Elisabetta Costantini - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Elisabetta Costantini

Research paper thumbnail of Urinary Tract Infections Still a Challenge to Fight

Research paper thumbnail of Masked stress urinary incontinence

Research paper thumbnail of Urinary tract infection still a challenge to figth: A real setting study

European Urology Supplements, 2018

Urinary tract infection still a challenge to figth: A real setting study P35 Do we really need sy... more Urinary tract infection still a challenge to figth: A real setting study P35 Do we really need systematic use of antimicrobial prophylaxis before transurethral resection of bladder tumor? P36 Urine culture, asymptomatic bacteriuria and diabetic patients. Is antibiotic prophylaxis always indicated? P37 Concordance of preoperative bladder urine, renal pelvic urine and stone cultures after endourological procedures and risk of systemic inflammatory response syndrome: Results from a cross-sectional study P38 Characterization of the novaginal microflora after surgical gender reassignment in HIV, HBV and HCV Seronegative transsexual women P39 Evaluation of insight into the diagnosis and management of tropical diseases among european urologists: Are we prepared to deal with mass migration? Results of an international survey P40 Effectiveness of Vacuum-Assisted Closure Therapy (VAC) in the management of disseminated fournier's gangrene: A multicentre study P41 L-Metionina associated with ibiscus sabdariffa and boswellia serrata (ACIDIF PLUS ®) extracts in patients affected by recurrent uncomplicated urinary tract infections: Is it a feasible alternative to antibiotic treatment? P42 Epidemiological features of resistance patterns among uropathogens: Focus on fosfomycin trometamol P43 Rate of complications and urinary infection after antibiotic prophylaxis with fosfomycin vs. standard of care in patients undergoing prostate biopsy: A randomized, single-blinded, clinical study P34 Urinary tract infection still a challenge to figth: A real setting study

Research paper thumbnail of 1872 Preoperative Urinary Incontinence is the Main Risk Factor for Post-Operative Incontinence in Women Who Underwent Pelvic Organ Prolapse Repair

The Journal of Urology, 2012

the three groups when compared to the 239 patients who were dry pre-operatively as well. Addition... more the three groups when compared to the 239 patients who were dry pre-operatively as well. Additionally, ALPP did not correlate with postoperative SUI based on sling type. CONCLUSIONS: Despite suburethral sling placement at the time of cystocele repair, some patients experience post-operative SUI which is usually reported as mild. There is no evidence for a direct correlation between ALPP on pre-operative urodynamics and the likelihood of continued SUI after cystocele repair with sling placement.

Research paper thumbnail of Pop Repair with Trocar-Guided Trans-Vaginal Mesh Surgery. Not Only Anatomic Results but Also Impact on Urinary Incontinence and Functional Outcomes

Costantini E, Natale F, Vittori G, Salvini E, Pastore A L, Di Biase M, Cervigni M 1. Department o... more Costantini E, Natale F, Vittori G, Salvini E, Pastore A L, Di Biase M, Cervigni M 1. Department of Medical-Surgical Specialties and Public Health, Urology and Andrology Section, University of Perugia, Italy, 2. Department of Gynecology, Urogynecology Section, S. Carlo-IDI Hospital, Rome, Italy, 3. Sapienza University of Rome, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine; Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Urology Unit

Research paper thumbnail of Novel Antimicrobial Strategies to Prevent Biofilm Infections in Catheters after Radical Cystectomy: A Pilot Study

Life

Catheter-associated infections in bladder cancer patients, following radical cystectomy or ureter... more Catheter-associated infections in bladder cancer patients, following radical cystectomy or ureterocutaneostomy, are very frequent, and the development of antibiotic resistance poses great challenges for treating biofilm-based infections. Here, we characterized bacterial communities from catheters of patients who had undergone radical cystectomy for muscle-invasive bladder cancer. We evaluated the efficacy of conventional antibiotics, alone or combined with the human ApoB-derived antimicrobial peptide r(P)ApoBLAla, to treat ureteral catheter-colonizing bacterial communities on clinically isolated bacteria. Microbial communities adhering to indwelling catheters were collected during the patients’ regular catheter change schedules (28 days) and extracted within 48 h. Living bacteria were characterized using selective media and biochemical assays. Biofilm growth and novel antimicrobial strategies were analyzed using confocal laser scanning microscopy. Statistical analyses confirmed the ...

