Wide variations and underspecification exist in the definition and reporting of outcomes in PCNL. We propose recommendations for the definition of outcomes based on a review of the literature and expert opinion. Standardization of outcome definition and reporting will improve the quality of urologic research.

INTRODUCTIONLaparoscopic donor nephrectomy (LDN) is now a well established method for kidney procurement from living donors. In our centre, LDN is currently offered only to donors suitable for a left nephrectomy. The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence of testicular pain and swelling following LDN.METHODSA total of 25 left-sided LDN male patients were assessed in a prospective structured interview together with a control cohort of 25 male patients who had undergone left-sided open donor nephrectomy (ODN).RESULTSData were collected on testicular pain, swelling, numbness, urinary symptoms and sexual dysfunction from all 50 patients (100% response rate). Of the 25 LDN patients, 11 (44%) experienced ipsilateral testicular pain and/or swelling. In most instances, pain was of immediate onset, mild to moderate in severity, lasted for a few days to several weeks and was associated with testicular swelling (10 of 11 cases). However, testicular pain and/or swelling were not apparent in ODN patients, with only 2 of 25 (8%) experiencing mild testicular pain, 1 of whom also had swelling.CONCLUSIONSTesticular pain and swelling following LDN is a common problem. It is underreported in the literature and should be included in the differential diagnoses of testicular pain and swelling. Further investigation is required to confirm our findings.

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Introduction: A 2012 workforce survey of consultant members of the British Association of Urological Surgeons (BAUS) found that up to 75% of members participated in private practice. This survey specifically addresses the scope of private practice and members’ attitudes towards the private health industry (PHI). Methods: An online survey of all consultant members of BAUS was undertaken in May 2013. Questions were asked about how many had a private practice, how much time they devoted to it, about their relationship with insurers and their expectation of BAUS’s role within private health care. Results: A total of 47.2% responded to the survey, of whom 76.3% have a private practice. Among the respondents, 73.6% work as individual practitioners and 61% spend <6 hours a week practicing clinically. Adverse relationships with the PHI were significantly worse for those working in private practice alone, in consortia, and for those members working as sole practitioners who were consultants of <10 years standing. More than 85% thought that a unified voice would improve relationships with the purchasers of private health care. Conclusions: This survey confirms the breadth of private practice amongst UK urologists and demonstrates how they practice privately. It helps identify that they do have concerns regarding their contractual and financial relationships with the PHI.

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