Detrusor Underactivity and Bladder Outlet Procedures in Men

Purpose of Review

Detrusor underactivity (DU) is a common but poorly understood clinical problem. The diagnosis and treatment of DU are difficult and full of uncertainties. There are many overlaps between DU and bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) in clinical symptoms and managements. In this review, we discuss the relationship of clinical diagnosis and treatment between DU and BOO in men, especially the outcome of bladder outlet surgery in patients with DU.

Recent Findings

DU could be resulted from many different etiologies, including psychogenic, neurogenic, myogenic, and the reduced detrusor contractility after increasing muscle work against the increase of bladder outlet resistance. Current managements are usually focused on relieving voiding difficulty and prevent urine retention to avoid urinary tract infection and upper urinary tract deterioration. Since there is no suitable medical treatment to enhance bladder contractility, most of the researches focus on reducing bladder outlet resistance and treat BOO. Many recent studies have reported the therapeutic outcome of transurethral incision of the bladder neck, transurethral resection of the prostate and urethral sphincter botulinum toxin A injection.

Summary

The current treatment options in DU are limited. Even if there are many clinical trials revealing good results in patients with DU after BOO surgery, the evidence that BOO surgeries benefit patients with DU are still controversial. The actual mechanism of detrusor function recovery after BOO surgery in men with DU has not been well elucidated. Nevertheless, a portion of men with DU can safely and effectively improve their voiding symptoms and voiding efficiency after BOO surgeries. Further research of the underlying pathophysiology between DU and BOO is mandatory.

     

Detrusor Underactivity and Urinary Retention in Geriatric Patients: Evaluation, Management and Recent Research

Urinary retention is a common urologic problem in older adults. The condition can be either acute or chronic. Detrusor underactivity and bladder outlet obstruction are the most common primary causes. A variety of underlying clinical factors including neurological diseases, muscular disorders, and some medications can lead to urinary retention in elderly patients. Urodynamic testing can assist with differential diagnosis in some cases. Management often involves intermittent or indwelling catheterization, although neuromodulation and surgical diversion can be considered in select patients. Detrusor underactivity has recently gained increased research attention, and new translational research about this entity in geriatric patients is reviewed.     

Changes in Urodynamics and Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms after Radical Prostatectomy: Implications of Preoperative Detrusor Contractility

Objectives: Our goal was to identify changes in urodynamic parameters and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in men followed for1 year after radical prostatectomy (RP) compared to the preoperative measures with a specific focus on detrusor contractility. Methods: This study enrolled 43 patients who received RP (laparoscopic 27, retropubic: 16) and pressure flow studies (PFS) pre‐RP as well as 12 months (M) after RP. No patients complained of urinary incontinence preoperatively. Urodynamic studies and questionnaires regarding LUTS and urinary continence were conducted before and 12 M after RP. Detrusor underactivity (DU) was defined as <10 (W/m²) in preoperative maximum watts factor value. Results: Urodynamics demonstrated that RP improved urodynamic parameters by releasing bladder outlet obstruction without affecting overall detrusor contractility. Meanwhile, RP did not affect bladder capacity, bladder compliance, or detrusor contractility. LUTS in the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), including the IPSS subscore, was not improved. The quality of life score was significantly better at 12 M after RP and continence rates were gradually improved to be at a satisfactory level in more than 80% of patients by 12 M after RP. DU was preoperatively identified in 21(49%) patients, influencing urodynamic parameters and LUTS preoperatively. However, DU did not affect urodynamic parameters and LUTS after RP. Conclusion: Although RP improves urodynamic parameters, it does not significantly affect LUTS. Urinary continence gradually improves and is satisfactory within 1 year after RP. The status of preoperative detrusor contractility did not affect urodynamic parameters or LUTS after RP.     

The Role of Anatomic Extented Pelvic Lymphadenectomy in Men Undergoing Radical Prostatectomy for Prostate Cancer

