Soc. Int. Urol. J., Volume 6, Issue 4 (August 2025) – 10 articles

Robotic-assisted surgery has gradually established its role in uro-oncological cases that demand a high level of precision, optimising surgeon ergonomics and decreasing fatigue whilst maintaining optimal clinical outcomes. With the novel Hinotori surgical robot (Medicaroid Corporation (Kobe, Hyogo, Japan)) launched in Japan back in 2019, it has now demonstrated its use case across various clinical series of different surgeries. We sought to narratively synthesise the initial feasibility of the Hinotori robotic system in urology. A systematic, comprehensive literature search was conducted across various databases from September 2024 to October 2024. Relevant keywords within the scope of this study were generated for a more accurate search. After exclusion and removal of duplicates, a total of nine articles were included for review. Among the included studies, one study reported data solely on radical prostatectomy for prostate cancer, two studies reported on robotic-assisted nephroureterectomy for renal tumours, two studies reported on partial nephrectomy performed for renal masses, two studies reported on radical nephrectomy carried out for renal malignancies and one study reported on robotic-assisted adrenalectomy for adrenal cancer. Lastly, one study collectively reported on outcomes pertaining to partial nephrectomy, partial nephrectomy, vesicourethral anastomosis and pelvic lymph node dissection in a porcine model, as well as partial nephrectomy, radical prostatectomy and pelvic lymph node dissection in cadavers. The current literature supports its non-inferiority to the well-established Da Vinci system, with no major drawbacks or concerns identified when comparing parameters such as intraoperative time, estimated blood loss (EBL), perioperative events (transfusions, conversion to open surgery), length of hospital stay and major postoperative complications. Future studies involving larger cohorts and more complex surgical cases are essential to further evaluate the efficacy and safety of the Hinotori system. The new Hinotori robotic system offers unique three-dimensional features as a non-inferior robotic platform alternative that has proven clinically safe thus far in its use. Larger scale studies and randomised trials are eagerly awaited to assess and validate more holistically its clinical utility. Full article

Background/Objectives: To assess the “footprint” sign in voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) for its diagnostic and prognostic significance in indicating a “pop-off” mechanism that may reduce pressure on the contralateral kidney. Methods: A retrospective analysis included patients with a “footprint” sign or high-grade vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) in VCUG. They were categorized into two groups: those with (Group A) and those without (Group B) the “footprint” sign. Results: Among 55 patients (median age 18 months), 18 exhibited the “footprint” sign. Group A had predominantly male patients. Bilateral VUR was less common in Group A (38.9%) compared to Group B (51.4%), though not statistically significant (p-value: 0.385). The “footprint” sign was predominantly associated with the left side (77.8% in Group A). The median differential renal function (DRF) was significantly lower in kidneys with the “footprint” sign (11.5%) compared to those without (44.5%, p-value < 0.001). All patients with a DRF under 20% exhibited the “footprint” sign. Conclusions: The “footprint” sign correlates with poor renal function, suggesting a potential pop-off mechanism protecting the contralateral kidney. Management should prioritize the contralateral kidney with normal function. The “footprint” sign alone in VCUG may suffice to indicate compromised renal function, negating the need for further ipsilateral kidney assessment. Full article

Background/Objectives: Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTSs) due to benign prostatic obstruction (BPO) represent a common condition affecting aging men. Transurethral resection of the prostate represents the gold standard surgical treatment but is not without complications such as retrograde ejaculation, bleeding and urinary retention. The temporary implantable nitinol device (iTIND) is considered a minimally invasive surgical technique, designed to treat LUTS while preserving erectile and ejaculatory function. Herein we report the results of a multi-center, real-world assessment of the iTIND procedure. Methods: Data from five international centers treating LUTS with the iTIND device were collected. We recorded changes through an International Prostatic Symptom Score (IPSS) questionnaire with Quality of Life (QoL), International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF5) questionnaire, antegrade ejaculatory function, maximum flow (QMax), post voiding residual volume (PVR) and freedom from repeat intervention. Results: A total of 74 subjects were enrolled; median follow-up was 12 months. IPSS and QoL changed from a median of 23 and 4 points at baseline to 11 and 2 points, respectively, at the last follow-up. A mean improvement in Qmax and PVR from 9 mL/s and 56 mL at baseline to 13 mL/s and 40 mL was noticed at the last follow-up. Total median operative time was 10 min, and the median time of iTIND indwell time was 7 days. The median device removal time was 5 min. There were no changes in IIEF5 scores and antegrade ejaculation rate. No intraoperative complications were reported, and non-serious postoperative complications occurred in six patients (two urinary retention, two mild haematuria, two urinary tract infection). Finally, four patients underwent reoperation during the follow-up period. All procedures were performed as outpatient day cases. Conclusions: Our results confirms that treatment with the iTIND is effective and safe in terms of improving urinary symptoms and quality of life without impacting sexual function. Longer follow-up is required to better define the durability of this minimally invasive procedure. Full article

Background/Objectives: Artificial intelligence (AI) has been utilised in urological conditions such as urolithiasis, urogynaecology and uro-oncology. The aim of this study is to examine the attitudes and beliefs about AI technology amongst urology healthcare providers. Methods: A structured online questionnaire, created from a modified Delphi method with a panel of urologists and urology surgical trainees, was delivered through the Urological Asia Association’s annual congress. The questionnaire, with 25 items of mixed type responses (five-point Likert scale, nominal-polytomous and open-ended), acquired data regarding demographics, perception and attitudes towards general usage of AI in urological care. Results: A total of 464 respondents from 47 different countries were collected. The results showed that 83.4% of participants believed AI will improve efficiency and 18.8% believed they are knowledgeable in AI technology, with ordinal logistic regression showing both urology specialists and trainees are more likely to agree to these responses. Overall, 51.5% believed AI adoption will not replace clinical practice, and regression analysis found those with previous AI training are more likely to agree to this response. We found AI is commonly used in research, patient education and administrative tasks and identified key enablers as regulatory approval, AI clinical effectiveness and access to AI training. Conclusions: Overall attitudes and beliefs towards the use of AI in urology is positive and encouraging. AI training and education and regulatory reform needs to be addressed to allow integration of AI into clinical practice. A limitation of the study lies in its generalisability to global settings due to the demographics of the respondents. Full article

