage. He had significant interval improvement of his abscess burden at the 4-week follow-up and complete resolution at the 6-month follow-up. The total number of cases in the literature on our review is 22, with considerable variability in how the authors managed the prostate abscesses that underwent transperineal drainage, including variability in their follow-up time frame, choice of imaging modality, duration of antibiotic treatment, drain placement, and use of irrigation solutions (including antibiotics) into the abscess cavity. Furthermore, the sizes of the prostate abscesses were not consistently reported. Given the small sample size and variability in management from different authors, it was not possible to draw any statistical analysis.

Conclusion

Transperineal prostate abscess drainage combined with prolonged antibiotic therapy provides a less invasive alternative to treating prostate abscesses for those who which to preserve ejaculatory function and avoid the other adverse events of transurethral de-roofing. In itself, it can achieve complete resolution of abscess. It provides the benefit of drainage under real-time imaging; for percutaneous drain placement; prevents urethral injury; retrograde ejaculation; and can be done under local anaesthetic which is preferable for the unstable patient. The utility of the procedure may be limited by the complexity of the abscess or whether it has extended beyond the prostate. The patient should always be informed that further drainage via percutaneous methods or transurethral methods may be necessary if their clinical condition does not improve. We recommend this procedure be offered as an alternative to transurethral methods in younger patients and those who would like to preserve ejaculatory function. Furthermore, we highly encourage a prolonged course of antibiotic therapy and interval follow-up with clinical review of symptoms and imaging to confirm resolution.

Transitioning from transrectal to transperineal prostate biopsy using a freehand cognitive approach

OBJECTIVES

To report a single-centre experience of a complete transition from transrectal (TR) to transperineal (TP) prostate biopsy under local anaesthesia using a freehand cognitive coaxial approach and without use of antibiotic prophylaxis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Analysis was performed of a prospective database of patients undergoing prostate biopsy performed by four surgeons between 1 June 2018 and 31 May 2022. Outcomes of interest were complications, cancer detection rate, inter-operator reliability, and tolerability.

RESULTS

Overall, 1915 patients underwent 2337 separate prostate biopsy sessions. Only 2.4% patients in the TP group received antibiotic prophylaxis, while 100% received antibiotics in the TR group. The complication rate was significantly lower in the TP group compared to the TR group (0.3% vs 5.0%, P < 0.001). In contrast to the TR group, there were no cases of urosepsis or admissions to intensive care in the TP group. The total cancer detection rate by TP biopsy was 70% and the overall pathology detection rate was 88.4%. There was no difference in cancer or pathology detection between operators. A stable level of cancer detection was reached early on for both Prostate Imaging-Reporting and Data System 4 and 5 lesions. All cases performed were performed successfully without need for early termination.

CONCLUSION

Implementing a complete transition from TR to TP biopsy can result in a significant reduction in complications and hospital re-admissions. A cognitive freehand coaxial technique is well tolerated by patients and achieves a high cancer detection rate.

Transrectal Prostate Biopsy Approach in Men Undergoing Kidney Transplant: A Retrospective Cohort Study at Three Referral Academic Centers

BACKGROUND

Currently, there are no studies evaluating the feasibility of a prostate biopsy approach in men undergoing a kidney transplant (KT). Owing to this evidence, we planned a retrospective population-based study to evaluate our experience of a transrectal prostate biopsy (TR-PB) approach and studied the impact on the complication rate and outcomes in patients undergoing KT with suspected prostate cancer (PCa).

METHODS

We collected data from KT patients who underwent PB with a transrectal approach. One week and two weeks after the PB, patients' information was collected regarding possible complications during the post-biopsy period.

RESULTS

A total of 121 patients were included in this study. Among them, Group 1 was composed of 59 patients undergoing TR-PB with an ultrasound (US) standard technique, and Group 2 consisted of 62 patients undergoing TR-PB with an MRI-US cognitive technique. We observed a 28.9% Clavien-Dindo grade ≤ 2 of early side effect rates (mostly rectal bleeding and other minor hematuria), with a very low rate of hospital re-admission for acute urinary retention (3.3%); only one man required hospitalization for rectal bleeding, and there were no major complications.

CONCLUSIONS

We can affirm that TR-PB can be a safe procedure with a low risk of severe complications when performed by skilled specialists with a standardized procedural pathway.

Morbidity of Transrectal MRI-Fusion Targeted Prostate Biopsy at a Tertiary Referral Academic Centre: An Audit to Guide the Transition to the Transperineal Approach

Despite transrectal prostate biopsy (TRPB) being still widespread globally, the EAU Guidelines strongly recommend the transperineal approach, due to the reported lower infectious risk. Our study aims to evaluate the impact of a standardized clinical pathway for TRPB on post-operative complications. We prospectively collected data from all patients undergoing mpMRI-targeted TRPB at our Academic Centre from January 2020 to December 2022. All patients followed a standardized, structured multistep pathway. Post-procedural complications were collected and classified according to the Clavien-Dindo (CD) Classification. Among 458 patients, post-procedural adverse events were reported by 203 (44.3%), of which 161 (35.2%) experienced CD grade 1 complications (hematuria [124, 27.1%], hematochezia [22, 4.8%], hematospermia [14, 3.1%], or a combination [20, 4.4%]), and 45 (9.0%) reported CD grade 2 complications (acute urinary retention or hematuria needing catheterization, as well as urinary tract infections, of which 2 cases required hospitalization). No major complications, including sepsis, were observed. At uni- and multivariable analysis, age > 70 years and BMI > 25 kg/ m2 for patients were identified as predictors of post-operative complications. The results of our study confirm that TRPB is a safe and cost-effective procedure with a low risk of severe adverse events in experienced hands and following a standardized pathway.

Developing and centralising a nurse-led local anaesthetic transperineal biopsy service during COVID

Introduction

Transperineal (TP) biopsy has recently replaced the transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) approach as the ideal method of biopsy in the United Kingdom with growing trends to adopt. To minimise transmission of COVID-19 during the first wave of the pandemic, the British Association of Urological Surgeons Section of Oncology issued guidelines reducing general anaesthesia (GA) procedures and initiate COVID-secure 'green' site diagnostics. As a result of these guidelines and reduction in clinical diagnostics trust-wide, we ceased all TRUS diagnostics and implemented a centralised, nurse-led LA TP biopsy service.

Materials and methods

A waiting list was developed for those awaiting prostate cancer diagnostics across the network. A COVID-secure 'green' site was quickly identified with TP biopsies starting soon after. Quality improvement methodology was utilised and a run chart was used to show if changes were sustainable.

Results

Successful implementation and centralisation of a TP biopsy service occurred with TRUS guided biopsies ceasing across all sites on 12 May 2020. The procedures were carried out by urology advanced nurse practitioners under local anaesthesia with a select few occurring under GA. Centralising the service in a COVID-secure manner freed up dedicated theatre sessions and personal leading to increased efficiency elsewhere. The service was robust and was maintained upon lifting of COVID restrictions.

Conclusions

A centralised, nurse led LA TP biopsy service in a procedural unit was implemented successfully. The service has remained resilient upon lifting of restrictions and return to business as usual. This led to improved performance across trust by freeing up valuable resources and staff to undertake more duties. The service remains highly valued trust-wide.

Prostate biopsy approach and complication rates

Prostate biopsy is the gold standard to confirm prostate cancer. In addition to standard 12-core biopsies, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-guided prostate biopsies have recently been introduced to improve the detection of clinically significant prostate cancer. The present study aimed to compare the complications after standard transrectal ultrasound-guided and standard plus targeted (MRI-guided) prostate biopsies, to study the impact of the number of biopsy cores on complication rates, and to compare complication rates after transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsies with those following transperineal prostate biopsies from the literature. A prospective study was performed, which included 135 patients who underwent transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsies between April 1 and June 30, 2022, at the Urology Department of the University Hospital of Pointe à Pitre (Pointe à Pitre, Guadeloupe). A total of 51 patients were excluded because of missing information concerning their post-biopsy surveillance. The median age at the time of biopsy was 69 years, median prostate-specific antigen value was 8.9 ng/ml, median prostate volume was 57.5 ml, and median number of cores was 15. A total of 35 of the 84 included patients (41.7%) had a standard biopsy only and 49 (58.3%) had targeted (MRI-guided) plus standard biopsies. A total of 53 patients (63.1%) experienced early side effects, whereas only 24 patients (28.6%) experienced late side effects. Three patients (3.6%) required hospitalization for post-biopsy complications. Early side effects, especially hematuria and hematospermia, occurred significantly more frequently in the targeted plus standard group, with more cores taken, with no significant difference concerning late side effects or infectious complications between the standard and standard plus targeted groups. The admission rate for sepsis after transperineal biopsy has been reported to vary between 0 and 1%, whereas the present study had an admission rate of 2.29% using the transrectal approach. Further studies are required to analyze the complications requiring hospitalization after transrectal and transperineal biopsies.

The impact of robotic-assisted transperineal biopsy of the prostate on erectile function

BACKGROUND

Prostate biopsy represents one of the most frequently performed urologic procedures worldwide and therefore presupposes knowledge on potential effects like on the erectile function, especially in extensive or repeated biopsies. The robotic-assisted biopsy system (Mona Lisa) offers a minimal invasive approach via only two incision points ensuring maximal accuracy combined with protection of the neurovascular bundle of the prostate.

OBJECTIVE

Our purpose was to analyse the impact of robotic-assisted transperineal biopsy of the prostate on the erectile function.

METHODS

Our prospective study analyses the outcomes of 210 patients, who had undergone minimal-invasive, transperineal robotic-assisted biopsy of the prostate at the University Hospital Basel from January 2020 to March 2022 and provided sufficient data. Of these, 157 (74.8%) were included in final analysis.

