Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy Research Articles

Anorectal function and symptoms 6 months after robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy: a single-center study.

Robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RALP) is a common procedure for the treatment of localised prostate cancer. Anorectal symptoms such as fecal incontinence (FI), rectal urgency or disturbed defecation have been reported after the operation. Anorectal function is dependent on the integrity of anal and pelvic nerves and muscles, rectal sensory function as well as rectal reservoir function. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential influence of RALP on anorectal physiological function and bowel symptoms. In this pilot study, 29 patients with localised prostate cancer scheduled for RALP were included. Anorectal physiology was used to measure rectal sensitivity and reservoir function as well as anal sphincter pressures. Bowel symptoms were measured by a bowel function questionnaire and a 2-week bowel function diary. Measurements were done before the operation and repeated at 6 months after the operation. The study observed a significant postoperative increase in rectal sensory threshold for rectal balloon distention, from 20 to 40 mmHg, P < 0.001. This change is indicative of a decrease in rectal sensation after RALP. There were no other statistical significant differences in any of the physiological tests performed. Importantly, there was no change in any of the bowel symptoms after surgery. This study showed that RALP may lead to impaired rectal sensory function. This finding did not, however, seem to have any influence on the patients´ postoperative clinical bowel function.

Efficiency and productivity gains of robotic surgery: The case of the English National Health Service.

This paper examines the effect of new medical technology (robotic surgery) on efficiency gains and productivity changes for surgical treatment in patients with prostate cancer from the perspective of a public health sector organization. In particular, we consider three interrelated surgical technologies within the English National Health System: robotic, laparoscopic and open radical prostatectomy. Robotic and laparoscopic techniques are minimally invasive procedures with similar clinical benefits. While the clinical benefits in adopting robotic surgery over laparoscopic intervention are unproven, it requires a high initial investment cost and carries high on-going maintenance costs. Using data from Hospital Episode Statistics for the period 2000-2018, we observe growing volumes of prostatectomies over time, mostly driven by an increase in robotic-assisted surgeries, and further analyze whether hospital providers that adopted a robot see improved measures of throughput. We then quantify changes in total factor and labor productivity arising from the use of this technology. We examine the impact of robotic adoption on efficiency gains employing a staggered difference-in-difference estimator and find evidence of a 50% reduction in length of stay (LoS), 49% decrease in post-LoS and 44% and 46% decrease in postoperative visits after 1year and 2years, respectively. Productivity analysis shows the growth in radical prostatectomy volume is sustained with a relatively stable number of urology surgeons. The robotic technique increases total production at the hospital level between 21% and 26%, coupled with a 29% improvement in labor productivity. These benefits lend some, but not overwhelming support for the large-scale hospital investments in such costly technology.

Identifying risk factors for hypoxemia during emergence from anesthesia in patients undergoing robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy.

Robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RALP) has emerged as an effective treatment for prostate cancer with obvious advantages. This study aims to identify risk factors related to hypoxemia during the emergence from anesthesia in patients undergoing RALP. A cohort of 316 patients undergoing RALP was divided into two groups: the hypoxemia group (N = 134) and the non-hypoxemia group (N = 182), based on their postoperative oxygen fraction. Comprehensive data were collected from the hospital information system, including preoperative baseline parameters, intraoperative data, and postoperative recovery profiles. Risk factors were examined using multiple logistic regression analysis. The study showed that 38.9% of patients had low preoperative partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) levels. Several clinical parameters showed significant differences between the hypoxemia group and the non-hypoxemia group, including weight (P < 0.0001), BMI (P < 0.0001), diabetes mellitus (P = 0.044), history of emphysema and pulmonary alveoli (P < 0.0001), low preoperative PaO2 (P < 0.0001), preoperative white blood cell count (P = 0.012), preoperative albumin (P = 0.048), intraoperative bleeding (P = 0.043), intraoperative CO2 accumulation (P = 0.001), duration of surgery (P = 0.046), postoperative hemoglobin level (P = 0.002), postoperative hypoxemia (P = 0.002), and early postoperative fever (P = 0.006). Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed BMI (adjusted odds ratio = 0.696, 95% confidence interval 0.612-0.719), low preoperative PaO2 (adjusted odds ratio = 9.119, 95% confidence interval 4.834-17.203), and history of emphysema and pulmonary alveoli (adjusted odds ratio = 2.804, 95% confidence interval 1.432-5.491) as independent factors significantly associated with hypoxemia on emergence from anesthesia in patients undergoing RALP. Our results demonstrate that BMI, lower preoperative PaO2, and a history of emphysema and pulmonary alveolar disease are independent risk factors associated with hypoxemia on emergence from anesthesia in patients undergoing RALP. These findings provide a theoretical framework for surgeons and anesthesiologists to facilitate strategies to mitigate postoperative hypoxemia in this unique patient population.

