A novel anterior approach that involves Retzius space development between the umbilical ligaments is associated with a lower incidence of postoperative inguinal hernia in robotic radical prostatectomy

Background

To facilitate robotic radical prostatectomy (RP), we developed a novel anterior approach that utilizes a peritoneal incision between the umbilical ligaments to develop the Retzius space without contacting the internal inguinal rings, followed by closure of this space prior to prostatectomy and vesicourethral anastomosis. This approach could decrease the incidence of postoperative inguinal hernia (IH), similar to a Retzius-sparing RP (RS-RP). We compared the incidence of IH following this novel approach with that following conventional anterior RP and RS-RP.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 532 patients who underwent robotic RP from September 2017 to August 2022. We compared the incidence of IH following novel anterior RP (n = 153) to that following conventional anterior RP (n = 284) and RS-RP (n = 95). We also assessed the independent factors associated with postoperative IH using Cox hazard models.

Results

The 12- and 24-month cumulative incidences of postoperative IH following novel anterior RP were 1.3% and 1.3%, significantly lower than those associated with conventional anterior RP (8.0% and 12.6%, p = 0.009) but not significantly different from those following RS-RP (1.1% and 2.1%, p = 0.782). In multivariate analysis, use of the novel anterior RP approach, RS-RP, and body mass index were independent factors negatively associated with the occurrence of postoperative IH.

Conclusions

This novel anterior approach involves developing the Retzius space between the umbilical ligaments and closure of this space following prostatectomy and vesicourethral anastomosis. It can decrease the incidence of IH compared to the conventional anterior approach. Prospective comparative studies are necessary to confirm the benefits of this approach.

Current practice and unmet training needs in robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy: investigation from the Junior ERUS/YAU working group

PURPOSE

To access the current scenario of robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy training in multiple centers worldwide.

METHODS

We created a multiple-choice questionnaire assessing all details of robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy training with 41 questions divided into three different categories (responder demography, surgical steps, and responder experience). The questionnaire was created and disseminated using the "Google Docs" platform. All responders had an individual invitation by direct message or Email. We selected urologists who had recently finished a postgraduation urologic robotic surgery training (fellowship) in the last five years. We sent 624 invitations to urologists from 138 centers, from January 10th to April 10th, 2022. The answers were reported as percentages and illustrated in pie charts.

RESULTS

The response rate was 58% among all centers invited (138/81), 20% among all individual invitations (122/624 answers). Globally, we gathered responses from 23 countries. Most surgeons were older than 34 years, 71% trained in an academic center, and 64% performed less than ten full RARP cases. Transperitoneal is the most common access, and 63% routinely opens the endopelvic fascia. Almost 90% perform the Rocco's stitch, and 94% perform the anastomosis with barbed sutures. Finally, only 31% of surgeons assisted more than 100 cases before moving to the console, and most surgeons (63.9%) performed less than ten full RARP cases during their training.

CONCLUSION

By assessing the robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy training status in 23 countries and 81 centers worldwide, we assessed the trainees' demography, step-by-step surgical technique, training perspectives, and impressions of surgeons who trained in the last five years. This data is crucial for a better understanding the trainee's standpoint, addressing potential deficiencies, and implementing improvements needed in the training process. Our study clearly indicates elements of current training modalities that are prone to major improvement.

Preliminary results of the implementation of robotic radical prostatectomy in a major ambulatory surgery regimen

OBJECTIVE

To report our initial experience with robotic radical prostatectomy as an outpatient procedure.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Retrospective analysis of patients who underwent RRP as MAS (Major Ambulatory Surgery) at our center between March 2021 and May 2022. We collected baseline patient characteristics, intraoperative outcomes and postoperative data (need for unplanned medical care and complications at one month after surgery). Oncologic characteristics at disease diagnosis (PSA, staging, ISUP, MRI) and postoperative pathologic outcomes were collected.

