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This study aimed to review recent evidence on conservative non-surgical options for erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. A narrative review of the literature was performed. A comprehensive search in the MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane databases was done. Papers in English language, published from May 2017 until May 2022, were included. Papers reporting basic research or animal research were excluded, as long as reviews or meta-analyses. Congress reports, clinical cases, or clinical trials protocols with no results were also excluded.We found a multitude of different treatment modalities for ED. We must take into account the type of patient, their comorbidities, the origin of their ED, and its severity in order to reproduce effective results using these therapies. Some of the treatments show good results with a good level of evidence (new IPDE5 formulations, intracavernous injections, shock wave therapy, hormonal theraphy, psycho-sexual theraphy). However, others (some new molecules, stem cell theraphy, platelet-rich plasma injections, oxygenation-based therapy, nutraceuticals), although some of them present promising results, require randomized studies with a larger number of patients and a longer follow-up time to be able to establish firm recommendations. Regarding the conservative treatment of erectile dysfunction, in recent years, some therapies have been consolidated as effective and safe for certain types of patients. On the other hand, other treatment modalities, although promising, still lack the evidence and the necessary follow-up to be recommended in daily practice.

Background Stromal interaction molecule (STIM)/Orai calcium entry system appears to have a role in erectile dysfunction (ED) pathophysiology but its specific contribution to diabetic ED was not elucidated. Aim To evaluate STIM/Orai inhibition on functional alterations associated with diabetic ED in rat and human penile tissues and on in vivo erectile responses in diabetic rats. Methods Rat corpus cavernosum (RCC) strips from nondiabetic (No DM) and streptozotocin-induced diabetic (DM) rats and human penile resistance arteries (HPRA) and corpus cavernosum (HCC) from ED patients undergoing penile prosthesis insertion were functionally evaluated in organ chambers and wire myographs. Erectile function in vivo in rats was assessed by intracavernosal pressure (ICP) responses to cavernous nerve electrical stimulation (CNES). Expression of STIM/Orai elements in HCC was determined by immunofluorescence and immunoblot. Main Outcome Measures Functional responses in RCC, HCC and HPRA and STIM/Orai protein expression in HCC. In vivo erectile responses to CNES. Results Inhibition of Orai channels with YM-58483 (20 µM) significantly reduced adrenergic contractions in RCC but more effectively in DM. Thromboxane-induced and neurogenic contractions were reduced by STIM/Orai inhibition while defective endothelial, neurogenic and PDE5 inhibitor-induced relaxations were enhanced by YM-58483 (10 µM) in RCC from DM rats. In vivo, YM-58483 caused erections and attenuated diabetes-related impairment of erectile responses. YM-58483 potentiated the effects of PDE5 inhibition. In human tissues, STIM/Orai inhibition depressed adrenergic and thromboxane-induced contractions in ED patients more effectively in those with type 2 diabetes. Diabetes was associated with increased expression of Orai1 and Orai3 in ED patients. Clinical Translation Targeting STIM/Orai to alleviate diabetes-related functional alterations of penile vascular tissue could improve erectile function and potentiate therapeutic effects of PDE5 inhibitors in diabetic ED. Strengths and Limitations Improving effects of STIM/Orai inhibition on diabetes-related functional impairment was evidenced in vitro and in vivo in an animal model and validated in human tissues from ED patients. Functional findings were complemented with expression results. Main limitation was low numbers of human experiments due to limited human tissue availability. Conclusions STIM/Orai inhibition alleviated alterations of functional responses in vitro and improved erectile responses in vivo in diabetic rats, potentiating the effects of PDE5 inhibition. STIM/Orai inhibition was validated as a target to modulate functional alterations of human penile vascular tissue in diabetic ED where Orai1 and Orai3 channels were upregulated. STIM/Orai inhibition could be a potential therapeutic strategy to overcome poor response to conventional ED therapy in diabetic patients.

Preputioplasty denotes various surgical techniques directed at resolving phimosis without the need for radical or partial circumcision. This narrative review summarizes the best-known surgical techniques of preputioplasty. A MEDLINE and EMBASE-based literature search of original manuscripts and case reports published in English has been carried out using the following key words: “circumcision”, “partial circumcision”, “phimosis”, “paraphimosis”, and “preputioplasty”. Six different procedures are explored in more detail and illustrated. The complication rates of all surgical procedures presented here are reported to be low. In cases of medical (rather than cultural and religious) indications, foreskin-preserving procedures present useful alternatives to circumcision in the routine clinical practice of urologists and pediatric surgeons.