Comparison of perioperative and functional outcomes of single-incision versus standard multi-incision robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy: a prospective, controlled, nonrandomized trial

To compare perioperative and functional outcomes between improved (port-free) single-site robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (pf-ssRARP) and standard multi-port robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (MPRARP). A total of 372 consecutive patients underwent RARAP using the da Vinci Si® robotic surgical system. Group I (n = 210) included patients undergoing pf-ssRARP and Group II (n = 162) included patients undergoing MPRARP. Demographics and perioperative data including postoperative recovery outcomes were recorded and compared between the two groups. Overall mean operative time was significantly shorter with the pf-ssRARP compared to the MPRARP (p < 0.05). The length of hospitalization after the pf-ssRARP was shorter (p < 0.05). In Group I, the positive surgical margin rate was 15.2%; while in Group II, the positive margin rate was 33.3% (p < 0.05). The rate of instant urinary continence was significantly higher in Group I than in Group II (p < 0.05). The percentage of urinary continence was higher in the pf-ssRARP than in the MPRARP, at 6 months post-surgery (p < 0.05) and 9 months post-surgery (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the proportion of erectile function in the pf-ssRARP and MPRARP groups at the time of reaching the endpoint of this study (p > 0.05). The two groups were comparable in terms of total hospitalization costs (p < 0.05). The improved (port-free) single-site robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy is a practical and easy technique to implement in clinical practice. Extraperitoneal implementation of the modified technique requires only a small incision, no special PORT, no additional auxiliary foramen creation, increased postoperative aesthetics and reduced hospitalization costs, and a high percentage of early postoperative urinary control recovery.

COMPARISON OF ROBOTIC RADICAL PROSTATECTOMY VS LAPAROSCOPIC RADICAL PROSTATECTOMY ON PROSTATE CANCER PATIENT: A COMPREHENSIVE SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Background: Prostate cancer constitutes 3.8 of all cancer-related deaths in men. Radical prostatectomy stands as a standard surgical treatment for prostate cancer. Robot-assisted systems have emerged aiming to simplify the intricacies of complex laparoscopic procedures. Specifically, robot-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP) has been proposed as a means to expedite the learning curve, potentially leading to quicker reductions in operative time compared to traditional laparoscopic techniques (LRP). This study aims to serve a comprehensive systematic review to compare laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP) and robot-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP) on prostate cancer based on literatures of the last 10 years. Methods: The review adhered to PRISMA 2020 standards and analyzed full-text English literature from 2014 to 2024. It excluded editorials, review papers from the same journal, and submissions lacking a DOI. Literature sources included PubMed, SagePub, SpringerLink, and Google Scholar. Result: A total of 655 articles were retrieved from online databases (PubMed, SagePub, SpringerLink and Google Scholar). After three rounds of screening, five articles directly relevant to the systematic review were selected for full-text reading and analysis. Conclusion: Robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) offers advantages such as quicker recovery and comparable safety to laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP). Studies show better urinary continence and potency outcomes with RARP. While PSM rates vary between RARP and LRP, further research is needed to understand their impact on recurrence. Despite challenges like the lack of tactile sensation in RARP, it remains a popular choice for prostate cancer treatment.

Abstract PO5-10-10: Disparities in Work RVUs for Breast and Prostate Cancer Operations