RESULTS

We identified a total of 35 patients with an average age of 60,8 ± 6,88 years and a BMI of 27 ± 2,9 Kg/m². All patients had a low anesthetic risk and 25.71% had undergone previous abdominal surgery. The surgical time was 151,66 ± 42,15 min and the average blood loss was 301,2 ± 184,38 mL. Two patients (5.7%) were admitted for one night and 7 patients (20%) consulted the emergency department in the following month, of which 3 (8.57%) were readmitted. We recorded one intraoperative complication, seven mild postoperative complications (Clavien I-II) and one severe complication (Clavien IIIb). The severe complication occurred on the eighth postoperative day and was not related to the procedure being ambulatory.

CONCLUSION

The absence of serious complications in the immediate postoperative period supports RRP in MAS as a safe technique for selected patients.

Negative predictive value of PSMA PET scan for lymph node staging in patients undergoing robotic radical prostatectomy and pelvic lymph node dissection

PURPOSE

To assess the negative predictive value of PSMA PET scan for lymph node staging in patients undergoing robotic radical prostatectomy and pelvic lymph node dissection.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective analysis of patients who underwent robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy with pelvic lymph node dissection and had a preoperative negative PSMA PET scan for metastasis was performed. The documented pre-operative variables studied included age, BMI, PSA at diagnosis, Gleason score, and biopsy ISUP grades. Patients were categorised as low, intermediate and high risk according to the D Amico classification. The post-op variables included were number of lymph nodes harvested, number of positive nodes, positivity rate, size of the node metastasis, T staging and ISUP grading.

RESULTS

The overall negative predictive value of PSMA PET scan was 71.6%. Further sub-classification according to risk stratification demonstrated a NPV of 58.02%, 92.7% and 90% for high, intermediate and low risk, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Pelvic lymph node dissection cannot be excluded based on a negative preop PSMA PET/CT scan.

Identifying prognostic parameters related to surgical technique in patients treated by robotic radical prostatectomy

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE

The most frequently studied factors in patients treated by robotic radical prostatectomy are PSA and pathological features of the biopsy and prostatectomy specimen. Studies on the factors associated with the surgical technique are scarce and with controversial results. The objective is to identify all possible surgical factors and their relationship with disease-free and metastasis-free survival.

PATIENTS AND METHOD

Prospective study approved by the Ethics Committee, including patients who underwent robotic radical prostatectomy since January 2009 with a minimum follow-up of 5 years. Surgeon, surgical time, blood loss, fascial access, continence techniques, preservation of the fascia, neurovascular bundles, bladder neck, urethra, learning curve and surgical complications, were analyzed as possible prognostic factors. We performed univariate and matched comparisons of survival using Kaplan-Meier estimation and long-rank tests. The significance level for multiple comparisons was established with False Discovery Rate-adjustment (adjusted p).

RESULTS

Cohort of 667 patients with a median follow-up of 69 months. In univariate analysis, surgeon (adjp=0.018), preservation of puboprostatic ligaments (adjp=0.02), preservation of endopelvic fascia (adjp=0.001) and performing periurethral suspension (adjp<0.001) are poor prognostic factors for disease-free survival. Fascia preservation also negatively affects metastasis-free survival (adjp=0.04). Previous abdominal surgeries, prostate, surgical time, blood loss, type of residual urethra, middle lobe, fascial access, fascia or bladder neck preservation, have no statistical significance.

CONCLUSIONS

The surgeon and specific aspects of the surgical technique are determining factors in disease-free survival. Preservation of the fascia is the only factor that negatively affects metastasis-free survival.

Selecting lymph node-positive patients for adjuvant therapy after radical prostatectomy and extended pelvic lymphadenectomy: An outcome analysis of 100 node-positive patients managed without adjuvant therapy

Objective

The aim of the study is to evaluate the effect of deferred androgen deprivation therapy on biochemical recurrence (BCR) and other survival parameters in node-positive prostate cancer patients after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy with bilateral extended pelvic lymph node dissection (RARP + EPLND).

