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AUA 2006 News
Combination therapy improves both LUTS and ED
Combining the alpha-blocker alfuzosin SR (Uroxatral) with the phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitor sildenafil citrate (Viagra) appears to produce a greater therapeutic benefit in men with lower urinary tract symptoms than either drug alone, researchers said yesterday.
Dr. Flanigan is named new AUA secretary
Robert C. Flanigan, MD, was named the new secretary of AUA during the association's business meeting yesterday. He is professor and chair of urology at the Loyola University Health System, Maywood, IL.
Botulinum toxin shows sustained, positive effects in BPH
Intraprostatic injection of botulinum toxin type A (Botox) is a safe and effective treatment in patients with symptomatic BPH that results in improvements in symptoms and quality of life that may persist for up to 1 year, researchers from Taiwan said.
Older men and ED drugs: Interest and use are low
Despite media images depicting middle-aged and older men embracing the use of phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitors to correct erectile dysfunction, actual interest and usage in this population is unknown.
Study suggests PDE-5 inhibitor improves LUTS in men with BPH
Once-a-day tadalafil (Cialis) at dosages ranging from 5 mg to 20 mg produces measurable benefits in men with BPH and lower urinary tract symptoms, according to a multicenter study presented here yesterday.
New biomaterial launched for treatment of Peyronie's disease
Cook Urological introduced on Tuesday a new biomaterial known as Surgisis ES for the treatment of Peyronie's disease. Surgisis ES is a natural biomaterial that provides a graft that is strong, easy to handle, easy to use, and biocompatible, the company said. It supports the growth of new fully vascularized host tissue in the penis.
Infertility affects patients mentally as well as physically
Two separate studies have found that men and women dealing with infertility suffer from depression and anxiety at a greater rate than the general population.
Long-term survival impressive for inflatable penile prostheses
Long-term survival of inflatable penile prostheses (IPPs) that have been in use over the past 2 decades is excellent, and the reliability of those devices appears even more promising for the enhanced models that have become more recently available, said Steven K. Wilson, MD.
Pudendal nerve stimulation may be alternative to sacral neuromodulation
Stimulation of the pudendal nerve may be an alternative to sacral neurostimulation (SNS) in the treatment of urinary voiding dysfunction. Two studies presented yesterday indicate that pudendal neurostimulation (PNS) is effective in patients who do not respond to SNS.
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BPH
FDA gives nod to combination treatment for BPH
FDA has approved the 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor dutasteride (Avodart) in combination with the alpha-blocker tamsulosin (Flomax) for treatment of symptomatic enlarged prostate. Both drugs had previously been approved individually for treatment of enlarged prostate.
Alpha-blocker raises success of trial without catheter
A trial without catheter (TWOC) following an average of 3 days of catheterization has become standard practice in men with acute urinary retention (AUR) associated with BPH. Now, the results of a recent study have shown that the administration of an alpha-blocker prior to a TWOC can significantly increase the chances of the success of TWOC.
Therapy combination superior in high-risk BPH patients
The combination of dutasteride (Avodart) and tamsulosin (Flomax) provides significantly greater improvement in International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and patient-reported quality of life than either therapy alone in men with BPH who are at increased risk of progression.
Two-drug combination superior in high-risk BPH patients
The combination of dutasteride (Avodart) and tamsulosin (Flomax) provides significantly greater improvement in International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and patient-reported quality of life than either therapy alone in men with BPH who are at increased risk of progression, according to a 2-year analysis of data from the 4-year Combination of Avodart and Tamsulosin (CombAT) trial.
Alpha-blocker raises success of trial without catheter
A trial without catheter (TWOC) following an average of 3 days of catheterization has become standard practice in men with acute urinary retention (AUR) associated with BPH. Now the results of a study presented here have shown that the administration of an alpha-blocker prior to a TWOC can significantly increase the chances of TWOC success.
TURP, PVP show comparable efficacy in apples-to-apples trial
Men facing treatment for BPH can expect similar outcomes after transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) or photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP), according to results of a multicenter head-to-head comparison of the two treatments, presented at the AUA annual meeting.
