Köhler, Tobias

Abstract Introduction Penile prosthesis (PP) implantation is associated with high patient satisfaction in patients with medically refractory erectile dysfunction (ED). There remains a paucity in the literature regarding the temporal evolution of patient satisfaction and well-being following PP surgery. Objective We aimed to identify factors responsible for patient satisfaction after surgery. Methods We initiated a registry of patients undergoing surgery for placement of a PP. After consent, perioperative study assessments and follow-ups were conducted. After surgery, patients were directed to a survey at 6 months and 12 months. Patients who completed both items were included in the analysis. Results A total of 304 patients had a PP placement, of these 101 completed the initial surveys. Overall patient satisfaction was favorable and durable and 6- and 12-months (87% and 82% respectively, p = 0.11). Confidence with device use was reported by 92% at 6 months, without significant change at 1 year (vs. 95%, p = 0.91). At 6 months, 81% of patients reported that their PP met or exceeded expectations, 83% of patients reported that they would undergo the procedure again, and 80% would recommend to a friend/family member. [Figure 1] At 6 months, 78 patients (77%) reported a moderate to high improvement in their overall sense of well-being related to their PP. This percentage further increased to 91% at 12-months (p < 0.001). Additionally, 36% of patients reported that they had made significant improvements to their overall lifestyle since receiving the PP, and this increased to 48% by 12 months post-operatively (p = 0.082). Conclusions Penile prosthesis satisfaction is evident and durable as early as 6 months following surgery. Factors such as perceived overall well-being continued to significantly improve past 6 months, and nearly half of patients reported overall lifestyle improvement following surgery. Disclosure Yes, this is sponsored by industry/sponsor: Coloplast. Clarification: Industry funding only - investigator initiated and executed study.

Abstract Background The 3-piece inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) is the most widely used device for erectile dysfunction refractory to medications, containing a reservoir inserted into the retropubic space (RPS) or an alternative/ectopic space (AES). Indications for removal of the reservoir include malfunction, malposition, or infection. In revision cases without infection, reservoir removal is sometimes optional. Aim We reviewed outcomes and complications related to reservoir removal from a large multi-institutional series. Methods We retrospectively reviewed databases at 6 institutions over 7 years. Patients with artificial urethral sphincter, urethral sling, or mini-jupette were excluded. Outcomes Outcomes and complications related to IPP reservoir removal were analyzed. Data were collected, but only reservoir-related complications at surgery were included. Data were compared between the RPS and AES cohorts to evaluate differences with a χ2 test, with significance at P < .05. Results Of 215 cases, there were 172 RPS and 43 AES reservoirs. The mean patient age was 65.3 years. An overall 131 procedures were due to malfunction and 49 to malposition of an IPP component; 35 were secondary to infection. Among those retained (n = 44), reasons included reuse, avoiding surrounding structure damage, and difficult dissection. Among those removed (n = 171), 15 required a counterincision. To determine the statistical difference between those removed from the RPS and an AES, the χ2 test result was P = .00059, indicating a significant difference in the need for a counterincision between the groups. Complications included bladder perforation (n = 1) in the RPS group and an avulsion of the epigastric vessels requiring abdominal exploration (n = 1) in the AES group. To determine the statistical difference between RPS and AES complications, the χ2 test result was P = .365, indicating no significant difference between the groups. Strengths and Limitations Strengths include being a multi-institutional study with high-volume skilled implanters. Limitations include being a retrospective review, with implanters exclusively performing penoscrotal incisions and not utilizing an infrapubic approach. Last, there was a lack of long-term follow-up with these patients. Conclusions Removal of an IPP reservoir remains safe, with few intraoperative complications. Surgeons should be aware of the inferior epigastric vessels during removal in an AES or be willing to perform a counterincision to avoid injury to surrounding structures. Surgeons should also obtain preoperative imaging to identify the specific location of the reservoir and adjacent anatomy. This is the first multi-institutional study reviewing outcomes related to reservoir removal during IPP revision or removal surgery.

