Laparoscopic versus open radical retropubic prostatectomy: a case-control study at a single institution.

We retrospectively compared 50 patients treated with open retropubic prostatectomy (RRP) with 50 patients treated with laparoscopic extraperitoneal radical prostatectomy (LRP) at our institution, in the same time period, with a follow-up up to 7 years. We focused on operative data, complications, pathological outcome and mid-term outcome and follow-up in terms of oncological results. The same surgeons performed both operations.

Percutaneous treatment of staghorn stones: a retrospective case-control study with evaluation of single vs multiple access to the kidney.

Staghorn stones have been treated, up to 30 years ago, with open surgery. With the introduction of percutaneous procedure (PNL) and the use of shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) together with flexible instrumentation and Holmium Laser lithotripsy the indication for open surgery is actually very limited. On the other hand conservative treatment of staghorn calculi will result in a complete destruction of the kidney associated to a mortality rate up to 30%.

Bilateral same session ureteroscopy: safety and efficacy.

Actually ureteroscopy represents the therapy of choice for the treatment of ureteric stones. In the case of bilateral synchronous ureteric calculi the options are between a staged or a synchronous procedure; the last would potentially reduce costs and the need for a second anesthetic in comparison with a staged procedure. We reviewed our experience with bilateral same session ureteroscopy and compared with staged bilateral or unilateral procedure in the same series.