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Biomedical subjects

F A Ferrer

Publications and source records attributed to F A Ferrer.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources
PubMed2001

Prostate cancer gene therapy.

Cancer-specific gene therapy is still in its infancy. Although the first gene therapy trials were initiated in the late 1980s, it was only more recently that the first successful treatment of a genetic disease was reported.3 The current problems with low efficiency of gene transfer coupled with the immunologic difficulties with certain vectors indicate that more effort needs to be directed at the basic science of gene transfer. Ultimately, successful cancer-specific gene therapy will require combinations of the lessons learned from the ex vivo and in vivo paradigms. The next generation of gene therapy trials likely will focus on combination therapy with conventional chemotherapeutic agents, differentiating agents, or radiation therapy. The obstacles to the development of gene-based human therapeutics (i.e., molecular medicine) are formidable, but the benefits are so great that eventually the technical issues of gene transfer methodology will be worked out, and ultimately this will become the standard of care, not only for inborn errors of metabolism, but also for cancer.

Adenocarcinoma↗
PubMed2001

Survey results on medical and surgical followup of patients with vesicoureteral reflux from American Association of Pediatrics, Section on Urology members.

PURPOSE: Little data are available on the appropriate followup protocols for patients treated medically or surgically for vesicoureteral reflux. We surveyed urologists who primarily practice pediatric urology to determine current practice patterns for following patients treated for vesicoureteral reflux. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A 1-page survey was mailed to the 225 members of the American Academy of Pediatrics, Section on Urology. The mailing roster and labels were provided by the American Academy of Pediatrics. The survey included questions on the followup of patients with low and high grade reflux treated medically or surgically. Returned surveys were blindly tabulated by 2 independent reviewers (F. A. F. and P. H. M.). RESULTS: Of the 225 surveys 155 were returned and analyzed for an overall response rate of approximately 61%. Urine culture is routinely performed by 64% and 71% of respondents to follow children with uncorrected low grade reflux and those with high grade reflux undergoing medical treatment, respectively, generally at 3 to 6-month intervals. To follow patients with reflux voiding cystourethrography or radionuclide scan is performed yearly by 99% of study participants, while 77% perform ultrasound. Renal scan and excretory urography are done infrequently. The timing of the surgical correction of unresolved asymptomatic reflux and/or when to discontinue antibiotics in these cases varied significantly among survey respondents. After antireflux surgery 92% and 91% of respondents perform voiding cystourethrography and ultrasound, respectively. Recommended followup after ureteroneocystotomy varied greatly among survey participants. CONCLUSIONS: The overwhelming majority of practitioners agree on the timing and type of radiographic studies to be used to follow children treated for reflux and the majority routinely perform urine culture. Opinion on the continuation of antibiotics and timing of surgical intervention for asymptomatic unresolved reflux is divided. Wide variation exists on the recommended followup after reimplantation.

Child↗
PubMed2000

Cloacal outlet obstruction with an ectopic ureter.

Cloacal malformation occurs in approximately 1 in 50,000 live female births. Prenatal ultrasound may lead to the diagnosis in selected cases. We report an unusual case of prenatally detected single-system hydronephrosis with a nonvisible bladder and worsening oligohydramnios. Labor was induced at 35 weeks' estimated gestational age. On physical examination, a single perineal opening was noted consistent with cloaca. Endoscopy revealed an obstructed ectopic ureter at the level of the sphincter, an undeveloped bladder and vagina, and a fistula to the rectum. A low loop cutaneous ureterostomy and right upper quadrant loop colostomy were performed. The absence of a typical fluid-filled pelvic structure may confound the prenatal diagnosis of cloaca.

Abnormalities, Multiple↗
PubMed2000

Coexpression of hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha and vascular endothelial growth factor in Wilms' tumor.

