Citations

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 Intracavernosal injection (ICI) therapy for erectile dysfunction (ED) carries a risk of corporal fibrosis, potentially making placement of an inflatable penile prosthesis more difficult. Prostate cancer treatment may also induce corporal fibrosis. Objective To assess whether a history of ICI or prostate cancer treatment is associated with complications following IPP placement. Methods A retrospective cohort study of primary IPP cases from 2016-2021 across 16 institutions. Patients were stratified by history of ICI and between-group differences in risk factors were assessed. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess for predictors of intraoperative complications, postoperative non-infectious complications and postoperative infection. Results A total of 2540 patients met inclusion criteria of which 781 (30.8%) had a history of ICI. Patients with a history of ICI tended to be older (mean 63 vs 64 years, p=0.002) and were more likely to have history of radical prostatectomy (21.0% vs. 32.1%, p<0.001) and/or radiation (5.51% vs 10.9%, p<0.001). On multivariable regression, a history of ICI, prostatectomy, and radiation were all significant predictors of intraoperative complications (OR 2.11, p=0.03; OR 2.27, p=0.03; OR 2.40, p=0.04, respectively). A history of ICI and patient age were predictors of non-infectious postoperative complications (OR 1.44, p=0.02, OR 1.02, p=0.004 respectively)). None of the variables were significant predictors of infection. Conclusions In men undergoing IPP placement, a history of ICI is associated with an increased risk of both intraoperative and postoperative, non-infectious complications. Prostate cancer treatment with radiation or surgery is independently associated with increased risk of intraoperative complications. Disclosure Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: D.O. has served as a consultant for Coloplast, Intuitive Surgical, and Fidelis. P.P. has served as a consultant for Coloplast, Boston Scientific, and Urofill. M.S. has served as a consultant for Boston Scientific and Coloplast. J.S. has served as a consultant for Boston Scientific and Coloplast. F.A.Y. has served as a consultant for Coloplast, Cynosure, Antares Pharma, Clarus Pharmaceuticals, and Acerus Pharma. M.S.G. has served as a consultant for Coloplast. The other authors disclose no conflicts.

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 Introduction There has been significant ongoing debate on the role and utility of prednisone post-vasectomy reversal to improve sperm counts and long-term patency. However, there are relatively limited data available on the efficacy, with essentially no data available on pregnancy outcomes. Objective To report outcomes of randomized, clinical trial evaluating varying protocols for prednisone administration post vasectomy reversal. Methods A randomized, controlled trial was performed (NCT04788823) with an anticipated 100 men randomized to one of four prednisone protocols post vasectomy reversal: no treatment (Control), prednisone 20 mg taper over 1 month beginning the first month post-op and then every other month x 6 months (High Dose), prednisone 20 mg taper over 1 month if declining sperm counts or a 0 count were identified (PRN), and prednisone 5 mg daily x 1 week, followed by no treatment x 1 week, continued for 6 months (Low Dose). Randomization tables were created a priori to ensure an equal representation of differing durations of time since the original vasectomy as well as an equal distribution of VV/VV vs VV/EV vs EV/EV procedures. All men had semen analyses obtained monthly for a first 12 months. Surveys were sent periodically to follow-up on subsequent pregnancies. Inclusion criteria included having a female partner <36 years of age with no known fertility factors. Results A total of 75 men were ultimately enrolled due to interim findings suggesting inferiority of the High Dose and PRN treatment arms and decision to close those arms before completing full enrollment. Final enrollment included: Control (n=25), High Dose (n=14), PRN (n=11), and Low Dose (n=25). The mean patient age was 38.5 years, mean partner age 29.6, and mean time since vasectomy 6.3 years (SD 5.0). 82% of men underwent VV/VV, while 15% VV/EV, and 3% EV/EV. All men underwent successful anastomosis bilaterally with no cases of one-sided or no anastomosis performed. At a mean follow-up of 16.5 months (range 7.6 to 25.1), an overall patency (sperm observed on sample) rate of 93% was noted (Control 96%, High Dose 93%, PRN 100%, Low Dose 88%, p=0.41). The mean sperm concentration post-op was 34.4 million/ml (Control 24.0, High Dose 38.4, PRN 21.0, Low Dose 49.8, p=0.33). Patency rates at 6- and 12-months were: 6-months (Control 88%, High Dose 80%, PRN 83%, Low Dose 94%, p=0.75); 12-months (Control 75%, High Dose 71%, PRN 75%, Low Dose 91%). Mean sperm concentrations at 6- and 12-months were: 6-months (Control 15.7, High Dose 21.5, PRN 6.9, Low Dose 25.7, p=0.50); 12-months (Control 12.6 million/ml, High Dose 17.1, PRN 36.1, Low Dose 50.4, p=0.64) At the 6-month post-op time point, the overall rate of pregnancy was 47%, with notable differences between cohorts: Control 57%, High Dose 10%, PRN 38%, and Low Dose 67%, p=0.02. No patients discontinued prednisone due to side effects. Conclusions Prednisone taper protocols appear to reduce the likelihood for pregnancy following vasectomy reversal. Use of low-dose prednisone results in non-statistically higher rates of patency at 6- and 12-months, mean sperm concentration at 6- and 12-months, and pregnancy at 6-months. Overall results suggest superiority of either no prednisone post-vasectomy reversal or a low dose protocol but argue against the use of higher dosages at any time due to its negative impacts on pregnancy rates despite maintained sperm counts. Disclosure No.

