Citations

Donation after circulatory death (DCD) has become a key avenue for expanding the organ donor pool. Many DCD protocols include premortem intravenous heparin to reduce microthrombus formation and preserve graft viability. This presents the plausible risk of premortem bleeding from an intervention that offers no direct therapeutic benefit to the donor. Ethical concerns and moral distress can arise when potential donors have a catastrophic intracranial hemorrhage with ongoing physiological concern for bleeding risk that is not survivable, but do not currently meet brain death criteria. While prior analyses describe premortem interventions in DCD in conceptual or protocol-driven terms, this case report considers the ethical concerns inherent in premortem heparin administration and illustrates how multidisciplinary teams can operationalize ethical safeguards, including transparent communication, attention to surrogate understanding, and separation of end-of-life decisions from donation-related interventions, to mitigate concerns and minimize moral distress. These issues are directly relevant to palliative care clinicians, who frequently support families during end-of-life crises and when there is consideration for organ donation. Through a multidisciplinary and ethically guided approach, this case illustrates how collaborative decision-making and transparent communication can uphold both donor dignity and transplant integrity.

Abstract Honoring a patient’s wishes for end-of-life care can be challenging if the patient loses decision-making capacity and the identified alternate decision-maker will not respect the patient’s wishes. This article discusses how to proceed ethically and legally when the alternate decision-maker and care team disagree about respecting a patient’s end-of-life preferences.

Abstract Background To date, no scoring system has adequately defined clinical efficacy of erectile dysfunction (ED) therapies when evaluating differences between cohorts or in meta-analytic studies. Aim To outline the minimal criteria required for any therapy to be considered clinically effective in the treatment of ED. Methods An analytic review was performed of standardized ED questionnaires, with a particular emphasis placed on the International Index of Erectile Function, Erectile Function Domain (IIEF-EFD), and the minimally clinically important difference (MCID) concept. The data were used to create a societal position statement and recommendations on best practices within clinical trials to determine treatment efficacy. Outcomes The SMSNA provided 6 key statements and recommendations to suggest best practices and define minimal thresholds for improvements required for an ED therapy to be considered clinically effective. Results The IIEF-EFD currently represents the preferred standardized questionnaire to evaluate for changes in erectile function post-treatment and is the only questionnaire adequate to assess primary outcomes. To claim efficacy, investigational treatments must demonstrate MCID between cohorts (eg, 2-, 5-, or 7-point median improvements between groups among mild, moderate, or severe ED cohorts) in prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled, and adequately powered studies. In studies employing mixed-severity ED populations, a method of calculating an adjusted MCID was proposed based on statistical weighting principles. Similarly, a novel method for analyzing differences between cohorts in meta-analytic studies was presented to incorporate the concept of MCID. Based on these principles, the SMSNA would not support efficacy of a therapy based on statistical significance in a meta-analytic study alone. Similarly, studies claiming efficacy utilizing responder approaches (ie, statistically higher percentage of men achieving MCID between cohorts) would not be acceptable unless the median difference between groups on the IIEF-EFD achieved MCID. Clinical Implications The current position statement provides important, evidence-based data and scientific principles to help define what may be considered as an effective therapy in the treatment of ED. This framework provides a basis that decision-makers, clinicians, and patients may use to help differentiate clinically effective therapies. Strengths & Limitations The published literature is limited by a lack of validated instruments and data defining MCID for ED therapies between cohorts and with meta-analytic studies. The current position statement provides important guidance on these areas of ambiguity pending further, definitive data. Conclusion The current position statement provides detailed guidance on key criteria required to conclude efficacy of therapies used to treat ED.

Abstract Introduction Significant clinical variations exist in the definitions of acute/active vs chronic/stable Peyronie’s Disease (PD). While the American Urological Association’s 2015 guidelines define the acute phase as involving symptoms that change and the presence of pain, they do not specify a timeframe. Historically, acute-phase features include penile pain and worsening curvature, with symptom duration ranging from less than 3 to 18 months. Although temporally categorizing PD may have academic value, it may unnecessarily limit or delay treatment. In the United States, collagenase clostridium histolyticum (CCH) is the only FDA-approved treatment for adult men with PD who have a palpable plaque and a curvature deformity of at least 30 degrees. Several real-world studies suggest CCH is safe and effective during the acute phase. Objective To evaluate differences in outcomes by penile pain and symptom duration and to determine whether these factors should inform timing of CCH treatment in men with Peyronie’s disease. Methods A post hoc analysis of pooled data from 2 phase 3 randomized double-blind trials of CCH in PD (IMPRESS I, NCT01221597; IMPRESS II, NCT01221623). Men treated with CCH were stratified by baseline penile pain (Any Pain vs No Pain), based on both investigator-assessed and patient-reported measures. A subgroup analysis further stratified men with Any Pain by disease duration. The primary efficacy endpoint in the phase 3 study was the percentage change in penile curvature from baseline to week 52. A 2-sample t test was used to compare group means for each pain-related measure. Results A total of 364 CCH-treated men were included. Mean penile curvature improvements at week 52 were similar across all 4 investigator-assessed and patient-reported penile pain measures (35.0%-36.7% improvement for the No Pain group vs 32.2%-33.9% improvement for the Any Pain group, P=0.14-0.65). Among those experiencing Any Pain, no statistical differences were observed in men with disease durations that were shorter (12-18 months; 21.8%-34.8% improvement) vs longer (greater than 18 months; 31.4%-36.8% improvement, P=0.20-0.95). Conclusions This study found similar curvature improvements among men treated with CCH regardless of baseline pain or disease duration. Results align with prior studies showing no outcome differences by pain status or disease phase. These findings suggest that pain and disease duration should not be viewed as contraindications to CCH or used to guide clinical decision-making. Disclosure Yes, this is sponsored by industry/sponsor: Endo USA, Inc. Clarification: Industry initiated, executed and funded study Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Endo USA, Inc.