AbstractIntroductionPrior consensus meetings have addressed the relationship between phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibition and cardiac health. Given significant accumulation of new data in the past decade, a fourth consensus conference on this topic was convened in Pasadena, California, on March 10 and 11, 2023.ObjectivesOur meeting aimed to update existing knowledge, assess current guidelines, and make recommendations for future research and practice in this area.MethodsAn expert panel reviewed existing research and clinical practice guidelines.ResultsKey findings and clinical recommendations are the following: First, erectile dysfunction (ED) is a risk marker and enhancer for cardiovascular (CV) disease. For men with ED and intermediate levels of CV risk, coronary artery calcium (CAC) computed tomography should be considered in addition to previous management algorithms. Second, sexual activity is generally safe for men with ED, although stress testing should still be considered for men with reduced exercise tolerance or ischemia. Third, the safety of PDE5 inhibitor use with concomitant medications was reviewed in depth, particularly concomitant use with nitrates or alpha-blockers. With rare exceptions, PDE5 inhibitors can be safely used in men being treated for hypertension, lower urinary tract symptoms and other common male disorders. Fourth, for men unresponsive to oral therapy or with absolute contraindications for PDE5 inhibitor administration, multiple treatment options can be selected. These were reviewed in depth with clinical recommendations. Fifth, evidence from retrospective studies points strongly toward cardioprotective effects of chronic PDE5-inhibitor use in men. Decreased rates of adverse cardiac outcomes in men taking PDE-5 inhibitors has been consistently reported from multiple studies. Sixth, recommendations were made regarding over-the-counter access and potential risks of dietary supplement adulteration. Seventh, although limited data exist in women, PDE5 inhibitors are generally safe and are being tested for use in multiple new indications.ConclusionStudies support the overall cardiovascular safety of the PDE5 inhibitors. New indications and applications were reviewed in depth.

Abstract Purpose The purpose of this white paper is to educate health care professionals about the evolution of telemedicine (TM) and to propose a hybrid model that leverages the strengths of traditional in-person medicine as well as virtual medicine while maximizing the safety and quality of men’s sexual health care. Literature Search Strategy A literature search focused on the use of TM in urology and men’s health was performed through PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science (January 1, 2012–April 26, 2022). Keywords included all known permutations of the terminology used to refer to virtual health, care as well as the terminology used to refer to urologic diseases, issues specific to men’s health, and men’s sexual health concerns. Publications that emerged after the literature search that met this criterion also were incorporated. Opinion pieces, letters to the editor, meeting abstracts, and conference proceedings were excluded. Additional resources were retrieved, such as governmental technical reports, legislative updates and reviews, and blogs. This search strategy yielded 1684 records across databases after removal of duplicates. Abstracts from the retrieved records were reviewed for relevance. Relevant publications were defined as those that reported data on any aspect of TM use specific to urology, men’s health, and/or men’s sexual health. If relevance was unclear from the abstract, then the full text of the article was retrieved for a more detailed review. In addition, the published evidence-based practice guidelines relevant to care for erectile dysfunction, Peyronie’s disease, ejaculatory dysfunction, and hypogonadism were retrieved. The most common reasons for article exclusions were a focus on TM use in disciplines other than urology and the absence of data (ie, opinion pieces). After exclusions, a total of 91 publications remained and constituted the evidence base for this paper.