New in-office BPH laser treatment is efficient, cost-effective
Biolitec has launched the 150-watt Evolve side-firing diode laser unit, which the company says precisely ablates and coagulates prostate tissue, resulting in shorter procedures and recovery times.
Use of minimally invasive BPH treatments up significantly
Use of minimally invasive surgical treatments (MISTs) for BPH has increased tremendously in the past decade, but urologists should be careful about overusing these newer technologies, given the lack of long-term evidence of their efficacy, researchers from the University of Minnesota said here.
KTP laser shows good results in BPH at 4 years
Treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms using an 80-watt laser prostatectomy system showed a significant decrease in IPSS and post-void residual urine, among other positive indicators.
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Bladder, Kidney, and Other Urologic Cancers
Repeat resection emphasized in new bladder cancer guideline
Among the many recommendations within the new AUA guideline for the management of nonmuscle-invasive bladder cancer, arguably one of the most important is the idea of repeating resection for patients with high-grade Ta or T1 disease within a few weeks of the initial resection before making a treatment recommendation.
Heart failure associated with RCC treatment
Sunitinib malate (Sutent), indicated for the treatment of metastatic renal cell carcinoma, may be associated with heart failure in less than 3% of patients receiving the drug, according to a study published in Cancer (2008; 112:2500-8). The finding may represent a potentially serious toxicity and may underscore the need for careful monitoring of cardiac function and aggressive control of hypertension in these patients.
Adjuvant chemotherapy after cystectomy may prolong survival
A retrospective study of patients seen at the University of Chicago suggests that adjuvant chemotherapy is an essential part of the treatment protocol for lymph node-positive bladder cancer.
When is immediate cystectomy necessary in TCC?
While immediate cystectomy offers excellent long-term outcomes for patients with high-grade T1 transitional cell carcinoma, genetic biomarkers one day could help urologists select the most appropriate candidates for this surgery.
Cancer survivors have low levels of physical activity
A new study reveals that many cancer survivors are inactive and obese, which may negatively affect the control of their disease. The findings, which come from a study of cancer survivors in Canada, show that a cancer diagnosis does not appear to prompt significant behavior change and that interventions to increase physical activity and promote better eating habits among cancer survivors are warranted.
Pesticide exposure may increase testicular tumor risk
Exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals, such as persistent organochlorine pesticides, is associated with the risk of both seminomatous and nonseminomatous testicular germ cell tumors, whereas exposure to chlordane compounds and metabolites may be associated with the risk of seminoma, according to a study published in an online issue of the Journal of the National Cancer Institute (April 28).
Radiofrequency device may help minimize bleeding during laparoscopic partial nephrectomy
Researchers have developed a novel technique of performing laparoscopic partial nephrectomy without renal hilar clamping that appears to minimize blood loss during the procedure.
Laparoscopic renal surgery: Ongoing progress, promise
Since the initial description of laparoscopic nephrectomy by Clayman and associates in 1991, the technique and the principles of the procedure have evolved logically.
Laparoscopic nephrectomy: Not just for localized renal cell carcinoma?
Intermediate-term oncologic results after laparoscopic radical nephrectomy for locally advanced renal cell carcinoma are similar to those of open nephrectomy.
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Inflammation and Infection
IC patients show marked improvement with lidocaine treatment
Treatment options are few for interstitial cystitis patients, especially for those with refractory disease. Frustratingly, trial after trial of promising therapies have shown no real improvement compared with placebo. But yesterday, that changed with presentation of the results of a trial of intravesical alkalinized lidocaine.
Studies probe pain, pathogen origins, interactions
In chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS), two pivotal clinical trials "are going to have an immediate impact on the way you practice," said Anthony J. Schæffer, MD, professor and chairman of the department of urology at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago.
IC/BPS research, therapies push treatment frontier
In 2008, urology is focusing on interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) in earnest, with important clinical trial results.
Company halts study of IC drug due to positive results
Urigen Pharmaceuticals has announced the early closure of its study of a drug known as URG101 due to positive, statistically significant interim analysis results in both the primary and all secondary endpoints. Top-line results of the interim analysis, which was planned at 50% enrollment, were previously released March 12.