Research paper thumbnail of Coital Incontinence in Women With Urinary Incontinence: An International Study

The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 2018

Introduction Coital urinary incontinence (CUI) is not much explored during clinical history, and ... more Introduction Coital urinary incontinence (CUI) is not much explored during clinical history, and this could lead to an underestimation of the problem. Aim To evaluate the prevalence and clinical risk factors of CUI in women with urinary incontinence (UI), and to measure the impact of CUI on women’s sexuality and quality of life. Methods This was a multicenter international study, conducted in Italy, Greece, the United States, and Egypt. Inclusion criteria were: sexually active women with UI and in a stable relationship for at least 6 months. Exclusion criteria were: age <18 years and unstable relationship. The UI was classified as stress UI (SUI), urgency UI (UUI), and mixed UI (MUI). Women completed a questionnaire on demographics and medical history, in particular on UI and possible CUI and the timing of its occurrence, and the impact of CUI on quality and frequency of their sexual life. Main Outcome Measures To evaluate the CUI and its impact on sexual life we used the open qu...

Research paper thumbnail of 528 Surgical correction of uro-genital prolapse: A randomized trial of open surgery vs laparoscopy. Preliminary report

European Urology Supplements, 2012

Research paper thumbnail of MP74-17 is Urological Dysfunctions in Young Women an Inheritance of Childhood?

The Journal of Urology, 2016

Research paper thumbnail of 857 Association of CYP17, GSTP1, PON1-55 and PON1-192 polymorphisms with prostate cancer risk

European Urology Supplements, 2004

Research paper thumbnail of LB18 Long lasting therapy for recurrent urinary tract infections in women

European Urology Supplements, 2004

Research paper thumbnail of Is Valsalva leak point pressure a reliable test?

European Urology Supplements, 2002

Research paper thumbnail of Does abacterial prostatitis really exist?

European Urology Supplements, 2002

Research paper thumbnail of Is Surgical Outcome at Risk During Post-Graduated Educational Courses for Stress Urinary Incontinence (Sui) and Pelvic Organ Prolapse (Pop) Repair? A Case Control Study

The Journal of Urology, 2009

®19 (21.3%) had grade 4 cystoceles. In addition to the CaPS procedure, 50 (57%) underwent additio... more ®19 (21.3%) had grade 4 cystoceles. In addition to the CaPS procedure, 50 (57%) underwent additional prolapse surgery. Nine patients (10%) had recurrence of cystocele with a mean time to recurrence of 29.7 months (range 12-50). Of the 9 patients with cystocele recurrence, 3 patients (33%) had grade 4 cystocele, 5 patients (56%) had grade 3, and 1 patient (11%) had grade 2 cystocele. The mean SEAPI scores were 6.75 preoperatively and 2.22 postoperatively, representing a significant improvement (p <0.001). Of the 62 patients with preoperative stress urinary incontinence, 26 (42%) reported being completely dry (no incontinence episodes of any type). Fifty-three of the 65 (85%) reported at least 50% improvement in their incontinence. Of the 87 patients 61 (70%) were greater than 80% satisfied and 77 (86%) stated that they would undergo the CaPS procedure again. CONCLUSIONS: With a maximum follow-up of over 9 years in patients undergoing CaPS, results are excellent and durable with the use of cadaveric fascia lata for cystocele repair

Research paper thumbnail of Detubularized rectosigmoid neobladder in women after cystectomy for bladder cancer

Journal of Surgical Oncology, 2000

Background and Objectives: We present the long-term functional results of a new technique for bla... more Background and Objectives: We present the long-term functional results of a new technique for bladder substitution after cystectomy for bladder cancer in women. Methods: Between 1991 and 1995, 10 women underwent radical cystectomy for bladder cancer with a new technique. We created a detubularized rectosigmoid neobladder associated with either a terminal colostomy or intrasphincteric perineal colostomy section (Heitz-Boyer-Hovelacque). We evaluated neobladder functioning over almost 5 years by means of urodynamic studies, ultrasound scans, urograms and pouchgrams, and renal function tests. Results: Neobladder function was excellent in all patients, with good diurnal and nocturnal urinary continence, voiding patterns, and preservation of the upper urinary tract. Conclusions: This new technique, which is a modification of the standard rectal or rectosigmoid neobladder technique, is a valid alternative to the ortothopic neobladder in women, with good functional results.