RESULTS

Mean (range) age, prostate volume, PSA and IIEF-5 score at baseline were 63.8 years (46.1-83.6), 46.4 ml (9-310), 13.2 ng/ml (0.2-561), and 18.8 points (6-25), respectively. EF before and 1 month after intervention was assessed with the IIEF-5 questionnaire for the whole cohort. No significant change of IIEF-5 was observed for the whole cohort with a mean (± SD) decrease of 0.4 (± 3.1) points. Except for patients > 69 years, subgroup analysis revealed no change of IIEF-5 in statistically significant manner for all subgroups. Number of biopsy cores (< 20 and ≥ 20), previous biopsies and active surveillance showed no significant influence.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that the minimally invasive and highly precise robotic technique can spare the erectile function without limiting the extent of biopsy and without compromising diagnostic accuracy.

Less is more: single dose versus extended antibiotic prophylaxis for transperineal prostate biopsy

INTRODUCTION

There is an ongoing debate as to the appropriate regimen of antibiotic prophylaxis with transperineal (TP) biopsy. The objective of this study was to report the rate of infection following TP biopsy at a high-volume institution and assess the impact of single dose antibiotics at the time of biopsy versus outpatient antibiotics in preventing postprocedural infections.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Records of men undergoing TP prostate biopsy from 2012 to 2022 were reviewed. Patients were divided into two groups, those who received single dose intravenous (IV) antibiotics at the time of biopsy (n = 440) and those who received both IV antibiotics at the time of biopsy and outpatient antibiotics before/after biopsy (n = 327). Post biopsy infection was defined as at least one of the following: fever (≥ 38.3°C) with/without symptoms of urinary tract infection or positive urine culture (> 105 colony forming units) within 72 hours post biopsy. The rates of infection were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

A total of 767 biopsies were included in the study. Infection rate post TP biopsy was 1.83% (n = 14). The infection rate for patients with single dose prophylaxis was 2.05% (n = 9) and 1.53% (n = 5) for those that received the extended antibiotic regimen. No significant difference in infection rates between the different antibiotic regimens was found (p = 0.597).

CONCLUSIONS

Overall rates of infection after TP prostate biopsy are very low. Our data indicate that single dose and extended regimen of antibiotic prophylaxis show similar infection rates. These findings support antibiotic stewardship and encourage further research into the appropriate regimen of prophylaxis for TP prostate biopsy.

Early Detection of Prostate Cancer: AUA/SUO Guideline Part II: Considerations for a Prostate Biopsy

PURPOSE

The summary presented herein covers recommendations on the early detection of prostate cancer and provides a framework to facilitate clinical decision-making in the implementation of prostate cancer screening, biopsy, and follow-up. This is Part II of a two-part series focusing on initial and repeat biopsies, and biopsy technique. Please refer to Part I for discussion of initial prostate cancer screening recommendations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The systematic review utilized to inform this guideline was conducted by an independent methodological consultant. The systematic review was based on searches in Ovid MEDLINE and Embase and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (January 1, 2000-November 21, 2022). Searches were supplemented by reviewing reference lists of relevant articles.

RESULTS

The Early Detection of Prostate Cancer Panel developed evidence- and consensus-based guideline statements to provide guidance in prostate cancer screening, initial and repeat biopsies, and biopsy technique.

CONCLUSIONS

The evaluation of prostate cancer risk should be focused on the detection of clinically significant prostate cancer (Grade Group 2 or higher [GG2+]). The use of laboratory biomarkers, prostate MRI, and biopsy techniques described herein may improve detection and safety when a prostate biopsy is deemed necessary following prostate cancer screening.

A systematic review on the outcomes of local anaesthetic transperineal prostate biopsy

OBJECTIVE

To conduct a systematic review of the literature to assess the diagnostic ability, complication rate, patient tolerability, and cost of local anaesthetic (LA) transperineal prostate biopsy.

METHODS

Two reviewers searched Medline, the Cochrane Library, and Embase for publications on LA transperineal prostate biopsy up to March 2021. Outcomes of interest included cancer detection rates, complication rates, pain assessments and cost.

RESULTS

A total of 35 publications with 113 944 men were included in this review. The cancer detection rate for LA transperineal prostate biopsy in patients undergoing primary biopsy was 52% (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.45-0.60; I² = 97) and the clinically significant cancer detection rate (Gleason≥3 + 4) was 37% (95% CI 0.24-0.52; I² = 99%). The rate of infection-related complications in the included studies was 0.15% (95% CI 0.0000-0.0043; I² = 86). The LA transperineal procedures had a low rate of procedural abandonment (26/6954, 0.37%), with the greatest pain scores measured during LA administration. No formal cost analyses on LA transperineal prostate biopsies were identified in the literature. The overall risk of bias in the included studies was high, with considerable study heterogeneity and publication bias.

CONCLUSION

Transperineal prostate biopsy performed under LA is a viable option for centres interested in avoiding the risk of infection associated with transrectal biopsy, and the logistical burden of general anaesthesia. Further investigation into LA transperineal prostate biopsy with comparative studies is warranted for its consideration as the standard in prostate biopsy technique.

How I Do It: Transperineal prostate biopsy using local anesthetic in an outpatient setting

Transperineal prostate biopsy (TPPB) is proven to be an effective diagnostic tool for prostate cancer detection. It allows satisfactory sampling of apical and anterior areas which is not well achieved with the transrectal route, without the associated risks of urinary tract infection or sepsis. The main objective of this paper is to describe the technique utilized in our institution to perform transperineal prostate biopsy under local anesthetic in the outpatient clinic setting.

A Novel Concept of Transperineal Focused Ultrasound Transducer for Prostate Cancer Local Deep Hyperthermia Treatments

Design, embodiment, and experimental study of a novel concept of extracorporeal phased array ultrasound transducer for prostate cancer regional deep hyperthermia treatments using a transperineal acoustic window is presented. An optimized design of hyperthermia applicator was derived from a modelling software where acoustic and thermal fields were computed based on anatomical data. Performance tests have been experimentally conducted on gel phantoms and tissues, under 3T MRI guidance using PRFS thermometry. Feedback controlled hyperthermia (ΔT = 5 °C during 20min) was performed on two ex vivo lamb carcasses with prostate mimicking pelvic tissue, to demonstrate capability of spatio-temporal temperature control and to assess potential risks and side effects. Our optimization approach yielded a therapeutic ultrasound transducer consisting of 192 elements of variable shape and surface, pseudo randomly distributed on 6 columns, using a frequency of 700 kHz. Radius of curvature was 140 mm and active water circulation was included for cooling. The measured focusing capabilities covered a volume of 24 × 50 × 60 mm³. Acoustic coupling of excellent quality was achieved. No interference was detected between sonication and MR acquisitions. On ex vivo experiments the target temperature elevation of 5 °C was reached after 5 min and maintained during another 15 min with the predictive temperature controller showing 0.2 °C accuracy. No significant temperature rise was observed on skin and bonny structures. Reported results represent a promising step toward the implementation of transperineal ultrasound hyperthermia in a pilot study of reirradiation in prostate cancer patients.

Application of Transperineal Pelvic Floor Ultrasound in Changes of Pelvic Floor Structure and Function Between Pregnant and Non-Pregnant Women

Objective

To evaluate the changes of pelvic floor tissue structure and function between pregnant and non-pregnant women from the view of transperineal pelvic floor ultrasound.

Methods

Thirty-eight cases of women with a second singleton pregnancy and thirty-two cases of women with a first singleton pregnancy underwent transperineal pelvic floor ultrasound, and their results were compared with forty-two cases of healthy non-pregnant women.

Results

The differences of bladder neck descent (BND), rectal ampulla distance and levator hiatus area (LHA) among the three groups were statistically significant (P<0.05), and the differences of BND, rectal ampulla distance, LHA between the women with a second singleton pregnancy group and non-pragnent group were statistically significant (P<0.05). The BND, retrovesical angle at rest (RVA-R) and retrovesical angle underwent Valsalva maneuver (RVA-V) in the group of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) during pregnancy were larger than those in non-SUI group, with significant difference (P<0.05), especially BND and RVA-V (P = 0.00).

Conclusion

Transperineal pelvic floor ultrasound has a high resolution of pelvic floor structure and function changes during pregnancy, and can dynamically evaluate pelvic floor function, providing a theoretical basis for early diagnosis and prevention of female pelvic floor dysfunction (FPFD) in subsequent pregnancies.

Ultrasound-guided transperineal laser ablation for percutaneous treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia: a new minimally invasive interventional therapy

BACKGROUND

Although there are different treatments for benign prostate hyperplasia, their efficacy and safety differ. We are currently exploring a new minimally invasive interventional therapy for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

PURPOSE

To determine the feasibility, effectiveness, and safety of ultrasound-guided transperineal laser ablation (US-TPLA) for the treatment of BPH.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Twenty patients with BPH (mean age = 73.9 ± 9.2 years) who underwent US-TPLA from June 2018 to January 2020 with a subsequent six-month follow-up were retrospectively reviewed. After local anesthesia, a 21-G trocar was inserted into the prostate tissue under ultrasound monitoring, followed by 1064 nm diode laser irradiation. Changes in international prostate symptom score (IPSS), quality of life (QoL), maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax), postvoid residual (PVR), prostate volume, and complications were evaluated six months after surgery.

RESULTS

All patients underwent the operation successfully without serious complications. After six months, the average IPSS improved from 22.7 ± 5.3 to 9.1 ± 3.2 (P < 0.001), the QoL improved from 4.9 ± 1.7 to 2.3 ± 1.3 (P < 0.001), the Qmax improved from 8.5 ± 3.0 to 15.2 ± 4.8 mL/s (P < 0.001), the PVR increased from 78.7 ± 58.8 to 30.3 ± 34.2 (P < 0.05), and the mean prostate volume ranged from 70.8 ± 23.8 to 54.7 ± 20.9 mL (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

US-TPLA is safe and feasible for the treatment of BPH. An evaluation at the six-month follow-up is effective.