Investigational agent improves interstitial cystitis pain
An investigational bladder instillation appears to improve daytime pain in patients with painful bladder syndrome/interstitial cystitis in a single dose, according to interim results of a phase II study.
Guidelines direct treatment for three types of UTIs
Thomas Hooton, MD, discusses the Infectious Diseases Society of America guidelines on three common urologic infections.
Does post-neuromodulation APF signal interstitial cystitis treatment success?
Interstitial cystitis biomarkers didn't change with long-term neuromodulation in a surprising study.
Cyclosporine shows 'dramatic' results in severe interstitial cystitis
For the first time in years, patients with interstitial cystitis, especially those with the worst cases, may have an effective new treatment.
FDA approves injectable treatment for complicated UTIs
The FDA has approved injectable doripenem (Doribax) for the treatment of complicated urinary tract infections, including pyelonephritis. Doripenem has demonstrated activity against a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, including Pseudomonas, that cause these serious infections, research has shown.
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Male Infertility
FDA requests warnings on fluoroquinolone drugs
Manufacturers of fluoroquinolone antimicrobial drugs have been notified by FDA that a boxed warning in the product labeling concerning the increased risk of tendinitis and tendon rupture is necessary.
Company receives approvable letter for hypogonadism treatment
Indevus Pharmaceuticals, Inc. has received an approvable letter from FDA for its long-acting depot preparation of testosterone undecanoate (Nebido), which is indicated for the treatment of male hypogonadism.
Data suggest possible link between male infertility, somatic cancers
Results of a study based on data from approximately 43,400 men show risks of developing melanoma and prostate cancer are increased among those with a diagnosis of male factor infertility, reported researchers from the University of California, San Francisco.
Survey: Inadequate fertility response for male adolescent cancer patients
Pediatric oncologists appear strongly motivated to preserve fertility in male adolescent cancer patients, although there remains a disconnect between their attitudes and practices with respect to referring patients for available services, according to results of the Survey for Preservation of Adolescent REproduction (SPARE) study.
Research illuminates influences on male fertility
Increasingly, genetics is changing the way urologists diagnose and treat problems related to male infertility. As lab findings become clinical realities, andrologists and general urologists alike are finding their daily practices changed by advances in our understanding of the human genome.
One azoospermic sample enough after vasectomy to confirm future sterility
Data from studies on post-vasectomy clearance suggest that a single azoospermic sample submitted 16 weeks following vasectomy is sufficient to establish the success of the procedure and future sterility.
Novel test diagnoses ejaculatory duct obstruction
A novel modification of the Whitaker test using ejaculatory duct manometry shows promise for the diagnosis of ejaculatory duct obstruction.
Soy in diet may lower sperm concentration, male fertility
Higher intakes of soy foods and soy isoflavones were associated with reduced sperm concentrations in a Harvard study.
Novel use of technology sparks infertility advances
Two groups have taken innovative steps to match technology with important clinical problems: the microscope with NOA and the Whitaker test with EDO.
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Pediatric Urology
Study evaluating antibiotic use in kids with VUR seeks participants
Researchers conducting a study to learn whether children with vesicoureteral reflux should be treated with an extended course of antibiotics are seeking to enroll more participants.
Long-term DxHA implants may create diagnostic dilemma
Young children who present with calcifications in the ureter on computed tomography scans may not have ureteral stones, but may simply have a history of receiving dextranomer/hyaluronic acid copolymer (Dx/HA [Deflux]) injections for the treatment of vesicoureteral reflux, according to pediatric urologists from Emory University in Atlanta. Their study findings were presented as a word of caution to radiologists and emergency room physicians who may suspect stones in children with abdominal pain and associated imaging findings.
Lap procedures increasing in pediatric urology
In the office and the operating room, urologists are finding an array of more palatable approaches to managing pediatric cases.
Pediatric refractory urgency, neuropsychiatric disorders linked
Children who do not respond to treatment for urgency frequency syndrome may have underlying neuropsychiatric disorders that need treatment before UFS symptoms can be resolved.
Research supports endoscopic surgery to treat VUR
Studies of vesicoureteral reflux in children show steady progress in treatment modalities and outcomes.
