Sign in to use this feature.

Years

Between: -

Article Types

Countries / Regions

Search Results (151)

Search Parameters:
Journal = Uro

Order results
Result details
Results per page
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
11 pages, 460 KB  
Article
Real-World Short-Term Safety of Ultrasound-Guided Suprapubic Trocar Catheter Placement in Neurogenic Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction: A Retrospective Cohort Study
by Kristina Rusevska, Jan Kasperek, Raphael Röthlisberger, Florian Halbeisen, Helge Seifert, Kathrin Bausch and Sandra Möhr
Uro 2026, 6(4), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/uro6040026 - 28 Sep 2026
Abstract
Objective: To determine the incidence of severe 30-day complications (Clavien–Dindo ≥ III) after ultrasound-guided percutaneous suprapubic catheter placement in patients with neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction and to describe overall 30-day safety outcomes. Methods: This retrospective single-centre cohort study included adults [...] Read more.
Objective: To determine the incidence of severe 30-day complications (Clavien–Dindo ≥ III) after ultrasound-guided percutaneous suprapubic catheter placement in patients with neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction and to describe overall 30-day safety outcomes. Methods: This retrospective single-centre cohort study included adults with neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction who underwent first-time, non-urgent ultrasound-guided percutaneous suprapubic catheter placement between January 2019 and April 2025 and had documented follow-up for at least 30 days. Complications were graded according to the Clavien–Dindo classification; severe complications were defined as grade ≥ III. Potential risk factors were assessed using univariable logistic regression. Results: Of 300 screened patients, 287 were included. Within 30 days, 49/287 patients (17.1%; 95% CI 12.9–21.9) developed at least one complication, and 18/287 (6.3%; 95% CI 3.8–9.7) had a Clavien–Dindo grade ≥ III complication. Grade ≥ IIIb events occurred in 6/287 patients (2.1%; grade IIIb, n = 5; grade IV, n = 1). No confirmed bowel injury was observed. In an exploratory univariable analysis, diabetes mellitus showed a borderline unadjusted association with severe complications (OR 2.86; 95% CI 1.01–7.64; p = 0.049). No multivariable adjustment or multiplicity correction was performed. Conclusions: This study provides confirmatory real-world short-term safety data for selected patients with neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction who underwent ultrasound-guided trocar suprapubic catheter placement. No confirmed bowel injury was observed. The diabetes mellitus signal is hypothesis-generating and requires confirmation in larger studies. Full article
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 637 KB  
Article
Urodynamic Outcomes Following Photovaporization of the Prostate for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: A Retrospective Pressure-Flow Analysis
by Jonathan S. Kim, Chaimaa M. Hossaini, Parker J. Simpson and Louis S. Liou
Uro 2026, 6(3), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/uro6030025 - 2 Sep 2026
Viewed by 314
Abstract
Purpose: Photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) with the GreenLight laser is an established minimally invasive treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), yet its effects on voiding physiology remain incompletely characterized. Most prior studies rely on symptom scores and uroflowmetry as surrogate [...] Read more.
Purpose: Photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) with the GreenLight laser is an established minimally invasive treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), yet its effects on voiding physiology remain incompletely characterized. Most prior studies rely on symptom scores and uroflowmetry as surrogate endpoints. This study evaluates the urodynamic mechanisms underlying clinical improvement following GreenLight PVP using paired pressure-flow studies. Methods: We performed a single-center retrospective review of patients who underwent GreenLight XPS PVP for BPH-related bladder outlet obstruction at a community hospital. Inclusion required complete pre- and postoperative pressure-flow urodynamic studies (UDS) and symptom assessments (IPSS). Key urodynamic parameters included maximum flow rate (Qmax), average flow rate (Qavg), detrusor pressure at maximum flow (Pdet@Qmax), maximum detrusor pressure (max Pdet), bladder outlet obstruction index (BOOI), and post-void residual (PVR). Postoperative UDS were performed at 12 months. Statistical analysis employed the Wilcoxon signed-rank test for continuous variables. Results: Of 98 total patients (mean age 71.3 years), paired uroflowmetry was available in 87 patients and pressure-flow data in 64. IPSS improved significantly from 17.1 to 9.5 at 12 months (p < 0.05). Qmax increased by 76%, from 6.25 to 11.0 mL/s (p < 0.05), and Qavg increased by 35%, from 4.0 to 5.4 mL/s (p < 0.05). Max Pdet decreased significantly from 84.8 to 61.2 cmH2O (p < 0.05), and BOOI improved from 46.7 to 28.9 (p < 0.05). Pdet@Qmax and PVR did not change significantly. Conclusions: GreenLight PVP produces measurable restoration of voiding mechanics, evidenced by reduced peak detrusor pressures, improved outlet obstruction index, and enhanced urinary flow. These findings confirm that symptomatic improvement is underpinned by objective urodynamic de-obstruction. Larger prospective studies with longer follow-up are warranted. Full article