Abstract Introduction: In a vast array of different methods used to quantify healthcare processes, the Relative Value Unit (RVUs) has become the federal precedent set by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to assign value to different procedures and processes. The current RVU conversion factor in 2023 is $33.06 per unit. Physician work RVUs, malpractice RVUs (MP RVUs) and practice expense RVUs (PE RVUs) were first implemented in 1992 as a system for assigning payment to physicians while providing administrative budgeting based on clinical and liability expenditures. These values are subject to reevaluation every 5 years at minimum, or as new services become available. The CMS updates it’s RVU model by consulting the American Medical Association’s Specialty Society Relative Value Scale Update Committee (RUC), which controversially sets higher values in certain fields of medicine than others. This article will objectively analyze the RVUs provided by the CMS to surgical oncologists treating breast cancer and compare them to the RVUs compensated to urologists treating prostate cancer, across multiple modalities. Methods: Work RVUs, practice expense RVUs, and malpractice RVUs were obtained from the CMS 2023 physician fee schedule, using the HCPCS codes to identify the services from their database. Estimated pre-evaluation times, intra-procedure times, immediate post service times, and total procedural times were gathered from the CY 2023 Final Rule Physician Work Time database provided by CMS. The HCPCS codes used for mastectomy variations were 19301 for partial mastectomy, 19302 for partial mastectomy with lymph node removal, 19303 for a simple complete mastectomy, 19305 for a radical mastectomy, 19306 for an urban type radical mastectomy, and 19307 for a modified radical mastectomy. The HCPCS codes used for armpit lymph nodes were 38740 and 38745 for axillary lymph node dissections. The HCPCS codes used for prostatectomy variations were 55810 and 55812 for a radical perineal prostatectomy, 55840 and 55845 for a radical retropubic prostatectomy, and 55866 for a laparoscopic retropubic radical prostatectomy. The HCPCS codes used for pelvic lymph nodes were 38571-38573 for laparoscopic lymphadenectomies. Work RVUs were compared between mastectomy and prostatectomy procedures, and axillary node procedures were compared to those of pelvic lymph nodes. To further asses any true disparities in the values assigned to the operations, a second analysis of work RVUs divided by total operation times were compared between their surgical counterparts. Conclusion: Values collected from CMS indicate 59% more RVUs are provided to urologists for prostatectomies than breast surgeons for mastectomies per procedure, and 12% more per hour of total procedure time. Additionally, the CMS indicates on average 29% more work RVUs are provided to urologists for pelvic lymph node removals than breast surgeons for axillary lymph node removals, and 3.4% more per hour of total procedure time (appendix 1). Breast cancer and prostate cancer have similar incidence and mortality rates, but one affects mostly women and the other only men. The decision by the Center of Medicare and Medicaid Services to place a higher value in prostate cancer management is unknown, and elicits future analysis with surveyed procedural data across the nation for statistical significance determination. Appendix 1 allocated work RVUs, practice expense RVUs, malpractice RVUs, and median operative times for prostate cancer and breast cancer operations. Citation Format: Noah Khosrowzadeh, Kyle Chambers, Matthew Gompels, Cyrus Washington, Jessica Meshman. Disparities in Work RVUs for Breast and Prostate Cancer Operations [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO5-10-10.

Effectiveness and economic outcomes in patients undergoing laparoscopic radical prostatectomy with a new surgical shear with integrated energy system: A retrospective study based on a tertiary hospital database in China

ObjectiveThis study aimed to demonstrate a new surgical shear with integrated energy system (Harmonic ACE®+7) value by determining its effectiveness and economic outcomes compared with conventional ultrasonic shears (CUSs) in a real-world setting. MethodsThis was a retrospective study of adults with prostate cancer undergoing a laparoscopic radical prostatectomy with the ACE®+7 shear or CUSs between August 2019 and April 2021 at Shanghai Ruijin Hospital, including the headquarters and Luwan Center in China. Demographic and diagnosis information, intraoperative and postoperative clinical outcomes, and total and categorical costs were collected. Propensity score matching was performed to form the study population for each clinical group. Data were compared between the two groups using t-test and Chi-squared test. ResultsThe ACE®+7 was associated with a lower mean number of hemostatic clips used per surgery (12.8 in the ACE®+7 group vs. 19.8 in the CUS group, p<0.001), a moderate but not significant difference in mean postoperative drainage duration (6.6 [standard deviation, SD 2.2] days vs. 7.9 [SD 4.1] days, p=0.082), a reduction on mean total drainage volume (275.5 [SD 374.3 mL vs. 492.9 [SD 1495.0] mL, p=0.321), and a lower average rate of postoperative hemostatic drug usage (16.0% vs. 52.0%, p<0.001). There was no significant difference in total costs between the ACE®+7 and the CUS groups. ConclusionThis study provides real-world data demonstrating that the ACE®+7 shear with integrated energy system improves clinical outcomes compared with CUSs and can offer cost savings for hospitals and health systems. Using the ACE®+7 during laparoscopic radical prostatectomy allows physicians to help their patients achieve better outcomes and not spend additional money.