Comparison of transperineal and transrectal targeted prostate biopsy using Mahalanobis distance matching within propensity score caliper method: A multicenter study of Turkish Urooncology Association

OBJECTIVE

To compare the clinically significant prostate cancer (csPC)-detecting results of transperineal and transrectal targeted biopsy (TPTB and TRTB, respectively) by performing matching analysis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This study has used the PC and prostate biopsy database from the Turkish Urooncology Association. A total of 1143 patients with Prostate Imaging-Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS) with ≥3 lesions on multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) and who had received a software-guided transperineal/transrectal MRI/transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) fusion prostate biopsy with concomitant standard systematic 12-core biopsy were included in this study. csPC detection rates of the TP and TR approaches were compared following Mahalanobis distance matching within propensity score caliper method. The following four variables were selected as covariates for the matching procedure: age, digital rectal examination findings, PSA density, and the index lesion PI-RADS score.

RESULTS

The matched sample included 508 TR and 276 TP patients. In both the TP and the TR groups, targeted biopsy was superior to systematic biopsy in detecting csPC (27.5% vs. 24.6%, p < 0.001 and 19.5% vs. 16.3%, p < 0.0001, respectively). Both TPTB and TP systematic biopsy was found to be superior to TRTB and TR systematic biopsy in terms of csPC detection (27.5% vs. 19.5%, p = 0.012 and 24.6% vs. 16.3%, p = 0.006). In patients with an anterior index lesion, an apical index lesion, and a larger prostate, the superiority of TPTB to TRTB was found to be more prominent in terms of csPC detection (37.8% vs. 18.3%, p = 0.044; 34.6% vs. 14.7%, p = 0.002; and 25% vs. 5.1%, p = 0.033, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Targeted biopsy was found to be superior to systematic biopsy in detecting csPC in both the TP and the TR approaches. The TP approach is preferred because of its clear superiority in detecting csPC in targeted biopsy, especially in patients with anterior and apical lesions and with larger prostates.

Hundred years of transperineal prostate biopsy

The earliest recorded efforts to biopsy prostate, in the early 20th century, were made through transperineal (TP) approach, with open perineal prostate biopsy (PBx) being considered the gold standard for prostate cancer (PCa) diagnosis in that era. Later, to minimize morbidity and increase diagnostic accuracy, several technical modifications and transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) assistance were incorporated. However, in the 1980s, the transrectal (TR) approach became the predominant PBx method following the introduction of TRUS-TR PBx with sextant sampling, providing a convenient and efficacious method for prostate sampling. With modernization of PCa diagnosis, a recent resurgence of the TP PBx has been observed, driven primarily by TR drawbacks of infectious complications and sampling limitations. TP PBx is rapidly emerging as the new PBx standard, being officially recommended as the initial approach for biopsy in Europe and is increasingly being conducted and studied in the United States. The modern era of TP PBx is based on the improvements in local anesthesia techniques, TP access systems, and robotic assistance. These modifications and advancements have improved the ease of use, patient comfort, and diagnostic outcomes with TP PBx. Herein, we present a history of the evolution of TP PBx spanning over 100 years and explore the basis of the technique that merits future utilization.

Recent Advances in Systematic and Targeted Prostate Biopsies

Prostate biopsy is the definitive investigation to diagnose prostate cancer. The ideal procedure would be one that offers fast and efficient results safely as an outpatient procedure. Historically, transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) biopsy is considered the gold standard but transrectal biopsy can under-sample the anterior and apical regions of the prostate and is associated with a risk of prostate biopsy-related sepsis, which may require intensive care admission. Transperineal (TP) biopsy addresses the inefficient sampling of TRUS biopsy but historically has been done under general anaesthetic, which makes it difficult to incorporate into timed diagnostic pathways such as the National Health Service (NHS) 2-week cancer pathway. TRUS biopsy has remained the mainstay of clinical diagnosis because of its simplicity; however, the recent development of simpler local anaesthetic transperineal techniques has transformed outpatient biopsy practice. These techniques practically eliminate prostate biopsy-related sepsis, have a shallow learning curve and offer effective sampling of all areas of the prostate in an outpatient setting. The effectiveness of TP biopsy has been enhanced by the introduction of multiparametric MRI prior to biopsy, the use of PSA density for risk stratification in equivocal cases and combined with more efficient targeted and systematic biopsies techniques, such as the Ginsburg Protocol, has improved the tolerability and diagnostic yield of local anaesthetic TP biopsies, reducing the risk of complications from the oversampling associated with transperineal template mapping biopsies. Areas where the literature remains unclear is the optimum number of cores needed to detect clinically significant disease (CSD) in patients with a definable lesion on MRI, in particular, whether there is a need for systematic biopsy in the face of equivocal MRI findings to ensure no CSD is missed. The Covid-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on prostate cancer referrals and prostate biopsy techniques within the UK; prior to the pandemic 65% of all prostate biopsies were TRUS, since the pandemic the proportions have reversed such that now over 65% of all prostate biopsies in the NHS are transperineal.

Anaesthesia in PROstate Biopsy Pain Obstruction Study: A Study Protocol for a Multicentre Randomised Controlled Study Evaluating the Efficacy of Perineal Nerve Block in Controlling Pain in Patients Undergoing Transperineal Prostate Biopsy

Introduction: Transperineal prostate biopsy is as effective as the transrectal biopsy in detecting prostate cancer and has a lower risk of infection. However, concerning the procedural pain of the transperineal route, a higher level of anaesthesia is needed, which prevents this approach from being widely used. Although several methods of local anaesthesia to relieve pain during transperineal biopsy have been described, few well-designed trials have been conducted to assess the efficacy of local anaesthesia.

Methods: This is a prospective, multicentre, randomised controlled study in men suspected of having prostate cancer and planning to undergo transperineal prostate biopsy. The aim of this trial is to determine whether the perineal nerve block and periprostatic block relieve pain to different extents in men undergoing transperineal biopsy. The main inclusion criteria are men aged between 18 and 80 years old, a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level of 4–20 ng/ml, or/and suspicious rectal examination findings. A sample size of 190 participants, accounting for a 10% loss, is required. All participants will be randomly allocated at a ratio of 1:1 to the perineal nerve block (n = 95) and periprostatic block groups (n = 95). The primary outcome will be the level of the worst pain experienced during the transperineal prostate biopsy procedure, which will be measured by a numerical rating scale (NRS). The key secondary outcomes will include the pain severity score at 1, 6, and 24 h after prostate biopsy.

Results: The primary outcome is the level of the worst pain experienced during the prostate biopsy procedure. The main secondary outcomes are as follows: (1) Post-biopsy pain severity score at 1, 6, and 24 h after the prostate biopsy; (2) Changes in blood pressure, heart rate and breathing rate during the biopsy procedure; (3) External manifestations of pain during biopsy; (4) Anaesthesia satisfaction; (5) The detection rate for clinically significant prostate cancer and any prostate cancer.

Conclusion: Anaesthesia in PROstate biopsy Pain Obstruction Study (APROPOS) is randomised controlled trial aiming to determine the efficacy of the perineal nerve block in controlling pain in patients undergoing prostate biopsy via the transperineal approach.

Clinical Trial Registration:www.ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier: NCT04501055.

Diagnostic outcomes from transrectal and transperineal prostate biopsies - experiences from a Swedish tertiary care Centre

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to compare diagnostic and infectious outcomes between MRI-guided transrectal (TR) and transperineal (TP) prostate biopsies, in order to evaluate implementation of local-anaesthesia TP biopsies in a Swedish university hospital setting.

METHODS

In this non-randomized observational study, we recruited 105 patients who underwent TR or TP software-based MRI-ultrasound fusion prostate biopsies between April and August 2020. Information on outcome and covariates were obtained from hospital records. We compared detection rates of overall prostate cancer (PCa) and clinically significant PCa (≥ISUP2) between the two groups using simple and multivariable-adjusted analyses. As a secondary outcome, we descriptively compared infection-related outcomes between the two groups.

RESULTS

Of the total population, 72 patients underwent TR and 33 patients underwent TP biopsies. Biopsies were positive for PCa in 50 (69.4%) patients of the TR group and 23 (69.7%) patients of the TP group. Clinically significant cancer was found in 28 (38.9%) patients of the TR group and 10 (30.3%) patients of the TP group. Simple and multivariable-adjusted analyses did not indicate any statistically significant difference between groups. Post-biopsy infection was diagnosed in one patient (3%) of the TP group and eight patients (11.1%) in the TR group, conforming to previous reports of low infection rates after TP biopsies.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results conform to data suggesting that the transition from TR to TP MRI-guided biopsies is feasible and safe, maintaining a high diagnostic quality while possibly reducing the risk of infection-related complications.

Positive Culture Prior to Transperineal Prostate Biopsy Was Not Associated with Post-Biopsy Febrile Urinary Tract Infection Development

Purpose

To investigate the association between urine culture before transperineal prostate biopsy and post-biopsy febrile urinary tract infection (fUTI).

Patients and Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 307 patients who underwent urine culture before transperineal prostate biopsy between April 2017 and September 2020. Patients with indwelling urinary catheters (n=7) were excluded. Urine culture was performed 1–3 days before the biopsy, and all patients received prophylactic cefazolin regardless of culture results. A urine culture was defined as positive if cell density was more than 1×10⁵ colony-forming units per mL. Baseline characteristics and the incidence of post-biopsy fUTI were compared between patients showing positive pre-biopsy culture results and those showing negative findings.

