Aaron Lentz

An Outcomes Analysis of over 200 Revision Surgeries for Penile Prosthesis Implantation: A Multicenter Study

INTRODUCTION Inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) implantation is a well-established treatment for medically refractory erectile dysfunction, with long-term reliability. Overall survival is 96% at 5 years and 60% at 15 years for primary (virgin) implantation. AIM The aim of this study was to explore factors associated with success and complications of IPP revision surgery in a multicenter study. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Reasons for revision including mechanical issues, patient dissatisfaction, corporal deformity, and supersonic transport (SST) deformity were recorded. METHODS At four institutions, 214 clinically uninfected IPP revisions were performed between November 2000 and November 2007. Data were incomplete for 28 cases (14%). Failure-free survival was estimated using Kaplan-Meiers Meier product limit method. RESULTS The majority of revisions were secondary to mechanical failure (N = 109; 65%) and combined erosion or infection (N = 17 + 15 = 32; 19%). Sixteen percent (N = 26) were carried out on functional uninfected prostheses secondary to patient dissatisfaction (N = 9), SST deformity (N = 10), scrotal hematoma (N = 2), or upsize revision because of corporal fibrosis (N = 5). Average age at revision was 66 years. Mean follow-up time was 55.7 months. In this study, 12 individuals required a secondary revision procedure or suffered a complication. Despite prior reports of high infection rates with revision surgery, only 5.7% of clinically uninfected and noneroded prostheses were complicated by infection or impending extrusion/erosion, following a revision washout protocol. Overall, 93% of cases were successfully revised, providing functioning IPPs. CONCLUSIONS For this study population, component exchange followed by revision washout showed a low incidence of infection and subsequent mechanical failure.

Outcomes Following Artificial Sphincter Implantation After Prior Unsuccessful Male Sling

PURPOSE Despite the proven success and durability of the artificial urinary sphincter many patients elect an AdVance® sling as the initial treatment of male stress incontinence. We determined whether sling placement would change the outcome of an ensuing artificial urinary sphincter. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 29 patients with stress urinary incontinence after failed sling placement were treated with an AMS 800® artificial urinary sphincter between January 2006 and May 2011. A control group of 136 men with a primary artificial urinary sphincter was used for comparison. Preoperative and postoperative evaluation included demographic variables, voiding diary, 24-hour pad weight, urodynamic characteristics, operative time, estimated blood loss, complication rate, followup and cuff selection. RESULTS There was no statistical difference in urodynamic characteristics, operative variables or the complication rate. Pad use was reported as less than 1 pad daily in 96% of patients (28 of 29) with a secondary artificial urinary sphincter at 3-month followup. At 20.7 months 6.9% of patients (2 of 29) treated with an artificial urinary sphincter after the male sling required revision of the artificial urinary sphincter. The overall complication rate in the control group was 8.8% (12 of 136 patients) with a 2.2% infection rate (3 of 136). The overall complication rate in the artificial urinary sphincter plus male sling group was 6.9% (2 of 29 patients) with a 0% infection rate. CONCLUSIONS Patients who require an artificial urinary sphincter after an initial male sling seem to fare as well as those who undergo primary artificial urinary sphincter implantation.

The Artificial Urinary Sphincter is Superior to a Secondary Transobturator Male Sling in Cases of a Primary Sling Failure

PURPOSE We compared continence outcomes in patients with post-prostatectomy stress urinary incontinence treated with a salvage artificial urinary sphincter vs a secondary transobturator sling. MATERIALS AND METHODS We retrospectively reviewed the records of patients undergoing salvage procedures after sling failure from 2006 to 2012. Postoperative success was defined as the use of 0 or 1 pad, a negative stress test and pad weight less than 8 gm per day. We performed the Wilcoxon test and used a Cox regression model and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. RESULTS A total of 61 men presenting with sling failure were included in study, of whom 32 went directly to an artificial urinary sphincter and 29 received a secondary sling. Of the artificial urinary sphincter cohort 47% underwent prior external beam radiation therapy vs 17% of the secondary sling cohort (p = 0.01). Average preoperative 24 hour pad weight and pad number were higher in the artificial urinary sphincter cohort. Median followup in artificial urinary sphincter and secondary sling cases was 4.5 (IQR 4-12) and 4 months (IQR 1-5), respectively. Overall treatment failure was seen in 55% of patients (16 of 29) with a secondary sling vs 6% (2 of 32) with an artificial urinary sphincter (unadjusted HR 7, 95% CI 2-32 and adjusted HR 6, 95% CI 1-31). CONCLUSION In this cohort of patients with post-prostatectomy stress urinary incontinence and a failed primary sling those who underwent a secondary sling procedure were up to 6 times more likely to have persistent incontinence vs those who underwent artificial urinary sphincter placement. These data are useful for counseling patients and planning surgery. We currently recommend placement of an artificial urinary sphincter for patients in whom an initial sling has failed.