The aim of this review is to describe reported techniques and to provide available scientific data on the success of penis length procedures for cosmetic purposes. Penis lengthening methods remain a controversial issue. Penis size is a matter of great interest among men who are affected by 'small penis anxiety'' or just believe themselves to have a small penis, even though the dimensions of the organ fall within the normal range. We performed a narrative review of the literature based on a comprehensive search in the MEDLINE database for original articles published until March 2021, referring to lengthening approaches exclusively for aesthetical reasons. Abstracts, opinion papers and case series ≤10 patients were not considered. We included the results of 14 papers in the review that gathered the experience obtained in a total of 1661 patients. Four of the studies referred to non-surgical procedures for penile length augmentation (PLA) and the remaining 10 analyzed the results of invasive (surgical) procedures. Both invasive and non-invasive techniques achieve similar improvements in penis length. These procedures vary in complexity and require specialized training and experience. However, the low scientific quality of the analyzed papers makes it difficult to establish recommendations to choose one technique over any other. However, it seems reasonable that, if possible, non-invasive techniques should be proposed as a first-line treatment. Before deciding the procedure, we must carry out a correct psychological evaluation of our patients, discuss with them the technique of choice, and adjust their expectations.

The impact of aging on vascular function is heterogeneous depending on the vascular territories. Calcium regulation plays a key role in vascular function and has been implicated in aging-related hypercontractility of corpus cavernosum. We aimed to evaluate stromal interaction molecule (STIM)/Orai system involvement in aging-related vascular alterations in the human macro and microvasculature. Aortae specimens and mesenteric arteries (MA), obtained from 45 organ donors, were functionally evaluated in organ chambers and wire myographs. Subjects were divided into groups either younger or older than 65-years old. The expressions of STIM-1, Orai1, and Orai3 were determined by immunofluorescence in the aorta and MA, and by Western blot in the aorta homogenates. The inhibition of STIM/Orai with YM-58483 (20 μM) reversed adrenergic hypercontractility in MA from older subjects but did not modify aging-related hypercontractility in the aortic strips. Aging was related to an increased expression of Orai1 in human aorta, while Orai1 and STIM-1 were upregulated in MA. STIM-1 and Orai1 protein expressions were inversely correlated to endothelial function in MA. Circulating levels of Orai1 were correlated with the inflammatory factor TNF-α and with the endothelial dysfunction marker asymmetric dimethylarginine. Aging is associated with an increased expression of the STIM/Orai system in human vessels with functional relevance only in the microvascular territory, suggesting its role in aging-related microvascular dysfunction.

The Peyronie’s Disease Questionnaire (PDQ) is a 15-question self-reported questionnaire that evaluates the severity and physical and psychosexual issues of Peyronie’s disease (PD) symptoms in three scales: “psychological and physical symptoms,” “penile pain,” and “symptom bother.” Previous studies validated the PDQ US version and confirmed its test–retest reliability and responsiveness. The aim is to translate and validate the Spanish version of the PDQ to be used in the clinical practice and in PD research studies in Spain. A non-interventional, observational study with 160 PD patients was conducted. Patients included from four healthcare centers in Spain and completed the PDQ in two study visits separated for a period of 4–7 days from March 2018 to June 2019. Patients received no type of treatment or intervention. Different statistical tests were applied to the data in order to validate the structural and construct of the PDQ, as well as its internal reliability, temporal stability reliability, reliability between observers, and test–retest reliability. Cronbach’s alpha over 0.9 showed good internal consistency. We found an ICC agreement of 0.82 (test–retest) for the three scales of the Spanish version of the PDQ, which demonstrates good reliability. When comparing Visit 1 and Visit 2 questionnaires mean scores, the PDQ showed non-significant differences, as expected because no intervention or treatment was administered to the patients between visits. Translation and validation of the PDQ for the Spanish population makes available a valid, useful, and reliable tool to properly evaluate quality of life of men suffering PD.