The effect of ultrasound-guided rectus sheath block on postoperative analgesia in robot assisted prostatectomy: A randomized controlled trial.

Postoperative pain continues to represent an important problem even after minimally invasive robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy, which results in discomfort in the postoperative period and sometimes prolongs hospital stays. Regional anesthesia and analgesia techniques are used in addition to systemic analgesics with the multimodal approach in postoperative pain management. Ultrasound-guided fascial plane blocks are becoming increasingly important, especially in minimally invasive surgeries. Another important cause of discomfort is urinary catheter pain. The present randomized controlled study investigated the effect of rectus sheath block on postoperative pain and catheter-related bladder discomfort in robotic prostatectomy operations. This randomized controlled trial was conducted from March to August 2022. Written informed consent was obtained from all participants. Approval for the study was granted by the Clinical Research Ethics Committee. All individuals provided written informed consent, and adults with American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Condition classification I to III planned for robotic prostatectomy operations under general anesthesia were enrolled. Following computer-assisted randomization, patients were divided into 2 groups, and general anesthesia was induced in all cases. Rectus sheath block was performed under general anesthesia and at the end of the surgery. No fascial plane block was applied to the patients in the non-rectus sheath block (RSB) group.Postoperative pain and urinary catheter pain were assessed using a numerical rating scale. Fentanyl was planned as rescue analgesia in the recovery room. In case of numerical rating scale scores of 4 or more, patients were given 50 µg fentanyl IV, repeated if necessary. The total fentanyl dose administered was recorded in the recovery room. IV morphine patient-controlled analgesia was planned for all patients. All patients' pain (postoperative pain at surgical site and urethral catheter discomfort) scores and total morphine consumption in the recovery unit and during follow-ups on the ward (3, 6, 12, and 24 hours) in the postoperative period were recorded. Sixty-one patients were evaluated. Total tramadol consumption during follow-up on the ward was significantly higher in the non-RSB group. Fentanyl consumption in the postanesthesia care unit was significantly higher in the non-RSB group. Total morphine consumption was significantly lower in the RSB group at 0 to 12 hours and 12 to 24 hours. Total opioid consumption was 8.81 mg in the RSB group and 19.87 mg in the non-RSB group. A statistically significant decrease in urethral catheter pain was noted in the RSB group at all time points. RSB exhibits effective analgesia by significantly reducing postoperative opioid consumption in robotic prostatectomy operations.

Physiotherapy for continence and muscle function in prostatectomy: a randomised controlled trial.

To assess the effectiveness of pre- and postoperative supervised pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) on the recovery of continence and pelvic floor muscle (PFM) function after robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RARP). We carried out a single-blind randomised controlled trial involving 54 male patients scheduled to undergo RARP. The intervention group started supervised PFMT 2 months before RARP and continued for 12 months after surgery with a physiotherapist. The control group was given verbal instructions, a brochure about PFMT, and lifestyle advice. The primary outcome was 24-h pad weight (g) at 3 months after RARP. The secondary outcomes were continence status (assessed by pad use), PFM function, and the Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite (EPIC) score. Patients who participated in supervised PFMT showed significantly improved postoperative urinary incontinence (UI) compared with the control group (5.0 [0.0-908.0] g vs 21.0 [0.0-750.0] g; effect size: 0.34, P = 0.022) at 3 months after RARP based on 24-h pad weight. A significant improvement was seen in the intervention compared with the control group (65.2% continence [no pad use] vs 31.6% continence, respectively) at 12 months after surgery (effect size: 0.34, P = 0.030). Peak pressure during a maximum voluntary contraction was higher in the intervention group immediately after catheter removal and at 6 months, and a longer duration of sustained contraction was found in the intervention group compared with the control group. We were unable to demonstrate a difference between groups in EPIC scores. Supervised PFMT can improve postoperative UI and PFM function after RARP. Further studies are needed to confirm whether intra-anal pressure reflects PFM function and affects continence status in UI in men who have undergone RARP.