Clinical use of serum CA-125 levels in patients undergoing radical cystectomy for transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder

PURPOSE It has recently been reported that serum CA-125 levels may serve as a prognostic indicator of extravesical disease in patients with bladder cancer. This study evaluated the role of CA-125 as a prognostic marker in patients with transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder undergoing radical cystectomy and urinary diversion. METHODS Ninety-two consecutive patients underwent planned radical cystectomy and urinary diversion with curative intent (2005-2006). Serum CA-125 levels were obtained in all patients and correlations were made to clinical and operative findings and pathological outcomes. Outcomes were evaluated with regard to normal vs. abnormal CA-125 values and with regard to absolute values of CA-125 levels. Results were also stratified by short-term recurrence rates. RESULTS Mean CA-125 values varied significantly by pathological stage and by resectability. No patient (0/56) with organ-confined disease (<or= pT2N0) had an abnormal CA-125, and only 1 patient (1/75 = 1.3%) with <or= pT3N0 disease had an abnormal value. Conversely, 35% of patients with regionally-advanced disease (pT4 or N+) had an elevated CA-125, and all patients with unresectable disease (5/5) had an elevated value. In addition, patients with abnormal values of CA-125 (i.e., <35 U/ml) had a significantly higher upstaging rate compared to non-upstaged patients (18.8% vs. 3.5%, respectively; P = 0.0233). As well, patients with CA-125 levels <15 U/ml had a significantly higher upstaging rate compared with non-upstaged patients (53.1% vs. 15.8%, respectively; P = 0.0005). At a mean follow-up of 15 months (median = 14 months), patients with T2/T3N0 disease who recurred had a higher mean value than patients with pT2/T3 disease who did not recur (20.1 vs. 10.8 U/ml). CONCLUSIONS Serum CA-125 levels may serve as a useful predictor of pathological outcomes in patients undergoing cystectomy for urothelial carcinoma of the bladder. Further studies will be carried out to determine the predictability of CA-125 on long-term recurrence and survival rates, and to evaluate the utility of CA-125 as a marker for disease response in patients with recurrent or advanced disease undergoing systemic therapy.

The Ohmmeter Identifies the Site of Fluid Leakage during Artificial Urinary Sphincter Revision Surgery

PURPOSE While the AMS 800 artificial urinary sphincter improves continence in up to 90% of patients, revision surgery may be needed in up to 50%. We determined whether an ohmmeter could accurately assess the site of fluid leak from individual components of the artificial urinary sphincter at the time of revision surgery. MATERIALS AND METHODS We retrospectively reviewed the records of patients who underwent artificial urinary sphincter revision surgery between 1996 and 2013. Patients in whom fluid loss was identified preoperatively by plain film radiography and who subsequently underwent revision surgery using the ohmmeter were assessed for outcomes. RESULTS The ohmmeter was used intraoperatively in a total of 20 surgeries in 19 patients and it correctly identified the location of fluid loss in 18 of 20 (90%). Fluid leakage was found from the pressure regulating balloon in 13 cases, from the cuff in 4 and from the tubing to the pressure regulating balloon in 1. None had fluid loss from the pump. In the 17 cases in which only the malfunctioning component was replaced a satisfactory postoperative outcome with a fully functional device was documented in all. Repeat surgery was performed in 5 of 17 cases (29.4%) at a median of 17 months (range 2 to 39). No patient underwent repeat surgery due to failure to accurately diagnose a component leak. CONCLUSIONS In cases of suspected fluid loss as a cause of artificial urinary sphincter malfunction an ohmmeter can identify the site of fluid loss during component revision surgery.