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

9 pages, 8039 KB  
Article
Pilot Voided Volume Validation Study: Sound-Based Smartphone Applications Can Accurately Measure Voided Volume
by Zachary Corey, Aisha Rashid, Kreesha Shah, Billal Alamarie and Joseph Y. Clark
Uro 2026, 6(3), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/uro6030024 - 2 Sep 2026
Viewed by 210
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The objective of this study was to test the accuracy of two sound-based voided volume measurement applications compared to voided volume based on the measurement of pre- and post-void weight using a high-resolution scale. Methods: Seven male and four female [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The objective of this study was to test the accuracy of two sound-based voided volume measurement applications compared to voided volume based on the measurement of pre- and post-void weight using a high-resolution scale. Methods: Seven male and four female volunteers participated. Male and female volunteers used the proudP and Healthy Bladder-Voiding Diary mobile apps, respectively, to measure sound-based voided volume (SVV). The difference between pre- and post-void weight was calculated and converted to mL to be the true voided volume (TVV) using a high-resolution scale. Pearson correlation coefficients were calculated, and paired t-tests were completed. Results: Eighty-one voids were recorded (42M/39F). The median male participant age was 25 years. Male SVV ranged from 42 to 790 mL, and TVV ranged from 61 to 880 mL. The mean difference was 39 mL (95% CI, 18–59 mL). SVV and TVV comparison revealed a strong correlation (r = 0.977, p < 0.0001). Bland–Altman analysis revealed a mean bias of 39 mL. The median female participant age was 25 years. Female SVV ranged from 32 to 440 mL, and TVV ranged from 20 to 682 mL. The mean difference was 55 mL (95% CI, 23–88 mL). SVV and TVV comparison revealed a correlation (r = 0.882, p < 0.0001). Bland–Altman analysis demonstrated a mean bias of 55 mL. Conclusions: In this pilot study, we found that the male and female apps have a strong correlation to true voided volume (male > female app) and can be used by patients to track voided volume at home. The male app accurately measures voided volume within 60 mL from the TVV; however, the female app is less accurate. These preliminary findings warrant validation in larger prospective cohorts. Full article
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 542 KB  
Systematic Review
Celiac Disease and Urinary Conditions: A Systematic Review
by Maria Luisa Garo and Gianpasquale Gallo
Uro 2026, 6(3), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/uro6030023 - 13 Aug 2026
Viewed by 426
Abstract
Background: Celiac disease (CD) is a systemic immune-mediated enteropathy with a broad spectrum of extraintestinal manifestations driven by aberrant mucosal IgA responses and increased intestinal permeability. These same mechanisms provide a compelling biological rationale for urinary tract involvement. The aim of this systematic [...] Read more.
Background: Celiac disease (CD) is a systemic immune-mediated enteropathy with a broad spectrum of extraintestinal manifestations driven by aberrant mucosal IgA responses and increased intestinal permeability. These same mechanisms provide a compelling biological rationale for urinary tract involvement. The aim of this systematic review was to assess whether adults with CD carry an elevated risk of IgAN, UTI, or IC/BPS compared with adults without CD. Methods: A PRISMA 2020-compliant systematic review was conducted (PROSPERO: CRD420261358537). PubMed and Scopus were searched up to April 2026. Eligible studies enrolled adults (≥18 years) with confirmed CD, reported a urinary outcome, and included a comparator group. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale and Mendelian Randomization quality criteria. Results: Fifteen studies (1987–2025) were included. For IgAN (n = 13), a register-based cohort showed an over 18-fold elevated risk in adults with biopsy-confirmed CD (adj. HR: 18.98; 95%CI: 2.29–157.63), independently corroborated by Mendelian Randomization (OR: 1.44; 95%CI: 1.17–1.78). Early cross-sectional AGA studies reflect non-specific IgA dysregulation, not true CD autoimmunity. For UTI (n = 1), no significant association was identified in a single large registry study. For IC/BPS (n = 1), no clinical observational evidence exists and genetic causal analysis found no association. Conclusions: CD is consistently associated with elevated IgAN risk across independent study designs, supporting systematic CD screening in IgAN patients and prompt GFD initiation. For UTI and IC/BPS, adequately designed prospective studies are needed. Full article
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 769 KB  
Article
Discrepancies Between IPSS, PVR, and Uroflowmetry: Implications for the Management of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms
by Catherine Song, Karen Doo, Youngmin Choi, Alia Codelia-Anjum, Chin Kyung Doo, Byoung Kyu Han, Dean Elterman, Naeem Bhojani and Bilal Chughtai
Uro 2026, 6(3), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/uro6030022 - 8 Aug 2026
Viewed by 311
Abstract