Results

Out of 300, seven patients (2.3%) had positive urine culture results before the biopsy. Age (p=0.077); prostate-specific antigen at diagnosis (p=0.267); prostate volume (p=0.78); number of biopsy cores (p=0.277); percentage of patients testing positive for cancer on biopsy (p=0.71); and percentages of patients with a history of biopsy (p>0.999), diabetes mellitus (p=0.604), and immunosuppressive medication use (p>0.999) were similar between the two groups. No patient in the positive urine culture group had post-biopsy fUTI. However, 1.7% (five patients) of the negative urine culture group had the disease (p>0.999) (four patients with prostatitis and one with pyelonephritis). Among them, two patients were diagnosed by urine culture at the time of post-biopsy fUTI.

Conclusion

In asymptomatic patients, positive pre-biopsy cultures were not associated with the development of post-biopsy fUTI.

Freehand Transperineal Prostate Biopsy with Three-Dimensional Ultrasound Organ-Based Tracking

Transperineal prostate biopsy carries a significantly lower risk of infectious complications compared with the transrectal approach. We provide a step-by-step description of our current procedural technique for performing transperineal prostate biopsy under local anesthesia. A key component of our technique is the use of a disposable, probe-mounted needle guide that minimizes the number punctures to the perineal skin and allows for continuous needle visualization throughout the procedure. We have paired this device with a novel fusion biopsy platform that utilizes three-dimensional transrectal ultrasound to enable targeting of suspicious lesions found prebiopsy MRI as well as allows for mapping of biopsy core locations for postprocedure review and use at the time of subsequent prostate biopsy or ablation procedures.

A comparison of prostate cancer prediction models in men undergoing both magnetic resonance imaging and transperineal biopsy: Are the models still relevant?

OBJECTIVE

To externally validate and compare the performance of the European Randomized Study of Screening for Prostate Cancer risk calculator 3/4 (ERSPC-RC3/4), the Prostate Biopsy Collaborative Group risk calculator (PBCG-RC) and the van Leeuwen model to determine which prediction model would perform the best in a contemporary Australian cohort undergoing transperineal (TP) biopsy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective review identified all patients undergoing TP biopsy across two centres. Of the 797 patients identified, 373 had the data required to test all three risk calculators. The probability of high-grade prostate cancer, defined as International Society of Urological Pathology Grade Group >1, was calculated for each patient. For each prediction model discrimination was assessed using area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC), calibration using numerical and graphical summaries, and net benefit using decision curve analysis.

RESULTS

Assessment of model discrimination for detecting high-grade prostate cancer showed AUCs of 0.79 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.74-0.84) for the ERSPC-RC3/4, 0.81 (95% CI 0.77-0.86) for the van Leeuwen model, and 0.68 (95% CI 0.63-0.74) for the PBCG-RC, compared to 0.58 (95% CI 0.52-0.65) for prostate-specific antigen alone. The ERSPC-RC3/4 was the best calibrated in the moderate-risk range of 10-40%, whilst the van Leeuwen model was the best calibrated in the low-risk range of 0-10%. The van Leeuwen model demonstrated the greatest net benefit from 10% risk onwards, followed closely by the ERSPC-RC3/4 and then the PBCG-RC.

CONCLUSION

The ERPSC-RC3/4 demonstrated good performance and was comparable to the van Leeuwen model with regard to discrimination, calibration and net benefit for an Australian population undergoing TP prostate biopsy. It is one of the most accessible risk calculators with an easy-to-use online platform, therefore, we recommend that Australian urologists use the ERSPC-RC3/4 to predict risk in the clinical setting.

Clinical implementation of pre-biopsy magnetic resonance imaging pathways for the diagnosis of prostate cancer

Objective

To assess the outcomes of pre‐biopsy magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) pathways, as a tool in biopsy‐naïve men with suspicion of prostate cancer, in routine clinical practice. Secondary outcomes included a comparison of transrectal MRI‐directed biopsy (TR‐MRDB) and transperineal (TP)‐MRDB in men with suspicious MRI.

Patients and Methods

We retrospectively assessed a two‐centre cohort of consecutive biopsy‐naïve men with suspicion of prostate cancer who underwent a Prostate Imaging‐Reporting and Data System version 2 (PI‐RADS v2) compliant pre‐biopsy MRI in a single, high‐volume centre between 2015 and 2019 (Centre 1). Men with suspicious MRI scans underwent TR‐MRDB in Centre 1 and TP‐MRDB with additional random biopsies (RB) in Centre 2. The MRI and histopathology were assessed in the same institution (Centre 1). Outcomes included: (i) overall detection rates of Grade Group (GG) 1, GG ≥2, and GG ≥3 cancer in men with suspicious MRI; (ii) Biopsy‐avoidance due to non‐suspicious MRI; and (iii) Cancer detection rates and biopsy‐related complications between TR‐ and TP‐MRDB. To reduce confounding bias for MRDB comparisons, inverse probability weighting (IPW) was performed for age, digital rectal examination, prostate‐specific antigen (PSA), prostate volume, PSA density, and PI‐RADS category.

Results

Of the 2597 men included, the overall GG 1, GG ≥2, and GG ≥3 prevalence was 8% (210/2597), 27% (697/2597), and 15% (396/2597), respectively. Biopsy was avoided in 57% (1488/2597) of men. After IPW, the GG 1, GG ≥2 and GG ≥3 detection rates after TR‐ and TP‐MRDB were comparable at 24%, 57%, and 32%; and 18%, 64%, and 38%, respectively; with mean differences of −5.7% (95% confidence interval [CI] −13% to 1.4%), 6.1% (95% CI −2.1% to 14%), and 5.7% (95% CI −1.7% to 13%). Complications were similar in TR‐MRDB (0.50%) and TP‐MRDB with RB (0.62%; mean difference 0.11%, 95% CI −0.87% to 1.1%).

Conclusion

This high‐volume, two‐centre study shows pre‐biopsy MRI as a decision tool is implementable in daily clinical practice. Compared to recent trials, a substantially higher biopsy avoidance rate was achieved without compromising GG ≥2/GG ≥3 detection and coinciding with lower over detection rates of GG 1 cancer. Prostate cancer detection and complication rates were comparable for TR‐ and TP‐MRDB.

Levator ani avulsion: a Systematic evidence review (LASER)

BACKGROUND

There is variation in the reported incidence rates of levator avulsion (LA) and paucity of research into its risk factors.

OBJECTIVE

To explore the incidence rate of LA by mode of birth, imaging modality, timing of diagnosis and laterality of avulsion.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, AMED and MIDIRS with no language restriction from inception to April 2019.

STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

A study was included if LA was assessed by an imaging modality after the first vaginal birth or caesarean section. Case series and reports were not included.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

RevMan v5.3 was used for the meta-analyses and SW SAS and STATISTICA packages were used for type and timing of imaging analyses.

RESULTS

We included 37 primary non-randomised studies from 17 countries and involving 5594 women. Incidence rates of LA were 1, 15, 21, 38.5 and 52% following caesarean, spontaneous, vacuum, spatula and forceps births, respectively, with no differences by imaging modality. Odds ratio of LA following spontaneous birth versus caesarean section was 10.69. The odds ratios for LA following vacuum and forceps compared with spontaneous birth were 1.66 and 6.32, respectively. LA was more likely to occur unilaterally than bilaterally following spontaneous (P < 0.0001) and vacuum-assisted (P = 0.0103) births but not forceps. Incidence was higher if assessment was performed in the first 4 weeks postpartum.

CONCLUSIONS

LA incidence rates following caesarean, spontaneous, vacuum and forceps deliveries were 1, 15, 21 and 52%, respectively. Ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging were comparable tools for LA diagnosis.

TWEETABLE ABSTRACT

Levator avulsion incidence rates after caesarean, spontaneous, vacuum and forceps deliveries were 1, 15, 21 and 52%, respectively.

The repeatability of measurements of male pelvic floor anatomy and function made from transperineal ultrasound images of healthy men and those before and after prostatectomy

AIMS

To investigate the inter- and intratester repeatability of measurement of the location and displacement of five pelvic landmarks related to pelvic floor muscles with transperineal ultrasound (TPUS) imaging recorded from healthy men and men before and after prostatectomy.

METHODS

TPUS images were selected from four different participant groups: healthy men, men awaiting prostatectomy, men 2 weeks after prostatectomy, and men 12 months after prostatectomy. On two separate occasions, two assessors with different levels of experience performed analysis of location and displacement of five pelvic landmarks in images made at rest and during voluntary contraction. A two-way mixed effects, single measurement, absolute agreement intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to investigate the repeatability.

RESULTS

Intertester reliability of all locations at rest for all groups was excellent (ICCs > 0.8) except for the craniocaudal coordinate of the ventral urethrovesical junction for men 2 weeks postprostatectomy and the anorectal junction for men with a cancerous prostate. Intertester reliability of the measurement of landmark displacement was acceptable (>0.5) for the dorsoventral axis of motion but not for the craniocaudal axis of motion for all landmarks across all groups. The more experienced assessor was consistently more repeatable. More deeply placed landmarks were more often excluded from analysis and had poorer reliability.

CONCLUSIONS

Analysis of TPUS images across clinical groups is repeatable for both location and displacement of pelvic landmarks related to pelvic floor muscles when measures are made twice. Analysis experience, landmark depth and optimization of ultrasound settings appear to be important factors in reliability.

