Robotic simple prostatectomy vs HOLEP, a 'multi single-center' experiences comparison

Introduction

The aim of this study was to compare peri-operative and mid-term outcomes of patients who underwent robot-assisted simple prostatectomy (RASP) vs holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HOLEP). RASP and HOLEP are the treatments of choice for men with symptomatic benign prostatic obstruction (BPO) and a prostate ≥80 g, achieving comparable short and mid-term efficacy. No randomized controlled studies have proved the superiority of one technique over the other.

Material and methods

The prospectively maintained databases of the participating institutions were queried for patients with a prostate volume (PV) ≥80 g, who underwent surgery for BPO between 2011 and 2021. The study population was divided into two subgroups based on surgical approach. Demographics, baseline characteristics, and 12 months outcomes were compared between groups: χ2 and Student t-tests were used for categorical and continuous variables, respectively. The Trifecta composite outcome (post-operative Q-max >15 ml/sec, International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) <8 and absence of complications) was used to define surgical quality and the two groups were compared accordingly. Logistic regression analyses investigated predictors of Trifecta achievement.

Results

We included 97 patients with comparable pre-operative features (all p >0.30): 43 underwent RASP, 54 HOLEP. Median PV was 102 g (IQR 89-120) and Q-max was 7.2 ml/s (IQR 5.4-9.0). The Trifecta rate was 43% overall, higher in the RASP subgroup (56% vs 33%; p = 0.02). The endoscopic approach was its only independent predictor (OR 0.5; 95% CI 0.28-0.88; p = 0.016).

Conclusions

At univariable regression analysis, surgical approach was the only independent predictor of Trifecta achievement, which was significantly higher in the RASP group compared to HOLEP.

Robotic-assisted simple prostatectomy: long-term, trifecta- and pentafecta-based analysis of functional outcomes

Background:

Robotic-assisted simple prostatectomy (RASP) proved to be a sound and effective procedure for bladder outlet obstructive symptoms relief. Routinely, the transvesical (Freyer) or transcapsular (Millin) techniques are performed. A novel approach of near-infrared fluorescence imaging (NIFI)-guided urethra-sparing robot-assisted prostatectomy (Madigan) was recently introduced.

Objectives:

The aim of our study was to evaluate the long-term functional outcomes between the Millin, Freyer, and Madigan RASP.

Design:

This is a single-center, retrospective evaluation of a prospectively maintained Institutional Review Board–approved database.

Methods:

Data from patients who have undergone RASP in our center were prospectively collected. Demographics, prostate size, and preoperative flowmetry parameters were assessed. Questionnaires such as International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), and International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire (ICIQ), International prostatic symptoms score (IPSS) with its quality of life (QoL) score, Male Sexual Health Questionnaire (MSHQ), Overactive bladder questionnaire (OABQ) were administered to every patient preoperatively and during follow-up. We tested composite outcomes (trifecta) defined as a combination of postoperative Q-max >15 ml/s, IPSS score < 8, and absence of complications. We also tested a pentafecta which keeps in account the persistence of antegrade ejaculation (MSHQ > 0) and the erectile function maintenance (∆IEEF < 6).

Results:

Median follow-up was 36 months. Millin, Madigan, and Freyer procedures were performed in 37 (51%), 18 (25%), and 17 (24%) cases, respectively. Trifecta was achieved in 43 (60%) patients. Preoperative ICIQ, postoperative IPSS, postoperative OABQ, and QoL were significantly different between groups (all p < 0.02). Pentafecta was achieved by 14 (20%) patients. The pentafecta group showed a statistically significant advantage in terms of postoperative IPSS and MSHQ ( p < 0.01).

Conclusion:

RASP provides an effective and durable relief of obstructive symptoms at long-term follow-up, regardless of the technique, achieving the trifecta in the majority of the patients. The Madigan technique is significantly related to the pentafecta achievement.