Background/Objectives: To evaluate the discrepancies between the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and objective measures—uroflowmetry (Qmax) and post-void residual (PVR) volume—in men with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), and to assess the implications for diagnosis and treatment planning. Methods: This retrospective study analyzed [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: To evaluate the discrepancies between the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and objective measures—uroflowmetry (Qmax) and post-void residual (PVR) volume—in men with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), and to assess the implications for diagnosis and treatment planning. Methods: This retrospective study analyzed data from 414 men across three urology clinics who completed both IPSS and uroflowmetry between April 2023 and September 2024. IPSS total and subscores were categorized by severity and compared with Qmax (<15 vs. ≥15 mL/s) and PVR (<250 vs. ≥250 mL). Two exploratory discordance patterns were defined: a ‘bother-dominant’ pattern (moderate-to-severe IPSS with normal Qmax or PVR) and an ‘unrecognized voiding dysfunction’ pattern (mild IPSS with abnormal Qmax or PVR). Results: Among patients with severe total IPSSs, 8.7% had Qmax ≥ 15 mL/s, consistent with a ‘bother-dominant’ pattern, and 8.7% of those with mild scores had Qmax < 15 mL/s, consistent with an ‘unrecognized voiding dysfunction’ pattern. When moderate scores were included, the ‘bother-dominant’ pattern was observed in 27.8% and the unrecognized voiding dysfunction pattern in 36.0%. For PVR, 40.1% of patients with severe IPSSs had PVR < 250 mL (‘bother-dominant’ pattern), while the unrecognized voiding dysfunction pattern with elevated PVR was rare (≤1.3%). Discrepancies were also observed across voiding and storage subscores and individual items, such as incomplete emptying and weak stream. Conclusions: There is frequent discordance between subjective symptom severity and objective urodynamic findings in men with LUTS. Sole reliance on IPSS may lead to misclassification and inappropriate treatment. Incorporating Qmax and PVR into routine evaluation may enhance diagnostic accuracy and support more personalized management strategies. Full article
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 826 KB  
Review
Urinary Leakage During Sexual Activity: A Narrative Review of an Underdiagnosed Female Pelvic Floor Disorder
by Mihaela Bot, Andreea Borislavschi and Radu Vladareanu
Uro 2026, 6(3), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/uro6030021 - 3 Aug 2026
Viewed by 1118
Abstract
Coital urinary incontinence is a frequently underdiagnosed manifestation of female pelvic floor dysfunction, characterized by involuntary urine leakage during sexual activity, particularly during vaginal penetration or orgasm. Although interest in this condition has increased in recent years, it remains insufficiently investigated in clinical [...] Read more.
Coital urinary incontinence is a frequently underdiagnosed manifestation of female pelvic floor dysfunction, characterized by involuntary urine leakage during sexual activity, particularly during vaginal penetration or orgasm. Although interest in this condition has increased in recent years, it remains insufficiently investigated in clinical practice and is often underreported by patients because of stigma, emotional distress, and the negative impact on intimate relationships and quality of life. Current evidence supports the existence of distinct pathophysiological mechanisms depending on the timing of urinary leakage. Leakage occurring during vaginal penetration is more commonly associated with stress urinary incontinence, urethral hypermobility, and pelvic support defects, whereas orgasm-associated urinary incontinence appears to be more closely related to detrusor overactivity and complex pelvic neurophysiological mechanisms. Hormonal changes associated with the peri- and postmenopausal period may further contribute to symptom progression through alterations in urethral and vaginal trophicity, local vascularization, and pelvic neuromuscular function. Clinical evaluation remains challenging because many affected women do not voluntarily report symptoms due to embarrassment or social stigma, therefore it requires targeted questioning regarding urinary leakage during sexual activity, associated lower urinary tract symptoms, and the impact on female sexual health. Therapeutic management should be individualized and tailored to the predominant underlying mechanisms, including pelvic floor rehabilitation, behavioral interventions, pharmacological treatment, local hormonal therapy, and surgical management of stress urinary incontinence or pelvic support defects. Minimally invasive and regenerative therapies, such as vaginal laser therapy, platelet-rich plasma, cellular therapies, and neuromodulation, represent promising therapeutic approaches. Greater awareness and proactive screening during urogynecological evaluation are essential for improving diagnosis, individualized treatment, sexual health, and overall quality of life in affected women. Full article
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 1790 KB  
Article
Tandem High-Dose Chemotherapy and Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation for Relapsed and Refractory Germ Cell Tumors: A Single-Center Experience
by Kameliya Kostadinova, Krasen Venkov, Ivan Tonev, Milcho Mincheff, Andriyana Bankova and Georgi Mihaylov
Uro 2026, 6(3), 20; https://doi.org/10.3390/uro6030020 - 20 Jul 2026
Viewed by 618
Abstract
Background: High-dose chemotherapy (HDCT) followed by autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) is an established salvage therapy for relapsed or refractory (R/R) germ cell tumors (GCTs). Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 9 patients (23–41 years of age) with relapsed/refractory (R/R) [...] Read more.