Abstract Introduction Limited data are available on the efficacy of collagenase clostridium histolyticum (CCH) on Peyronie’s disease (PD) in men with ventral curvatures. Our team previously published a limited series of outcomes of 25 men with ventral curvatures who underwent CCH. Given the paucity of data available, we sought to provide an updated series of outcomes in this important cohort. Objective To report outcomes of men undergoing CCH injections for PD based on initial direction of curvature, including absolute and percent improvement in curvature, adverse events (AE), and other subjective outcomes. Methods A prospective registry has been maintained of all men undergoing CCH injections since 2014. All men underwent curvature assessments and subjective questioning at the time of initial evaluation and prior to each subsequent series of injections. The method of injection and subsequent protocol have changed in a stepwise fashion since 2014 and currently include injecting 0.9 mg (diluted to 0.8 mL) on back-to-back days, injecting into the point of max curve with an erection on day 1, performing in-office modeling on day 2, utilizing Restorex traction beginning on day 2, and wrapping for 4-8 days depending on results. To review outcomes, clinicopathologic data were abstracted from the registry including relevant history, exam, and data obtained at the time of penile ultrasound and curvature assessment. Outcomes are reported using a “Most Recent” definition (most recent data point used, regardless if the patient continues or finished treatment) and “Completed 8 or Satisfied” (only included if the patient indicated that they were done with treatment or had finished the full 8 injections). Results A total of 560 patients (mean age 57 years) were identified from March 2014 through Feb 2023 and comprise our study cohort. Overall, 85 men had a ventral component to their curvature and 475 non-ventral. Baseline demographics and clinical factors were similar between groups, with the exception of penile length (ventral 14.0 cm, non-ventral 12.0 cm, p<0.0001), Psych and Physical subdomain of the Peyronie’s Disease Questionnaire (10 vs 12, p=0.03), and prior treatment with CCH (3% vs 16%, p=0.03). Following treatment, men in the ventral cohort exhibited possibly greater improvements in curvature (Most Recent Definition: -25 degrees vs -24, p=0.08; 45% vs 34%, p=0.03; Completed 8 or Satisfied Definition: -35 vs -25, p<0.05, 48% vs 38%, p=0.11). However, all other outcomes were similar between cohorts, including differences in subdomains of the IIEF and PDQ, use of traction therapy, and adverse events including ecchymoses, hematomas, and popping sensations. Importantly, no urethral complications were experienced in the ventral group. Conclusions Men with ventral PD may be effectively treated with CCH with similar AEs compared to other directions. Ventral curvatures are likely associated with greater overall curvature improvements compared to other directions. Disclosure Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Endo - Matt Ziegelmann.

Abstract Introduction Since the FDA approval of Collagenase Clostridium Histolyticum (CCH) for the treatment of Peyronie’s Disease (PD), there has been significant debate as to its role and comparable efficacy in relation to surgical therapies. We have previously published results comparing the two therapies at 3-months post-treatment. Objective To compare various objective and subjective outcome measures at 12-months post-treatment between men undergoing CCH or surgery for PD. Methods A randomized, controlled trial (NCT04786106) is ongoing. Participants were randomized 1:1 to receive either CCH + traction (RestoreX) + sildenafil or penile surgery (plication and/or incision and grafting) + traction + sildenafil for PD. Objective, standardized (International Index of Erectile Function [IIEF] and Peyronie’s Disease Questionnaire [PDQ]), and non-standardized assessments were obtained at baseline, and post-treatment at 3, 6, 12, 24, 36, 48, and 60 months. Key outcomes included differences in standardized questionnaires, penile curvature, penile length, subsequent interventions, and non-standardized questionnaire responses. Curvature was measured in two planes and summed to provide a composite curvature. Penile length was measured from pubic symphysis to corona. All adjunctive therapies were stopped at 3-months post treatment completion (i.e., traction and sildenafil). Results A total of 40 men were randomized, with 38 completing treatment and 12-month data available on 28 men (CCH=12, surgery=16). Mean age at enrollment was 54.7 years, PD duration 37.4 months (mo), composite curvature 73.1 degrees (deg), and penile length 12.7 cm. All baseline variables were statistically similar between cohorts. Regarding primary outcomes, at 12-months post-treatment, CCH men reported being very satisfied 36%, satisfied 27%, and neutral 36% with none dissatisfied. Men in the Surgery cohort reported 14% very satisfied, 64% satisfied, 0% neutral, and 21% dissatisfied (p<0.01). For secondary outcomes, the median differences between CCH and Surgery were: IIEF-EFD (+2.0 vs +2.0, p=0.82), PDQ-physical (-5 vs -5, p=0.77, note, lower is better for PDQ scales), PDQ-pain (-1 vs 0, p=0.92), PDQ-bother (-7 vs -3, p=0.12), length change (+1.0 vs -0.13 cm, p<0.05), curvature absolute change (-37.5 vs -53.8 degrees, p=0.17), and curvature % improvement (55% vs 82%, p=0.15). Compared to 3-month data, Surgery men experienced greater curve recurrence (objective: Surgery +5 degrees vs -5 degrees CCH, p<0.05), decreased subjective penile length 62% vs 9% CCH (p<0.01) and decreased sensitivity (54% vs 27% CCH, p<0.05). Both groups reported similar rates of improved sexual function (CCH 82% vs 64%, p=0.30) and change in erectile function (CCH 55% improved, 9% worsened; Surgery 62% improved, 8% worsened, p=0.53). Both groups were also equally satisfied with their curvature (CCH 55% vs Surgery 54%, p=0.97), despite greater overall curve improvements in the Surgery arm. 75% of CCH men reported improved indentation/hourglass vs 56% Surgery, p<0.05. Both groups reported similar rates of being willing to do their treatment again (CCH 73% vs 77%, p=0.64), while 91% of CCH men would recommend it to a friend vs 77% Surgery (p=0.35). Conclusions Preliminary data suggests that when compared to surgery at 12-months, CCH men were more likely to be very satisfied, experience penile length increases, and less likely to experience dissatisfaction, curvature recurrence, and decreased penile sensation. Disclosure Yes, this is sponsored by industry/sponsor: Endo Pharmaceuticals. Clarification: Industry funding only - investigator initiated and executed study. Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Matthew Ziegelmann - Endo Pharmaceuticals.