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: Hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF-1alpha) is an important transcriptional factor responsible for regulating expression of the angiogenic cytokine, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Little information is available regarding factors involved in the hypoxic cascade, such as HIF or VEGF in Wilms' tumor. We concomitantly evaluate the expression of HIF-1alpha and VEGF in ex vivo human Wilms' tumor specimens. METHODS: Immunohistochemical analysis (IHC) utilizing a monoclonal human anti-HIF-1alpha or a polyclonal anti-VEGF antibody was performed on ex vivo specimens of Wilms' tumor (n = 18). Predominant tumor histologic subtype was divided equally between epithelial (n = 6), blastemal (n = 6), and mixed (n = 6). Specimens were scored on a predetermined scale for distribution (percent positive cells) and intensity of HIF-1alpha/VEGF expression within areas of tumor. RESULTS: IHC analysis found that HIF-1alpha and VEGF were expressed in all Wilms' tumor specimens. Strong nuclear staining for HIF-1alpha was seen in all samples evaluated, (n = 18), mean score 2.7 (>50% cells exhibiting nuclear HIF-1alpha expression). Cytoplasmic staining for HIF-1alpha also was seen in 15 of 18 samples (83%). Distribution of VEGF was equivalent between blastemal and epthelial components, mean score 2.23 versus 2.35. CONCLUSIONS: HIF-1alpha and one of its regulatory end-products, the angiogenic cytokine VEGF, are simultaneously expressed in human Wilms' tumor. In Wilms' tumor, intratumoral hypoxia may stimulate tumor conversion to the angiogenic phenotype and incite production of VEGF. Strategies targeting the hypoxic cascade ultimately may prove efficacious against Wilms' tumor.

DNA-Binding Proteins↗
PubMed2000

Angiogenesis and neuroblastomas: interleukin-8 and interleukin-8 receptor expression in human neuroblastoma.

PURPOSE: Studies have demonstrated that the pro-angiogenic cytokine interleukin-8 (IL-8) and the IL-8 receptors likely have a role in the growth and metastasis of various solid tumors. We hypothesized that in vivo neuroblastoma expresses IL-8 and the IL-8 receptors A and B, and that factors known to regulate IL-8 expression are present and active in the neuroblastoma microenvironment. MATERIALS AND METHODS: To confirm the presence of IL-8/IL-8 receptors in neuroblastoma, immunohistochemical analysis for IL-8 and its receptors was performed on 10 archival specimens, including benign adrenal and well to poorly differentiated neuroblastoma samples. Immunohistochemical analysis was also performed for interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha. Cultured neuroblastoma cells SK-N-MC and SK-N-SH were stimulated with 10 ng./ml. IL-1beta or tumor necrosis factor-alpha and control media (15 each). Cell culture supernatants were analyzed with enzyme-linked immunosorbant assay for IL-8 levels at 24 and 48 hours. RESULTS: Minimal expression of IL-8 was noted in benign adrenal tissue but expression for IL-8 was present in all neuroblastoma specimens. Microvessel staining was present in 30% of the specimens. All tumor specimens expressed IL-8 receptor B, and both receptors were expressed in the tumor microvasculature. Immunohistochemical analysis confirmed the presence of IL-1beta and tumor necrosis factor in the neuroblastoma microenvironment. In vitro studies demonstrated that SK-N-MC and SK-N-SH cells express low levels of IL-8 under normal conditions and that IL-1beta and tumor necrosis factor-alpha significantly increased expression of IL-8 at 24 and 48 hours. CONCLUSIONS: Our results indicate that IL-8 and its receptors are expressed in neuroblastoma tumor specimens. In addition, the fact that IL-1beta and tumor necrosis factor-alpha are expressed in the neuroblastoma microenvironment combined with our in vitro results suggests that these cytokines may be involved in in vivo regulation of IL-8 in human neuroblastoma. Understanding the angiogenic factors and regulatory cascade promoting angiogensis in neuroblastoma may lead to the development of effective anti-angiogenic strategies.

Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay↗
PubMed2000

Consensus on the prenatal management of antenatally detected urological abnormalities.

PURPOSE: The incidence of an antenatally detected genitourinary abnormality is 0.5% of all pregnancies assessed, and rarely is antenatal intervention indicated. A survey of pediatric urologists was undertaken to evaluate current practice patterns and recommendations regarding the need to intervene in the antenatal period. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A survey instrument was mailed to all members of the Society for Fetal Urology. There were 7 case scenarios that addressed critical decision points in patients with antenatally detected genitourinary abnormalities. RESULTS: A total of 112 of 188 Society for Fetal Urology members (60%) completed the survey. Observation with serial ultrasound was recommended for a 32-week fetus with ureteropelvic junction obstruction. For a 36-week fetus with suspected posterior urethral valves without oligohydramnios most respondents elected no intervention with a minority favoring early delivery. For a 23-week fetus with suspected posterior urethral valves and oligohydramnios with normal bladder electrolytes most respondents agreed with a vesicoamniotic shunt. There was no clear consensus for a 20-week fetus with suspected posterior urethral valves, oligohydramnios and a nonfunctioning right kidney. Most respondents recommended serial ultrasound to follow an 18-week fetus with suspected posterior urethral valves and normal amniotic fluid. Antenatal intervention was not recommended for a 20-week fetus with bilateral renal cystic disease, and most respondents elected no intervention for a 28-week fetus with a solitary kidney with suspected ureteropelvic junction obstruction and normal amniotic fluid. CONCLUSIONS: Situations that warrant antenatal intervention for a genitourinary abnormality are exceedingly low and may include cases of oligohydramnios, suspected favorable renal function and the absence of life threatening congenital abnormalities. In cases with normal amniotic fluid antenatal intervention is not recommended regardless of the detected abnormality. There is an emerging trend toward early delivery of fetuses with severe genitourinary abnormalities, normal amniotic fluid and confirmed lung maturity.