Background: High-dose chemotherapy (HDCT) followed by autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) is an established salvage therapy for relapsed or refractory (R/R) germ cell tumors (GCTs). Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 9 patients (23–41 years of age) with relapsed/refractory (R/R) GCTs treated according to the Swedish–Norwegian Testicular Cancer Group Clinical Protocol (SWENOTECA), at the Specialized Hospital for Active Treatment of Hematological Diseases (SHATHD) in Sofia, Bulgaria. The study evaluates the efficacy and safety of HDCT followed by ASCT in R/R GCTs eligible for second-line consolidation. The cohort was predominantly high-risk, with 77.7% of patients exhibiting stable or progressive disease (SD/PD) after first-line platinum therapy. Response was assessed via RECIST 1.1 criteria and tumor marker monitoring. Results: Median OS and PFS were 8.4 and 5.9 months, respectively. While the ORR post-ASCT was 33.3% (all CR), the 2-year survival plateau (33.3%) suggests curative potential in a subset of patients. Notably, there was no treatment-related mortality (TRM). Conclusions: Tandem HDCT is a feasible salvage strategy with manageable toxicity and no TRM in this small, heavily pre-treated cohort. Although efficacy results are exploratory due to the limited number of patients, the observed long-term remissions confirm the curative potential of this standard-of-care consolidation in a real-world clinical setting. Full article
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 206 KB  
Article
Safety Profile of Suction-Assisted RIRS: A Prospective Analysis of Intraoperative Anesthetic Events
by Paula María Sánchez Vicente, Juliusz Jan Szczesniewski, Cristina Rasines Suárez, Alejandro Rodríguez Caballero, María Fernanda Lorenzo Gómez and Luis Llanes González
Uro 2026, 6(3), 19; https://doi.org/10.3390/uro6030019 - 13 Jul 2026
Viewed by 499
Abstract
Background: Retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) is a well-established minimally invasive technique for the management of renal stones. However, intraoperative physiological and anesthetic events during the procedure remain poorly characterized, particularly in the context of newer technologies such as suction-assisted systems. Objective: The objective [...] Read more.
Background: Retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) is a well-established minimally invasive technique for the management of renal stones. However, intraoperative physiological and anesthetic events during the procedure remain poorly characterized, particularly in the context of newer technologies such as suction-assisted systems. Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate the occurrence of intraoperative anesthetic and physiological adverse events during suction-assisted RIRS and to assess its safety profile. Methods: We conducted a prospective, single-center observational sub-analysis of the “Trifecta factors in ureteroscopy” project. A consecutive cohort of 30 patients undergoing RIRS with suction ureteral access sheaths (sUAS) between August 2025 and January 2026 was analyzed. Baseline demographics, stone characteristics, and intraoperative anesthetic parameters—including airway pressure, Bispectral Index (BIS), and hemodynamic events—were prospectively recorded. Primary endpoints included intraoperative fever, sustained tachycardia, blood pressure alterations, and anesthetic complications. Results: The cohort had a mean age of 56.4 years with an equal gender distribution. Mean stone size was 12.9 mm, and mean operative time was 50.3 min. Intraoperative monitoring demonstrated stable anesthetic conditions, with a mean airway pressure of 16.3 cmH2O and a mean BIS of 42.6. No major anesthetic complications or significant blood pressure fluctuations were observed. Minor intraoperative events included fever in 10% of cases and sustained tachycardia in 6.7%. No cases of intraoperative anesthetic instability were recorded. Conclusions: Within this descriptive cohort, suction-assisted RIRS under general anesthesia demonstrated a favorable safety profile with stable intraoperative parameters, though larger comparative studies are required to confirm these preliminary findings. Full article
10 pages, 958 KB  
Article
Prostate MRI PI-RADS Scoring by the Machine Learning Software Quantib® Prostate: A Retrospective Agreement Pilot Study
by Ola Christiansen, Ola Bratt, Arnulf Kjos and Jūratė Šaltytė Benth
Uro 2026, 6(3), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/uro6030018 - 3 Jul 2026
Viewed by 652
Abstract
Objective: Quantib® Prostate is a commercially available machine learning software (MLS) used for prostate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Conformité Européenne (CE). We aimed to assess the agreement between biparametric MRI (bpMRI) interpretations produced [...] Read more.