The present study aimed to describe and critically discuss the current evidence regarding the penile girth enhancement procedures for aesthetic purposes. We designed a narrative review of the literature. A comprehensive search in the MEDLINE database was performed. Original articles in English-language, published until March 2021, were selected. A total of 29 studies were included (3 reporting non-invasive approaches, 11 injection therapies, and 15 surgical procedures). The vast majority of articles (26, 89.7%) were not randomized controlled trials, with overall low quality and limited level of evidence. Only 1 (33.3%) paper regarding non-invasive approaches reported a minimal (+0.03 cm) but a significant increase of penile girth (p = 0.034). A low rate (11.2-14.4%) of mild, temporary adverse events and poor-to-moderate patient satisfaction were found. Eight (72.7%) articles concerning injection therapies showed a significant increase in penile girth (p < 0.05). A low rate of mild complications, generally at the injection site, and a high patient satisfaction rate (75-100%) were highlighted. Nine (60%) papers on surgical treatments found a significant increase in penile girth (p < 0.05), while the other 6 (40%) studies reported a generic improvement in penile circumference. Skin necrosis or ulcers, wound infections, or need for reoperation were reported in 8 (53.3%) studies. A high patient satisfaction rate (60-100%) was reported. Our review highlighted the overall positive results of injection procedures, the poor outcomes associated with non-invasive techniques, and the good efficacy and satisfaction with a non-negligible risk of complications in patients undergoing surgical treatments. However, the adverse events are probably largely under-reported and these procedures should still be considered under investigation due to the limited evidence available and the lack of guidelines.

Literature concerning corporotomy location in multicomponent inflatable penile prosthetic surgery via a penoscrotal approach is scarce if not nonexistent. Aim of our study was to report practices in low-, moderate-, and high-volume penile implant centers regarding corporotomy location and evaluate its potential impact on intraoperative and short-term postoperative complications. Data from 18 (13 European and 5 American) implant centers were collected retrospectively between September 1st, 2018 and August 31st, 2019. Variables included: intraoperative proximal and distal corpus cavernosum length measurement, total corporal length measurement, total penile implant cylinder length, and length of rear tip extenders. Eight hundred and nine virgin penile implant cases were included in the analysis. Mean age of participants was 61.5 ± 9.6 years old. In total, 299 AMS 700™ (Boston Scientific, USA) and 510 Coloplast Titan® (Minneapolis, MN USA) devices were implanted. The mean proximal/distal corporal measurement ratio during corporotomy was 0.93 ± 0.29 while no statistical difference was found among low-, moderate-, and high-volume penile implant centers. A statistically significant correlation between lower proximal/distal measurement ratio and higher age (p = 0.0013), lower BMI (p

Introduction: Several urological conditions that share an impairment of tissue oxygenation can benefit from hyperbaric oxygen therapy; limited evidence is available of its impact on patients undergoing male-to-female gender affirmation surgery. Aim: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of hyperbaric oxygen therapy as adjuvant treatment for surgical site infections in patients undergoing male-to-female gender affirmation surgery. Methods: This research was conducted as an observational retrospective study. Patients undergoing male-to-female gender affirmation surgery at the principal investigators’ institution from January 2009 to September 2019, with a discharge diagnosis of complicated superficial or deep wound infections, were included. All patients underwent standard management of wound infection. Subjects received/not-received hyperbaric oxygen therapy at the surgeon's discretion and were assigned to the hyperbaric oxygen therapy versus non-hyperbaric oxygen therapy group accordingly. Complete wound healing rate (primary outcome), duration of antibiotic therapy, perineal drain time, bladder catheter time, and hospital stay were recorded. All adverse events that occurred during the study period were described. Results: A total of 156 patients underwent male-to-female gender affirmation surgery in the study period. Thirty-three patients were enrolled. Fifteen subjects belonged to the hyperbaric oxygen therapy group, the other 18 to the non-hyperbaric oxygen therapy group. No statistically significant differences were found between the two groups at baseline. Penile inversion vaginoplasty and intestinal vaginoplasty were performed in nine (60%) and six (40%) patients of the hyperbaric oxygen therapy group. Only penile inversion vaginoplasty was performed in subjects of the non-hyperbaric oxygen therapy group. Complete wound healing was obtained in 15 patients (100%) of the hyperbaric oxygen therapy group and 17 patients (94.4%) of the non-hyperbaric oxygen therapy group (p=0.35). Duration of antibiotic therapy, perineal drain time, bladder catheter time, and hospital stay were significantly lower in the hyperbaric oxygen therapy group (p&nbsp

