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In response to Thomas Ahlering's Viewpoint published in our December 2004 issue, Bertrand Guillonneau argues that there are no robust and reliable data to support the use of robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy over a conventional laparoscopic approach. He concludes that it is wiser to invest in a laparoscopic training program.
The use of pubovaginal slings for the treatment of female stress urinary incontinence is commonplace, but the search for the 'ideal' sling material continues. There are many biological and synthetic materials available for this use. Here, the authors review the efficacy data for these different materials and slings.
There are few treatment options available for men with hormone-refractory prostate cancer. The main focus of this review is on the data from phase II and phase III trials examining the use of docetaxel in men with hormone-refractory prostate cancer. The mechanism of action of this drug, and its applications in urothelial cancers, are also discussed.
Despite the numerous androgen receptor gene polymorphisms that have been identified, no specific polymorphism has been linked with an increased risk of prostate cancer. Arun Singh and coauthors discuss these variations in the androgen receptor and their associated mechanisms. Studies relating to their importance in the development of prostate cancer are also reviewed.