The usefulness of ultrasound before induction of labor

The indications for induction of labor have been consistently on the rise. These indications are mainly medical (maternal or fetal) or social or related to convenience or maternal preferences. With the increase in the prevalence of these indications, the incidence rates of induction of labor are expected to rise continuously. This poses a substantial workload and financial burden on maternity healthcare systems. Failure rates of induction of labor are relatively high, especially when considering the maternal, fetal, and neonatal risks associated with emergency cesarean deliveries in cases of failure. Therefore, it is essential for obstetricians to carefully select women who are eligible for induction of labor, particularly those with no clinical contraindication and who have a reasonable chance of ending up with a successful noncomplicated vaginal delivery. Ultrasound has an established role in the various areas of obstetrical care. It is available, accessible, easy to perform, and acceptable to the patient. In addition, the learning curve for skillful obstetrical ultrasound scanning is rather easy to fulfill. Ultrasound has always had an important role in the assessment of maternal and fetal well-being. Indeed, it has been extensively explored as a reliable, reproducible, and objective tool in the management of labor. In this review, we aimed to provide a comprehensive update on the different applications and uses of ultrasound before induction of labor for the prediction of its success and the potential improvement of its health-related maternal and fetal outcomes.

Free-Hand Transperineal Prostate Biopsy Under Local Anesthesia in the Office Without Antibiotic Prophylaxis: Experience with 304 Cases

Background: We present our series of free-hand transperineal prostate biopsy (fTP-Bx) using a novel coaxial needle introducer guide. All cases were performed in the office under local anesthesia (LA) without sedation. The majority received no prophylactic antibiotics. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the electronic medical records of 242 consecutive fTP-Bx cases using the PrecisionPoint™ Transperineal Access System (PPTAS) performed under LA without sedation by a single urologist (R.J.S.) at Kaiser Permanente Southern California. We compared complication rates of this series of cases to our initial series of 62 fTP-Bx cases without the PrecisionPoint as well as 133 transrectal prostate biopsy cases performed before we adopted the transperineal approach. Results: Of the 242 consecutive free-hand transperineal biopsies performed between August 26, 2016 and December 31, 2018, 212 (88%) received no antibiotic prophylaxis. Medians for age, prostate-specific antigen, prostate volume, prostate-specific antigen density, and cores sampled were 63 years, 7.2 ng/mL, 50 mL, 0.15 ng/mL/cc, and 20 cores, respectively. Detection rates of overall and clinically significant prostate cancer averaged 43.4% (105/242) and 14% (35/242), respectively. Average visual analog scale pain rating was 3.9 and average procedure time was 20 minutes. Complication rates of sepsis, acute urinary retention, clot retention, and perianal abscess were 0.0% (0/242), 0.4% (1/242), 1.2% (3/242) and 0.4% (1/242), respectively. Conclusions: This series of office-based free-hand transperineal biopsy under LA without sedation performed with the PPTAS contains a large number of cases in which prophylactic antibiotics were not administered, yet there were no complications of postbiopsy sepsis. However, there was one case of a delayed perianal abscess. fTP-Bx under LA enables the easy integration of transperineal biopsy into a normal outpatient clinic workflow.

Is targeted magnetic resonance imaging/transrectal ultrasound fusion prostate biopsy enough for the detection of prostate cancer in patients with PI-RADS ≥3: Results of a prospective, randomized clinical trial

Objective

To evaluate targeted magnetic resonance imaging/transrectal ultrasound (MRI/TRUS) fusion prostate biopsy versus systematic prostate biopsy and the two approaches combined for the detection of prostate cancer (PCa) and clinically significant PCa (csPCa) in our center.

Patients and Methods

From September 2018 to June 2020, a total of 161 patients with PI-RADS ≥3 were enrolled in this study. They were randomly to undergo either systematic prostate biopsy (systematic group) or targeted MRI/TRUS fusion prostate biopsy + systematic prostate biopsy (combined group). The clinical data and pathological results of biopsies were analyzed.

Results

The detection rate of PCa by targeted MRI/TRUS fusion prostate biopsy was higher than systematic prostate biopsy (38/81 vs. 33/81) in combinated group, but there was no significantly difference. The PCa detection rate in combinated group was significantly higher than systematic group (47/81 vs. 34/80, P = 0.049). There were 40 patients in combinated group and 22 patients in systematic group diagnosed as csPCa, respectively. The ratio of detected csPCa was much higher in combinated group (P = 0.032). In Gleason score no more than 6, the detected ratio of targeted MRI/TRUS fusion prostate biopsy was significantly lower than systematic biopsies in combinated group (P = 0.044). While, in Gleason score higher than 6, the detected ratios of targeted MRI/TRUS fusion prostate biopsy were all higher than systematic biopsies.

Conclusions

Among patients with PI-RADS ≥ 3, targeted MRI/TRUS fusion prostate biopsy is superior to systematic prostate biopsy in the detection rate of PCa and csPCa, but it still misses some PCa patients, including csPCa. Combining targeted MRI/TRUS fusion prostate biopsy and systematic prostate biopsy can led to more detection of all PCas, especially csPCa.

Transrectal Ultrasound-Guided Transperineal Puncture: A Viable Alternative for Difficult Removal of an Indwelling Catheter in a Postrobot-Assisted Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy Patient

Background: The inability to remove an indwelling urethral catheter in a postrobot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RALP) patient constitutes a serious problem to the urologist. If the proper deflation of the catheter balloon is not observed, forcible extraction can lead to devastating consequences such as urethral disruption and subsequent stricture formation. Case Presentation: A 60-year-old male patient developed lower urinary-tract symptoms 20 months after robotic prostatectomy for early prostate cancer. Cystourethroscopy revealed a migrated Hemo-lok clip that was extracted near the anastomotic site, followed by insertion of an indwelling Foley catheter. Two weeks later, the patient accidentally pulled the catheter into the urethra. Several attempts were done to deflate the catheter, which failed. Subsequently, a transrectal ultrasound (TRUS)-guided transperineal puncture was done to deflate the catheter balloon followed by effective catheter removal. Conclusion: TRUS-guided transperineal puncture (under local anesthesia) of an indwelling catheter balloon is a viable alternative for patients who have a history of RALP.

Consecutive transperineal prostatic template biopsies employing cognitive and systematic approach: a single center study

INTRODUCTION

The role of transperineal template biopsy for prostate cancer diagnosis is well established. Pre-biopsy multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is used in most centers for planning of prostate biopsies and staging. Cognitive and software fusion techniques are increasingly getting popular.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent transperineal template biopsies from January 2016 till December 2018. This included patients on active surveillance, previous negative transrectal ultrasonography biopsies with persistently raised prostate-specific antigen/abnormal prostate on digital rectal examination and de-novo template biopsies. Two specialist uro-radiologists reported all the scans and the biopsies were performed by one experienced urologist. The cognitive biopsies were performed for PIRADS 3-5 lesions on MRI. Total of 330 patients underwent transperineal template biopsies and cognitive target biopsies were carried out in 75 patients who were included in the study. We evaluated the results as positive/negative cognitive biopsies and also according to the PIRAD scoring. Only the patients with prostate cancer on template biopsy histology were included.

RESULTS

Fifty-seven (76%) of the cognitive biopsies were positive out of total 75.[Table: see text].

CONCLUSIONS

Combined cognitive and systematic biopsies have excellent diagnostic rate especially for PIRAD 4-5 MRI areas.

USEFULNESS OF TRANSPERINEAL VIRTUAL TOUCH QUANTIFICATION IN THE CERVIX FOR PREDICTING OUTCOME OF LABOR INDUCTION

This study aimed to explore the feasibility of transperineal virtual touch tissue quantification (VTQ) for predicting the outcome of labor induction. A total of 80 nulliparous pregnant women were included. Before labor induction, cervical length was measured by B-mode sonography, cervical stiffness was measured by VTQ, and Bishop score was assessed by vaginal examination. Subsequently, labor was induced using standard oxytocin infusion in all patients. Delivery within 24 hours after labor induction was classified as spontaneous delivery; otherwise, cesarean delivery was performed. Out of 80 participants, 48 (60%) delivered vaginally and 32 (40%) underwent cesarean delivery. The cervical length was significantly longer and the shear wave velocity (SWV) was greater in the cesarean delivery group than in the vaginal delivery group (p = 0.004 and p < 0.000, respectively). Logistic regression analysis indicated that only the mean SWV had independent predictive value for the outcome of labor induction (p = 0.011). The best diagnostic cut-off point of the mean SWV was 1.23 m/s, with a sensitivity of 93.8% and a specificity of 89.6%. Transperineal VTQ technique could predict the outcome of labor induction using oxytocin.

Detection of clinically significant cancer in the anterior prostate by transperineal biopsy

OBJECTIVE

To determine the incidence of clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa) detected exclusively in the anterior prostate using transperineal prostate biopsy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Histopathology results of all patients who underwent transperineal prostate biopsy between February 2016 and March 2018 at a single institution were assessed for distribution of cancer within the prostate. Patients with cancer found exclusively in the anterior prostate were then compared to those with any cancer found in the posterior or lateral prostate with International Society of Urological Pathology Grade Group 2-5 cancers being considered csPCa.

RESULTS

A total of 508 patients were included. Overall, 12.0% of the cohort had csPCa detected only in anterior biopsies. When stratified by prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level, 6.6% of men with a PSA level of 4.1-10.0 ng/mL and 8.2% of men with a PSA level of >10.0 ng/mL had csPCa detected in the anterior prostate alone.

CONCLUSION

Transperineal biopsy has the ability to diagnose anteriorly located csPCa that would potentially have been missed by the transrectal approach.

Targeted and systematic cognitive freehand-guided transperineal biopsy: is there still a role for systematic biopsy?

OBJECTIVES

To assess whether targeted cognitive freehand-assisted transperineal biopsies using a Precisionpoint^TM device still require additional systematic biopsies to avoid missing clinically significant prostate cancer, and to investigate the benefit of a quadrant-only biopsy approach to analyse whether a quadrant or extended target of the quadrant containing the target only would have been equivalent to systematic biopsy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients underwent combined systematic mapping and targeted transperineal prostate biopsies at a single institution. Biopsies were performed using the Precisionpoint device (Perineologic, Cumberland, MD, USA) under either local anaesthetic (58%, 163/282), i.v. sedation (12%, 34/282) or general anaesthetic (30%, 85/282). A mean (range) of 24 (5-42) systematic and 4.2 (1-11) target cores were obtained. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans were reported using the Likert scale. Clinically significant cancer was defined as Gleason 7 or above. Histopathological results were correlated with the presence of an MRI abnormality within a spatial quadrant and the other adjoining or non-adjoining (opposite) quadrants. Histological concordance with radical prostatectomy specimens was analysed.