Precise Prediction of Long-Term Urinary Incontinence after Robot-Assisted Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy by Readily Accessible “Everyday” Diagnostics during Post-Surgical Hospitalization

Aim and Objectives: We aimed to test the predictive value of readily accessible and easily performed post-surgical “bedside tests” on their validity of long-term urinary incontinence (UI) (≥12 months) in patients following robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RALP). Material and Methods: Patients undergoing RALP between July 2020 and March 2021 were prospectively included and subdivided into two groups based on their pad usage after 12 months (0 vs. ≥1 pad). After catheter removal, patients performed a 1 h pad test, documented the need for pad change in a micturition protocol and received post-voiding residual urine volume ultrasound. Univariate and multivariable analyses were used to demonstrate the predictive value of easily accessible tests applied after catheter removal for UI following RALP. Results: Of 109 patients, 47 (43%) had to use at least one pad (vs. 62 (57%) zero pads) after 12 months. Univariate testing showed a significant difference in urine loss between both groups evaluated by the 1 h pad test performed within 24 h after catheter removal (70% &lt; 10 mL, vs. 30% ≥ 10 mL, p = 0.004) and in the need for pad change within the first 24 h after catheter removal (14% dry pads vs. 86% wet pads, p = 0.003). In multivariable analyses, the combination of both tests (synoptical incontinence score) could be confirmed as an independent predictor for UI after 12 months (p = 0.011). Conclusions: Readily accessible “everyday” diagnostics (pad test/change of pads after catheter removal) following RALP seem to be associated with a higher rate of long-term UI. This finding is crucial since patients with a potentially higher need for patient education and counselling can be identified using these readily accessible tests. This could lead to a higher patient satisfaction and improved outcomes.

The effects of different positions on lower extremity hemodynamics during robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy for prostate cancer

PurposeThis study aimed to investigate the effects of two different positions on lower extremity hemodynamics during robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RARP) for prostate cancer.MethodsA total of 196 patients who underwent RARP in our hospital from February 2020 to March 2022 were included in this study. Among them, 98 patients who underwent surgery with the Trendelenburg position and split-leg position with calf reverse arch from March 2021 to March 2022 were assigned to the observation group, while 98 patients who underwent surgery with the Trendelenburg position and low lithotomy position from February 2020 to February 2021 were assigned to the control group. Using an ultrasound diagnostic instrument to detect the internal diameter, mean blood flow velocity, and mean blood flow volume of the left deep femoral vein at different times, such as the supine position (T0), after 5 minutes of placing the patient in the leg spilt or low lithotomy position (T1), after 5 minutes of pneumoperitoneum (T2), after 5 minutes of head-down tilt or head-down tilt and calf reverse arch (T3), 1.5 hours after the start of surgery (T4), before the removal of CO2 gas (T5), and before the patient left the operating room (T6). As well as the patency of deep venous blood flow in both lower extremities before leaving the operating room,ResultsAfter establishment of pneumoperitoneum, the internal diameter of the deep femoral vein increased significantly, while the mean blood flow velocity and mean blood flow volume decreased significantly in both groups(T0) (P<0.001). With the prolongation of surgical time, the impact on lower extremity hemodynamics in the observation group was smaller than that in the control group. From T2 to T6, the internal diameter of the femoral vein in the observation group was smaller than that in the control group, while the mean blood flow velocity and mean blood flow volume were increased compared to the control group (P<0.05). Before leaving the operating room, the patency of deep venous blood flow in the observation group was better than that in the control group (P=0.003).ConclusionPlacing patients in the Trendelenburg position and split-leg position with calf reverse arch during RARP for prostate cancer has a smaller impact on lower extremity hemodynamics than the low lithotomy position, and can relatively reduce the risk of postoperative deep vein thrombosis.

Feasibility of opioid-free anesthesia in laparoscopic radical prostatectomy: A retrospective, quasi-experimental study