Fetal Diseases↗
PubMed2000

Orchiopexy using 2 mm. laparoscopic instruments: 2 techniques for delivering the testis into the scrotum.

PURPOSE: We describe modified techniques of laparoscopic orchiopexy using 2 mm. instruments that enable straightforward delivery of the testis into the scrotum. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The preferred technique involves a radially dilating trocar advanced over the 2 mm. grasper placed antegrade through the new internal ring. The other method is similar but Amplatz dilators are used when a radially dilating trocar system is not available. RESULTS: We used these techniques with complete success to deliver 18 testes into the scrotum. CONCLUSIONS: The testis may be safely and effectively delivered to the scrotum using 2 mm. instruments and disposable fascial dilators or a radially dilating trocar system.

Child, Preschool↗
PubMed1999

Pelvic floor muscle retraining for pediatric voiding dysfunction using interactive computer games.

PURPOSE: We evaluated a new noninvasive outpatient method of pelvic muscle retraining in children using computer game assisted biofeedback. MATERIALS AND METHODS: All patients in whom voiding dysfunction was confirmed by history, uroflowmetry-electromyography and voiding cystourethrography were enrolled in a pelvic floor muscle retraining program. Patients received a pretreatment, mid treatment and posttreatment survey instrument documenting subjective improvement, including the frequency of diurnal enuresis, nocturnal enuresis, constipation and encopresis. Pretreatment and posttreatment simultaneous uroflowmetry surface electrode electromyography was performed and post-void residual urine volume was determined in all patients. RESULTS: A total of 8 boys and 33 girls 5 to 11 years old (mean age 7.2) completed therapy and were available for evaluation. These patients completed 2 to 11 (average 6) hourly treatment sessions. Followup was 3 to 15 months (average 7). At the midterm evaluation improvement in nocturnal enuresis was reported by 57% of the patients, diurnal enuresis by 84%, constipation by 83% and encopresis by 91%. End treatment evaluation revealed improvement in nocturnal enuresis by 90% of patients, diurnal enuresis by 89%, constipation by 100% and encopresis by 100%. Uroflowmetry-electromyography patterns improved in 42% of the patients and post-void residual urine decreased in 57%. Comparison of initial to end recorded millivoltage pelvic floor muscle values demonstrated that 56% of the patients had lower resting tone at the beginning of the session after completing therapy and 78% had improved contracting tone after performing Kegel exercises, as proved by increased microvoltage values. Initial uroflowmetry-electromyography revealed certain categories of cases, including a flattened voiding curve with a hyperactive pelvic floor and low post-void residual urine in 40%, a flattened voiding curve with a hyperactive pelvic floor and high post-void residual urine in 40%, a staccato voiding curve with a hyperactive pelvic floor and low post-void residual urine in 3%, and a staccato voiding curve with a hyperactive pelvic floor and high post-void residual urine in 17%. Of the girls 91% presented with the classic spinning top deformity on voiding cystourethrography. A total of 22 patients presented with a significant history of recurrent urinary tract infections, and infection developed in 3 during treatment and followup. Vesicoureteral reflux in 14 patients resolved during treatment in 3, reimplantation was performed in 1 and 10 are still being observed. CONCLUSIONS: A program of conservative medical management with computer game assisted pelvic floor muscle retraining resulted in significant subjective improvement in continence, constipation and encopresis as well as objective improvement in uroflowmetry-electromyography, post-void residual urine volume and the microvoltage value of pelvic floor muscles in the majority of patients with dysfunctional voiding.

Child↗
PubMed1999

Expression of vascular endothelial growth factor receptors in human prostate cancer.