Research paper thumbnail of Urodynamics for Pelvic Organ Prolapse Surgery: “Par for the Course”

European Urology, 2011

Referring to the article published on pp. 253-260 of this issue

Research paper thumbnail of 287 Cost-Utility Ratios (Curs) and Different Levels of Effectiveness in Urinary Incontinence (Ui) Management

The Journal of Urology, 2012

impact that ‘never events’ had on mortality, length of stay (LOS), and total hospital charges was... more impact that ‘never events’ had on mortality, length of stay (LOS), and total hospital charges was determined. RESULTS: The overall rate for ‘never event’ was 8.2%. Most common were SSI (3.7%), DVT/PE (2.7%), and vascular-catheter infection (1.3%). Demographics that predicted ‘never events’ included black race (OR 1.5, 95% CI 1.3 – 1.8), increasing age (OR 1.01, 95% CI 1.00 – 1.01), comorbidities (OR 1.3, 95% CI 1.1 – 1.5), Medicare insurance (OR 1.3, 95% CI 1.2 – 1.4). ‘Never event’ rate was decreased in females (OR 0.8, 95% CI 0.7 – 0.9), urban nonteaching hospitals (OR 0.7, 95% CI 0.6 – 0.8) and high cystectomy volume hospitals (OR 0.8, 95% CI 0.7 – 0.9). ‘Never events’ increased average LOS (by 13 days), total charges (by $80,000), and odds of in-hospital mortality (9.7% vs. 1.8%). CONCLUSIONS: ‘Never events’ are more likely in older patients with more comorbidities. Developing a ‘never event’ strongly predicts negative patient outcomes including higher LOS, charges, in-hospital mortality. High-risk populations may benefit from a case risk adjustment process prior to implementing a significant alteration in hospital or physician reimbursement policies.

Research paper thumbnail of A Prospective Randomized Study Comparing Monopolar and Bipolar Transurethral Resection of Prostate Using Transurethral Resection in Saline (TURIS) System

European Urology, 2007

Objectives: To compare transurethral resection of prostate (TURP) using monopolar and bipolar tra... more Objectives: To compare transurethral resection of prostate (TURP) using monopolar and bipolar transurethral resection in saline (TURIS) system. Materials and methods: A prospectively randomized study was conducted between January 2004 and January 2005. Patient demographics and indications for surgery were recorded. The safety end points studied were occurrence of complications and decline in postoperative serum sodium (Na +) and hemoglobin (Hb) levels. Efficacy end points were resection time, weight of resected prostate tissue, and improvement in International Prostate Symptoms Score (IPSS) and maximum flow rate (Q max) in patients' uroflow over 12 mo. Results: One hundred consecutive patients were randomized and completed the study, with 52 patients in the monopolar TURP group and 48 in the TURIS group. At baseline, the two groups were comparable; they had at least 12 mo of follow-up. Mean resection time and mean weight of resected prostate tissue were comparable for both groups. Declines in the mean postoperative serum Na + for TURIS and monopolar TURP groups were 3.2 and 10.7 mmol/l, respectively (p < 0.01). However, there was no statistical difference in the decline in postoperative Hb between the two groups. There were two cases of clinically significant transurethral resection syndrome in the monopolar group. Urethral strictures were observed in three cases of TURIS and one patient in the monopolar group. The IPSS and Q max improvements were comparable between the two groups at 12 mo of follow-up. Conclusions: Bipolar TURP using the TURIS system is clinically comparable to monopolar TURP at 1 yr with an improved safety profile.