Cerebral palsy incontinence likely due to underlying pathology
Video urodynamic studies found serious underlying pathology in a majority of cerebral palsy children who had urinary incontinence.
FDA requests new prescribing information for desmopressin
The FDA has requested that manufacturers update the labels and prescribing information for tablet and intranasal formulations of desmopressin (DDAVP, Minirin, Stimate), used to treat pediatric nocturnal enuresis, to include important new information about the risk of severe hyponatremia and seizures. The action follows reports of 61 patients who experienced hyponatremia-related seizures linked to use of the drug, including two who died.
Early treatment of UTI in infants may not prevent renal scarring
Early and appropriate treatment of urinary tract infection, especially during the first 24 hours after the onset of symptoms, diminishes the likelihood of renal involvement during the acute phase of the infection, but does not prevent scar formation, researchers reported in Pediatrics (2007; 120:e922-e928).
Therapy reduces UTIs in kids with vesicoureteral reflux
Hyaluronic acid/dextranomer gel (Deflux) reduced by 62% the incidence of recurrent urinary tract infections in children with vesicoureteral reflux, according to a study published in the Journal of Laparoendoscopic & Advanced Surgical Techniques (2007; 17:353-9). The therapy also eliminated the need for prophylactic antibiotics in 87% of patients.
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Prostate Cancer
Androgen deprivation does not improve survival in older men
Compared with conservative management of the disease, androgen deprivation therapy does not appear to be associated with improved survival in elderly men with localized prostate cancer, according to a study in JAMA (2008; 300:173-81).
Researchers identify biomarkers targeting prostate cancer recurrence
A panel of seven biomarkers can predict with 86% accuracy which prostate cancer patients will experience recurrence and progression of prostate cancer, researchers from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas reported in Clinical Cancer Research (2008; 14:3785-91).
TRT in older men not linked to increased prostate cancer risk
The risk of developing prostate cancer among older men who receive testosterone replacement therapy for low testosterone is no greater than it is for similarly aged men not treated with testosterone, according to a study presented at The Endocrine Society’s annual meeting in San Francisco.
Radiation treatment benefits men with recurrent prostate cancer
Chances of surviving prostate cancer in men whose tumors recur after prostatectomy are threefold higher for those who undergo radiotherapy within 2 years after recurrence, according to new research findings from the Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions in Baltimore. In men whose new tumors grew fastest, prolonged survival chances were greatest, researchers reported last week in JAMA (2008; 299:2760-9).
Invasive methods unnecessary for PCa radiation therapy planning
Modern 3-D computed tomography is effective for locating the prostatic apex for radiation therapy treatment planning in prostate cancer patients because it eliminates the need for an invasive procedure and related side effects, according to a study in the International Journal of Radiation Oncology Biology Physics (2008; 71:51-7).
Component in dried tomatoes may prevent prostate cancer
The form of tomato product one eats could be the key to unlocking its prostate cancer-fighting potential, researchers from the University of Missouri, Columbia, recently reported in Cancer Research (2008; 68:4384-91).
New analysis: Finasteride does not appear to increase high-grade PCa risk
An extensive re-analysis of the drug finasteride (Proscar) shows that it reduced the risk of developing prostate cancer by about 30% compared with the initial finding of a 25% reduction in risk.
Estrogen helps drive aggressive form of prostate cancer
Estrogen-linked signaling helps drive a discrete and aggressive form of prostate cancer caused by a chromosomal translocation, which, in turn, results in the fusion of two genes, researchers report.
Data suggest possible link between male infertility, somatic cancers
Results of a study based on data from approximately 43,400 men show risks of developing melanoma and prostate cancer are increased among those with a diagnosis of male factor infertility, reported researchers from the University of California, San Francisco.
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Sexual Dysfunction
Rehab is key to restoring post-RP erectile dysfunction
The return and quality of sexual function is a major concern for men undergoing radical prostatectomy. New research on the etiology of post-prostatectomy erectile dysfunction is shaping new rehabilitation strategies for prostatectomy patients, according to John P. Mulhall, MD, who discusses current and future rehabilitation strategies and his own approach to post-prostatectomy ED in this exclusive interview.