The rationale for locoregional staging lymphadenectomy in prostate cancer lies in the accurate diagnosis of occult micrometastases in order to stratify patients who might benefit from adjuvant therapeutic measures. In prostate cancer, extended pelvic lymphadenectomy (EPLA) including the lymphatic tissue along the common iliac region with the ureteral crossing as cranial margin, external and internal iliac region and the obturator fossa has been shown to significantly increase the yield of both total lymph nodes and lymph node metastases. The total number of lymph nodes removed is about 2 to 3-fold higher and the frequency of micrometastatic lymph nodes is approximately 2-fold higher compared to standard lymphadenectomy. Furthermore, the frequency of observed positive lymph nodes in clinically localized and locally advanced prostate cancer is significantly higher than predicted by nomograms such as Partin tables and CART analysis. Although there are no prospective randomized trials demonstrating a survival benefit associated with EPLA, there might be an advantage for those with minimal lymph node involvement. Progression-free survival is significantly improved in patients undergoing EPLA with a 35% benefit compared to standard lymphadenectomy. Various studies have documented an equal risk of cancer associated mortality in patients with no or only 1–2 positive lymph nodes. Since the surgery associated morbidity of EPLA is not increased as compared to standard lymphadenectomy, EPLA should be favoured at least for all intermediate and high risk patients undergoing radical prostatectomy; in low risk patients the option of EPLA has to be discussed thoroughly. For the future, ongoing prospective trials have to demonstrate a clear benefit in terms of biochemical free and cancer specific survival.     

Efficacy of High‐frequency Magnetic Stimulation of the Sacral Root in Patients with Urinary Incontinence Following a Radical Prostatectomy

Objectives: We report on our initial data from a prospective study to determine the efficacy of high‐frequency magnetic stimulation on the sacral root (MSSR) for the intractable post‐radical prostatectomy, stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Methods: A total of 14 men with persistent SUI after a radical prostatectomy underwent treatment once every 2 weeks over a 40‐week period for a total of 20 sessions. The outcome was assessed by these variables at baseline, at immediately after the first session, and at immediately after the final (20^th) session. Results: Mean leak episodes (per day) consistently decreased after the first to the final session (from 6.1 ± 2.9 to 3.5 ± 2.6, and to 3.0 ± 2.3, P < 0.01), and it remained to be decreased following 2 months after the final session. The mean pad weight (per h) also decreased after the treatment (but no statistically significant change compared to the pretreatment level). The cystometric bladder capacity at the first desire to void and the capacity at the strong desire to void increased significantly following the high‐frequency MSSR (first desire to void: from 146 ± 43 to 182 ± 52 mL; strong desire to void: from 224 ± 69 to 258 ± 60 mL, P < 0.01). No obvious complication was observed in any patients during or after the treatment. Conclusion: This study provides the preliminary evidence that high‐frequency MSSR may potentially afford a useful option with minimal invasiveness for the patients with obstinate SUI after a radical prostatectomy.     

Prevalence and Malignant Potential of Colorectal Polyps in Asymptomatic, Average-Risk Men

Screening colonoscopy was performed on 119 asymptomatic elderly men with no other risk factors for colonic neoplasms. Ninety adenomas were detected in 49 (41%) subjects. Mean adenoma size was 6.5 mm, with 83 (92%) less than or equal to 10 mm. Forty-nine (54%) adenomas were located proximal to the splenic flexure, and 17 (19%) were classified as tubulovillous or villous. Moderate- to high-grade dysplasia was found in 29 (32%) adenomas and was associated with larger size (p less than 0.0001) and villous architecture (p = 0.0038). Two subjects harbored adenomas with invasive cancer. Seventy-one hyperplastic polyps were found in 40 (34%) subjects. The mean size of hyperplastic polyps was 3.4 mm, and 64 (90%) were located in the left colon. We conclude that, in this population, adenomas are common lesions that are frequently small. However, substantial proportions of these adenomas may be at risk for malignant degeneration due to the presence of villous architecture and higher grades of dysplasia. Because adenomas and hyperplastic polyps are endoscopically indistinguishable, all polyps found at endoscopy should be removed or ablated.     

Prevalence of Sexually Transmitted Infections Among Men Who Have Sex with Men in Zagreb, Croatia

We used respondent-driven sampling among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Zagreb, Croatia in 2006 to investigate the prevalence of HIV, other sexually transmitted infections and sexual behaviours. We recruited 360 MSM. HIV infection was diagnosed in 4.5%. The seroprevalence of antibodies to viral pathogens was: herpes simplex virus type-2, 9.4%; hepatitis A, 14.2%; hepatitis C, 3.0%. Eighty percent of participants were susceptible to HBV infection (HBs antigen negative, and no antibodies to HBs and HBc antigen). Syphilis seroprevalence was 10.6%. Prevalence of Chlamydia and gonorrhoea was 9.0%, and 13.2%, respectively. Results indicate the need for interventions to diagnose, treat and prevent sexually transmitted infections among this population.     