Research paper thumbnail of Urethral Bulking in the Treatment of Stress and Mixed Female Urinary Incontinence: Results from a Multicenter Cohort and Predictors of Clinical Outcomes

Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2022

The aim of the present study is to analyze the outcomes of urethral bulking in the treatment of n... more The aim of the present study is to analyze the outcomes of urethral bulking in the treatment of non-neurogenic female stress and mixed urinary incontinence and to assess predictors of clinical outcomes. We retrospectively included all consecutive patients affected by stress or mixed urinary incontinence and treated with urethral bulking. Outcomes were evaluated via the PGI-I questionnaire and the 24-h pad test. Between January 2010 and January 2020, we treated 216 patients (Bulkamid n = 206; Macro-plastique n = 10). The median age at surgery was 66 years (IQR 55–73.75). The median follow-up was 12 months (IQR 12–24). In total, 23.8% of patients were subjected to prior incontinence surgery, 63.8% of patients were affected by genuine stress urinary incontinence, 36.2% reported mixed urinary incontinence, whereas detrusor overactivity was confirmed in only 24.9%. The dry rate was 32.9%; nevertheless, 69.9% of patients declared themselves “very improved” or “improved” (PGI-I1-2). Low co...

Research paper thumbnail of The Impact of Lockdown on Couples’ Sex Lives

Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2021

Background: the aim of this study was to perform an Italian telematics survey analysis on the cha... more Background: the aim of this study was to perform an Italian telematics survey analysis on the changes in couples’ sex lives during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) lockdown. Methods: a multicenter cross sectional study was conducted on people sexually active and in stable relationships for at least 6 months. To evaluate male and female sexual dysfunctions, we used the international index of erectile function (IIEF-15) and the female sexual function index (FSFI), respectively; marital quality and stability were evaluated by the marital adjustment test (items 10–15); to evaluate the severity of anxiety symptoms, we used the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale. The effects of the quarantine on couples’ relationships was assessed with questions created in-house. Results: we included 2149 participants. The sex lives improved for 49% of participants, particularly those in cohabitation; for 29% it deteriorated, while for 22% of participants it did not change. Women who responded that thei...

Research paper thumbnail of Urinary Tract Infections Still a Challenge to Fight

Research paper thumbnail of Masked stress urinary incontinence

Research paper thumbnail of Urinary tract infection still a challenge to figth: A real setting study

European Urology Supplements, 2018

Urinary tract infection still a challenge to figth: A real setting study P35 Do we really need sy... more Urinary tract infection still a challenge to figth: A real setting study P35 Do we really need systematic use of antimicrobial prophylaxis before transurethral resection of bladder tumor? P36 Urine culture, asymptomatic bacteriuria and diabetic patients. Is antibiotic prophylaxis always indicated? P37 Concordance of preoperative bladder urine, renal pelvic urine and stone cultures after endourological procedures and risk of systemic inflammatory response syndrome: Results from a cross-sectional study P38 Characterization of the novaginal microflora after surgical gender reassignment in HIV, HBV and HCV Seronegative transsexual women P39 Evaluation of insight into the diagnosis and management of tropical diseases among european urologists: Are we prepared to deal with mass migration? Results of an international survey P40 Effectiveness of Vacuum-Assisted Closure Therapy (VAC) in the management of disseminated fournier's gangrene: A multicentre study P41 L-Metionina associated with ibiscus sabdariffa and boswellia serrata (ACIDIF PLUS ®) extracts in patients affected by recurrent uncomplicated urinary tract infections: Is it a feasible alternative to antibiotic treatment? P42 Epidemiological features of resistance patterns among uropathogens: Focus on fosfomycin trometamol P43 Rate of complications and urinary infection after antibiotic prophylaxis with fosfomycin vs. standard of care in patients undergoing prostate biopsy: A randomized, single-blinded, clinical study P34 Urinary tract infection still a challenge to figth: A real setting study

Research paper thumbnail of 1872 Preoperative Urinary Incontinence is the Main Risk Factor for Post-Operative Incontinence in Women Who Underwent Pelvic Organ Prolapse Repair

The Journal of Urology, 2012

the three groups when compared to the 239 patients who were dry pre-operatively as well. Addition... more the three groups when compared to the 239 patients who were dry pre-operatively as well. Additionally, ALPP did not correlate with postoperative SUI based on sling type. CONCLUSIONS: Despite suburethral sling placement at the time of cystocele repair, some patients experience post-operative SUI which is usually reported as mild. There is no evidence for a direct correlation between ALPP on pre-operative urodynamics and the likelihood of continued SUI after cystocele repair with sling placement.