Objective: Quantib® Prostate is a commercially available machine learning software (MLS) used for prostate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Conformité Européenne (CE). We aimed to assess the agreement between biparametric MRI (bpMRI) interpretations produced by radiologists and by Quantib® alone. Material and Methods: This single-centre, retrospective, and observational study included 188 bpMRI scans from the Innlandet Hospital Trust, Norway. Radiologists’ Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS) scores were compared with scores produced by the Quantib® Prostate PI-RADS, which was used as an autonomous software. Additionally, for exploratory purposes, the PI-RADS scores were compared with biopsy findings, using the radiologist’s scorings to determine biopsy indications. Results: For PI-RADS scores generated by radiologists vs. those produced by Quantib® Prostate, the weighted kappa was 0.49 (95% CI: 0.37–0.59), and 46% of the PI-RADS scores differed by at least one unit. In the sample, 125 men (66%) had a prostate biopsy, and for male patients with PI-RADS scores of 4–5, the probability of detecting cancer grades 2–5 via biopsies was 64% (95% CI: 56–71) for radiologists and 58% (95% CI: 54–62) for Quantib® Prostate. The main limitations of this study are the retrospective, single-centre design, the small sample size, the use of Quantib® Prostate in an autonomous manner, and verification bias, as the biopsy decisions were based solely on PI-RADS scoring by radiologists. Conclusions: We identified inter-rater variability between PI-RADS scores generated by Quantib® Prostate and radiologists’ assessments, and the agreement between the two scoring groups is moderate. Our results suggest that Quantib® Prostate requires further clinical comparative studies before it is used in clinical routines. Full article
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 6003 KB  
Review
Incidental Findings in [18F]-PSMA PET/CT for Prostate Cancer: Structured Reporting Across PET and Low-Dose CT, Clinical Relevance, and Cascade-Aware Management
by Katarzyna Sklinda, Marek Kasprowicz, Michał Małek, Bartlomiej Olczak, Tadeusz Budlewski, Malgorzata Kobylecka, Jerzy Walecki and Martyna Rajca
Uro 2026, 6(2), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/uro6020017 - 17 Jun 2026
Viewed by 760
Abstract
[18F]-PSMA PET/CT is a high-impact modality for the staging and restaging of prostate cancer, but its wide anatomic coverage and tracer biology generate frequent incidental findings on both PET and the accompanying low-dose CT (LDCT). This narrative review is restricted in [...] Read more.
[18F]-PSMA PET/CT is a high-impact modality for the staging and restaging of prostate cancer, but its wide anatomic coverage and tracer biology generate frequent incidental findings on both PET and the accompanying low-dose CT (LDCT). This narrative review is restricted in scope to fluorine-18 PSMA tracers because tracer-specific biodistribution and pitfall profiles shape what is perceived as incidentaloma: how confidently lesions can be categorized, and how often borderline findings trigger downstream testing, particularly for skeletal foci with [18F]-PSMA-1007. Specifically, [18F]-PSMA-1007 shows substantially higher rates of focal unspecific bone uptake than [68Ga]-PSMA-11—reported in multicenter studies as affecting up to 40–50% of patients—which directly inflates the pool of potential incidentalomas and creates a tracer-specific false-positive problem with no parallel in gallium-68 practice. Additionally, [18F]-DCFPyL has different urinary clearance kinetics that affect bladder and ureteral uptake patterns, altering what qualifies as physiologic versus incidental in the pelvis. These differences mean that the threshold for Category B versus C classification—and the appropriate cascade-resistant language—must be tuned to the specific tracer in use. A framework built on [68Ga]-PSMA-11 data would systematically underestimate bone pitfall frequency in [18F]-PSMA-1007 practice and could therefore paradoxically increase rather than reduce cascades if applied uncritically across