HIV Prevalence and Correlates of Unprotected Anal Intercourse Among Men Who Have Sex with Men, Jinan, China

China’s HIV epidemic may be shifting towards predominantly sexual transmission and emerging data point to potential increases in HIV prevalence among men who have sex with men (MSM). There is particular need to assess the extent of risk behavior among MSM outside of China’s most cosmopolitan cities. We conducted a respondent-driven sampling survey (N = 428) to measure HIV seroprevalence and risk behavior among MSM in Jinan, China, the provincial capital of Shandong. HIV prevalence was 0.5% (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.1–1.0). Unprotected anal intercourse (UAI) in the last 6 months (reported by 61.4%) was associated with buying or selling sex to a man in the last 6 months, syphilis infection, multiple partners in the last month, low HIV knowledge and migrant status. No participant had previously tested for HIV. Risk for HIV transmission is widespread among MSM throughout China; basic prevention programs are urgently needed.     

Sexual Risk Taking,STI and HIV Prevalence Among Men Who Have Sex with Men in Six Indonesian Cities

Using surveillance data on men who have sex with men (MSM) from six Indonesian cities, this article reports prevalence of sexual risk taking, HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. Factors associated with HIV, other STIs and consistent condom use were assessed. Behavioral data were collected from 1,450 MSM, among whom 749 were tested for HIV and syphilis and 738 for gonorrhea and Chlamydia. Associations were assessed using multivariate logistic regression. Over 80% of MSM knew HIV transmission routes, 65% of MSM had multiple male sexual partners, 27% unprotected anal sex with multiple male partners, and 27% sex with a female in the prior month. Consistent condom use ranged from 30 to 40% with male partners and 20 to 30% with female partners, depending upon partner type. HIV prevalence averaged 5.2%, but was 8.0% in Jakarta. Prevalence of rectal gonorrhea or Chlamydia was 32%. Multivariate analyses revealed recent methamphetamine use and current rectal gonorrheal or chlamydial infection to be associated with HIV infection. The data confirm diverse sexual networks and substantial sexual risk-taking, despite relatively high levels of education and HIV-related knowledge. In addition to promoting partner reduction and more consistent condom and lubricant use, prevention efforts must also address substance abuse.     

Prevalence of coronary heart disease in Icelandic Men 1968-1986: The Reykjavik Study

The prevalence of coronary heart disease (CHD) was determinedin a general population sample of 9141 Icelandic men aged 34–79years, and the prevalence of four different forms of CHD wasestimated separately: symptomatic infarction fulfilling WHO–MONICAcriteria for definite myocardial infarction; myocardial infarctiondetected by ECG changes only (unrecognized, silent infarction);angina pectoris detected by the Rose questionnaire and associatedwith ECG manifestations of myocardial ischaemia, either at restor during exercise, but no manifestations of myocardial infarction;angina pectoris without ECG changes indicative of myocardialischaemia. The study was conducted in five stages allowing evaluationof trends from 1968–1986 Age was a major determinant of the prevalence of all forms ofCHD. Thus, the prevalence of myocardial infarction (symptomaticor silent) rose from undetectable levels in the youngest agegroup (30–34 years) to around 12% (7% symptomatic and5% silent) in the oldest group (75–79 years) and the prevalenceof all forms of CHD rose from 4% in the youngest age group to23% in the age group 70–74 years. Age-standardized comparisonwas carried out on the prevalence of the different forms ofCHD at different stages of the study in 50–64-year-oldmen who were represented in all stages of the study. There wasa gradual increase in the prevalence of myocardial infarctionfrom 3% (symptomatic and silent combined, CI 1.9–4–8)in 1968 to 4.9% in 1986 (CI 3.9–6.1) (P<0.001). Converselythere was a statistically significant fall in the prevalenceof angina pectoris, with or without ECG-manifestations of myocardialischaemia, from 11.3% (CI 8.8–14.4) in 1968 to 5% in 1986(CI 4.0–6.2) (P<0.001). This decrease was of sufficientmagnitude to more than offset the rise in infarct prevalence,resulting in a significant fall in the prevalence of all CHDfrom 14.3% (CI 11.5–17.8) in 1968 to9.9% (CI 8.5–11.5)in 1986 in 50–64-year-old men. This trend is in generalagreement with the previously reported decline in age-standardizedmortality from CHD and the incidence of myocardial infarctionin Iceland.     