Studies show positive results of TRT gel formulations in obese, diabetic men
Two testosterone gel formulations are efficacious in obese men and those with diabetes, according to separate studies reported at the Endocrine Society annual meeting in San Francisco.
Panel develops definition of premature ejaculation
The International Society for Sexual Medicine has developed an evidence-based definition of premature ejaculation that its authors say will aid future diagnosis, treatment, and research.
Premature ejaculation: A common problem with a promising future
Premature ejaculation (PE) is a common problem estimated to affect between 20% and 40% of men. The distress of this condition is actually felt by both partners.
Injection therapy salvages 25% of PDE-5 failures
About one-quarter of men who fail to respond to phosphodiesterase type-5 (PDE-5) inhibitors for treatment of erectile dysfunction will respond to the drug on rechallenge if they are first exposed to a short-term course of intracavernosal injection (ICI) therapy.
Investigational premature ejaculation therapy improves quality of life in men, partners
Dapoxetine, a drug currently under investigation for the treatment of premature ejaculation, provides significant improvement in the sexual function of men and their sexual partners, according to the results of a recent multinational study.
Not men only: Premature ejaculation adversely affects female partners
Results of a recent study have shown that female partners of men suffering from premature ejaculation (PE) confirm the lack of ejaculatory control of their partners. Significantly lower sexual satisfaction as well as higher ejaculation-related distress and interpersonal difficulties in the relationship were also seen in both male and female participants, compared to relationships in which PE was not an issue.
Investigational PE Rx improves QoL in men, partners
Dapoxetine, a drug currently under investigation for the treatment of premature ejaculation, provides significant improvement in the sexual function of men and their sexual partners, according to the results of a recent multinational study presented here.
Survey results make case for establishing Peyronie's guidelines
Results of a survey of Peyronie's disease knowledge and practice patterns among urologists in the United States raise concerns and speak to the need for developing Peyronie's disease guidelines, John P. Mulhall, MD, said at the AUA annual meeting.
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Stone Disease
Gastric bypass surgery may increase kidney stone risk
Morbidly obese patients who undergo a particular type of gastric bypass surgery called Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) are at increased risk of developing kidney stones within a few months following the procedure, rather than several months to years afterward, according to research published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons (2008; 206:1145-53).
Modified scope reduces luminal pressure by 40%
Use of dead space within a ureteroscope can enhance its performance and reduce intrarenal pressure without compromising the efficiency and structural integrity of the instrument, Joseph V. DiTrolio, MD, of the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey in Roseland, reported at the AUA annual meeting.
Real-world study finds higher risk of second procedure after SWL
Patients undergoing shock wave lithotripsy are significantly more likely to undergo a subsequent surgical procedure than are patients undergoing ureteroscopy, according to results of a study designed to investigate real-world practice patterns in surgical therapy for urinary lithiasis. Researchers from Duke University, Durham, NC, reported the finding at the AUA annual meeting yesterday.
Second-look nephroscopy for residual fragments: Size matters
Second-look flexible nephroscopy after percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is cost effective only for residual stone fragments larger than 4 mm, according to findings from a study reported at the AUA meeting yesterday.
Tubeless percutaneous nephrolithotomy: Viable approach for some renal stones
Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL) continues to be an effective minimally invasive approach to the treatment of large-volume renal stone disease.
Improved imaging, tubeless PNL mark stone advances
Glenn M. Preminger, MD, professor of urologic surgery and director of the Comprehensive Kidney Stone Center at Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, suggests that the next decade might best be spent refining those technologies and determining which patients are likely to derive the greatest benefit from these advances.
Technical insights, controversy mark shock wave lithotripsy's evolution
While understanding of the basic science of shock waves has increased dramatically, questions have also been raised about the potential for serious adverse advents and urologist ownership of lithotriptors.
New ureteral stone guidelines reflect treatment changes
When AUA announced release of new guidelines for the management of ureteral calculi in mid-November, the document established landmarks.
Ambulatory surgical center owners much more likely to operate on stones
Urologists who own or who have an interest in ambulatory surgical centers perform more than three times as many stone surgeries as non-owners do.