Background A xenograft consisting of equine collagen coated with human fibrinogen and thrombin (TachoSil; Baxter, CA) has recently been introduced in grafting procedures for Peyronie’s disease (PD). Aim To describe the results of a multicenter prospective registry on patients with PD undergoing plaque incision or and grafting (PIG) or plaque excision and grafting (PEG) with collagen fleece TachoSil, to evaluate the efficacy and safety of this procedure. Methods A prospective non-controlled multicenter study of patients with PD was performed between May 2016 and March 2018. Patients from 10 centers with stable PD for at least 3 months, difficulties in sexual intercourse, normal erectile function with or without pharmacological treatment, curvature >45°, and/or penile shortening and/or complex deformities were included. All patients underwent PIG/PEG with collagen fleece TachoSil. Outcomes The main outcome measure of this study were penile curvature correction (intraoperative), penile shortening (intraoperative), erectile function with the 5-item version of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) and the Erection Hardness Score, subjective patient outcomes with non-validated questionnaires, and complications. Results A total of 52 patients were enrolled in the study. The mean (SD) preoperative penile curvature was 72.8° (17.0). PIG was the preferred technique (80.8%). Intraoperatively, complete curvature correction was achieved in 92.3%, and no significant penile shortening was recorded in 80.8% of subjects. Subjective penile shortening was reported in 83.3% of patients at 6 months. No objective measurement of penile curvature and length was recorded during follow-up. No statistically significant difference from the baseline was found in IIEF-5 and Erection Hardness Score at 3 or at 6 months, although 16.7% of men experienced a worsening of IIEF-5 scores and 14.3% required de novo phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor use. 6 months after surgery, 78.5% of men were satisfied with intervention. Swelling and ecchymosis/hematoma were the most common perioperative complications (40.4%). 2 cases (3.8%) of wound infection were recorded. At 6 months, 35.7% of patients reported mild penile hypesthesia. Clinical implications Our results confirm the high success rate of grafting with TachoSil, and the surgeon perceived low percentage of penile shortening. Strength & Limitations This is the first multicentre study on patients with PD undergoing grafting with TachoSil without concomitant placement of penile prosthesis. The main limitations are the short follow-up and the relatively small sample size. Conclusion Grafting with TachoSil after PIG/PEG in patients with PD is an effective and safe procedure. Among the main advantages of this technique, there are ease of use of the graft and reduced operative time.

Objective. The objective of this study was to assess the surgical outcomes of aquablation for treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia, especially on ejaculatory function and urinary continence. Materials and Methods. A retrospective analysis was conducted, on patients >40 years, with lower urinary tract symptoms secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia, and a prostate volume 60% score reduction without losing their ejaculatory function and urinary continence. No serious adverse events were reported. Conclusions. In our experience, aquablation is an efficient and safe method that offers high cut precision for prostate resection.

Background Laser-based technologies have been commercially marketed as “wonder treatments” without a sufficient and adequate body of evidence. In addition, on July 30, 2018, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued a warning regarding the safety of the use of laser-based devices for the following indications: vaginal “rejuvenation” or cosmetic vaginal procedures, vaginal conditions and symptoms related to menopause, urinary incontinence, and sexual function. Aim To perform a thorough review of the available literature regarding laser-based vaginal devices for the treatment of female genitourinary indications and summarize the results in several short statements according to the level of evidence. Methods A comprehensive review of the literature regarding laser treatments for gynecological indications was performed based on several databases. Eligible were studies that included at least 15 patients. Outcomes Several aspects, including preclinical data, have been investigated. For each topic covered, data on laser-based devices were analyzed. Results Despite the high heterogeneity of studies and its limitations, the committee released several statements regarding the use of laser-based devices for genitourinary indications. Clinical Implications Available data in the clinical setting are still poor, and the impact of these technologies on vaginal symptoms and signs has not been clearly established. Strengths & Limitations All studies have been evaluated by a panel of experts providing recommendations for clinical practice. Conclusion It is too early in the evolution and research of laser-based devices to make decisive recommendations regarding vaginal treatments. There is grave need to carry out randomized controlled trials with proper design for safety reasons, possible harm, and short-/long-term benefits for the different indications studied.