Rising HIV Prevalence Among Married and Unmarried Among Men Who Have Sex with Men: Jinan, China

We report on two waves of bio-behavioral surveillance of MSM in Jinan, Shandong Province, China. HIV prevalence rose from 0.05% in 2007 to 3.1% in 2008. Differences in the two waves of surveys were noted, particularly with respect to marital status, requiring stratified analysis. In multivariable analysis, unmarried, homosexually identified MSM who do not have female sex partners have a greater than sixfold greater chance of being infected with HIV compared to married, non-homosexually identified MSM who do have female partners. Carefully targeted and population-specific messages will be needed for homosexually identified and non-identified MSM in China.     

Vasoplegia Following Orthotopic Heart Transplantation: Prevalence,Predictors and Clinical Outcomes

BackgroundPatients undergoing heart transplant are at high risk for postoperative vasoplegia. Despite its frequency and association with poor clinical outcomes, there remains no consensus definition for vasoplegia, and the predisposing risk factors for vasoplegia remain unclear. Accordingly, the aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence, predictors, and clinical outcomes associated with vasoplegia in a contemporary cohort of patients undergoing heart transplantation.MethodsThis was a retrospective cohort study of patients undergoing heart transplantation from January 2015 to December 2019. A binary definition of vasoplegia of a cardiac index of 2.5 L/min/m² or greater and requirement for norepinephrine (≥5 µg/min), epinephrine (≥4 µg/min), or vasopressin (≥1 unit/h) to maintain a mean arterial blood pressure of 65 mm Hg, for 6 consecutive hours during the first 48 hours postoperatively, was used in determining prevalence. Given the relatively low threshold for the binary definition of vasoplegia, patients were divided into tertiles based on their cumulative vasopressor requirement in the 48 hours following transplant. Outcomes included all-cause mortality, intubation time, intensive care unit length of stay, and length of total hospitalization.ResultsAfter exclusion of patients with primary cardiogenic shock, major bleeding, or overt sepsis, data were collected on 95 eligible patients. By binary definition, vasoplegia incidence was 66.3%. We separately stratified by actual vasopressor requirement tertile (high, intermediate, low). Stratified by tertile, patients with vasoplegia were older (52.7 ± 10.2 vs 46.8 ± 12.7 vs 44.4 ± 11.3 years, P = .02), with higher rates of chronic kidney disease (18.8% vs 32.3% vs 3.1%, P = .01) and were more likely to have been transplanted from left ventricular assist device support (n = 42) (62.5% vs 32.3% vs 37.5%, P = .03). Cardiopulmonary bypass time was prolonged in those that developed vasoplegia (155 min [interquartile range 135–193] vs 131 min [interquartile range 117–152] vs 116 min [interquartile range 102–155], P = .003). Intubation time and length of intensive care unit and hospital stay were significantly increased in those that developed vasoplegia; however, this difference did not translate to a significant increase in all-cause mortality at 30 days or 1 year.ConclusionsVasoplegia occurs at a high rate after heart transplantation. Older age, chronic kidney disease, mechanical circulatory support, and prolonged bypass time are all associated with vasoplegia; however, this study did not demonstrate an associated increase in all-cause mortalityLay SummaryPatients undergoing heart transplantation are at high risk of vasoplegia, a condition defined by low blood pressure despite normal heart function. We found that vasoplegia was common after heart transplant, occurring in 60%–70% of patients after heart transplant after excluding those with other causes for low blood pressure. Factors implicated included age, poor kidney function, prolonged cardiopulmonary bypass time and preoperative left ventricular assist device support. We found no increased risk of death in patients with vasoplegia despite longer lengths of stay in intensive care and in hospital.     

Prevalence and Risk Factors Associated with HIV Infection Among Men Having Sex with Men in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

To learn more about risk behaviors among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Vietnam and their prevalence of HIV, we conducted a study among MSM in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) to determine HIV-1 prevalence and behaviors associated with infection. This consisted of formative (35 MSM) and cross-sectional (600 MSM) studies at 72 sites, including 75 transvestites, 55 bisexuals, 10 sex workers, and 460 other MSM. Only 5.3% cohabited with a wife/girlfriend, but 30% reported ever having sex with a female. Prevalence of HIV was 8%, ranging from 33% in sex workers to 7% among transvestites and other MSM. Injecting drugs, selling sex, being 20–40 years old, having less than 6 years of education, and having more than five male anal sex partners in the past month were associated with being HIV-infected. MSM are an HIV bridge group, and should be included in sentinel surveillance. Targeted interventions should be implemented.     