tracers. These biodistribution differences have direct and concrete consequences for reporting behaviour and downstream management. In [18F]-PSMA-1007 practice, a focal bone uptake without a CT correlate in a mechanically plausible location—such as an anterior rib or vertebral endplate—should trigger Category B language in the report conclusion: the finding is documented in the body with explicit safety netting (“most consistent with unspecific uptake; no routine workup unless interval growth, new pain, or aggressive CT morphology”), and no referral to bone scintigraphy or MRI is generated. Without tracer-specific awareness, the same finding would typically prompt a reflex bone scan or whole-body MRI referral, delaying definitive prostate cancer management by weeks and adding imaging costs without diagnostic gain. By contrast, in [68Ga]-PSMA-11 practice, an equivalent focal bone uptake without a CT correlate carries a higher prior probability of true metastatic disease given the lower background rate of unspecific uptake and should more often be reported at Category B with a lower threshold for escalation or more cautious language. For [18F]-DCFPyL, the higher urinary activity in the pelvis means that ureteral segments can mimic lymph node disease; recognizing this as a physiologic variant (Category C) rather than an equivocal nodal finding (Category B) avoids unnecessary pelvic MRI referrals that would otherwise be triggered by an uncontextualized report. In practical terms, the tracer-specific calibration of the overlay therefore changes not only the category assigned but also the specific safety-netting language and the escalation trigger, which directly modifies the downstream management pathway for each affected finding type. The scanned population—predominantly older men with a high prevalence of degenerative, inflammatory, and vascular abnormalities—creates substantial background noise that can drive low-value diagnostic cascades if incidental findings are communicated without actionability context. We integrate society-endorsed frameworks (EANM/SNMMI procedure guideline 2.0; E-PSMA; PSMA-RADS; and PROMISE/miTNM with miPSMA score) and propose a cascade-aware overlay for incidental findings that can be appended to existing PSMA reporting standards rather than replacing them. The A/B/C actionability overlay is a structured expert-consensus framework informed by existing evidence-based guidelines for specific finding types and by tracer-specific cohort data; it has not yet been prospectively validated as a standalone tool, and its current level of evidence is therefore analogous to a structured expert recommendation rather than an evidence-based clinical guideline. We operationalize a three-tier actionability scheme across PET- and CT-dominant findings, provide cascade-resistant language for conclusions, and clarify why SUVmax-only “probability scales” for lymph nodes are not recommended in routine reports. Three practical tables summarize PET incidental findings, lymph node reporting frameworks, and LDCT incidental findings, and two structured report templates are provided (concise and extended), with the extended version explicitly labelling actionability tiers and escalation triggers. Finally, we outline concrete AI use cases for standardization and triage while emphasizing governance to avoid the amplification of false positives and paradoxical growth of cascades. Full article
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 1236 KB  
Review
Contemporary Non-Operative Management of Bladder Pain Syndrome: A Narrative Review for General Urologists
by Sindhu Sankaran, Hira Bakhtiar Khan and Mehwash Nadeem
Uro 2026, 6(2), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/uro6020016 - 9 Jun 2026
Viewed by 1591
Abstract
Background: Bladder pain syndrome (BPS) is a chronic, debilitating condition defined by the International Continence Society as bladder-related pelvic pain accompanied by urinary symptoms in the absence of identifiable pathology. Its heterogeneous presentation, unclear pathophysiology, and variable treatment response make management challenging for [...] Read more.