Abstract Introduction Climacturia, the inadvertent leak of urine during orgasm, is a well-known complication following radical prostatectomy and can cause significant patient/partner bother. The Mini-Jupette sling treats climacturia during placement of an inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) but requires an extended corporotomy with a complex closure. Our modified Mini-Jupette technique utilizes a standard corporotomy and places the sling inferior as opposed to integrated into the corporotomy. Additionally, we perform an intraoperative drip test for urethral occlusion, which eliminates the need for guessing on sling tension. Corset sutures can then be utilized intraoperatively or in future revision surgeries in the event of sling loosening or recurrent climacturia. Objective To visually demonstrate the modified mini-jupette technique and intraoperative drip test. Methods An IPP surgical candidate with climacturia was identified. Intraoperative video of the Mini-Jupette technique was recorded using an overhead camera. The Mini-Jupette sling is placed with four vertical Ethibond (00) sutures placed inferior to the corporotomy stay sutures. The drip test is set up by retracting the catheter to the distal urethra and connecting it to a bedside irrigation system set 60cm above the patient. Stoppage of fluid flow during IPP inflation indicates that the sling is appropriately occluding the urethra. Results Successful demonstration of a modified Mini-Jupette technique and intraoperative drip test without complications. Conclusions Our modified Mini-Jupette and intraoperative drip test provide a reasonable alternative to the standard Mini-Jupette technique. Disclosure Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Coloplast.

Abstract Introduction Peyronie’s disease is characterized by penile plaque or scar within the tunica albuginea. This results in penile deformity, most commonly penile curvature but also volume loss deformity such as hourglass or indentation. This volume loss occurs in up to 65% of men with Peyroine’s disease. Surgical management for patients with significant deformity includes plaque incision/partial excision and penile grafting with an absorbable grafting material. In the original description of extra-tunical grafting, the grafting material was placed over Buck’s fascia via a ventral longitudinal incision. In our modified technique, the grafting material is placed under Buck’s fascia and superficial to the tunica albuginea, which allows the grafting material to be less palpable in the flaccid condition. Objective To demonstrate a modified approach to Extra-Tunical Grafting for peyronie’s disease indentation deformity. Methods Intra-operative video of modified extra-tunical grafting was recorded with an overhead surgical camera. Results Successful modified extra-tunical grafting with excellent penile straightening and restoration of penile girth and minimal palpability of the graft. Conclusions Our modified extra-tunical grafting technique is a reasonable option compared to the standard grafting technique Disclosure Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Coloplast.