Research paper thumbnail of Pop Repair with Trocar-Guided Trans-Vaginal Mesh Surgery. Not Only Anatomic Results but Also Impact on Urinary Incontinence and Functional Outcomes

Costantini E, Natale F, Vittori G, Salvini E, Pastore A L, Di Biase M, Cervigni M 1. Department o... more Costantini E, Natale F, Vittori G, Salvini E, Pastore A L, Di Biase M, Cervigni M 1. Department of Medical-Surgical Specialties and Public Health, Urology and Andrology Section, University of Perugia, Italy, 2. Department of Gynecology, Urogynecology Section, S. Carlo-IDI Hospital, Rome, Italy, 3. Sapienza University of Rome, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine; Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Urology Unit

Research paper thumbnail of Novel Antimicrobial Strategies to Prevent Biofilm Infections in Catheters after Radical Cystectomy: A Pilot Study

Life

Catheter-associated infections in bladder cancer patients, following radical cystectomy or ureter... more Catheter-associated infections in bladder cancer patients, following radical cystectomy or ureterocutaneostomy, are very frequent, and the development of antibiotic resistance poses great challenges for treating biofilm-based infections. Here, we characterized bacterial communities from catheters of patients who had undergone radical cystectomy for muscle-invasive bladder cancer. We evaluated the efficacy of conventional antibiotics, alone or combined with the human ApoB-derived antimicrobial peptide r(P)ApoBLAla, to treat ureteral catheter-colonizing bacterial communities on clinically isolated bacteria. Microbial communities adhering to indwelling catheters were collected during the patients’ regular catheter change schedules (28 days) and extracted within 48 h. Living bacteria were characterized using selective media and biochemical assays. Biofilm growth and novel antimicrobial strategies were analyzed using confocal laser scanning microscopy. Statistical analyses confirmed the ...

Research paper thumbnail of Coital Incontinence in Women With Urinary Incontinence: An International Study

The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 2018

Introduction Coital urinary incontinence (CUI) is not much explored during clinical history, and ... more Introduction Coital urinary incontinence (CUI) is not much explored during clinical history, and this could lead to an underestimation of the problem. Aim To evaluate the prevalence and clinical risk factors of CUI in women with urinary incontinence (UI), and to measure the impact of CUI on women’s sexuality and quality of life. Methods This was a multicenter international study, conducted in Italy, Greece, the United States, and Egypt. Inclusion criteria were: sexually active women with UI and in a stable relationship for at least 6 months. Exclusion criteria were: age <18 years and unstable relationship. The UI was classified as stress UI (SUI), urgency UI (UUI), and mixed UI (MUI). Women completed a questionnaire on demographics and medical history, in particular on UI and possible CUI and the timing of its occurrence, and the impact of CUI on quality and frequency of their sexual life. Main Outcome Measures To evaluate the CUI and its impact on sexual life we used the open qu...

Research paper thumbnail of 528 Surgical correction of uro-genital prolapse: A randomized trial of open surgery vs laparoscopy. Preliminary report

European Urology Supplements, 2012

Research paper thumbnail of MP74-17 is Urological Dysfunctions in Young Women an Inheritance of Childhood?

The Journal of Urology, 2016

Research paper thumbnail of 857 Association of CYP17, GSTP1, PON1-55 and PON1-192 polymorphisms with prostate cancer risk

European Urology Supplements, 2004

Research paper thumbnail of LB18 Long lasting therapy for recurrent urinary tract infections in women

European Urology Supplements, 2004

Research paper thumbnail of Is Valsalva leak point pressure a reliable test?

European Urology Supplements, 2002

Research paper thumbnail of Does abacterial prostatitis really exist?