Background Store-operated calcium entry and its key players, stromal interaction molecule (STIM) and Orai calcium channels, have been proposed as emergent therapeutic targets in cardiovascular pathophysiology. We hypothesize alteration of STIM/Orai signaling in erectile dysfunction (ED). Aim To evaluate the contribution of STIM/Orai to human penile tissue contraction and to analyze the influence of ED on STIM/Orai signaling at functional and expression levels in human penile vascular tissues. Methods Human penile resistance arteries (HPRA) and human corpus cavernosum (HCC) were dissected from cavernosal specimens from 30 organ donors without history of ED (No ED) and from 48 patients with ED undergoing penile prosthesis insertion and functionally evaluated in wire myographs and organ chambers, respectively. Expression of STIM-1, Orai1, and Orai3 in HCC was localized and quantified by immunofluorescence. Main Outcome Measures The main outcome measures are functional responses in HCC and HPRA and STIM/Orai channel protein expression in human cavernosal tissue. Results Inhibition of Orai channels with YM-58483 (20 μM) significantly reduced norepinephrine–induced contractions in both HCC and HPRA from either No ED or ED subjects, but the effects were more marked in ED (−20.1 ± 5.9% vs −45.5 ± 13.2% and −15.9 ± 4.0% vs −31.4 ± 6.9% reduction in Emax to norepinephrine in HCC and HPRA, respectively). Thromboxane-induced contractions were reduced and neurogenic contractile and relaxant responses modulated by Orai inhibition in penile tissues from patients with ED. In fact, addition of YM-58483 concentration dependently relaxed precontracted HPRA and HCC. These relaxations were significantly more pronounced in tissues from patients with ED (EC50 7.5 vs 1.3 μM and 10.5 vs 1.3 μM, for HCC and HPRA, respectively). All HCC specimens displayed expression of STIM-1, Orai1, and Orai3. Significantly increased expression of Orai1 and Orai3 but not STIM-1 was observed in patients with ED. Clinical Translation Inhibition of enhanced Orai activity in human penile vascular tissue could facilitate erectile responses, alleviating ED. Strengths and Limitations Enhanced STIM/Orai activity contribution to penile smooth muscle tone in ED is demonstrated at functional and structural levels in human tissues from a representative sample of patients with ED and in comparison with healthy tissue. We cannot differentiate the specific contribution of risk factors associated with ED to hyperactivity of the Orai system. Conclusions Orai channels significantly contribute to human penile smooth muscle contraction. Orai contribution to penile smooth muscle tone is functionally enhanced in ED accompanied by increased expression of Orai channels in cavernosal tissue. Orai inhibition could be a potential therapeutic strategy to reduce penile smooth muscle contraction in ED.

Introduction Radiofrequency (RF)-based treatment has been introduced as an esthetic alternative treatment for various medical indications without the scientific backup of a satisfactory body of evidence. Furthermore, the United States Food and Drug Administration issued a warning regarding the safety of energy-based technologies for indications such as vaginal “rejuvenation," cosmetic vaginal treatment, vaginal conditions related to menopause, and symptoms of urinary incontinence and sexual function on July 30, 2018. Aim To perform a thorough review of the existing literature regarding RF-based vaginal devices for the treatment of female genitourinary indications and summarize the evidence available in a few short statements. Methods A thorough review of the literature regarding RF treatments for gynecological indications was performed based on several databases. Studies that included at least 15 patients were eligible for analysis. Main Outcome Measure Efficacy of RF devices for different genitourinary indications. Results Although a high level of heterogeneity of studies poses a serious challenge, the committee reached a decision on several statements related to the use of RF-based devices for genitourinary indications. Clinical Implications RF-based vaginal treatments have not been studied thoroughly enough in order to establish decisive recommendations regarding their safety and efficacy. Strength & Limitations These position statements have been established by a group of experts. The lack of strong evidence makes it difficult to give decisive recommendations. Conclusions Further randomized controlled trials with proper methodology and design are required to establish both benefits and possible harm these treatments may have in both short and long term for all the different indications studied.

We performed a prospective randomized comparison among Retrograde IntraRenal Surgery (RIRS) and MiniPerc (MP) for stones between 10 and 20 mm to evaluate outcomes with the same laser device: Fiber Dust.Patients with a single renal stone between 10 and 20 mm were randomized to RIRS (Group A) versus MP (Group B). Exclusion criteria were age 18 or 75, presence of acute infection, coagulation impairments, cardiovascular or pulmonary comorbidities. In both groups, the Fiber Dust laser was used. A CT scan after 3 months was performed. A negative CT scan or asymptomatic patients with stone fragments 3 mm and a negative urinary culture were the criteria to assess the stone-free status. A statistical analysis was carried out to assess success, complication and retreatment rates and need for auxiliary treatments.Between January 2021 and January 2022, 186 patients were enrolled (90 in Group A and 96 in Group B). Mean stone size was 15.8 mm and 14.9 mm in Group A and B, respectively (p = 0.23). The overall stone-free rate (SFR) was 73.3% for Group A and 84.4% for Group B. A higher SFR was reached for upper calyceal stones in Group A (90.4%) lower calyceal stones in Group B (91.6%). Retreatment rate (p = 0.31) and auxiliary procedure rate (p = 0.18) were comparable. Complication rate was 5.5% and 5.2% for Groups A and B, respectively.RIRS and MP are both effective to obtain a postoperative SFR with Fiber Dust. According to the stone position one treatment is superior to the other one.