Abstract Introduction Limited data currently exist on the role and efficacy of additional series of collagenase clostridium histolyticum (CCH) injections among Peyronie’s disease (PD) men who have previously failed a first series of injections. We have previously published outcomes of men undergoing a novel protocol for CCH injections and which demonstrated significant improvements compared to original IMPRESS I and II techniques. We therefore sought to evaluate results of men who had previously failed CCH injections to determine if they would respond to a repeat course using a more aggressive protocol. Objective To evaluate outcomes of a novel protocol for CCH injections among men who had previously failed 6-8 CCH injections using a traditional approach. Methods A randomized, controlled trial (NCT05108558) is ongoing. All participants had previously failed to achieve ≥20% curvature improvement with 6-8 prior CCH injections. Men were randomized 3:1 to receive either CCH + traction (RestoreX) + sildenafil (treatment) up front or initial observation followed by treatment (controls). Outcomes were compared between treatment and control groups. Key measures included objective curve improvements and standardized/non-standardized questionnaires, with assessments obtained at baseline, 6-weeks after completion of CCH (treatment arm), after the no treatment period (controls), and at 1 year. Results A total of 22/40 men have been randomized to date, with 11 having fully completed treatment. Mean age was 64 years, with a median PD duration of 24 months. Mean composite baseline curvature was 80 degrees, with 55% having hourglass or indentation deformities, 10% calcification, median baseline IIEF-EFD 15, and 60% able to have penetrative intercourse. Median estimated improvement with the prior CCH series was 0% (IQR 0, 19.4), and the median number of prior injections was 8. The majority of men were dissatisfied with their prior series of CCH (60% vs 30% satisfied, 10% neutral). Of the 11 men who had completed the study protocol, 64% required 1 series, 9% 2 series, 18% 3 series, and 9% 4 series. Compared to the no treatment arm, treated men experienced significantly greater improvements (mean 78 degree vs 15, p=0.01). IIEF-EFD was also improved more in treated men (+4.3 vs -5.7, p<0.05). 100% of men reported a subjective major improvement in curvature, with the average subjectively estimated improvement 91%. 67% reported improved sensitivity (33% no change), while 60% reported improved or no change in erectile function, with 20% unsure, and 20% somewhat worse. Post-treatment, 83% of men were very satisfied with CCH as a treatment and 17% somewhat satisfied. Conclusions Repeating CCH using a novel protocol after an initially unsuccessful course of CCH achieves significant improvements in curvature and patient satisfaction. Additional data, including external validation, are warranted. Disclosure Yes, this is sponsored by industry/sponsor: Endo Pharmaceuticals. Clarification: Industry funding only - investigator initiated and executed study. Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Matthew Ziegelmann - Endo Pharmaceuticals.

Abstract Background The efficacy and safety of collagenase Clostridium histolyticum (CCH) have been demonstrated in the treatment of men with Peyronie’s disease (PD); however, the pivotal clinical trials excluded men with ventral penile curvature. Aim The study sought to evaluate outcomes of CCH treatment in men with ventral curvatures secondary to PD. Methods Men with PD treated with CCH were identified from a prospective database. Patients received up to 4 series of CCH injections using a progressively modified protocol over time. Results were compared between those with baseline ventral vs nonventral penile curvatures. Outcomes Changes in penile curvature, Peyronie’s Disease Questionnaire scores, International Index of Erectile Function scores, nonstandardized assessments, and adverse events. Results A total of 560 men with PD (85 ventral curvature, 475 nonventral curvature) were included in the analysis. Baseline median curvature was 60.0° (interquartile range, 48.8°-75.0°) in the ventral cohort and 65.0° (interquartile range, 45.0°-80.0°) in the nonventral cohort. Median change from baseline penile curvature was −25.0° in the ventral cohort vs −24.0° in the nonventral cohort (P = .08, between-group comparison), which corresponded to curvature reductions of 44.7% and 33.6%, respectively (P = .03). In the subset of patients who completed CCH treatment (ie, received 8 injections or discontinued early because of patient satisfaction with curvature reduction), median change from baseline was −35.0° in the ventral cohort vs −25.0° in the nonventral cohort (P < .05); median percent improvement was 48.3% and 37.5%, respectively (P = .11). Median change from baseline in Peyronie’s Disease Questionnaire and International Index of Erectile Function domain scores and adverse events were similar between cohorts, with the exception of possibly higher hematoma rates in the nonventral group (50% vs 37%; P = .05). No urethral injuries were sustained in either cohort. Clinical Implications Data support the use of CCH for the treatment of ventral as well as nonventral penile curvatures in men with PD. Strengths and Limitations Study strengths are the inclusion of a general clinical population of men with PD, the prospective design, and the relatively large series of men with ventral curvature. Limitations include the single-center and observational nature of the study. Conclusion CCH was safe and effective in the treatment of both ventral and nonventral penile curvatures in men with PD.