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Laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP) is a product of the evolution of standard open to minimally invasive surgery. The next step on this evolutionary path has been the emergence of robotic LRP. Here, Thomas Ahlering presents his view of the comparative benefits and pitfalls of these two techniques.
Witjes and Debruyne outline how recent investigations of indications for intravesical chemotherapy might affect current strategies for the management of superficial bladder cancer. Recommendations for the use of chemotherapeutics are made on the basis of the risk of recurrence and progression of this increasingly common disease.
Developments in urologic surgery have led to the introduction of robot-assisted laparoscopic procedures. Data indicate that robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery has a shorter learning curve than conventional laparoscopic surgery, and that operative time can be reduced. In this article the data for robot-assisted prostate and bladder surgery are discussed.
The chronic symptom-complex interstitial cystitis (IC) and related conditions are difficult to diagnose and manage because no definitive diagnostic tests or effective treatments exist. The role of biomarkers, such as antiproliferative factor, in the pathogenesis of IC and their potential therapeutic applications are discussed.
Overactive bladder syndrome is a commonly diagnosed condition, but it is less common for patients to present with symptoms of incomplete bladder emptying. Both of these forms of bladder dysfunction have a number of possible causes. In this review the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of these conditions are discussed.
Considering the complexity of central nervous system (CNS) control of bladder function, it is not surprising that many neurologic disorders are associated with bladder dysfunction. Overactive bladder syndrome (OAB) is a common neurogenic bladder disorder. The mechanisms behind CNS control of bladder function and the pathophysiology of OAB and detrusor overactivity are discussed.
This review discusses the treatment options available to prostate cancer patients with disease recurrence following prostatectomy. It focuses on the use of radiotherapy, administered adjuvantly and as a salvage treatment. A nomogram that facilitates patient selection for salvage radiotherapy is presented.