Background: Bladder pain syndrome (BPS) is a chronic, debilitating condition defined by the International Continence Society as bladder-related pelvic pain accompanied by urinary symptoms in the absence of identifiable pathology. Its heterogeneous presentation, unclear pathophysiology, and variable treatment response make management challenging for general urologists. This review aims to provide a practical narrative review of current understanding of BPS, with particular emphasis on diagnosis, phenotyping, and non-operative management strategies relevant to the general urologist. Methods: A narrative literature review was undertaken using PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Google Scholar, and major international guideline documents to identify evidence relating to the diagnosis and non-operative management of BPS. Publications from January 2015 to December 2025 were reviewed, with selected landmark earlier studies included, where clinically relevant. Priority was given to guidelines, systematic reviews, randomised trials, and cohort studies. Owing to heterogeneity in study design, patient phenotypes, and reported outcomes, findings were synthesized narratively. Results: BPS represents a heterogeneous spectrum, including Hunner-lesion and non-Hunner phenotypes, with proposed mechanisms involving urothelial dysfunction, chronic inflammation, immune dysregulation, and central sensitisation. Diagnosis remains one of exclusion, relying on careful history, examination, symptom scoring, and selective investigations. Non-operative management is stepwise and multidisciplinary, combining lifestyle modification, pelvic floor therapy, oral agents and intravesical therapy. Available evidence suggests that symptom improvement is often modest but clinically meaningful in selected patients, supporting an individualized, phenotype-informed approach to care with realistic patient counselling. Conclusions: Bladder pain syndrome remains a chronic, multifaceted disorder with profound impact on quality of life, requiring clinicians to approach patients with empathy while recognising the physical, psychological, and social burden of the condition. Effective management requires early recognition, thoughtful phenotyping, exclusion of confusable conditions, and realistic expectation-setting within a multidisciplinary framework. For the general urologist, a structured and compassionate non-operative approach can improve symptom control, support shared decision-making, and help guide timely escalation when required. Full article
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 336 KB  
Article
Aberdeen Sexual Function Improvement Index (SFI-I): A Novel Brief Questionnaire for Evaluating Sexual Function in Women with Stress Urinary Incontinence
by Shamima Islam Nipa, David Cooper, Alyaa Mostafa and Mohamed Abdel-Fattah
Uro 2026, 6(2), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/uro6020015 - 4 Jun 2026
Viewed by 685
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The Novel Aberdeen Sexual Function Improvement Index (SFI-I) is a simple single-item questionnaire specifically tailored for women with urinary incontinence (UI). The objective of the study was to describe for the first time the Aberdeen SFI-I and to assess its effectiveness [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The Novel Aberdeen Sexual Function Improvement Index (SFI-I) is a simple single-item questionnaire specifically tailored for women with urinary incontinence (UI). The objective of the study was to describe for the first time the Aberdeen SFI-I and to assess its effectiveness in identifying changes in sexual function among women undergoing surgical treatment for SUI. Methods: A secondary analysis of data from the Single Incision Mini-Slings (SIMS) study was undertaken. Pearson correlation analyses were used to examine associations between the SFI-I and changes in the PISQ-IR scores, as well as the Patient Global Impression of Improvement (PGI-I). Results: The analysis included 596 women. Among these participants, 118, 101, and 102 completed the SFI-I and the PISQ-IR at 15, 24, and 36 months, respectively. Moderate positive correlations were identified between the SFI-I and PGI-I, ranging from 0.342 to 0.435, indicating that changes in SFI-I and PGI-I tended to occur in the same direction. The inverse correlation between the SFI-I and PISQ-IR, ranging from −0.588 to −0.518, indicates that improvements detected by one instrument are consistently reflected by the other. Diagnostic performance measures showed specificity values between 0.733 and 0.871 and positive predictive values between 0.844 and 0.900, demonstrating that improvement on the SFI-I is a strong indicator of improvement on the PISQ-IR. Conclusions: The newly developed Aberdeen SFI-I is a promising, short, and patient-friendly tool that reliably reflects patients’ perceptions of the impact of SUI surgery on sexual function, which would be specifically valuable where detailed assessment of individual sexual function domains is not required. Further comprehensive psychometric evaluation encompassing reliability, responsiveness, and the determination of clinically meaningful thresholds is required. Full article
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 200 KB  
Article
Comparative Outcomes of TURP, TUVP, and PAE in the Management of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: A Single Center Real-World Study
by Teddy Jabbour, Laurent Bairy, Benoit Bihin, Jean-Francois De Wispelaere and Marcelo Di Gregorio
Uro 2026, 6(2), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/uro6020014 - 20 May 2026
Viewed by 1110
Abstract
Background/Objectives: To compare real-world outcomes of transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), transurethral vaporization of the prostate (TUVP), and prostate artery embolization (PAE) in men with symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Methods: A retrospective cohort of 203 patients undergoing TURP, TUVP, or PAE [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: To compare real-world outcomes of transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), transurethral vaporization of the prostate (TUVP), and prostate artery embolization (PAE) in men with symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Methods: A retrospective cohort of 203 patients undergoing TURP, TUVP, or PAE was analyzed. Outcomes included IPSS, QoL, IIEF, prostate volume, maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax), and post-void residual volume (PVR) at 12 months. Adjusted analyses used ANCOVA and propensity score weighting. Results: All groups showed improvement. TURP provided the greatest improvements in IPSS, QoL, Qmax, and prostate volume reduction. TUVP outcomes were intermediate; while symptom improvements (IPSS) were comparable in weighted models, TURP provided significantly greater improvements in Qmax and prostate volume reduction across all adjusted analyses. Conclusions: TURP remains an effective option for symptomatic BPH; TUVP and PAE offer modest benefits and remain viable alternatives in selected patients. Full article
16 pages, 311 KB  
Review
The Evolution and Innovations of Robotic Surgery in Urology: From Early Pioneers to Emerging Competitor
by Loris Cacciatore, Gianluigi Raso, Antonio Minore, Simona Ruggeri, Alberto Ragusa, Francesco Tedesco, Antonio Rosario Iannello, Francesco Esperto and Rocco Papalia
Uro 2026, 6(2), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/uro6020013 - 15 May 2026
Viewed by 1496
Abstract
The advent of robotic surgery has revolutionized multiple medical fields, notably in urology, gynecology, and both general and cardiovascular surgery. This article aims to explore the journey of robotic-assisted surgery (multi/single-port) in abdomen and pelvic surgeries, tracing its historical roots, examining its current [...] Read more.
