INTRODUCTION

Urinary stone disease remains a significant global and national health concern. This underscores the need for measures to improve disease outcomes. The development and implementation of clinical practice guidelines for urolithiasis was deemed essential due to variations in practice, the evolving urologic field with its emerging interventions, which may have significant cost implications.

METHODS

The CPG was developed following the GRADE Adolopment method, the CORE GRADE Approach and the GRADE Evidence to Decision framework, and utilized the Technical Manual for Clinical Practice Guideline Development of the Department of Health (2nd edition). The guideline development group was organized after review and management of the members' conflict of interest declarations. Clinical questions were prioritized and a systematic search and synthesis of the relevant literature to answer the questions was done. Considering the balance of benefits and harms, certainty of the evidence, cost and cost effectiveness, accessibility, acceptability and feasibility of the interventions, the guideline panel developed recommendations by consensus.

RESULTS

The CPG addresses eleven priority clinical questions involving diagnosis and treatment of acute flank pain due to suspected urolithiasis among adults, minimally invasive treatment of nephrolithiasis measuring 1-2 cm and the use of alpha blockers after ESWL through twelve recommendations and one good practice statement.

CONCLUSION

The Philippine CPG on the management of urolithiasis in adults provides actionable recommendations to address important clinical questions on the diagnosis and management of urinary stone disease. The full text of the clinical practice guideline may be viewed and downloaded from https://doh.gov.ph/dpcb/doh-approved-cpg/

Human ; Adult ; Urolithiasis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Residency satisfaction is an important indicator of training quality and may influence physician well-being and performance. Surgical trainees are generally reported to have lower satisfaction compared to other specialties. This study assessed satisfaction among urology residents in the Philippines and evaluated a structured questionnaire for measuring training experience.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among residents in accredited urology programs (2024-2024-5). A 12-domain Likert-scale questionnaire was developed and validated. Internal consistency and test-retest reliability were assessed. Satisfaction scores were analyzed overall and across subgroups.

RESULTS

A total of 106 residents participated. The instrument demonstrated good internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.870) and strong test-retest reliability (r = 0.896). Overall satisfaction was high (52.41 5.4/60). Clinical exposure was the highest-rated domain, while work-life balance was the lowest. No significant differences were observed by gender, training year, or institution type. Key areas for improvement were case exposure and academic learning.

CONCLUSION

Urology residents in the Philippines report high overall satisfaction. The validated questionnaire is reliable and useful for assessing multidimensional aspects of residency training. Improvements in case exposure, academic support, and work-life balance may further enhance training quality.

Human ; Cross-sectional Studies ; Internship And Residency

BACKGROUND

Staghorn calculi are complicated renal stones that are frequently linked to hydronephrosis, a parameter that can have a major impact on the results of surgery. Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is widely recognized as the gold standard for treating large kidney stones and staghorn calculi. Data on the effect of preoperative hydronephrosis on PCNL perioperative outcomes is still limited.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the association between preoperative hydronephrosis and perioperative outcomes among patients undergoing PCNL in a tertiary government hospital in Manila.

METHODS

A single-center prospective cohort study was conducted, involving 90 patients diagnosed with staghorn calculi and scheduled for elective PCNL. Patients were categorized into two groups based on the presence or absence of moderate-to-severe hydronephrosis as determined by preoperative imaging. Perioperative outcomes, including total operative time, access time, lithotripsy time, and perioperative complications such as bleeding and sepsis, were evaluated. Data were analyzed using linear and logistic regression models to assess associations between hydronephrosis and perioperative outcomes.

RESULTS

The presence of hydronephrosis was associated with a statistically significant reduction in access time (p = 0.036), likely due to the dilation of renal structures facilitating easier entry. However, hydronephrosis was linked to a borderline significant reduction in lithotripsy rate (p = 0.051), indicating potential challenges in stone fragmentation. No significant association was found between hydronephrosis and total operative time or perioperative complications, such as bleeding and sepsis.