RESULTS

A total of 282 patients were included in this study. Their mean (range) age was 66.8 (36-80) years, median (range) prostate-specific antigen level 7.4 (0.91-116) ng/mL and mean prostate volume 45.8 (13-150) mL. In this cohort, 82% of cases (230/282) were primary biopsies and 18% (52/282) were patients on surveillance. In all, 69% of biopsies (195/282) were identified to have clinically significant disease (Gleason ≥3 + 4). Any cancer (Gleason ≥3 + 3) was found in 84% (237/282) of patients. Of patients with clinically significant disease, the target biopsies alone picked up 88% (171/195), with systematic biopsy picking up the additional 12% (24/195) that the target biopsies missed. This altered with Likert score; 73% of Likert score 3 disease was detected by target biopsy, 92% of Likert score 4 and 100% of Likert score 5. Target biopsies with additional same-quadrant-only systematic cores picked up 75% (18/24) of significant cancer that was missed on target only, found in the same quadrant as the target.

CONCLUSION

Systematic biopsy is still an important tool when evaluating all patients referred for prostate biopsy, but the need is decreased with increasing suspicion on MRI. Patients with very high suspicion of prostate cancer (Likert score 5) may not require systematic cores, unless representative surrounding biopsies are required for other specific treatments (e.g. focal therapy, or operative planning). More prospective studies are needed to evaluate this in full.

Comparison of complications after transrectal and transperineal prostate biopsy: a national population-based study

OBJECTIVES

To assess the complications of transrectal (TR) compared to transperineal prostate (TP) biopsies.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Men diagnosed with prostate cancer between 1 April 2014 and 31 March 2017 in England were identified in the National Prostate Cancer Audit. Administrative hospital data were then used to categorize the type of prostate biopsy and subsequent complications requiring hospital admission. Administrative hospital data were used to identify patients staying overnight immediately after biopsy and those readmitted separately for hospital admissions because of sepsis, urinary retention or haematuria. Procedure-related mortality and total length of hospital stay within 30 days were also recorded. Generalized linear models were used to calculate adjusted risk differences (aRDs).

RESULTS

A total of 73 630 patients undergoing prostate biopsy were identified. Those undergoing TP biopsy (n = 13 723) were more likely to have an overnight hospital stay (12.3% vs 2.4%; aRD 9.7%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 7.1-12.3), were less likely to be readmitted because of sepsis (1.0% vs 1.4%; aRD -0.4%, CI -0.6 to -0.2), and were more likely to be readmitted with urinary retention (1.9% vs 1.0%; aRD 1.1%, CI 0.7-1.4) than those undergoing a TR biopsy (n = 59 907). There were no significant differences in the risk of haematuria or mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results showed that TP biopsy had a lower risk of readmission for sepsis but a higher risk of readmission for urinary retention than TR biopsy. Use of the TP route would prevent one readmission for sepsis in 278 patients at the cost of three additional patients readmitted for urinary retention.

Initial outcomes of local anaesthetic freehand transperineal prostate biopsies in the outpatient setting

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the histopathological outcomes, morbidity and tolerability of freehand transperineal (TP) prostate biopsies using the PrecisionPoint™ access system (Perineologic, Cumberland, MD, USA) under local anaesthetic (LA) in the day surgery and outpatient environments, as systematic and targeted biopsies can be taken with the potential for reduced morbidity, particularly sepsis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In all, 176 patients underwent freehand TP prostate biopsies from May 2016 to November 2017. The procedure was carried out either under LA alone or with the addition of sedation. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans were reported using the Prostate Imaging-Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS), version 2. Tolerability was assessed using a visual analogue scale pain score for each procedural stage. Histopathological outcomes and complications were recorded.

RESULTS

The mean (range) age was 65 (36-83) years, median (range) prostate-specific antigen level was 7.9 (0.7-1374) ng/mL, and the mean (range) prostate volume 45 (15-157) mL. Biopsies were taken under LA alone (160 patients, 90%) or under LA with sedation (16, 9%). The main indication for biopsy was primary diagnosis (88.6%). In all, 91 (52%) patients underwent systematic TP biopsies (mean 24.2 cores). Cognitive MRI-targeted biopsies alone were performed in 45 patients (26%; mean 6.8 cores), and 40 (23%) had both systematic and target biopsies (mean 27.9 cores). Of the 75 patients who had primary systematic biopsies alone, 46 (61%) were positive, and 28/46 (60.9%) were diagnosed with clinically significant disease (Gleason ≥3+4). VAS pain scores were greatest during LA administration. There were five complications (2.8%, Clavien-Dindo Grade I/II). No patients developed urosepsis.

CONCLUSIONS

Freehand TP biopsies using the PrecisionPoint access system is a safe, tolerable and effective method for systematic and targeted biopsies under LA in the outpatient setting. It has replaced transrectal biopsies in our centre and has potential to transform practice.

Comparing the diagnostic accuracy of 3 ultrasound modalities for diagnosing obstetric anal sphincter injuries

BACKGROUND

The optimal imaging modality of obstetric anal sphincter injuries needs to take into consideration convenience, availability, and ability to assess the sphincter morphologic condition. Endoanal ultrasound imaging currently is regarded as the reference standard, but it is not widely available in obstetric units. Exoanal alternatives exist, such as 3-dimensional introital or transperineal ultrasound imaging, which are already readily available in most obstetrics and gynecology units.

OBJECTIVE

The primary objective was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of 3-dimensional introital and 3-dimensional transperineal ultrasound imaging compared with 3-dimensional endoanal ultrasound imaging as the reference standard for the detection of anal sphincter defects in women who sustained obstetric anal sphincter injuries. The secondary objective was to correlate a diagnosis of anal sphincter defect on imaging to symptoms of anal incontinence, and to assess patient discomfort that is experienced for each imaging modality.

STUDY DESIGN

A cross-sectional study was conducted of 250 women who sustained obstetric anal sphincter injuries, all of whom underwent 3-dimensional introital, transperineal, and endoanal ultrasound imaging. Introital and transperineal ultrasound imaging were assessed with tomographic ultrasound imaging. All of the women completed a validated modified St Mark's Score and Visual Analogue Score for discomfort. Optimal cut-off values for a significant defect on tomographic ultrasound imaging were defined as those with the greatest sensitivity and specificity based on receiver operating characteristic curves with endoanal ultrasound imaging as the reference standard. Diagnostic test characteristics of introital and transperineal ultrasound imaging were calculated with the use of these optimal cut-offs.

RESULTS

Optimal cut-off for a significant external anal sphincter defect was ≥3 of 7 slices; sensitivity and specificity were 0.65 and 0.75 on introital imaging and 0.70 and 0.69 on transperineal ultrasound imaging. Optimal cut-off for a significant internal anal sphincter defect was ≥2 of 5 slices; sensitivity and specificity were 0.59 and 0.84 on introital imaging and 0.43 and 0.97 on transperineal ultrasound imaging. The area under the curve for the diagnosis of external and internal anal sphincter defects ranged from 0.70-0.74 (P<.001) for introital and transperineal imaging. Positive predictive value for external and internal sphincter defects ranged from 0.37-0.63, and negative predictive value ranged from 0.85-0.93 for introital and transperineal ultrasound imaging. Endoanal ultrasound imaging was the only modality for a defect to correlate with symptoms; mean modified St. Mark's score for a defect sphincter was 2.4 (standard deviation, 4.1) and for an intact sphincter was 0.9 (standard deviation, 2.7; P<.01). Introital and transperineal ultrasound imaging were associated with less discomfort than endoanal ultrasound imaging.

CONCLUSION

Endoanal ultrasound imaging remains the most accurate diagnostic imaging modality. With low positive predictive values, introital and transperineal ultrasound imaging are not suitable for the identification of sphincter defects; however, high negative predictive values show a good ability to detect an intact sphincter. The optimal cut-off number of slices on tomographic ultrasound imaging for external and internal anal sphincters allows for standardization of a significant defect. In women with a history of obstetric anal sphincter injuries, introital and transperineal ultrasound imagings are suitable to screen for an intact sphincter if endoanal ultrasound imaging is not available. When defects are found, women should then have endoanal ultrasound imaging to verify the diagnosis.

The role of a template-assisted cognitive transperineal prostate biopsy technique in patients with benign transrectal prostate biopsies: a preliminary experience

Introduction

Urologists are commonly facing the dilemma of elevating prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels despite a series of negative prostate biopsy results. Although fusion biopsies are being used increasingly, they are not available in many centers. We evaluated the prostate cancer detection rate using transperineal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) template-guided cognitive biopsy.

Material and methods

Twenty-two patients with a suspicious lesion on MRI were enrolled into this study and underwent a repeated biopsy. All procedures were done under anesthesia and with antibiotic prophylaxis. Brachytherapy template was applied in each case.

Results

The median age, PSA and prostate volume were 67 years, 9.2 ng/ml, and 65 ml, respectively. The average number of biopsy cores was 24. Nine patients (41%) were diagnosed with prostate cancer. The grade distribution was Gleason score 7 for 5 patients, and Gleason score 6 for 4 patients. No major complications occurred.

Conclusions

Transperineal MRI template-guided cognitive prostate biopsy appears to be a safe procedure, which helps to detect significant cancer. The biopsy-associated adverse events are negligible.