Context: Several sexual side effects, including erectile, ejaculatory, and orgasmic dysfunction, were reported with the majority of surgical procedures for benign prostatic obstruction (BPO). Objective: To systematically review current evidence regarding the impact of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) surgery on sexual function. Evidence acquisition: A comprehensive bibliographic search on the MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases was conducted in July 2021. The population, intervention, comparator, and outcome (PICO) model was used to define study eligibility. Studies were Included if they assessed patients with BPO and related lower urinary tract symptoms (P) undergoing BPH surgery (I) with or without a comparison between surgical treatments (C) evaluating the impact on sexual function (O). Retrospective and prospective primary studies were included. A pooled analysis was conducted on studies including the postoperative assessment of International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF)-5, Male Sexual Health Questionnaire-Ejaculatory Dysfunction (MSHQ-EjD; Function and/or Bother), or retrograde ejaculation (RE) rate (PROSPERO database ID: CRD42020177907). Evidence synthesis: A total of 151 studies investigating 20 531 patients were included. Forty-eight randomized controlled trials evaluating 5045 individuals were eligible for the meta-analysis. In most studies (122, 80.8%), only erectile and/or ejaculatory function was evaluated. A substantial number of articles (67, 44.4%) also used nonvalidated tools to evaluate erectile and/or ejaculatory function. The pooled analysis showed no statistically significant changes in IIEF-5 score compared with baseline for the transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP; weighted mean difference [WMD] 0.76 pts; 95% confidence interval [CI] –0.1, 1.62; p = 0.08), laser procedure (WMD 0.33 pts; 95% CI –0.1, 0.77; p = 0.13), and minimally invasive treatment (WMD –1.37 pts; 95% CI –3.19, 0.44; p = 0.14) groups. A statistically significantly higher rate of RE was found after TURP (risk ratio [RR] 13.31; 95% CI 8.37, 21.17; p < 0.00001), other electrosurgical procedures (RR 34.77; 95% CI 10.58, 127.82; p < 0.00001), and the entire laser group (RR 17.37; 95% CI 5.93, 50.81; p < 0.00001). No statistically significant increase in RE rate was described after most of the minimally invasive procedures (p > 0.05). The pooled analysis of MSHQ-EjD scores was possible only for prostatic urethral lift, showing no statistically significant difference between baseline and post-treatment MSHQ-EjD Function scores (WMD –0.80 pts; 95% CI –2.41, 0.81; p = 0.33), but postoperative MSHQ-EjD Bother scores were significantly higher (WMD 0.76 pts; 95% CI 0.22, 1.30; p = 0.006). Conclusions: Erectile function appears to be unaffected by most surgical procedures for BPO. RE is a very common adverse event of BPH surgery, although emerging minimally invasive surgical procedures could be associated with a lower risk. Patient summary: Benign prostatic hyperplasia surgery can have an impact on sexual function, mainly involving ejaculatory function.

To compare endoscopic enucleation of the prostate using a thulium: yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Tm:YAG) laser and a super-pulsed thulium fiber laser set in continuous-wave (CW) mode, and to evaluate whether theoretical advantages of thulium fiber lasers, related to their shorter wavelength, translate into relevant clinical differences.In total, 110 patients suffering from lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) due to benign prostatic hyperplasia were randomized to undergo either thulium:YAG laser enucleation of the prostate (ThuLEP) or CW thulium fiber laser enucleation of the prostate (CW-ThuFLEP). Intraoperative and postoperative variables and complications were compared. Micturition improvement was assessed at 3-month follow-up using the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), post-void residual urine (PVR) and maximum flow rate (Qmax). Erectile function was evaluated using the International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5).No significant differences between the ThuLEP and CW-ThuFLEP groups were found in terms of operative time (70.69 vs 72.41 min), enucleation time (50.23 vs 53.33 min), enucleated tissue weight (40.2 vs 41.9 g), enucleation efficiency (0.80 vs 0.79 g/min), catheterization time (2.45 vs 2.57 days), hospital stay (2.82 vs 2.95 days) and hemoglobin drop (1.05 vs 1.27 g/dl). At 3-month follow-up, no significant differences were found in IPSS (5.09 vs 5.81), Qmax (26.51 vs 27.13 ml/s), PVR (25.22 vs 23.81 ml) and IIEF-5 (14.01 vs 14.54).ThuLEP and CW-ThuFLEP were equivalent in relieving patients from LUTS and improving micturition. Theoretical advantages of the TFL, such as shallower penetration depth and improved vaporization capacity, did not translate into relevant perioperative outcomes or clinical differences.