OBJECTIVES: We recently reported the expression and cytokine regulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in human prostate cancer (PCa). VEGF exerts its angiogenic and pro-tumorigenic properties by way of two high affinity receptors, fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (FLT-1) and fetal liver kinase 1 (FLK-1). We hypothesized that these receptors are expressed and control VEGF functions in the PCa microenvironment. Herein, we evaluate the expression of these receptors in ex vivo PCa tissue, benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) tissue, and cultured PCa cell lines. METHODS: Ex vivo PCa specimens were obtained from patients undergoing radical retropubic prostatectomy. Specimens were selected to contain both PCa and BPH tissue (n = 15). Immunohistochemical analysis using antihuman FLT-1 and FLK-1 was performed and specimens were analyzed to characterize the expression and distribution of both receptors. Immunocytochemical analysis for FLT-1 and FLK-1 was also performed on cultured PCa cell lines (DU-145 and LNCaP). RESULTS: PCa cells expressed the VEGF receptor FLT-1 in 100% of specimens evaluated. Expression of FLK-1 was variable and related to tumor grade; high-grade tumors displayed little or no FLK-1 expression. Vascular endothelial cells (VECs) within areas of PCa consistently expressed both FLT-1 and FLK-1 receptors. FLT-1 and FLK-1 were both expressed in BPH tissue. FLT-1 was expressed in the glandular epithelial cells in BPH, but in most cases FLK-1 was localized specifically to the basal cell layer of hypertrophic glands. FLT-1, but not FLK-1, was expressed by the DU-145 and LNCaP cell lines. CONCLUSIONS: Although they are differentially expressed, both FLT-1 and FLK-1 are present in PCa and BPH. Expression of receptors on VECs of tumor vessels supports the well-established role of VEGF in paracrine stimulation of VECs in the tumor microenvironment. The expression of FLT-1 and FLK-1 on tumor cells themselves suggests a potential autocrine function for VEGF (such as regulating tumor cell proliferation). These findings imply that a novel dual role may exist for VEGF, such that it is involved in tumor cell activation (autocrine), in addition to paracrine actions whereby it regulates endothelial cell functions and subsequent neovascular development.

Endothelium, Vascular↗
PubMed1999

Citrobacter diversus urosepsis and cerebral abscess in a child with antenatal hydronephrosis.

One percent of all pregnancies are found to have an antenatal abnormality; of these, 20% involve the genitourinary system. Today, controversy still exists regarding the postnatal management of some antenatal abnormalities detected by ultrasound. We present a case in which antenatal hydronephrosis initially detected by ultrasound appeared to resolve in utero. Postnatally, the child developed Citrobacter diversus urosepsis, meningitis, and cerebral abscess. Voiding cystourethrogram obtained after resolution of sepsis revealed grade IV reflux. This case underscores the importance of a full postnatal evaluation for all children with antenatal hydronephrosis and alerts clinicians to a virulent pathogen not commonly associated with urinary tract infection.

Bacteremia↗
PubMed1999

A complex urologic problem demonstrates how far pediatric urology has progressed.

OBJECTIVE: We present the experience at Connecticut Children's Medical Center (CCMC) with single-system bilateral ectopic ureters (SSBUE), a rare clinical entity which continues to challenge the pediatric urologist. Innovative diagnostic and reconstructive techniques are utilized in an effort to preserve renal function and develop urinary continence in a select group of patients. METHODS: A review of the English language literature was performed to identify all female patients with SSBUE and evaluate their treatment and outcomes. In addition, we present our experience with three cases of SSBUE at CCMC and describe the recent advances in the management of such patients. RESULTS: From 1937 to 1999, 25 articles described 54 female patients with SSBUE. Patients were treated with a variety of reconstructive procedures that resulted in a low overall continence rate of 20% (eight of 39 reported outcomes). We evaluated three patients with SSBUE at CCMC. Our first patient had undergone three previous operations prior to her successful procedure at CCMC utilizing a new technique to achieve urinary continence in which a portion of the anterior bladder wall is used for bladder neck reconstruction. Our last patient was identified antenatally by the maternal-fetal obstetrician, evaluated postnatally by the pediatric urologist, and underwent formal urodynamics and proximal urinary diversion for an obstructed upper collecting system. No previous reports focus on antenatal identification, accurate postnatal diagnosis, urodynamic assessment and early intervention including upper urinary tract diversion, and staged Pippi Salle bladder neck reconstruction. CONCLUSION: The CCMC experience with SSBUE demonstrates the recent achievements in complex urinary tract reconstruction that have taken place in pediatric urology. We describe diagnostic studies such as formal urodynamics and the growing trend to identify urologic problems antenatally. A team approach involving the obstetrician, pediatric urologist, neonatologist, and the pediatrician has been beneficial. As pediatric urology moves into the new millennium there are prospects for even more innovative diagnostic and therapeutic options for children with urologic problems.