Background/Objectives: Green light laser photosensitive vaporisation of the prostate (GLL-PVP) is a common procedure for bladder outlet obstruction, with a low incidence of post-operative bleeding. At Northern Health, postoperative management involved limited bladder washout with two bags of 2 L saline, spigotting, and undergoing a trial of void (TOV) the next morning. A new model of care was commenced in which patients were discharged after the two bags of washout, and the TOV occurred at home through the Hospital in the Home service. The aim of this study was to audit patient outcomes, patient satisfaction, and health service benefits of this novel program. Methods: Patients assigned to the program between March 2023 and June 2024 were analysed. Catheter removal occurred the morning after surgery, and the decision on the success of the TOV was made following an afternoon review. Results: A total of 93.3% (28/30) patients passed their TOV at home. There were no readmissions in the first 48 h postoperation, with only three emergency department (ED) presentations in this time. On a five-point rating scale, 25/25 questionnaire respondents were happy with their care, 20/25 rated the service as very good, and 5/25 rated the service as good. An extra AUD 3377.56 in revenue was generated per patient from the freed inpatient beds, which correlated to a net revenue of AUD 83,016.83 generated over the study period. Conclusions: At-home TOV after GLL-PVP is safe and feasible. There is high patient satisfaction and significant benefits to the healthcare system. This framework can additionally be adopted after other urological surgeries. Full article

Background/Objectives: Since the proPSMA trial, prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) positron emission tomography (PET) scan has primarily replaced conventional imaging for staging newly diagnosed prostate cancer. The objective of this commentary is to summarise the existing literature on the role of PSMA PET in staging favourable intermediate-risk prostate cancer. Methods: A literature search was conducted on Embase and Ovid MEDLINE, and three retrospective cohort studies were identified. Results: Overall, these studies demonstrated a low prevalence of nodal and distant metastases, as well as modest diagnostic performance of PSMA positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) in this patient group. Additionally, PSMA PET did not significantly outperform existing nomograms in predicting lymph node involvement. Conclusions: Given its limited sensitivity, low yield, and cost, the routine use of PSMA PET-CT in favourable intermediate-risk prostate cancer patients is not recommended. Further prospective studies and cost-effectiveness analyses are warranted to clarify its role in this population. Full article

Background/Objectives: Lichen sclerosus is a chronic lymphocyte-mediated inflammatory disorder with a predilection for the anogenital region. It is a common cause of urethral stricture disease in males. The gold standard treatment is considered to be surgical reconstruction; however, there are many patients who are not suitable or not willing to undergo surgery. Cutaneous lichen sclerosus restricted to the foreskin, prepuce or glans is often response to topical corticosteroids; however, the use of intraurethral corticosteroids for urethral involvement has limited research. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study on 18 patients with histologically confirmed lichen sclerosus and associated urethral stricture disease. They were treated with clean intermittent self catheterisation using a hydrophilic catheter coated with 0.05% betamethasone ointment. International Prostate Symptom Score with Quality of Life scores were measured prior to treatment and at follow-up intervals. Results: There was significant improvement in International Prostate Symptom Score and Quality of Life scores at 3 months, 12 months and 24 months, with only 1 patient ceasing treatment due to intolerance. One patient required a single repeat endoscopic dilatation following a period of non-compliance with treatment. Conclusions: Intraurethral corticosteroids with clean-intermittent self-catheterisation is effective and well tolerated for treating lichen sclerosus-associated urethral stricture disease in the short to intermediate term for patients not willing to undergo urethroplasty. Full article

Background/Objectives: Introducing new transformative surgical technology involves navigating a complex process from design to implementation, often hindered by various barriers that delay the transition into clinical practice. This review critically examines the barriers, proposes a unified guide for medical device implementation in the Australian healthcare system utilising the validated Medtech Innovation Guide, and compares regulatory frameworks in Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America. Methods: We conducted a literature review using MEDLINE and EMBASE with MeSH terms or emtree terms and keywords “new OR novel” AND “surgical device OR medical device OR health technology OR surgical technology OR surgical instrument OR transformative technology OR technological innovation OR technological change” AND “implementation OR adoption OR innovation adoption” AND “surgery OR surgical” AND “Australia”. We also assessed governmental websites (gov.au) and documents as well as the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) website, policies, and position statements. Furthermore, Australian medical technology start-up companies were asked for any published roadmaps. Results: Four key stakeholder groups were identified: medical professionals, government, hospitals, and patients/consumers. Barriers include surgeon scepticism, regulatory hurdles (e.g., Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods), hospital clearance processes, and meeting patient expectations. To address these challenges, we propose a five-phase system: surgical device development (phase one), compliance with regulatory processes (phase two), research and experimentation (phase three), finalisation for product launch (phase four), and product launch and assessment (phase five). Conclusions: By following our five-phase guide, innovators may better navigate the complexities of integrating transformative surgical technologies into Australian healthcare. Although there are limitations, this approach is based on the validated Medtech Innovation Guide and may help both experienced and inexperienced practitioners better implement innovative technology; however, real-world validation is required. Full article