CONCLUSION

While hydronephrosis may make kidney access and other technical aspects of PCNL easier, it may also make stone fragmentation more difficult. Larger stone size and stone location were significant predictors of longer operative times and slower lithotripsy rates, underscoring their critical role in surgical outcomes.

Human ; Staghorn Calculi ; Nephrolithotomy, Percutaneous ; Kidney Calculi ; Hydronephrosis

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to identify the different risk factors for developing sepsis in patients undergoing percutaneous nephrolithotomy

METHODS

This is a case-control study of all patients who underwent percutaneous nephrolithotomy in the National Kidney and Transplant Institute from 2017 to 2021. Demographic, stone characteristics, perioperative data and post-operative parameters were recorded. The association of clinical variables and sepsis was determined using logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 536 patients who underwent percutaneous nephrolithotomy were included in the study with 58 of them suffering from sepsis with a prevalence rate of 9.9%. The majority [392 (67.82%)] of the patients were 31-59 years old. Majority of patients suffering from sepsis also belonged to the same age group were predominantly male [33 (56.9%)], mostly diabetic [15 (26.32%)] and hypertensive [14 (24.56%)] and underwent previous PCNL [49 (8.45%)]. Imaging of patients who had sepsis showed staghorn calculi [30 (51.72%)] with mild [20 (34.48%)] and moderate [23 (39.66%)] seen on imaging. Patients who were requiring transfusion post operatively (Grade II Clavien-Dindo Classification) were seen to have sepsis.

CONCLUSION

The following factors are contributory to the development of sepsis: a high Guy's stone score, high degree of obstruction or hydronephrosis, previous stone surgery and a higher volume of blood loss.

Human ; Nephrolithotomy, Percutaneous ; Sepsis ; Hydronephrosis

OBJECTIVES

To present a rare case of recurrent urethral and intravesical foreign body insertion driven by command hallucinations in schizophrenia, to describe the surgical and psychiatric management strategies employed, and to emphasize the importance of interdisciplinary care and treatment adherence in preventing recurrence.

METHODS

Reported here is the case of a 37-year-old male with schizophrenia who presented with multiple episodes of urethral and intravesical foreign body insertion over a six-year period (2018–2025). Inserted objects included metallic wires, electrical cords, and a LED Christmas light rope, each requiring surgical removal via cystoscopy or open cystotomy. Psychiatric evaluation revealed poor adherence to antipsychotic medication, with recurrent episodes associated with command hallucinations. Psychiatric management was reinitiated with olanzapine and structured follow-up to improve treatment compliance.

RESULTS

Six documented episodes of self-inflicted urethral and intravesical trauma required repeated urologic interventions. Despite recurrent instrumentation and foreign body insertion, serial cystoscopic evaluations demonstrated preserved urethral and bladder integrity without evidence of stricture formation. The most recent episode required open cystotomy for removal of a coiled LED light rope, which was successfully extracted without complications. Following coordinated psychiatric management and improved adherence to antipsychotic therapy, the patient remained asymptomatic and free of recurrence at three months follow-up.

CONCLUSION

This case highlights the unusual preservation of urethral integrity despite recurrent traumatic self-insertion. Effective management requires sustained psychiatric stabilization, multidisciplinary collaboration, and strict treatment adherence. Integration of psychiatric and urologic care is essential to prevent recurrence and improve long-term outcomes in patients with schizophrenia-related self-inflicted genitourinary injury.

Human ; Male ; Adult: 25-44 Yrs Old ; Schizophrenia ; Cystoscopy ; Self-injurious Behavior ; Psychotic Disorders ; Antipsychotic Agents ; Olanzapine ; Constriction, Pathologic ; Hallucinations ; Urinary Bladder ; Foreign Bodies

BACKGROUND

Penile squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is rare in high-income regions but remains a significant oncologic burden worldwide. Nodal involvement is the most important prognostic factor, and early identification is critical.