Abstract There are ~100 genes or copy number variants (CNVs) used in genetic testing for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD, or autism). These genes are protein-coding, and the associated phenotypes often extend beyond socio-behavioral traits seen in autism including cognitive/medical complexities, epilepsy, and ADHD. Here, we characterize 27 males with ASD through whole genome sequencing (WGS), delineating X-chromosome microdeletions that implicate the long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) PTCHD1-AS as an ASD-susceptibility gene (OR=2.56, p=0.01). Two Ptchd1-as knockout (KO) murine models, created by removing the evolutionarily conserved exon-3, show ASD-like features in males, increasing repetitive behaviors and impairing typical social behavior and communication without overt cognitive comorbidities or ADHD-like behaviors. Hippocampus-dependent synaptic function, complex learning, and locomotor activity are unaffected in KO mice. Native nuclear-enriched mouse Ptchd1-as showed sustained expression from post-natal day-7 onward in the dorsal striatum, a predominantly GABAergic brain region implicated in ASD. Multi-omics revealed transcriptomic alterations in striatal oligodendrocyte, astrocyte and neurons impacting myelination and plasticity pathways. Disrupting Ptchd1-as led to reductions in conventional Protein Kinase-C, altered Src and GSK3α/β phosphorylation, and an enhancement of synaptic plasticity (long-term potentiation and long-term depression). Together, these findings implicate striatal molecular and circuit level dysregulation via Ptchd1-as in ASD etiology.

Abstract Introduction Since 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 therefore sought to compare key outcomes between the two therapies. Objective To compare the satisfaction and adverse event profiles between surgery and CCH injections for the treatment of PD. Methods A randomized, controlled trial is ongoing. Participants were randomized 1:1 to receive either CCH + traction (RestoreX) + sildenafil (CCH) or penile surgery (plication and/or incision and grafting) + traction + sildenafil for PD (Surgery). Objective, standardized, and non-standardized assessments were obtained at baseline and 3, 6, 12, 24, 36, 48, and 60 months post-treatment. Key outcomes included differences in standardized questionnaires, penile curvature, penile length, subsequent interventions, and non-standardized questionnaire responses. Results A total of 40 men were randomized with 24-month data available in 29. Mean age 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 similar between cohorts. Regarding primary outcomes, at 24-months post-treatment, CCH men were more likely to report being very satisfied with treatment (62% vs 25%, p < 0.05). For secondary outcomes, only questionnaire data were captured at two years without objective measurements obtained. No differences were noted between groups regarding subscales of the IIEF, PDQ, Beck’s Depression Inventory, or SEP-2, however CCH men had better SEP-3 positive responses (62% vs 19%, p = 0.02), indicating improved ability to maintain erections sufficient for intercourse. Surgery men reported higher subjective rates of length loss compared to CCH (81% vs 15%, p < 0.001) and curvature recurrence (56% vs 8%, p < 0.01), but similar rates with changes in sensation, indentation/hourglass, and erectile function. Both groups indicated similar willingness to undergo the therapy again. Interestingly, at 2-years, the majority of men in the Surgery arm said that their initial preference for treatment was surgery (56%), which decreased from a peak 86% at 1-year. However, in reviewing baseline information, 72% of Surgery men actually preferred CCH at study onset, highlighting a significant recall bias towards whatever treatment one actually ended up receiving. Conclusions Preliminary data suggests that when compared to surgery at 24-months, CCH men were more likely to be very satisfied with therapy, have greater subjective length improvements and lower curvature recurrence rates. 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: PathRight Medical.