Abstract Aims Doxorubicin (DXR) is a chemotherapeutic agent that causes dose-dependent cardiotoxicity. Recently, it has been proposed that the NADase CD38 may play a role in doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity (DIC). CD38 is the main NAD+-catabolizing enzyme in mammalian tissues. Interestingly, in the heart, CD38 is mostly expressed as an ecto-enzyme that can be targeted by specific inhibitory antibodies. The goal of the present study is to characterize the role of CD38 ecto-enzymatic activity in cardiac metabolism and the development of DIC. Methods and results Using both a transgenic animal model and a non-cytotoxic enzymatic anti-CD38 antibody, we investigated the role of CD38 and its ecto-NADase activity in DIC in pre-clinical models. First, we observed that DIC was prevented in the CD38 catalytically inactive (CD38-CI) transgenic mice. Both left ventricular systolic function and exercise capacity were decreased in wild-type but not in CD38-CI mice treated with DXR. Second, blocking CD38-NADase activity with the specific antibody 68 (Ab68) likewise protected mice against DIC and decreased DXR-related mortality by 50%. A reduction of DXR-induced mitochondrial dysfunction, energy deficiency, and inflammation gene expression were identified as the main mechanisms mediating the protective effects. Conclusion NAD+-preserving strategies by inactivation of CD38 via a genetic or a pharmacological-based approach improve cardiac energetics and reduce cardiac inflammation and dysfunction otherwise seen in an acute DXR cardiotoxicity model.

Abstract Telehealth is a broad concept that refers to any delivery of health care in real time using technologies to connect people or information that are not in the same physical location. Until fairly recently, telehealth was more aspiration than reality. This situation changed radically due in part to the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to a near-overnight inability for patients to be seen for routine management of chronic health conditions, including those with cancer. The purpose of this brief narrative review is to outline some areas where emerging and future technology may allow for innovations with specific implications for people with a current or past diagnosis of cancer, including underserved and/or historically excluded populations. Specific topics of telehealth are broadly covered in other areas of the special issue.

Diversity is a catalyst for progress that prevents institutional stagnation and, by extension, averts descent to mediocrity. This review focuses on the available data concerning hepatopancreatobiliary (HPB) surgical workforce demographics and identifies evidence-based strategies that may enhance justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion for HPB surgeons and their patients. We report that the current United States HPB surgical workforce does not reflect the population it serves. We review data describing disparity-perpetuating hurdles confronting physicians from minority groups underrepresented in medicine at each stage of training. We further examine evidence showing widespread racial and socioeconomic disparities in HPB surgical care and review the effects of workforce diversity and physician–patient demographic concordance on healthcare outcomes. Evidence-based mitigators of structural racism and segregation are reviewed, including tailored interventions that can address social determinants of health toward the achievement of true excellence in HPB surgical care. Lastly, select evidence-based data driving surgical workforce solutions are reviewed, including intentional compensation plans, mentorship, and sponsorship.

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.