Abstract Background and Aims: Opioid-free anesthesia (OFA) provides adequate analgesia minimizing opioids. OFA has not been evaluated in laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP). Our aim was to evaluate OFA feasibility and its effectiveness in LRP. Material and Methods: A quasi-experimental retrospective study of 55 adult patients undergoing LRP was performed from September 2020 until December 20223. Predefined protocols for either opioid-based anesthesia (OBA; with continuous remifentanil infusion) or OFA (continuous lidocaine, dexmedetomidine, and ketamine infusion) were followed. In both groups, wound infiltration was performed before skin incision. Primary outcome was postoperative pain management (numerical rating scale [NRS]) in the first 24 postoperative hours. Secondary outcomes were opioid consumption, start to sitting and ambulation, postoperative complications, and length of hospital stay. Results: OFA protocol patients had better median pain scores during movement at 1, 18 and 24 h, that is, 1 (interquartile range [IQR] 0–3) versus 2.5 (IQR 0–4), P = 0.047; 0 (IQR 0–1) versus 1 (IQR 0–2), P = 0.017; and 0 (IQR 0–0.25) versus 1 (IQR 0–2), P = 0.013, respectively. At 6 and 12 h, there were no statistically significant differences, that is, 0.5 (IQR 0–2) versus 1 (IQR 0–2), P = 0.908 and 1 (IQR 0–2) versus 0.5 (IQR 0–2), P = 0.929, respectively. Lower morphine requirements were recorded in the first 18 and 24 postoperative hours, that is, 0 (IQR 0–0) versus 1 (IQR 0–2.75) mg, P = 0.028 and 0 (IQR 0–2) versus 1.5 (IQR 0–3) mg, P = 0.012, respectively. Start to sitting and ambulation occurred earlier in the OFA group (P = 0.030 and P = 0.002, respectively). Linear regression showed that ambulation was independently associated with the analgesic technique (P = 0.034). Only one patient had postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) and belonged to the OBA group. There was no difference in total complications or the length of stay. Conclusion: In this study, OFA strategy was found to be safe, feasible, and provided adequate analgesia, minimizing the use of postoperative opioids, and was independently associated with earlier ambulation.

Ten-year functional and oncological outcomes of a prospective randomized controlled trial comparing laparoscopic versus robot-assisted radical prostatectomy.

Among prostate cancer (PCa) treatment options, mini-invasive surgical approaches have gained a wide diffusion in the last decades. The aim of this study was to present oncological, functional, and quality of life data after 10 years of follow-up of a prospective randomized controlled trial (RCT) (ISRCTN11552140) comparing robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) versus laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP) for the treatment of PCa. Patients with localized PCa were randomized to undergo LRP or RARP between January 2010 and January 2011. Functional (continence and potency) and oncological (prostate-specific antigen, biochemical recurrence [BCR] and BCR-free survival [BCRFS]) variables were evaluated. BCRFS curves were estimated by the Kaplan-Meier method and compared using the log-rank test. Machine learning partial least square-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) was used to identify the variables characterizing more the patients who underwent RARP or LRP. Seventy-five of the originally enrolled 120 patients remained on follow-up for 10 years; 40 (53%) underwent RARP and 35 (47%) LRP. Continence and potency recovery rates did not show significant differences (p = 0.068 and p = 0.56, respectively), despite a Δ12% for continence and Δ8% for potency in favor of the robotic approach. However, the quality of continence (in terms of International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form [ICIQ-SF] score) and erection (in terms of International Index of Erectile Function-5 [IIEF-5] score) was significantly better after 10 years in the robotic group (p = 0.02 and p < 0.001). PLS-DA revealed that LRP was characterized by the worst functional-related outcomes analyzing the entire follow-up period. Four (10%) and six (17%) patients experienced BCR in RARP and LRP groups, respectively (p = 0.36), with an overall 10-year BCR-free survival of 88% and 78% (p = 0.16). Comparable continence and potency rates were observed between RARP and LRP after a 10-year follow-up. However, the RARP group exhibited superior totally dry rate and erection quality. No difference in terms of oncological outcomes was found.

Assessment of the accuracy of biparametric MRI/TRUS fusion-guided biopsy for index tumor evaluation using postoperative pathology specimens

BackgroundMultiparametric MRI (mpMRI) is widely used for the diagnosis, surveillance, and staging of prostate cancer. However, it has several limitations, including higher costs, longer examination times, and the use of gadolinium-based contrast agents. This study aimed to investigate the accuracy of preoperatively assessed index tumors (ITs) using biparametric MRI (bpMRI)/transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) fusion biopsy compared with radical prostatectomy (RP) specimens.MethodsWe included 113 patients diagnosed with prostate cancer through bpMRI/TRUS fusion-guided biopsies of lesions with a Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS) category ≥ 3. These patients underwent robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RARP) at our institution between July 2017 and March 2023. We examined the localization of preoperative and postoperative ITs, the highest Gleason score (GS), and tumor diameter in these patients.ResultsThe preoperative cT stage matched the postoperative pT stage in 53 cases (47%), while 31 cases (27%) were upstaged, and 29 cases (26%) were downstaged (Weighted Kappa = 0.21). The preoperative and postoperative IT localizations were consistent in 97 cases (86%). The concordance rate between Gleason groups in targeted biopsies and RP specimens was 51%, with an upgrade in 25 cases (23%) and a downgrade in 27 cases (25%) (Weighted Kappa = 0.42). The maximum diameter of the IT and the maximum cancer core length on biopsy were correlated with the RP tumor's maximum diameter (p < 0.001 for both).ConclusionThe diagnostic accuracy of bpMRI/TRUS fusion biopsy is comparable to mpMRI, suggesting that it can be a cost-effective and time-saving alternative.

