Abstract
BackgroundRobot-assisted laparoscopic (RAL) implantation of brachytherapy catheters (BTCs) can be a minimally invasive alternative to open retropubic implantation. Descriptions of the surgical technique and outcomes are sparse. ObjectiveTo describe our technique and perioperative outcomes for RAL BTC implantation in urothelial carcinoma (UC) and urachal carcinoma (UraC). Design, setting and participantsBetween June 2011 and May 2016, 26 patients with cN0M0 solitary T1G3 or T2G1–3 UC of ≤5cm or cN0M0 UraC were scheduled for external beam radiotherapy (20×2Gy), RAL BTC implantation, and pulsed-dose (29×1.04Gy) or high-dose rate brachytherapy (10×2.50Gy). Median follow-up was 12 mo (interquartile range 4–20). Surgical procedureRAL BTC implantation with or without pelvic lymph node dissection and/or partial cystectomy. Measurements and statistical analysisPerioperative data, complications, disease-free-survival (DFS), local recurrence-free survival (LRFS), and cystectomy-free survival (CFS) were evaluated as well as the feasibility of the technique. Results and limitationsBTC implantation was successful in 92% of the patients. Median hospitalisation was 5 d (interquartile range 4–7) and blood loss <50ml in all cases. DFS was 74% at 1 yr and 63% at 2 yr. LRFS was 80% at 1 and 2 yr, and CFS was 87% at 1 and 2 yr. Early (≤30 d) high-grade complications (Clavien-Dindo ≥3) occurred in 8% of the patients. The study is limited by the small sample size and short follow-up time. ConclusionsRAL BTC implantation is technically feasible and could serve as safe, minimally invasive alternative to open surgery in selected patients. The results of this study should be confirmed in larger studies. Patient summaryBrachytherapy catheter (BTC) implantation is traditionally carried out via open retropubic surgery. We describe robot-assisted laparoscopic BTC implantation as a minimally invasive alternative. Perioperative outcomes are described and confirm the safety and feasibility of this procedure.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