Child↗
PubMed1998

Angiogenesis and prostate cancer: in vivo and in vitro expression of angiogenesis factors by prostate cancer cells.

OBJECTIVES: Recently, it was confirmed that angiogenesis is important in the development and spread of a variety of human cancers, including prostate cancer (PCa). Tumor neovascularization is thought to be controlled by chemical signals, known as angiogenic factors (AF). To date, little is known regarding the existence and role of AF in PCa. We previously reported on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in PCa. Currently, we compare VEGF expression with that of interleukin-8 (IL-8), another putative regulator of angiogenesis. We evaluated the expression of these two important AF in PCa and explored the role of inflammatory cytokines IL-1 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) in their regulation. METHODS: Ex vivo studies involved previously reported immunohistochemical analysis for VEGF and recent evaluation of IL-8 expression and distribution in archival tissue samples of PCa, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and normal prostate tissue. In vitro studies used PCa cells (DU-145) grown in culture and stimulated with cytokines thought to induce VEGF and IL-8 (ie, IL-1 alpha, IL-1 beta, TNF-alpha, and TNF-beta). After 24 hours, with or without cytokines, cell culture supernatants were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay or radioimmunoassay for VEGF or IL-8 levels. RESULTS: Immunohistochemical studies of prostate tissue showed that PCa cells stained positively for VEGF and IL-8. Benign prostatic hyperplasia and normal prostate cells displayed little staining for either AF. Low levels of VEGF and IL-8 were produced by unstimulated DU-145 cells. Induction of DU-145 cells with cytokines resulted in differential stimulation whereby TNF was the predominant inducer of VEGF, whereas IL-1 was the predominant inducer of IL-8. CONCLUSIONS: Our results indicate that significant levels of VEGF and IL-8 are present in PCa, but not BPH or normal prostate cells in vivo. In vitro studies suggest that differential regulation of AF expression occurs in PCa. Because IL-1 and TNF are present in the PCa tumor microenvironment, it is likely that differential regulation of AF also occurs in human PCa and contributes to differential tumor growth and metastasis.

Endothelial Growth Factors↗
PubMed1998

Results of a vesicoureteral reflux practice pattern survey among American Academy of Pediatrics, Section on Pediatric Urology members.

PURPOSE: We evaluated practice patterns among urologists managing vesicoureteral reflux, and identified areas of consensus and controversy requiring further research. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A 1-page questionnaire addressing various aspects of reflux management, including screening, diagnosis, treatment and followup, was mailed to a cohort of 225 practicing urologists identified by the membership roster of the American Academy of Pediatrics, Section on Pediatric Urology. Coded returned mailers were blindly analyzed and tabulated by 2 reviewers. Questionnaires were subdivided using a coding system by decade (1970s or earlier, 1980s and so forth) of participant membership in the American Urological Association. Select questions were analyzed to determine whether time of training affected the response. RESULTS: Of 225 surveys 155 were returned and usable (overall 60.8% response rate). General agreement exists regarding several important points in the management of vesicoureteral reflux, including evaluation of patients at the initial urinary tract infection (78.1% of respondents), use of voiding cystourethrography and ultrasound at the initial evaluation (99.4 and 96.8%, respectively), and evaluation of sibling reflux (83.2%). Certain absolute and relative indications for surgical intervention require further clarification. Various reimplantation techniques are used today, stents are not placed by the majority of practitioners and significant variations exist in the duration of postoperative hospital stay. CONCLUSIONS: Today there is substantial consensus among urologists on many issues regarding vesicoureteral reflux management. However, the areas of controversy will only be clarified by further scientific and clinical outcomes based research.

Academies and Institutes↗
PubMed1998

Clinical and molecular analysis of XX sex reversed patients.