Assessing Stress Induced by Fluid Shifts and Reduced Cerebral Clearance during Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy under Trendelenburg Positioning (UroTreND Study).

In addition to general anesthesia and mechanical ventilation, robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RALP) necessitates maintaining a capnoperitoneum and placing the patient in a pronounced downward tilt (Trendelenburg position). While the effects of the resulting fluid shift on the cardiovascular system seem to be modest and well tolerated, the effects on the brain and the blood-brain barrier have not been thoroughly investigated. Previous studies indicated that select patients showed an increase in the optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD), detected by ultrasound during RALP, which suggests an elevation in intracranial pressure. We hypothesize that the intraoperative fluid shift results in endothelial dysfunction and reduced cerebral clearance, potentially leading to transient neuronal damage. This prospective, monocentric, non-randomized, controlled clinical trial will compare RALP to conventional open radical prostatectomy (control group) in a total of 50 subjects. The primary endpoint will be the perioperative concentration of neurofilament light chain (NfL) in blood using single-molecule array (SiMoA) as a measure for neuronal damage. As secondary endpoints, various other markers for endothelial function, inflammation, and neuronal damage as well as the ONSD will be assessed. Perioperative stress will be evaluated by questionnaires and stress hormone levels in saliva samples. Furthermore, the subjects will participate in functional tests to evaluate neurocognitive function. Each subject will be followed up until discharge. Conclusion: This trial aims to expand current knowledge as well as to develop strategies for improved monitoring and higher safety of patients undergoing RALP. The trial was registered with the German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00031041 on 11 January 2023.

Evaluation of surgical and functional outcomes after bilateral intrafascial nerve-sparing laparoscopic radical prostatectomy after prostate resection for incidental prostate cancer

Evaluation of surgical and functional outcomes after bilateral intrafascial nerve-sparing laparoscopic radical prostatectomy after prostate resection for incidental prostate cancer

Erectile dysfunction criteria of 131,350 patients after open, laparoscopic, and robotic radical prostatectomy.

Comparing post-radical prostatectomy erectile function rates among different techniques has always been a challenge in urology. This difficulty is due to the heterogeneity of studies, mainly in relation to the type of erectile function classification criteria used. The aim is to apply a new evidence-gathering methodology, called reverse systematic review, to compare erectile function rates among retropubic radical prostatectomy, laparoscopic radical prostatectomy, and robot-assisted radical prostatectomy, considering the diversity of classification criteria. A search was carried out in eight databases between 2000 and 2020 through systematic review studies referring to retropubic radical prostatectomy, laparoscopic radical prostatectomy, or robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (80 systematic reviews). All references used in these systematic reviews were captured by referring to 910 papers in a global database called EVIDENCE. A total of 268 studies related to post-prostatectomy erectile function rates were selected for the final analysis, totaling 465 cohorts or reports referring to 131,350 patients. Note that, 119 (25.6%) reports for retropubic radical prostatectomy, 143 (30.7%) reports for laparoscopic radical prostatectomy, and 203 (43.7%) reports for robot-assisted radical prostatectomy were found. Mean overall erectile function rates, respectively for retropubic radical prostatectomy, laparoscopic radical prostatectomy, and robot-assisted radical prostatectomy, were: 16%, 12%, and 35% at 1 month, 22%, 26%, and 42% in 3 months; 30%, 44%, and 54% at 6 months, 41%, 55%, and 59% at 12 months, and 58%, 52%, and 67% at more than 18 months. The most used erectile function criterion was Erection Sufficient for Intercourse (74.1%), followed by Sexual Health Inventory for Men>21 (5.5%), and Sexual Health Inventory for Men>16 (3.7%). Erection Sufficient for Intercourse showed the lowest discrepancy in erectile function rates in each period compared to the global average, for each technique, demonstrating less ability to influence the final results, favoring any of the techniques. The reverse systematic review demonstrated that the robot-assisted radical prostatectomy showed higher rates of erectile function recovery at all times analyzed (1->18 months), in relation to the retropubic radical prostatectomy and laparoscopic radical prostatectomy. The Erection Sufficient for Intercourse criterion was the most used in the literature and showed the lowest bias capable of influencing the results and favoring any of the techniques and might be the fairest option for future comparisons.