The advent of robotic surgery has revolutionized multiple medical fields, notably in urology, gynecology, and both general and cardiovascular surgery. This article aims to explore the journey of robotic-assisted surgery (multi/single-port) in abdomen and pelvic surgeries, tracing its historical roots, examining its current landscape, and considering the potential future impact. A comprehensive review of the literature was conducted through PubMed/MEDLINE, utilizing keywords such as “robotic surgical systems,” “robotic surgery devices,” and “robotics AND urology.” Reference lists from selected articles were also explored to ensure a broad scope of understanding. The focus was on robotic systems designed for laparoscopic urological surgeries, all of which have been granted regulatory approval for clinical use. The historical trajectory of robotic surgery is traced back to the late 1980s with early systems like the Probot®, preceding the transformative introduction of the daVinci® system in the early 2000s. In addition to daVinci®, the article introduces newer robotic platforms, including Senhance®, Revo-I®, Versius®, Avatera®, Hinotori®, Edge®, Shurui and HugoTM RAS, which are emerging as serious competitors. While daVinci® has been the dominant force in robotic surgery for over a decade, these new systems are making significant strides with innovative designs, enhanced precision, and improved cost-efficiency. The growing competition among these platforms promises to expand their potential applications, increase accessibility, and optimize surgical outcomes across various specialties. Furthermore, as new technologies continue to evolve, there is a clear need for more extensive clinical trials and real-world data to assess their long-term impact on surgical practices, healthcare delivery, and patient outcomes. It remains to be seen how these advanced systems will integrate into healthcare infrastructures and their ultimate role in shaping the future of minimally invasive surgery. Full article
17 pages, 1109 KB  
Review
From Diagnostics to Prescribing: Antibiotic and Diagnostic Stewardship in Contemporary UTI Care
by Kavin Raj Cyril Thiagaraj, Shwetambari V. Ingawale, Hira Bakhtiar Khan and Mehwash Nadeem
Uro 2026, 6(2), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/uro6020012 - 12 May 2026
Viewed by 1625
Abstract
Background: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a leading cause of urine testing and antibiotic prescribing across healthcare settings. Despite established clinical guidelines, inappropriate practice such as unnecessary urine cultures, treatment of asymptomatic bacteriuria, suboptimal antibiotic selection, and excessive treatment duration remain common. These [...] Read more.
Background: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a leading cause of urine testing and antibiotic prescribing across healthcare settings. Despite established clinical guidelines, inappropriate practice such as unnecessary urine cultures, treatment of asymptomatic bacteriuria, suboptimal antibiotic selection, and excessive treatment duration remain common. These practices contribute to antimicrobial resistance, adverse drug events, and increased healthcare costs. Methods: This narrative review synthesises evidence from PubMed-indexed studies, including systematic reviews, randomised controlled trials, and implementation studies, to evaluate the impact of antibiotic and diagnostic stewardship interventions on UTI management. Studies assessing outcomes related to urine testing practices, antibiotic utilisation, and clinical safety were included. Discussion: The literature demonstrates that integrated stewardship interventions effectively reduce inappropriate urine testing and antibiotic use without negatively affecting patient outcomes. Diagnostic stewardship strategies such as limiting urine cultures to patients with appropriate clinical indications, implementing reflex testing algorithms, and improving result interpretation reduce downstream antibiotic overuse. When combined with antibiotic stewardship approaches including clinical decision support, audit-and-feedback, and bundled interventions, these strategies lead to sustained improvements in prescribing behaviour and care quality. Conclusions: Antibiotic and diagnostic stewardship are synergistic and essential components of optimal UTI management. Interventions targeting both diagnostic decision-making and antibiotic use can safely reduce unnecessary testing and treatment. Future stewardship efforts should prioritise integrated, multidisciplinary approaches supported by clinical decision support tools to enable real-time, sustainable improvements in UTI care across clinical settings. Full article
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Back to TopTop