Technological Improvements in Three-Piece Inflatable Penile Prosthesis Design over the Past 40 Years

INTRODUCTION The advent of the penile prosthesis revolutionized the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED), resulting in near-complete treatment efficacy and high patient satisfaction rates. While several types of penile prosthesis are available, the inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) is the most commonly used device in the United States. AIMS To describe the key modifications to IPPs from the two major manufacturers-American Medical Systems (AMS) and Coloplast-since the invention of the IPP, and to relate these changes to improvements in prosthesis function and patient outcomes based on available literature. METHODS Review and evaluation of the literature between 1973 and present describing modifications in IPP design and the influence of these modifications on IPP durability and patient-related factors. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Data describing the impact of iterative improvements in three-piece IPP design on device function, durability, and patient outcomes. RESULTS There were progressive improvements in IPP technology from both major manufacturers not only on the durability of the prosthesis but also on patient outcomes, with fewer device failures and lower infection rates. Notable improvements include incorporation of kink-resistant tubing, changes in the weave or addition of shear- and infection-resistant coatings to cylinder layers, pump and tubing connection modifications, the addition of rear tip extenders, and the incorporation of lockout valves to prevent autoinflation. CONCLUSIONS Numerous incremental modifications to the IPP from both major manufacturers since its invention have increased its durability and improved patient outcomes.

Long-term Artificial Urinary Sphincter Outcomes Following a Prior Rectourethral Fistula Repair.

OBJECTIVE To determine the long-term outcomes of artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) implantation following a successful rectourethral fistula (RUF) repair. MATERIALS AND METHODS Between January 1, 2006 and January 1, 2012, a total of 26 patients underwent successful repair of an RUF. Stress urinary incontinence was treated in 6 patients (23%) with implantation of an AUS. Preoperative and postoperative evaluation included demographic variables, voiding diaries, 24-hour pad weight, urodynamic characteristics, operative time, estimated blood loss, complication rates, follow-up time, and cuff selection. RESULTS All 6 patients underwent successful RUF repair using a perineal approach. Mean age was 64.3 years (range 58-74). Mean follow-up after repair was 51.5 months (range 34-64). RUF etiology included radical prostatectomy (4), brachytherapy + external beam radiotherapy (1), and cryotherapy + external beam radiotherapy (1). The median time between RUF repair and AUS placement was 12 months (range 2-41). No intraoperative complications occurred during AUS implantation. The average operative time was 61.8 minutes with an estimated blood loss of 24 mL. The initial cuff size selected was 4.0 or 4.5 cm, and no patient required transcorporal cuff placement. Pad use was reported as ≤1 pad per day in all 6 patients at the initial 3-month follow-up. Median follow-up after AUS placement was 43.5 months (5-55). No patient required revision or removal for mechanical complications, infection, or erosion. No patient had recurrence of their previously repaired RUF or new-onset fecal incontinence. CONCLUSION Patients who require placement of an AUS after an RUF repair seem to fare just as well as patients who undergo primary AUS implantation with no increased rate of complications postoperatively.

The Evolution of the Inflatable Penile Prosthesis Reservoir and Surgical Placement

The traditional inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) reservoir placement is below the transversalis fascia in the space of Retzius. In 2002, Dr. Steve Wilson described ectopic reservoir placement, thereby providing a safe and effective alternative for implant surgeons. This new approach obviated the need for a second incision and decreased operative times during surgery. In the manuscript, he also described the introduction of a reservoir lock-out valve, which prevents autoinflation of the penile implant. The development of lockout valves and flat reservoirs has contributed to the early success and feasibility of submuscular placement techniques. Thirteen years after Dr. Wilsons pivotal study, this technique should be in the armamentarium of all urologic prosthetic surgeons. Accordingly, in certain subsets of patients, ectopic/ submuscular reservoir site placement should be considered a safe, effective alternative to standard reservoir placement in the space of Retzius.