THE CASE

A 56-year-old circumcised male presented with a six-month history of a progressively enlarging, foul-smelling fungating penile mass and bilateral inguinal lymphadenopathy. Biopsy confirmed moderately differentiated SCC. Imaging showed large bilateral inguinal nodal disease without distant metastasis. Laboratory findings revealed leukocytosis, thrombocytosis, and mildly deranged coagulation parameters. The patient underwent total penectomy with perineali urethrostomy, followed by bilateral inguinal and pelvic lymph node dissection through single-curvilinear incisions. Frozen-section analysis confirmed extensive bilateral nodal metastasis. Postoperatively, a localized left inguinal surgical site infection was treated conservatively. He was discharged on postoperative day seven with drains in situ and was recommended adjuvant chemoradiotherapy in accordance with NCCN Guidelines.

CONCLUSION

This case highlights the challenges of managing advanced penile SCC with bulky bilateral inguinal metastasis and demonstrates the utility of single-curvilinear inguinal incisions for comprehensive lymphadenectomy. Early recognition, accurate staging, and guideline-based multimodal treatment remain essential for optimizing outcomes.

Human ; Male ; Middle Aged: 45-64 Yrs Old ; Carcinoma, Squamous Cell ; Lymph Node Excision

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE

The endoscopic management of staghorn calculi is very challenging owing to its complex anatomical configuration. The authors analyzed the clinical efficacy and safety of a single upper pole access PCNL (SUPA-PCNL) for Guy Stone Score (GSS) 3-4 staghorn calculi.

METHODS

Prospective data collection was done on 56 consecutive patients who with GSS 3-4 staghorn calculi. All cases were treated with a standardized technique of a single upper pole access PCNL in the prone position. The patient demographics, stone characteristics, perioperative and postoperative outcomes were analyzed.

RESULTS

The cohort exhibited diversity in age (51.7+12), gender (male to female ratio of 5.5:4.5) comorbidities, and stone burden (4.82+1.96 cm). SUPA-PCNL demonstrated a high median stonefree rate (99.5%, IQR 90-100) with minimal complications, low blood loss with a of 200cc (IQR 100-300), and median hospital stay of 3.5 days (IQR 3-5). Stone characteristics did not significantly influence outcomes. A subset required secondary treatments (12%, n=7), but overall morbidity was low (16%, n=9): (7% n=4) of which required blood transfusion, and (9% n=5) due to sepsis. The following factors were associated with increased odds of perioperative morbidity: preoperative creatinine >3 mg/dl (OR 4.19 95% Cl 0.59 – 29.71 p=0.152) and a history of endoscopic surgery (OR 7.33 95% Cl 1.20-44.96 p=0.031).

CONCLUSION

SUPA-PCNL is effective and safe for the treatment of staghorn calculi. In select patients, this approach obviates the need for a multi-tract access or an endoscopically-combined intrarenal surgery (ECIRS).

Human ; Nephrolithotomy, Percutaneous ; Morbidity ; Staghorn Calculi

OBJECTIVES

To determine the incidence of prostate cancer on follow up after an initial negative MRI- fusion biopsy of the prostate, and to determine the change in PSA and MRI results on follow-up.

METHODS

MRI-fusion prostate biopsy registry from 2018 to 2022 was obtained then histopathology, MRI results, and PSA results were obtained. Repeat PSA and MRI results at extracted at 3 years. PSA mean, range, and change were then determined. MRI results were extracted to determine progression, regression, or persistence.

RESULTS

A total of 670 prostate biopsies were done in the study period, of which 70 were included. PSA on biopsy 9.93 (3.35 – 55.0) with corresponding PIRADS lesions 3, 4, and 5 (n=55, n=19, and n=6). No patient was subsequently diagnosed with prostate cancer on follow-up. PSA mean 7.03, 6.44, 5.27, and 6.07 at 3years interval from biopsy. Repeat prostate MRI showed persistence in 1 and regression in 6 patients.

