Description of a novel murine model for ileocystoplasty and early histologic changes.

There is concern that bladder augmentation with bowel segments predisposes toward the development of carcinoma. Additionally, patients with neurogenic bladder and bladder cancer often present with advanced stage and have poor survival. Cellular hyperproliferation at the urointestinal junction (UIJ) has been implicated in this scenario.

Sacral neuromodulation in diabetic patients: success and complications in the treatment of voiding dysfunction.

Aims: We compared success rates, subsequent complications, and possible indications for success of sacral neuromodulation (SNM) for urinary voiding dysfunction in diabetic and non-diabetic patients.

Methods: Thirty-two diabetic patients (mean age 61.8 years, range 27-83) with urge incontinence, urgency-frequency syndrome, and/or urinary retention refractory to non-surgical treatment were retrospectively evaluated along with 211 non-diabetic patients (mean age 54.

Combination of BCG and interferon intravesical immunotherapy: an update.

Objective: To provide an update on the use of interferon (IFN) in the treatment of non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC).

Methods: A literature review of intravesical IFN was performed.

Results: In vitro evidence suggested that IFN combined with BCG may have a synergistic effect on the immune response, and treatment regimens with IFN have used reduced BCG dosage in an attempt to reduce toxicity.

Evaluation of efficacy of four laparoscopic needle drivers.

Introduction: To evaluate the impact of needle driver design on laparoscopic suturing skills by experts and novices.

Methods: Three experienced laparoscopic surgeons and 3 novice junior residents were asked to perform a fixed set of suturing tasks in a laparoscopic pelvic-trainer. The laparoscopic needle drivers compared were (1) the Ethicon driver (E 705R), (2) Karl Storz (KS) pistol grip (26173 KC), (3) KS finger grip (26167 SK), and (4) KS palm grip (26173 ML).

Irrigation and drainage properties of three-way urethral catheters.

Objectives: To evaluate in an in vitro study the irrigation and drainage capabilities of a variety of available catheters. Three-way Foley catheters are used when irrigation of the bladder is anticipated to prevent or manage blood clots in the bladder.

Methods: Six operators applied maximal one-handed pressure irrigation with a catheter-tip syringe through the irrigation and drainage ports of the Bardex and Dover three-way catheters (16F to 26F).

Novel device to assist urethrovesical anastomosis during laparoscopic radical prostatectomy.

We evaluated a novel urethral sound (Benique sound-Karl Storz) to assist suturing during laparoscopic radical prostatectomy. This sound provides for a more secure grip compared with the traditional sound, thereby affording controlled traction of the gland during the procedure and smooth coordinated movements of the sound during the anastomosis.

Percutaneous nephrostomy catheters: drainage flow and retention strength.

Objectives: To evaluate the impact of percutaneous nephrostomy catheter configuration on drainage flow and retention strength.

Methods: The Cook nephrostomy 16F (symmetric balloon), Bardex Council 16F (eccentric balloon), Microvasive Flexima 14F (pigtail), and Bardex Malecot 16F (flange) nephrostomy catheters were attached to an artificial renal pelvis (12-in.-round latex balloon).