Contemporary Review of Male and Female Climacturia and Urinary Leakage During Sexual Activities

INTRODUCTION Urinary leakage during sexual activity is a prevalent and often distressing condition that is under-addressed despite having a range of reasonable treatment options. AIM To review the available literature on prevalence, pathophysiology, and treatment of urinary leakage during sexual activities. METHODS A literature review was performed through PubMed from 1996 to 2017 regarding urinary leakage during sexual activities for men and women including foreplay incontinence, coital incontinence, and climacturia. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES To assess various physiologic and social factors of urinary leakage during sexual activities for men and women, treatment options, and their reported outcomes. RESULTS Urinary leakage during sexual activity is a prevalent condition that is underdiagnosed and undertreated. The pathophysiology of sexual incontinence is very similar between men and women and is influenced by injury to the pelvic and pudendal nerves, pelvic floor and external sphincter incompetence, and detrusor overactivity. There are different treatment options that are effective and should be offered to patients bothered by their symptoms. CONCLUSION Improved awareness is critical for better addressing the issue of sexual incontinence. There is likely a common pathophysiologic pathway between men and women and many treatment options are effective. However, further study is required to better elucidate this disease process and most effective treatment options. Mendez MH, Sexton SJ, Lentz AC. Contemporary Review of Male and Female Climacturia and Urinary Leakage During Sexual Activities. Sex Med Rev 2018;6:16-28.

Survey on the Contemporary Management of Intraoperative Urethral Injuries During Penile Prosthesis Implantation

BACKGROUND Intraoperative urethral injury is an uncommon event during the placement of a penile prosthesis, and alternative management strategies have been proposed with continuation of implantation after urethral injury. AIM To evaluate surgeon practices in the management of intraoperative urethral injury. METHODS An online survey was sent to the society listservs of the Genitourinary Reconstructive Surgeons (GURS) and the Sexual Medicine Society of North America (SMSNA). Physicians were queried on their fellowship training, experience with penile prosthesis implantation, and management of urethral injuries during prosthesis placement. The response data were analyzed using SAS 9.4 (SAS Institute, Cary, NC, USA). The χ2 test and Fisher exact test were used to determine associations between variables. OUTCOMES Survey responses. RESULTS 131 survey responses were analyzed. Of the responders, 41.2% were GURS fellowship trained, 19.1% were SMSNA trained, 30.5% were non-fellowship trained, and 9.2% were trained in other fellowships. 25.4% of participants performed more than 50 implantations per year, 37.7% performed 20 to 50 per year, and 36.9% performed fewer than 20 per year. Urethral injury during prosthesis implantation was uncommon, with 26.2% reporting 0 injury, 58.5% reporting 1 to 3 injuries, and 15.4% reporting more than 3 career injuries. Injuries were most commonly encountered during corporal dilation (71.1%) compared with corporal exposure (12.5%) or penile straightening maneuvers (7.0%). There was no statistically significant difference with aborting or continuing implantation among GURS-trained, SMSNA-trained, other fellowship-trained, and non-fellowship-trained surgeons. Of all responders, 55% would abort the procedure after distal urethral injury, whereas 45% would continue the procedure with unilateral or bilateral insertion of cylinders. Patient factors that increased likelihood of terminating the procedure in the case of urethral injury included immunosuppression, spinal cord injury, and clean intermittent catheterization dependence. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS A urethral injury during penile prosthesis implantation might not mandate termination of the procedure despite classic teaching. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS The strength of this study is that it provides difficult to obtain epidemiologic data on the frequency and management of this clinically significant injury. Limitations include the inherent biases from a survey-based study including response bias and recall bias. The survey response rate could not be obtained. CONCLUSION Urethral injury during penile prosthesis implantation is a rare but clinically significant risk of the procedure, with many variations in management of the injury. Termination and delayed implantation might not be necessary after injury, although long-term outcome data are difficult to obtain. Sexton SJ, Granieri MA, Lentz AC. Survey on the Contemporary Management of Intraoperative Urethral Injuries During Penile Prosthesis Implantation. J Sex Med 2018;15:576-581.