Magnetic resonance imaging-guided transperineal prostate biopsy

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to assess the clinical value of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-guided transperineal prostate biopsy in the diagnosis of prostate disease.

Materials and Methods

The institutional ethics committee approved this study. MRI-guided transperineal prostate biopsy was performed on 78 patients who had presented to our hospital with a prostate-specific antigen level >4 ng/mL or with MRI scans suggesting prostate cancer between January 2015 and August 2017. Written informed consent was obtained from all patients.

Results

Of the 78 patients, pathological diagnosis could not be carried out in one because insufficient prostate tissue was obtained during biopsy. Prostate adenocarcinoma was confirmed in 34 patients, small-cell neuroendocrine carcinoma in 1 patient, prostatic tuberculosis in 1 patient, and benign prostatic hyperplasia in 41 patients. These diagnoses were confirmed by surgical pathology in 31 patients, and all results were consistent with the biopsy pathology, with no false positives. Postoperative urinary tract infection occurred in one patient, and mild postoperative hemorrhage around the prostate gland was seen in 65 patients, without the need for further clinical treatment.

Conclusion

MRI-guided transperineal prostate biopsy is helpful in the diagnosis and treatment of prostatic disease.

May perioperative ultrasound-guided pelvic floor muscle training promote early recovery of urinary continence after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy?

AIMS

The efficacy of perioperative pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) for continence recovery after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) remains unclear. Visualization of the bladder neck and urethra using transperineal ultrasound (US) may promote self-recognition of urethral closure during PFM contraction. This study aimed to examine whether transperineal US-guided PFMT promotes early recovery of post-RARP incontinence.

METHODS

This prospective cohort study included 116 men undergoing RARP. All men were offered to undergo transperineal US-guided PFMT, and 36 men agreed. The protocol consisted of biofeedback PFMT using transperineal US before RARP and 1-month after RARP with verbal instruction of PFMT immediately after urethral catheter removal. The remaining 80 patients received verbal instruction for PFMT alone. Continence recovery was defined as the number of days requiring a small pad (20 g) per day by self-report.

RESULTS

No differences were observed in demographic or peri-operative parameters between the two groups except the longer operative time in the US-guided PFMT group. The mean time until continence recovery was significantly shorter in the US-guided PFMT group (75.6 ± 100.0 days) than in the verbal-PFMT group (121.8 ± 132.0 days, P = 0.037). Continence recovery rates within 30 days were 52.8% (19/36) and 35.4% (28/80) in the US-guided PFMT and verbal-PFMT groups, respectively (P = 0.081). US-guided PFMT was associated with better postoperative continence status (adjusted hazard ratio [95% confidence interval]: 0.550 [0.336-0.900], P = 0.017).

CONCLUSIONS

The results showed that transperineal US-guided PFMT perioperatively was associated with early recovery of urinary continence after RARP.

Diagnostic accuracy of magnetic resonance-guided prostate biopsy and template-guided transperineal saturation biopsy

To compare the accuracy of magnetic resonance-guided prostate biopsy (MR-GPB) and template-guided transperineal prostate saturation biopsy (TTPSB).A total of 219 patients with elevated prostate-specific antigen, abnormal digital rectal examination or ultrasound findings were enrolled. All patients underwent multiparametric magnetic resonance image (mpMRI). Patients with a Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS) score of 3 to 5 underwent MR-GPB using 2 to 5 biopsy cores and then immediately underwent an 11-region TTPSB. Patients with a PI-RADS score of 1 to 2 underwent TTPSB alone. We compared the detection rates for any cancer, clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCA), and the spatial distribution of missed csPCA lesions.Among the 219 cases, 66 (30.1%) had a PI-RADS score of 1 to 2 on mpMRI. The detection rate of TTPSB in these patients was 9.1% (6/66). In total, detection rates for any cancer and csPCA were 48.9% (107/219) and 42.9% (94/219), respectively. Detection rates for any cancer (TTPSB 87/219, 39.7%; MR-GPB76/219, 34.7%, P = .161) and csPCA (TTPSB 76/219, 34.7%; MR-GPB 72/219, 32.9%, P = .636) did not significantly differ between the 2 groups. The csPCA lesions missed by MR-GPB were most commonly located on the left (8.5%, 8/94) and right (9.6%, 9/94) sides of the urethra.MR-GPB can reduce the rate of unnecessary prostate biopsies by approximately 30% and exhibits an efficacy comparable to TTPSB for the detection of any cancer and csPCA. Nevertheless, approximately 1/4 of csPCAs were missed by MR-GPB and were most commonly located on both sides of the urethra.

Multicentre evaluation of magnetic resonance imaging supported transperineal prostate biopsy in biopsy-naïve men with suspicion of prostate cancer

OBJECTIVES

To analyse the detection rates of primary magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-fusion transperineal prostate biopsy using combined targeted and systematic core distribution in three tertiary referral centres.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In this multicentre, prospective outcome study, 807 consecutive biopsy-naïve patients underwent MRI-guided transperineal prostate biopsy, as the first diagnostic intervention, between 10/2012 and 05/2016. MRI was reported following the Prostate Imaging-Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS) criteria. In all, 236 patients had 18-24 systematic transperineal biopsies only, and 571 patients underwent additional targeted biopsies either by MRI-fusion or cognitive targeting if PI-RADS ≥3 lesions were present. Detection rates for any and Gleason score 7-10 cancer in targeted and overall biopsy were calculated and predictive values were calculated for different PI-RADS and PSA density (PSAD) groups.

RESULTS

Cancer was detected in 68% of the patients (546/807) and Gleason score 7-10 cancer in 49% (392/807). The negative predictive value of 236 PI-RADS 1-2 MRI in combination with PSAD of <0.1 ng/mL/mL for Gleason score 7-10 was 0.91 (95% confidence interval ± 0.07, 8% of study population). In 418 patients with PI-RADS 4-5 lesions using targeted plus systematic biopsies, the cancer detection rate of Gleason score 7-10 was significantly higher at 71% vs 59% and 61% with either approach alone (P < 0.001). For 153 PI-RADS 3 lesions, the detection rate was 31% with no significant difference to systematic biopsies with 27% (P > 0.05). Limitations include variability of multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) reading and Gleason grading.

CONCLUSION

MRI-based transperineal biopsy performed at high-volume tertiary care centres with a significant experience of prostate mpMRI and image-guided targeted biopsies yielded high detection rates of Gleason score 7-10 cancer. Prostate biopsies may not be needed for men with low PSAD and an unsuspicious MRI. In patients with high probability lesions, combined targeted and systematic biopsies are recommended.

Initial series of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-fusion targeted prostate biopsy using the first transperineal targeted platform available in the USA

OBJECTIVES

To describe a step-by-step guide for using the first transperineal targeted prostate biopsy platform available in the USA.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 32 men with elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels were diagnosed with a region of interest on multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) between February 2017 and January 2018. The transperineal targeted prostate biopsy procedure was accomplished via a transperineal approach and used a stepper, combined with advanced mpMRI/transrectal ultrasound fusion software, to perform targeted prostate biopsy. The detection of overall and clinically significant prostate cancer (PCa) was assessed as well as the rate of complications.

RESULTS

The median patient age was 68.0 years and the median PSA was 8.0 ng/mL. Two patients (6%) were active surveillance candidates and 16 (50%) had a prior negative prostate biopsy. The detection rates for overall and clinically significant PCa were 81% and 59%, respectively. The two candidates for active surveillance and eight of the patients with a prior negative prostate biopsy had clinically significant PCa confirmed on targeted biopsy. There were no peri-operative complications.

CONCLUSION

These results demonstrate the promising potential of the first transperineal targeted prostate biopsy platform in the USA as an alternative diagnostic method for PCa.

Comparison between transrectal and transperineal prostate biopsy for detection of prostate cancer: a meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis

To systematically assess the efficacy and complications of transrectal (TR) versus transperineal (TP) prostate biopsy in the detection of prostate cancer (PCa). A meta-analysis was performed by searching the databases Pubmed, Embase and Web of science for the relevant available studies until September 1st, 2016, and thirteen studies met the inclusion criteria. The pooled odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were calculated to evaluate the differences of TR and TP groups in PCa detection rate. Then, trial sequential analysis was performed to reduce the risk of type I error and estimated whether the evidence of the results was reliable. Overall, this meta-analysis included a total of 4280 patients, who had been accrued between April 2000 and Aug 2014 and randomly divided into TR group and TP group. Prostate biopsies included sextant, extensive and saturation biopsy procedures. Patients who received TP prostate biopsy had no significant improvement in PCa detection rate, comparing TR group. Moreover, when comparing TR and TP studies, no significant difference was found in abnormal DRE findings, serum PSA level measurement, Gleason score, prostate volume. Besides, this meta-analysis showed no obvious differences between these two groups in terms of relevant complications. Therefore, this meta-analysis revealed that no significant differences were found in PCa detection rate between TP and TR approaches for prostate biopsy. However, with regard to pain relief and additional anesthesia, TR prostate needle biopsy was relatively preferable, compared to TP prostate biopsy.

Role of transperineal ultrasound in infective and inflammatory disorders

Aims:

To evaluate the role of transperineal ultrasound as screening tool in infective and inflammatory diseases of perianal region.

Materials and Methods:

Initially, clinical examination of the perineal region of patients (pts) for perianal external opening of tracts, swelling and tenderness is done. The perineal USG was performed using 2 -5 MHz sector probe and 7 -13 MHz linear probe on GE logiq P 5 ultrasound machine. Internal opening of any fistulous tract were described with clockwise position and tracts were traced upto their external opening and perifocal area were screened for any ramification. The Park et al. classification was used for classifying the tracts.