Impacts of Perioperative Comprehensive Nursing Intervention on Postoperative Urinary Incontinence and Quality of Life of Patients Undergoing Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy

To evaluate the impact of perioperative comprehensive nursing intervention on postoperative urinary incontinence, various aspects of patient well-being were assessed. The comprehensive group, that received the nursing intervention, demonstrated significant improvements in self-care skills, health knowledge level, self-care responsibility, and self-concept compared to the standard group. The findings indicate that perioperative comprehensive nursing intervention has a remarkable effect on patients undergoing laparoscopic radical prostatectomy. This nursing intervention not only effectively improves postoperative urinary incontinence and alleviates negative emotions, such as anxiety and depression. Therefore, the implementation of this nursing intervention model is highly recommended for clinical practice and wider application.

Improved early continence following laparoscopic radical prostatectomy: the urethral hammock technique.

To introduce and illustrate a novel urethral reconstruction technique-the 'urethral hammock-technique'-and to assess its impact on early postoperative continence following laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP). 119 patients who underwent LRP between January 2020 and May 2022 (hammock group: n = 43, control group: n = 76) were included in the study. The primary outcome was continence (zero pads or max. one security pad) at 1, 3, and 6months following surgery. Secondary outcomes were operative time, complications, and histological findings. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were performed to reveal predictors for continence. p values < 0.05 with a two-sided 95%-confidence interval were considered statistically significant. Baseline characteristics were comparable among both groups. The number of patients achieving complete continence in both the hammock and control groups at various time intervals was: 4weeks 37.2% (16/43) vs. 19.2% (14/73) (p = 0.047); 3months 60.5% (26/43) vs. 37.3% (28/75) (p = 0.021) and 6months 72.1% (31/43) vs. 60.3% (44/73) (p = 0.23), respectively. Adjusting for bladder neck preservation status and age, the hammock technique was a significant predictor for continence for the 4-week (OR 0.33, 95% CI 0.13-0.83, p = 0.019) and 3-month (OR 0.28, 95% CI 0.12-0.66, p = 0.004) interval but not for the 6-month interval (OR 0.64, 95% CI 0.27-1.5, p = 0.31). Operative time, complication rates, time till catheter extraction and histological findings were comparable between both groups (all p > 0.05). The hammock technique is a simple and reproducible technique to improve early postoperative continence for at least 3months following surgery. However, these promising results warrant confirmation through a randomized controlled trial.

Clinical risk prediction model and external validation of positive surgical margin in laparoscopic radical prostatectomy based on MRI lesion location.

To clarify the composition of lesions in different magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) partitions of positive surgical margins (PSM) after laparoscopic radical prostatectomy, explore the influence of lesion location on PSM, and construct a clinical prediction model to predict the risk of PSM. This retrospective cohort study included 309 patients who underwent laparoscopic radical prostatectomy from 2018 to 2021 in our center was performed. 129 patients who met the same criteria from January to September 2022 were external validation cohorts. The incidence of PSM in transition zone (TZ) lesions was higher than that in peripheral zone (PZ) lesions. The incidence of PSM in the middle PZ was lower than that in other regions. Prostate specific antigen (PSA), clinical T-stage, the number of positive cores, international society of urological pathology (ISUP) grade (biopsy), MRI lesion location, extracapsular extension, seminal vesicle invasion (SVI), pseudo-capsule invasion (PCI), long diameter of lesions, lesion volume, lesion volume ratio, PSA density were related to PSM. MRI lesion location and PCI were independent risk factors for PSM. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression was used to construct a clinical prediction model for PSM, including five variables: the number of positive cores, SVI, MRI lesion location, long diameter of lesions, and PSA. The positive rate of surgical margin in middle PZ was significantly lower than that in other regions, and MRI lesion location was an independent risk factor for PSM.