BACKGROUND: Several classifications have been reported to stratify non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) in risk groups according to the probability of recurrence and progression. OBJECTIVE: To systematically review the current evidence regarding risk stratification of NMIBC. METHODS: The systematic review was performed in accordance with the PRISMA statement. Studies providing data on development and/or external validation cohorts of models and risk stratification tables for recurrence and/or progression for patients with NMIBC, reporting at least one discrimination measure (AUC or C-Index) were included. RESULTS: Twenty-five studies involving 22,737 patients were included. Six classifications were identified, three of them were predictive models (EORTC, CUETO, EAU 2021) and three were based on expert opinion (EAU 2020, AUA, NCCN). A high risk of bias was present in the majority of the studies. Certain heterogenicity was found among the studies regarding adjuvant therapy, postoperative instillation or second resection. The definition of oncological outcomes was not standardized in the included studies. CUETO and EORTC scoring systems are the most validated. In general, validations showed a poor discrimination capability to predict recurrence, slightly better for progression. The EAU 2021 model overestimates the risk of progression in patients treated with BCG. Carcinoma in situ is underrepresented in all the studies analyzed. CONCLUSIONS: The existing classifications show poor discrimination capability for recurrence and possibly helpful discrimination capability for progression in NMIBC patients. These results highlight the unmet need to develop novel accurate risk models for patients with NMIBC, which could be improved with the combination of clinicopathological and molecular information.

BACKGROUND: Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the second sexual dysfunction affecting men. Penile duplex ultrasound (PDU) with intracavernous injection of a vasoactive agent as alprostadil or papaverine, may play an important role in differentiating psychogenic from vasculogenic ED (arterial or venooclusive) and may also have an important role in the secondary prevention of cardiovascular events. The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between the vascular parameters and sexual satisfaction as established by a questionnaire. METHODS: Prospective, multicenter analysis of all patients who underwent a PDU between September 2018 and April 2021 in four centers, including patients who were >18 years old and underwent a PDU for ED, Peyronie’s disease (PD) or other reasons, signed informed consent and completed an adapted version of the Brief Sexual Symptom Checklist (BSSC). All the patients underwent a standard technique, and from a total of 325 patients, 16 were excluded because of low testosterone levels, and 15 due to missing data, RESULTS: A total of 294 patients were included for the analysis. Significant differences were found between patients with and without ED defined by their score in the Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) questionnaire in the PSV at 10’, adjusted for age (38.07 vs. 44.95 cm/s; P=0.016), and in the PSV and the EHS at 10’ for sexually satisfied and non-satisfied patients, and a significant correlation with those parameters and the probability of being sexually satisfied (r=0.147, P=0.011; r=0.132, P=0.023; respectively). CONCLUSIONS: In our clinical practice we used the cut-off of >35 cm/s, that seems to be quite low looking at our results. The 10’ measurement may be more sensitive in order to establish a diagnosis. BSSC questionnaire is a simple, easy-to perform tool to screen those patients at risk of developing sexual dysfunctions.

To date, surgical correction remains the gold standard for patients with stable Peyronie’s disease (PD) due to its high efficacy and low morbidity. Among the surgical procedures, penile plication (PP) can be offered to men who have adequate erectile function and penile length (>13 cm), with a curvature