European Urology Supplements, 2002

Research paper thumbnail of Is Surgical Outcome at Risk During Post-Graduated Educational Courses for Stress Urinary Incontinence (Sui) and Pelvic Organ Prolapse (Pop) Repair? A Case Control Study

The Journal of Urology, 2009

®19 (21.3%) had grade 4 cystoceles. In addition to the CaPS procedure, 50 (57%) underwent additio... more ®19 (21.3%) had grade 4 cystoceles. In addition to the CaPS procedure, 50 (57%) underwent additional prolapse surgery. Nine patients (10%) had recurrence of cystocele with a mean time to recurrence of 29.7 months (range 12-50). Of the 9 patients with cystocele recurrence, 3 patients (33%) had grade 4 cystocele, 5 patients (56%) had grade 3, and 1 patient (11%) had grade 2 cystocele. The mean SEAPI scores were 6.75 preoperatively and 2.22 postoperatively, representing a significant improvement (p <0.001). Of the 62 patients with preoperative stress urinary incontinence, 26 (42%) reported being completely dry (no incontinence episodes of any type). Fifty-three of the 65 (85%) reported at least 50% improvement in their incontinence. Of the 87 patients 61 (70%) were greater than 80% satisfied and 77 (86%) stated that they would undergo the CaPS procedure again. CONCLUSIONS: With a maximum follow-up of over 9 years in patients undergoing CaPS, results are excellent and durable with the use of cadaveric fascia lata for cystocele repair

Research paper thumbnail of Detubularized rectosigmoid neobladder in women after cystectomy for bladder cancer

Journal of Surgical Oncology, 2000

Background and Objectives: We present the long-term functional results of a new technique for bla... more Background and Objectives: We present the long-term functional results of a new technique for bladder substitution after cystectomy for bladder cancer in women. Methods: Between 1991 and 1995, 10 women underwent radical cystectomy for bladder cancer with a new technique. We created a detubularized rectosigmoid neobladder associated with either a terminal colostomy or intrasphincteric perineal colostomy section (Heitz-Boyer-Hovelacque). We evaluated neobladder functioning over almost 5 years by means of urodynamic studies, ultrasound scans, urograms and pouchgrams, and renal function tests. Results: Neobladder function was excellent in all patients, with good diurnal and nocturnal urinary continence, voiding patterns, and preservation of the upper urinary tract. Conclusions: This new technique, which is a modification of the standard rectal or rectosigmoid neobladder technique, is a valid alternative to the ortothopic neobladder in women, with good functional results.

Research paper thumbnail of Urodynamics for Pelvic Organ Prolapse Surgery: “Par for the Course”

European Urology, 2011

Referring to the article published on pp. 253-260 of this issue

Research paper thumbnail of 287 Cost-Utility Ratios (Curs) and Different Levels of Effectiveness in Urinary Incontinence (Ui) Management

The Journal of Urology, 2012

impact that ‘never events’ had on mortality, length of stay (LOS), and total hospital charges was... more impact that ‘never events’ had on mortality, length of stay (LOS), and total hospital charges was determined. RESULTS: The overall rate for ‘never event’ was 8.2%. Most common were SSI (3.7%), DVT/PE (2.7%), and vascular-catheter infection (1.3%). Demographics that predicted ‘never events’ included black race (OR 1.5, 95% CI 1.3 – 1.8), increasing age (OR 1.01, 95% CI 1.00 – 1.01), comorbidities (OR 1.3, 95% CI 1.1 – 1.5), Medicare insurance (OR 1.3, 95% CI 1.2 – 1.4). ‘Never event’ rate was decreased in females (OR 0.8, 95% CI 0.7 – 0.9), urban nonteaching hospitals (OR 0.7, 95% CI 0.6 – 0.8) and high cystectomy volume hospitals (OR 0.8, 95% CI 0.7 – 0.9). ‘Never events’ increased average LOS (by 13 days), total charges (by $80,000), and odds of in-hospital mortality (9.7% vs. 1.8%). CONCLUSIONS: ‘Never events’ are more likely in older patients with more comorbidities. Developing a ‘never event’ strongly predicts negative patient outcomes including higher LOS, charges, in-hospital mortality. High-risk populations may benefit from a case risk adjustment process prior to implementing a significant alteration in hospital or physician reimbursement policies.