Prevalence and Related Risk Behaviors of HIV, Syphilis, and Anal HPV Infection Among Men who have Sex with Men from Beijing, China

Specific risk behaviors related to different sexually transmitted infections have not been widely evaluated among men who have sex with men in China. In the present study, a total of 302 MSM were recruited from Beijing with a prevalence of HIV, syphilis, and anal HPV infection as 9.9, 19.2 and 71.4%, respectively. Lower education level was observed to be related to higher infection rate of HIV and syphilis. “Ever found sexual partners in gay venues” was significantly associated with HIV infection as well. “Taking anilinction as regular sexual behavior” was observed to be a significant predictor for anal HPV infection.     

Prevalence and Importance of Comorbidities in Patients With Heart Failure

Heart failure (HF), being a disease of the elderly, is associated with several noncardiac comorbidities, defined as chronic conditions coexisting with HF that play an integral role in its development, progression, and response to treatment. These include pulmonary dysfunction, sleep-disordered breathing, renal dysfunction, liver dysfunction, anaemia, thyroid disorders, diabetes mellitus, skeletal myopathy, depression, and cognitive impairment. The noncardiac comorbidity burden is higher and associated with higher non-HF hospitalizations in patients with HF and preserved, as compared with those with HF and reduced, left-ventricular ejection fraction. Since chronic inflammation is a characteristic feature of both HF and the coexisting morbidities, it may play a pivotal role in their development, progression, and interactions.     

The Evaluation of Dysphagia Following Radical Surgery for Oral and Pharyngeal Carcinomas by Cine-Magnetic Resonance Imaging (Cine-MRI)

Cine-magnetic resonance imaging (cine-MRI) creates moving pictures by a video system and turbo-flash method that allow for high-speed MRI. This report describes our experience using this new technique for dynamic imaging using the fast spoiled GRASS (SPGR) sequence to study swallowing in patients with dysphagia following radical surgery for oral cancer. We defined two new parameters, laryngeal elevation and the angle of the epiglottis, to quantify swallowing ability by cine-MRI. These variables were markedly different in patients with dysphagia than they were in healthy controls. Cine-MRI not only provides dynamic images of swallowing but can generate objective measures of swallowing ability as well.     

Evaluation and Management of Nocturia in Older Men

Nocturia is defined as the need to wake at night one or more times to void, with each void preceded and followed by sleep. Although a substantial association between age and nocturia has been established in several epidemiologic studies, nocturia is an underreported condition. Therefore, the true extent of the problem in the population may be underestimated. Nocturia is one of the most bothersome lower urinary tract symptoms and is associated with significant morbidity and even mortality. Nocturia is a multifactorial condition, with nocturnal polyuria representing a highly prevalent and often unrecognized cause. Classification of the etiology of nocturia is greatly facilitated by the liberal use of frequency volume charts. Treatment centers around lifestyle modifications, attention to comorbidities, and judicious use of various targeted medical therapies.     

Prevalence and Correlates of Unprotected Anal Intercourse Among Hong Kong Men Who Have Sex with Men Traveling to Shenzhen, China

In China, the HIV prevalence among men who have sex with men (MSM) has been increasing sharply. A total of 195 Hong Kong MSM having had sex with men in Shenzhen, a mainland China city separated from Hong Kong by a border, were recruited from some randomly selected gay venues in Shenzhen. Participants were face-to-face and anonymously interviewed. The results showed that in the last six months, respectively 62.1, 84.6, and 31.3 % of the participants from Hong Kong had had sex with commercial sex partners (CSP), non-regular partners (NRP) and regular partners (RP) in Shenzhen. The prevalence of unprotected anal intercourse (UAI) with these three types of sex partners was respectively 29.8, 27.9, and 78.7 %. Factors associated with UAI with any MSM in Shenzhen in the last six months included perceived chances of contracting HIV, perceived non-availability of condoms, giving money/gifts to Shenzhen MSM sex partners, and perception that MSM partners in Shenzhen would not always insist on condom use (multivariate OR = 2.9–13.90, p < 0.05), whilst factors of inverse associations included university education, having had sex with NRP but not with CSP and RP in Shenzhen and self-efficacy of insisting on condom use (multivariate OR = 0.04–0.22, p < 0.05). In sum, the prevalence of having multiple types of male sex partners and UAI was high. This was especially true when anal sex with RP was involved. Cross-border HIV prevention is greatly warranted. It should ensure condom availability and modify perceptions toward UAI.