To assess blood loss during holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) and investigate the factors influencing it.Analysis of patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) treated with HoLEP at 3 centers. Hemoglobin and hematocrit were measured before surgery and hospital discharge. All blood transfusions performed during and after HoLEP were recorded. Blood loss outcomes were analyzed regarding antithrombotic (antiplatelet/anticoagulant) therapies and drug treatments for BPH and other conditions.The analysis included 963 patients with a mean age of 72 years. Mean (range) prostate size was 102 (40-316) g; 28% of patients were receiving antiplatelets and 11% anticoagulants. Mean (range) prostate-specific antigen was 6.0 (0.3-43.5) ng/dL. Mean (range) operation time was 77 (28-178) minutes. Bladder calculi were found in 54 (5.6%) patients; all of them were successfully treated with cystolitholapaxy. Forty-eight (5%) patients required blood transfusion during or immediately after the HoLEP procedure. Overall, mean (SD) hemoglobin decreased from 14.6 (1.5) g/dL to 12.3 (2.1) g/dL (P.001), and mean (SD) hematocrit decreased from 44.3% (4.7) to 37.7% (6.5) (P.001). Neither hemoglobin nor hematocrit decreases were significantly different between patients receiving and not receiving antithrombotic therapy or BPH therapy.HoLEP is safe and has no remarkable impact on blood loss. Patients at high risk, such as those receiving antithrombotic therapy, had the same outcome than the rest regarding blood loss, although showed a higher transfusion rate. Operating time may influence hemoglobin decrease; therefore, it should be considered in patients with higher risk of bleeding.

Several minimally invasive surgical procedures have been proposed as alternative therapies for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The present systematic review aimed to describe the functional outcomes and complications of emerging minimally invasive transurethral treatments for BPH.A comprehensive bibliographic search on the Medline and Cochrane Library databases was conducted. No chronological restriction was applied. Retrospective and prospective primary studies were included. A meta-analysis of IPSS, IPSS-QoL, Qinfmax/inf, and PVR was performed. Data on adverse events were presented narratively.A total of 18 studies were included. Thirteen papers were eligible for the meta-analysis. iTIND (Medi-Tate Ltd., Or-Akiva, Israel), Rezūm (Rezūm System, Boston Scientific, Marlborough, MA), and Aquablation (AquaBeam System, PROCEPT BioRobotics Inc., Redwood City, CA, USA) were associated with a significant improvement in IPSS (P0.001), IPSS-QoL (P0.001), and Qinfmax/inf(P0.001) compared to baseline. A significant reduction of PVR from baseline was found with Rezūm (P0.001) and Aquablation (P0.001) but not iTIND (P=0.22). A significant difference in IPSS, IPSS-QoL, and Qinfmax/infwas shown in favor of Aquablation compared to Rezūm and iTIND (P0.001). Rezūm and iTIND were mainly associated with mild to moderate adverse effects. Hematuria or bleeding was reported in all studies regarding Aquablation (0.8-26%), the need for transfusion or intervention for bleeding varied between 1.8% and 9%.Aquablation, Rezūm, and iTIND significantly improve urinary functional outcomes compared to baseline; however, Aquablation would seem to lead to better functional results compared to the other procedures. Rezūm and iTIND appear to have an excellent safety profile, while Aquablation would seem to expose patients to a non-negligible risk of bleeding.

Advanced age is related to functional alterations of human vasculature, but erectile dysfunction precedes systemic manifestations of vascular disease. The current study aimed to simultaneously evaluate the influence of aging on vascular function (relaxation and contraction responses) in systemic human vascular territories: aorta (HA) and resistance mesenteric arteries (HMA) and human corpus cavernosum (HCC) and penile resistance arteries (HPRA). Associations of oxidative stress and inflammation circulating biomarkers with age and functional responses were also determined. Vascular specimens were obtained from 76 organ donors (age range 18–87). Four age-groups were established: 65 years old. Increasing age was associated with a decline in endothelium-dependent relaxation induced by BK in HMA (r = -0.597, p = 0.0001), or by ACh in HCC (r = -0.505, p = 0.0022), and HPRA (r = -0.601, p = 0.0012). Significant impairment was detected at > 65 years old in HMA but earlier in penile vasculature (> 55 years old). Age-related reduction to H(2)O(2)-vasodilatory response started before in HCC (56–65 years old) than in HA (> 65 years old). In contrast to relaxation responses, aging-related hypercontractility to adrenergic stimulation was homogeneous: contractions significantly increased in subjects > 55 years old in all tested vessels. Although not significantly age related, circulating levels of ADMA (r = -0.681, p = 0.0052) and TNF-α (r = -0.537, p = 0.0385) were negatively correlated with endothelial vasodilation in HMA but not in HCC or HPRA. Penile vasculature exhibits an early impairment of endothelium-dependent and H(2)O(2)-induced vasodilations when compared to mesenteric microcirculation and aorta. Therefore, functional susceptibility of penile vasculature to the aging process may account for anticipation of erectile dysfunction to systemic manifestations of vascular disease. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11357-021-00507-x.