The need for a second transurethral resection in high-risk non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer based on the Vesicle Imaging-Reporting and Data System.

BACKGROUND: The efficacy of Vesical Imaging-Reporting and Data System (VI-RADS) for the second transurethral resection (TUR) has not been adequately validated. This study aimed to evaluate the utility of the VI-RADS for high-risk patients with non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) who are candidates for a second TUR.

METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed 116 patients who received magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) prior to an initial TUR and underwent a second TUR for a diagnosis of high-risk NMIBC at the initial TUR. MRI images were retrospectively classified according to VI-RADS. Second TUR outcomes and recurrence-free and progression-free survival rates were compared with VI-RADS scores.

RESULTS: Ninety-nine (91%) patients were diagnosed with T1 bladder cancer at the initial TUR. At the second TUR, residual cancer was found in 53 (49%) cases, including five (4.6%) cases of muscle invasion. With a median follow-up of 41 months, the 2-year bladder recurrence-free survival rate was 71% and the 2-year progression-free rate was 85%. By two radiologists' consensus, 30 (28%)/49 (45%)/16 (15%)/10 (9.2%)/4 (3.7%) cases were classified as VI-RADS 1/2/3/4/5, respectively. Of five pT2 upstage cases, three were VI-RADS 1, one was VI-RADS 2, and one was VI-RADS 3. There was no significant association between VI-RADS and cancer residual rate and pT2 upstage rate in second TUR outcomes, and recurrence-free and progression-free survival rates.

CONCLUSION: In high-risk NMIBCs, a certain number of residual cancers and pT2 upstage cases exist after the initial TUR, and a second TUR should be performed regardless of VI-RADS scores.