Originally posted March 29, 2025

This time I conducted a training session at Hill Clinic focused on En-bloc HoLEP. I worked with urologists from Bolivia, Brazil, Mexico and Philippines. We covered the specific steps of the technique using the Holmium laser. I demonstrated the procedure on the laser system. The group participated actively in the observation of cases. We exchanged experiences regarding the surgery and patient selection. The session concluded successfully with a review of the cases. I shared insights on the technical aspects of the surgery. The participants showed good engagement throughout the day. We discussed all  the nuances of the enucleation process.

Originally posted March 27, 2025

I hosted visitors to our operating room from Australia, Perú, and India this week. They came to observe the en-bloc HoLEP procedure. We demonstrated the technique live, focusing on apical dissection and mucosal preservation. The group reviewed the instrumentation required for the Quanta System laser during the surgeries. They watched multiple cases and discussed the specific challenges of the en-bloc approach. We covered the technical details of the resection plane and the subsequent morcellation. The session was dedicated to observation-based training on the method we use daily.

Originally posted March 24, 2025

We observed contrasting approaches to instrument sizing in urological surgery recently. While Dr. Figueiredo is working to miniaturise instruments for HoLEP, Dr. Gozzi is pursuing the opposite direction. As the inventor of the transobturator male incontinence sling, he is now making instruments larger to facilitate suprapubic resection of the prostate in big chunks.

Specifically, he is utilizing a 42 F resectoscope for this purpose. This discussion covered various methods for managing prostate volume during surgery.

Originally posted March 23, 2025

We have recently published the OPTIMUM trial results in JAMA. The study compares microultrasound versus MRI for prostate cancer diagnosis. We worked with our colleague Moisés Rodriguez Socarrás and collaborated with ExactImaging on this trial to evaluate diagnostic protocols. We demonstrated non-inferiority of the microultrasound technique for diagnostic accuracy compared to standard MRI imaging. This work was conducted in collaboration with ICUA. The trial confirms the role of microultrasound as an alternative to MRI for prostate cancer diagnosis in urology.

Originally posted March 22, 2025

I participated in the EAU live surgery program performing an En bloc HoLEP. The live surgeries were organized by LYX Foundation and Viamed Salud. I was impressed by their work. Giuseppe Maiolino was an excellent host. The session allowed for the demonstration of the technique. The organization ensured smooth execution of the cases. I thank the LYX Foundation and Viamed Salud teams for everything. The event was held as a live surgery broadcast. The technical details were covered during the presentation.

Originally posted March 20, 2025

I conducted an En bloc HoLEP session with colleagues from Argentina, Colombia, and Bolivia. We discussed the technical aspects of the procedure during the live case. The international group participated in the training and observed the dissection closely. The session allowed for direct teaching on the specific steps of the enucleation. We focused on maintaining the apical dissection and sphincter preservation during the laser work. The Quanta System laser was used for the enucleation. The procedures lasted less than 60 minutes. The colleagues from the three South American countries reviewed the outcomes together. I recorded the video for future reference.

Rafael Sánchez Salas has joined ICUAurologia as an international consultant. He will visit Madrid regularly to perform focal and non-focal treatment of prostate cancer. We are utilizing Sonablate technology from Angiodynamics for these interventions. The collaboration focuses on ultrasound-guided ablation techniques for targeted therapy using specific devices.

This arrangement allows for expanded capacity in Madrid. The schedule is set for recurring visits. I will be present for the procedures. This expands available treatment options in Madrid. We will track the outcomes of these specific interventions.

I attended the EAU congress this year. It has been quite a ride to see the EAU develop over the years. Frans Debruyne and all the other urologists spent their time and efforts building such a strong and valuable association. I attended the sessions. The meeting concluded with a celebration of the association's growth. I have attended the EAU for many years. I am part of the association. The association continues to organize international events for urologists around the world and includes members from various countries.