Identifying the facilitators and barriers to implementation of renal tumour biopsy in the diagnostic pathway for small renal masses.

Objectives: To understand the facilitators and barriers to the implementation of renal tumour biopsy (RTB) in the diagnostic pathway for renal tumours in England.

Patients And Methods: Participants consisted of patients who had a renal tumour diagnosed and/or treated at one of five tertiary centres in England, healthcare professionals involved in the direct care of patients diagnosed with renal tumours, and clinical service managers and commissioners. The study employed a mixed-methods research methodology consisting of individual interviews and an on-line survey that explored the types of facilitators and barriers individuals perceived and experienced and the frequency in which these were reported.

Clinical outcomes of low-pressure pneumoperitoneum in minimally invasive urological surgery.

The adoption of minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques has revolutionised urological practice. This necessitates a pneumoperitoneum (PNP) and the impact the PNP pressure has on post-operative outcomes is uncertain. During the current COVID-19 era guidance has suggested the utilisation of lower PNP pressures to mitigate the risk of intra-operative viral transmission.

Prostate cancer and microfluids.

Microfluidic systems aim to detect sample matter quickly with high sensitivity and resolution, on a small scale. With its increased use in medicine, the field is showing significant promise in prostate cancer diagnosis and management due, in part, to its ability to offer point-of-care testing. This review highlights some of the research that has been undertaken in respect of prostate cancer and microfluidics.

The impact of digitisation of a virtual fracture clinic on referral quality, outcomes and assessment times.

Background: Virtual fracture clinics (VFCs) have become widely adopted, aiming to improve efficiency, standardise patient care and reduce clinic appointments for injuries that can be managed conservatively. A variety of means exist to manage VFC referrals and assessment, including paper-based and digital methods. This study assesses VFC referral quality and outcomes before and after implementation of a digital VFC referral and management system.

Diabetes in day case general and vascular surgery: A multicentre regional audit.

Background: People with Diabetes Mellitus (DM) are at increased risk of postoperative complications if their HbA1C readings are not well controlled. In the UK, there are clear national guidelines requiring all people with DM to have HbA1C blood testing within 6months before undergoing surgery and that these readings should be below 69 mmol/mol if this is safe to achieve. The aim of this study was to determine whether hospitals in the region were compliant with the guidelines.

Urological technology: where will we be in 20 years' time?

Since prehistoric times, our understanding of urology has rapidly expanded. Whilst primitive urologists began by using urine as a therapeutic substance, modern urologists may find themselves removing a kidney remotely by driving a robotic arm, with seven degrees of movement, while using image overlay-augmented reality. This review provides an insight into the potential status of urological technology in 20 years' time, assessed through an analysis of developments in imaging, diagnostics, robotics and further technologies.

Hepatic portal venous gas: acute deterioration in an elderly patient.

A 91-year-old female presented to the Emergency Department with a 10-day history of constipation and abdominal pain. Abdominal examination was normal and rectal examination showed faecal loading. A phosphate enema was given and the patient was admitted.