PURPOSE: The XX male syndrome presents with a spectrum of clinical appearances from phenotypic male individuals to true hermaphrodites. Previous reports established the sex determining region of the Y chromosome (SRY) gene as the testis determining factor. However, a subset of XX sex reversed male individuals exists without a translocation of SRY deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) material to the X chromosome. In addition to clinical or endocrinological criteria, Y DNA probe studies, and radiological and surgical evaluation as indicated are necessary for an accurate diagnosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We evaluated 5 XX sex reversed patients (2 true hermaphrodites and 3 male individuals) by physical examination, pedigree analysis, endocrinological testing, molecular analysis of Y DNA, radiological studies and surgery (exploration and/or biopsy). RESULTS: All patients were SRY gene negative. Two patients were siblings. Complete endocrinological testing was negative in all cases. Two patients had a normal male phenotype. Radiological findings confirmed by cystoscopy or laparoscopy revealed a utricle, vesicoureteral reflux, and cervix and uterus in various patients. Gonadal biopsy showed ovotestes or ovary and testis in the 2 true hermaphrodites. The 3 XX male individuals had normal immature testes on biopsy. CONCLUSIONS: Categories of XX sex reversal include classic XX male individuals with normal phenotypes, nonclassic XX male individuals with sexual ambiguity and XX true hermaphrodites. Simple translocation of the SRY gene to the X chromosome does not always account for testicular differentiation and a male phenotype. The masculinization of our patients in the absence of SRY suggests an alteration of 1 or more downstream Y, X or autosomal testis determining genes. We present another theory for male sex determination, including a downstream gene on the X chromosome in which expression is influenced by X inactivation. Y DNA genomic analysis, radiological studies and laparoscopic evaluation with gonadal biopsy as appropriate are recommended for complete assessment and treatment of these intersex patients.

Disorders of Sex Development↗
PubMed1997

The effect of Wilms tumor chemotherapy on contralateral renal growth after nephrectomy.

PURPOSE: Our aim was to evaluate the effect of current Wilms tumor chemotherapy on renal growth and function after unilateral nephrectomy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Yorkshire piglets were enrolled in 2 study groups: group 1--6 underwent unilateral nephrectomy and placebo infusion, and group 2--10 underwent nephrectomy, and infusion of 7.5 mcg/kg. actinomycin D and 0.75 mcg/m2 vincristine according to the National Wilms Tumor Study 4 protocol. Weekly measurements of renal size by ultrasound and gross specimens at sacrifice at age 11 weeks were examined and weekly laboratory studies were recorded. Growth rates of renal length and volume were evaluated by linear regression analysis. Terminal renal length and volume were compared between groups. RESULTS: Mean slope plus or minus standard deviation of the rate of growth in length in the control and chemotherapy groups was 0.067 +/- 0.004 and 0.074 +/- 0.011, respectively (p < or = 0.148, not statistically significant). Mean slope of growth in volume was 1.401 +/- 0.240 versus 1.642 +/- 0.456 (p < or = 0.252), average terminal renal length was 10.71 +/- 1.02 versus 11.58 +/- 1.03 cm (p < or = 0.13, not significant) and mean final volume was 128.67 +/- 32.41 versus 137 +/- 32.52 cc (p < or = 0.65). No differences in final serum creatinine levels were noted. CONCLUSIONS: Chemotherapy for Wilms tumor did not adversely affect contralateral renal growth or function in a nephrectomized piglet model.

Animals↗
PubMed1997

Bilateral laparoscopic adrenalectomy for adrenocorticotropic dependent Cushing's syndrome.

PURPOSE: We report our experience with bilateral laparoscopic adrenalectomy for total adrenal ablation in patients with Cushing's syndrome. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Four women (mean age 63 years) with Cushing's syndrome secondary to nonlocalized ectopic adrenocorticotropic hormone production in 3 and pituitary microadenoma after failed transsphenoidal ablation in 1 underwent bilateral transabdominal laparoscopic adrenalectomy. Preoperatively risk was III or IV according to the American Society of Anesthesiologists classification. RESULTS: In all cases bilateral laparoscopic adrenalectomy was successfully performed. Operative time ranged from 375 to 475 minutes (mean 404) and mean blood loss was 162 cc. All patients resumed oral intake on postoperative day 1, mean number of postoperative parentral narcotic doses was 2.25 and mean postoperative hospital stay was 5.75 days (range 3 to 8). Complications included an abdominal wall hematoma. All patients resumed baseline activity by postoperative day 14. CONCLUSIONS: Our experience in 4 cases of Cushing's syndrome suggests that bilateral laparoscopic adrenalectomy is a safe and effective alternative to open adrenalectomy. Further experience with this technique will likely decrease operative time, and confirm the benefit of a decreased hospital stay and convalescence.

Adrenalectomy↗