CONCLUSION

After a negative MRI-fusion biopsy of the prostate no patient developed prostate cancer with a general decrease in trend in PSA and MRI on follow-up. These patients may have longer interval follow-up periods given the clinical scenario but would be best to test this method in prospective trials first.

Human ; Prostate Cancer ; Prostatic Neoplasms

INTRODUCTION

Testicular torsion is a true urologic emergency. It occurs when the blood supply to the testis is compromised as the vessels twist along the spermatic cord. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are critical to prevent prolonged ischemia time which is crucial to its prognosis. This paper aimed to present cases of testicular torsion who underwent testis sparing surgery for torsion.

METHODS

Cases of testicular torsion admitted at the institution from January 2023 to July 2024 were reviewed. Demographic data, scrotal ultrasound findings, intraoperative findings and ischemia time were documented. Patients who underwent tunica albuginea fasciotomy with tunica vaginalis flap were monitored post-surgery via scrotal ultrasound, documenting testicular size.

RESULTS

Twenty seven (27) cases of testicular torsion were reviewed. Of these cases, 4 improved after detorsion and orchidopexy, 12 cases with > 72 hours ischemia time and failed detorsion underwent orchiectomy, 11 cases with < 72 hours of ischemia time, tunica albuginea fasciotomy were performed. Five (5) of these 11 cases showed no improvement in appearance and no bleeding was observed and subsequent orchiectomy was performed. Six cases demonstrated improvement in appearance and bleeding after tunica albuginea fasciotomy, tunica vaginalis flap used to cover the resulting defect. Of these 6 cases, 2 cases showed intact testicular size, 1 case had testicular atrophy on monitoring and 3 cases were lost to follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Testicular torsion remains to be a critical urologic emergency. Prompt diagnosis and immediate surgery required to improve salvage rates. Tunica albuginea incision, with subsequent tunica vaginalis flap may be an option for the urologist to improve salvage, although not consistently prevent testicular atrophy.

Human ; Male ; Testicular Torsion ; Spermatic Cord Torsion

INTRODUCTION

Vasectomy is a simple and reliable method of permanent contraception in men causing obstructive azoospermia. As many as 50 million men worldwide have relied on vasectomy for family planning. However, it is estimated that around 6% of these men who underwent vasectomy will ultimately seek vasectomy reversal for various reasons. Vasectomy reversal is the most cost effective option for couples desiring children after vasectomy and is the most challenging microsurgical procedures. This study presents local experience, outcomes and complications of microsurgical reconstruction of the male ductal system in the Philippines setting.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study of 157 post-vasectomy patients who underwent microsurgical vasectomy reversal by a single surgeon from January 2001 to March 2024. Outcomes such as patency and pregnancy rates were documented and analyzed.

RESULTS

One hundred and fifty seven (157) underwent microsurgical vasectomy reversal. One hundred five (105) patients underwent bilateral microsurgical vasovasostomy. Forty eight (48) patients underwent combined microsurgical vasovasostomy and vasoepididymostomy. Three patients underwent bilateral vasoepididymostomy and one crossed microsurgical vasoepididymostomy (left to right). Four patients had no child, 87 patients had 1 child, 34 patients had 2 children, 29 had 3 children and 3 patients had 4 children prior to vasectomy. Age of wife was between 20 to 32 years old. Mean interval from vasectomy was 9 years. Vas deferens was patent in 120 (76%) of patients. Clinical pregnancy with successful delivery was achieved in 99 (63%) patients. There were only three who had postoperative hematoma (0.02%) and one developed surgical site infection (0.001%).

CONCLUSION

Microsurgical vasectomy reversal is an excellent option in men post vasectomy to achieve natural clinical pregnancy with minimal complications. The study confirms the effectiveness of male infertility microsurgery for vasectomized men who wish to father children.

Human ; Male ; Vasectomy