Research paper thumbnail of A Prospective Randomized Study Comparing Monopolar and Bipolar Transurethral Resection of Prostate Using Transurethral Resection in Saline (TURIS) System

European Urology, 2007

Objectives: To compare transurethral resection of prostate (TURP) using monopolar and bipolar tra... more Objectives: To compare transurethral resection of prostate (TURP) using monopolar and bipolar transurethral resection in saline (TURIS) system. Materials and methods: A prospectively randomized study was conducted between January 2004 and January 2005. Patient demographics and indications for surgery were recorded. The safety end points studied were occurrence of complications and decline in postoperative serum sodium (Na +) and hemoglobin (Hb) levels. Efficacy end points were resection time, weight of resected prostate tissue, and improvement in International Prostate Symptoms Score (IPSS) and maximum flow rate (Q max) in patients' uroflow over 12 mo. Results: One hundred consecutive patients were randomized and completed the study, with 52 patients in the monopolar TURP group and 48 in the TURIS group. At baseline, the two groups were comparable; they had at least 12 mo of follow-up. Mean resection time and mean weight of resected prostate tissue were comparable for both groups. Declines in the mean postoperative serum Na + for TURIS and monopolar TURP groups were 3.2 and 10.7 mmol/l, respectively (p < 0.01). However, there was no statistical difference in the decline in postoperative Hb between the two groups. There were two cases of clinically significant transurethral resection syndrome in the monopolar group. Urethral strictures were observed in three cases of TURIS and one patient in the monopolar group. The IPSS and Q max improvements were comparable between the two groups at 12 mo of follow-up. Conclusions: Bipolar TURP using the TURIS system is clinically comparable to monopolar TURP at 1 yr with an improved safety profile.

Research paper thumbnail of Urethral Bulking in the Treatment of Stress and Mixed Female Urinary Incontinence: Results from a Multicenter Cohort and Predictors of Clinical Outcomes

Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2022

The aim of the present study is to analyze the outcomes of urethral bulking in the treatment of n... more The aim of the present study is to analyze the outcomes of urethral bulking in the treatment of non-neurogenic female stress and mixed urinary incontinence and to assess predictors of clinical outcomes. We retrospectively included all consecutive patients affected by stress or mixed urinary incontinence and treated with urethral bulking. Outcomes were evaluated via the PGI-I questionnaire and the 24-h pad test. Between January 2010 and January 2020, we treated 216 patients (Bulkamid n = 206; Macro-plastique n = 10). The median age at surgery was 66 years (IQR 55–73.75). The median follow-up was 12 months (IQR 12–24). In total, 23.8% of patients were subjected to prior incontinence surgery, 63.8% of patients were affected by genuine stress urinary incontinence, 36.2% reported mixed urinary incontinence, whereas detrusor overactivity was confirmed in only 24.9%. The dry rate was 32.9%; nevertheless, 69.9% of patients declared themselves “very improved” or “improved” (PGI-I1-2). Low co...

Research paper thumbnail of The Impact of Lockdown on Couples’ Sex Lives

Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2021

Background: the aim of this study was to perform an Italian telematics survey analysis on the cha... more Background: the aim of this study was to perform an Italian telematics survey analysis on the changes in couples’ sex lives during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) lockdown. Methods: a multicenter cross sectional study was conducted on people sexually active and in stable relationships for at least 6 months. To evaluate male and female sexual dysfunctions, we used the international index of erectile function (IIEF-15) and the female sexual function index (FSFI), respectively; marital quality and stability were evaluated by the marital adjustment test (items 10–15); to evaluate the severity of anxiety symptoms, we used the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale. The effects of the quarantine on couples’ relationships was assessed with questions created in-house. Results: we included 2149 participants. The sex lives improved for 49% of participants, particularly those in cohabitation; for 29% it deteriorated, while for 22% of participants it did not change. Women who responded that thei...