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 sought to evaluate outcomes of a novel protocol for CCH injections among men who had previously failed 6-8 CCH injections using a traditional approach. Objective To evaluate whether additional rounds of CCH using a novel protocol in men previously unresponsive results in greater curve improvements. Methods A randomized, controlled trial (NCT05108558) is ongoing. All participants 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 38/40 men have been randomized to date, with 22 having fully completed treatment. Mean age was 57 years, with a median PD duration of 22 months. Median composite baseline curvature was 65 degrees, with 40% having hourglass or indentation deformities, 8% calcification, median baseline IIEF-EFD 20, and 58% able to have penetrative intercourse. Median estimated improvement with the prior CCH series was 0% (IQR 0, 18.8), and the median number of prior injections was 8. The majority of men were dissatisfied with their prior series of CCH (58% vs 35% satisfied, 8% neutral). Of the 22 men who had completed the study protocol, 50% required 1 series, 14% 2 series, 29% 3 series, and 7% 4 series. Compared to the no treatment arm, treated men experienced significantly greater improvements (median 60 degrees vs 0, p = 0.01). IIEF-EFD was non-statistically higher in treated men (0 vs -5, p = 0.17). 92% of men reported a subjective major improvement in curvature, with the median subjectively estimated improvement 90%. 42% reported improved sensitivity (58% no change), while 63% reported improved or no change in erectile function, with 9% unsure, and 27% worse. Post-treatment, 92% of men were very satisfied with CCH as a treatment and 8% neutral. 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: PathRight Medical.

Abstract Introduction Limited data exist on semen parameters post vasectomy reversal. Specifically, no studies have rigorously evaluated the likelihood of sperm return following discovery of azoospermia at some time point post vasectomy reversal. Objective To evaluate the rate of return of sperm among men who experience an azoospermia result post vasectomy-reversal. Methods A large, prospective dataset has been maintained of men undergoing vasectomy reversals at a single center from 2019 to the present. Men who had at least two post-operative semen analyses were included for review. The data were then analyzed in a manner to identify those who experienced a 0 count at varying time points and then either went on to continue to have 0’s beyond that point or who experienced a return of sperm. Results A total of 3414 men underwent a vasectomy reversal since 2019, with 2703 having semen analysis data available for review. Overall demographics demonstrated a mean age of 41, partner age 33, median time since vasectomy of 7 years, 92% first-time cases, and distribution of repair as noted: VV/VV (79%), VV/EV (12%), EV/EV (6%), VV/x (1%), EV/x (<1%), x/x (0%). Of men who had 0 sperm at varying time points, the percentages of those who experienced a return of sperm are noted as follows: 0 sperm at <2 months (52% experienced a return at some point, n = 349 used in calculation), 0 at 2-4 months (38% return, n = 210), 0 at 5-7 months (17% return, n = 206), 0 at 8-10 months (20% return, n = 133), 0 at 11-18 months (9% return, n = 107). The data are limited by the fact that relatively few men continued to send in semen analysis samples beyond 12 months (n = 403 with at least one result >12 months and n = 101 with results >24 months). Conclusions Men who experience azoospermia post-vasectomy reversal may experience a return of sperm over time, with the likelihood for return declining based on the duration of persistence of 0 sperm. Disclosure Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: PathRight Medical.

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.

Abstract Background Sexual Medicine Society of North America (SMSNA) fellowships offer variable experience in sexual health domains: erectile dysfunction, Peyronie’s disease, male infertility, male hypogonadism (low testosterone), reconstruction (including male incontinence), benign prostatic hyperplasia, gender affirmation surgery, sexual mental health, and female sexual dysfunction. Aim To evaluate baseline and postbootcamp understanding and trust in these domains. Methods In 2023, 28 of 31 urologists currently enrolled in SMSNA-endorsed fellowships participated in a 3.5-day training bootcamp in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Participants were asked to complete pre- and postbootcamp surveys. The bootcamp curriculum offered American Urological Association guidelines and case-based lectures, hands-on clinical training with cadavers (penile surgery) and models (collagenase training), and interaction with industry. Outcomes Changes in knowledge, independence, and trust in performing the procedures, as well as billing issues and feedback for future bootcamps. Results Prebootcamp surveys revealed vastly varied residency experience. Reported time with an expert faculty member was greatest for benign prostatic hyperplasia and least for female sexual dysfunction, gender affirmation surgery, and low testosterone. The lowest prebootcamp confidence in performing surgery independently was for penile grafting procedures and elevating the neurovascular bundle. Postbootcamp results revealed several areas of significant improvement in confidence (P ≤ .03): intralesional injections for Peyronie’s disease, manual modeling, penile plication, penile grafting procedures, and elevating the neurovascular bundle. There was a trend for improved confidence with the insertion of inflatable (P = .05) and semirigid (P = .08) penile prostheses. Nonsignificant improvement occurred in artificial urinary sphincter surgery (P = .12). Participants graded the bootcamp very highly and requested that next year’s bootcamp have more content on female sexual dysfunction, male incontinence, and low testosterone, as well as more hands-on skills sessions and case-based lecture formats. Clinical Implications Offering a bootcamp with hands-on instruction could significantly improve urologists’ knowledge and confidence. Strengths and Limitations As the main strength, this study was the first specialized bootcamp for urologists in the subject of men’s health, taking into account hands-on and cadaver laboratories, as well as highlighting industrial and pharmaceutical products. The small sample size was the major limitation. Conclusions Current SMSNA fellows present with varied levels of experience and confidence across sexual health domains. Notable confidence improvements were seen with topics that combined didactic lectures with hands-on trainings.