Results:

Out of 492 pts, 60 pts were normal, 257 pts had fistula, 114 pts had sinuses, 44 pts had only abscess without fistula or sinus and 17 pts had other pathologies with 95% sensitivity (Sn), 100% specificity (Sp) and Positive Predictive Value (PPV) and 95% Negative Predictive Value (NPV) for fistula and 94% Sn, 97% Sp, 89% PPV and 98% NPV for active sinuses and 98% Sp, 96% ppv and 100% NPV and Sn for abscesses.

Conclusions:

Transperineal Ultrasound should be performed as first line imaging modality for suspicion of low perianal fistula with high sensitivity, specificity, and negative predictive value at much lower cost and less time as compared to perineal MRI.

Transperineal rectocele repair: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Transperineal rectocele repairs, either as isolated fascial repair or in combination with mesh augmentation, are hypothesized to reduce the risk of complications compared with alternative techniques.

AIM

The aim of this study was to ascertain long-term success and complication rates following transperineal rectocele repairs.

METHOD

A literature search of PubMed and Embase was performed using the terms 'transperineal rectocele', 'rectocele', 'transperineal' and 'repair'. Prospective studies, case series and retrospective case note analyses from 1 January 1994 to 1 December 2016 were included. Those that detailed outcomes of the transperineal approach or compared it to transanal/transvaginal approaches were included. The main outcome measures were reported complications and functional outcome scores.

RESULTS

A total of 14 studies were included. Of 566 patients, 333 (58.8%) underwent a transperineal rectocele repair and 220 (41.2%) a transanal repair. Complications were identified in 27 (12.3%) of the 220 transanal repairs and in 41 (12.3%) of the 333 transperineal repairs. A significant complication following transperineal repair was noted in eight studies. There are not enough data to make a reliable comparison between mesh and non-mesh transperineal repairs or to compare biological and synthetic mesh use.

LIMITATIONS

Outcome reporting differed between studies, precluding a full meta-analysis.

CONCLUSION

Transperineal rectocele repair offers an effective method of symptom improvement and appears to have a similar complication rate as transanal rectocele repair. Concomitant use of synthetic and biological mesh augmentation is becoming more common; however, high-quality comparative data are lacking, so a direct comparison between surgical approaches is not yet possible.

TRUS-guided transperineal prostate 12+X core biopsy with template for the diagnosis of prostate cancer

The objective of the present study was to explore the clinical value and safety of trans-rectal ultrasound (TRUS)-guided transperineal prostate 12+X core biopsy in the diagnosis of prostate cancer. Patients who received a TRUS-guided transperineal prostate biopsy for suspected prostate cancer at the General Hospital of The People's Liberation Army between September 2009 and May 2014 were retrospectively analyzed, this consisted of 1,300 patients. These patients were randomly divided into the 12+X core group or the standard 12-core group. The mean age of all the patients was 70.5 years old. Levels of prostate-specific antigen, digital rectal examination, transrectal ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were checked and used as reference prior and subsequent to the biopsy procedure. The 12+X core group consisted of 937 patients and the 12-core group consisted of 363 patients. The mean number of core samples taken from both groups was 14.5 (ranging from 12 to 24) and the mean operative time of the whole group was 20.4 min (ranging from 15 to 40 min). The puncture positive detection rate of abnormal rectal examination, trans-rectal ultrasound, and MRI was 24.0, 30.1, and 59.2%, respectively, whereas the puncture positive rate was 47.2% in 12+X core group and 34.5% in 12-core group. Improved prostate needle biopsy with 12+X cores was found to have significantly higher detection rate than that with 12 cores as well as fewer post-operative complications, therefore making the method ideal for diagnosing prostate cancer.

Comparison Between a Combined Transrectal and Transperineal Approach and a Transrectal Approach for Prostate Rebiopsy

AIM

To evaluate whether a combination method involving the transrectal (TR) and transperineal (TP) approach can increase the cancer detection rate relative to the TR approach regarding repeat prostate biopsy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

One thousand and nineteen patients underwent initial prostate biopsies and 298 repeat prostate biopsies. All initial biopsies were conducted transrectally. Of the repeat biopsies, 179 (60.1%) were performed using the combined transrectal and transperineal (TR+TP) approach; 113 (37.9%) were carried out transrectally. All biopsies were performed under ultrasound guidance using a 16-gauge core biopsy needle; 651 were diagnosed as prostate cancer; 224 patients underwent radical prostatectomies (RPs). We evaluated the cancer detection rates between the biopsy methods in the repeat biopsy cohort and compared the clinical and pathological features of the RP specimens between the initial and repeat biopsy groups.

RESULTS

A median of 12 and 20 cores were obtained in the initial and repeat biopsy patients, respectively. Cancer detection rates regarding biopsies 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 were 49.2% (551/1,119), 34.7% (75/216), 33.3% (20/60), 26.7% (4/15) and 14.3% (1/7), respectively. There were no significant differences between the TR and the TR+TP approach (32.7% vs. 33.5%). RP specimens diagnosed using repeat biopsies showed more anterior dominant tumors relative to those diagnosed using the initial biopsies (59.5% vs. 35.9%; p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

The TR+TP combination approach could not increase cancer detection rates relative to the TR approach in the repeat biopsy cohort. However, 16-gauge needle biopsy demonstrated acceptable cancer detection rates in the comparatively small number of biopsy cores.

A prospective study of the short-term quality-of-life outcomes of patients undergoing transperineal prostate biopsy

OBJECTIVE

To investigate in a prospective, observational study whether transperineal prostate biopsy (TPbx) results in patient-reported quality-of-life (QoL) changes from baseline in the first 3-months after TPbx.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Consenting patients completed the 26-item Expanded Prostate cancer Index Composite (EPIC-26), the Sexual Health Inventory for Men, the International Prostate Symptom Score, the Generalised Anxiety Disorder seven-item scale, the Patient Health Questionnaire nine-item scale, and a global question about willingness to have a repeat TPbx in a years' time. The instruments were scored using published scoring methods. Wilcoxon signed-rank tests and Mann-Whitney U-tests were used to investigate statistically significant differences. Clinically significant differences were also investigated defined by published minimal important differences for the EPIC-26 and changes in established categorical groups for the other instruments.

RESULTS

In all, 53 patients consented to participate and completed the baseline questionnaire, in addition to at least one of the 1- or 3-month follow-up questionnaires. We found that most patients having a TPbx had no clinically significant change in QoL in the first 3 months after TPbx. However, 24% had clinically worse urinary function and 18% had worse sexual function at 1 month. At 3 months, 3% of patients had clinically worse urinary function and 25% continued to have worse sexual function compared with baseline. Patients who were subsequently diagnosed with cancer based on the results of the TPbx, had statistically significantly reduced QoL for the EPIC-26 urinary scales and reduced improvements in scores on the psychological scales at the 1-month follow-up compared with those who were not diagnosed with cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

Most patients having a TPbx had no clinically significant change in QoL in the first 3 months after TPbx. However, patients should be advised that a quarter may have clinically worse urinary function and nearly 20% have clinically worse sexual function in the first month, and that sexual function deficits may continue up to 3 months. The results of this study provide a resource that the clinician can use when discussing TPbx with patients.

A comparison of ultrasonic measurement techniques for the maternal cervix in the second trimester

Introduction: The appropriate ultrasound technique to assess the maternal cervical length in women at low risk of preterm birth is yet to be established. This study aimed to determine the accuracy of different ultrasound approaches for measuring the maternal cervix in patients between 17 and 22 weeks gestation. Methods: The prospective study recruited 50 patients who were at a low risk of preterm birth. All measurements were acquired by one operator who was blind to the measurements being acquired in all approaches. The cervical length was registered using the transabdominal approach with a full and empty bladder, the transperineal approach and the transvaginal. The transvaginal approach was used as the reference measurement. Results: The transabdominal full bladder, post void, transperineal and transvaginal measurements were obtainable in 50, 49, 45 and 50 participants respectively. The transabdominal post void measurements showed a bias of -0.06 mm from perfect agreement with transvaginal. The transperineal measurements showed a bias of -0.16 mm. The transabdominal full bladder measurements were positively biased by 14.05 mm (p < 0.05). All transabdominal post void cervical lengths of 30 mm or greater registered a transvaginal cervical length greater than 25 mm in this study. Conclusion: The cervix should not be assessed in the transabdominal approach with a full maternal bladder due to overestimation of cervical length. Transvaginal cervical length can be reproduced accurately by post void transabdominal cervical length in most cases. Transperineal cervical length should be considered if transvaginal cervical length is contraindicated.

Significant impact of transperineal template biopsy of the prostate at a single tertiary institution

Objective:

The objective was to review the impact of transperineal biopsy (TPB) at our institution by assessing rates of cancer detection/grading, treatment outcomes and complications.

Patients and Methods:

A retrospective review of TPBs between 2009 and 2013 was performed. Variables included reason for TPB, age, prostate-specific antigen, previous histology, TPB histology, and management outcomes.

Results:

In total, 110 patients underwent 111 TPBs at our institution. On average, 22 cores were taken from each procedure. Disease-upgrade occurred in 37.5% of active surveillance patients, 35% of patients with previous negative transrectal ultrasound, and 58.8% in patients undergoing TPB for other reasons. Of these patients, anterior and/or transition zones were involved in 66%, 79%, and 80%, respectively. Involvement in anterior and/or transition zones only occurred in 40%, 37%, and 10%, respectively. About 77% of patients with disease-upgrading underwent treatment with curative intent. Complications included a 6.3% rate of acute urinary retention and 2.7% of clot retention, with no episodes of urosepsis.

Conclusions:

Transperineal biopsy at our institution showed a high rate of disease-upgrading, with a large proportion involving anterior and transition zones. A significant amount of patients went on to receive curative treatment. TPB is a valuable diagnostic procedure with minimal risk of developing urosepsis. We believe TBP should be offered as an option for all repeat prostate biopsies and considered as an option for initial prostate biopsy.