Materials and methods

Of the 453 consecutive RARP procedures performed from 2011 to 2018, 100 patients with no prior use of androgen deprivation therapy were found to be lymph node (LN) positive and were observed, with initiation of salvage treatment at the time of BCR only. Patients were divided into 1 or 2 LNs (67)-and more than 2 LNs (33)-positive groups to assess survival outcomes.

Results

At a median follow-up of 21 months (1-70 months), the LN group (p < 0.000), preoperative prostate-specific antigen (PSA, p = 0.013), tumor volume (TV, p = 0.031), and LND (p = 0.004) were significantly associated with BCR. In multivariate analysis, only the LN group (p = 0.035) and PSA level (p = 0.026) were statistically significant. The estimated BCR-free survival rates in the 1/2 LN group were 37.6% (27%-52.2%), 26.5% (16.8%-41.7%), and 19.9% (9.6%-41.0%) at 1, 3, and 5 years, respectively, with a hazard of developing BCR of 0.462 (0.225-0.948) compared with the more than 2 LN-positive group. Estimated 5-year overall survival, cancer-specific, metastasis-free, and local recurrence-free survival rates were 88.4% (73.1%-100%), 89.5% (74%-100%), 65.1% (46.0%-92.1%), and 94.8% (87.2%-100.0%), respectively, for which none of the factors were significant. Based on cutoff values for PSA, TV, and LND of 30 ng/mL, 30%, and 10%, respectively, the 1/2 LN group was substratified, wherein the median BCR-free survival for the low- and intermediate-risk groups was 40 and 12 months, respectively.

Conclusions

Nearly one fourth and one fifth of 1/2 node-positive patients were BCR-free at 3 and 5 years after RARP + EPLND. Further substratification using PSA, TV, and LN density may help in providing individualized care regarding the initiation of adjuvant therapy.

A Novel Expert Coaching Model in Urology, Aimed at Accelerating the Learning Curve in Robotic Prostatectomy

INTRODUCTION/BACKGROUND

The surgical residency model assumes that upon completion, a surgeon is ready to practice and grow independently. However, many surgeons fail to improve after reaching proficiency, which in certain instances has correlated with worse clinical outcomes. Coaching addresses this problem and furthers surgeons' education post-residency. Currently, surgical coaching programs focus on medical students and residents, and have been shown to improve residents' and medical students' technical and non-technical abilities. Coaching programs also increase the accuracy of residents, fellows, and attendings in self-assessing their surgical ability. Despite the potential benefits, coaching remains underutilized and poorly studied. We developed an expert-led, face-to-face, video-based surgical coaching program at a tertiary medical center among specialized attending surgeons. Our goal was to evaluate the feasibility of such a program, measure surgeons' attitudes towards internal peer coaching, determine whether surgeons found the sessions valuable and educational, and to subjectively self-assess changes in operative technique.

METHODS/MATERIALS

Surgeons who perform robot-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomies were chosen and grouped by number of cases completed: junior (<100 cases), intermediate (100-500 cases), and senior (>500 cases). Surgeons were scheduled for 3 1-hour coaching sessions 1-2 months apart (February-October 2019), meeting individually with the coach (PS), an expert Urologic Oncologist with thousands of cases of experience performing radical prostatectomy. He received training on coaching methodology prior to beginning the coaching program. Before each session, surgeons selected 1 of their recent intraoperative videos to review. During sessions, the coach led discussion on topics chosen by the surgeon (i.e. neurovascular bundle dissection, apical dissection, bladder neck); together, they developed goals to achieve before the next session. Subsequent sessions included presentation and discussion of a case occurring subsequent to the prior session. Sessions were coded by discussion topics and analyzed based on level of experience. Surgeons completed a survey evaluating the experience.

RESULTS

All 6 surgeons completed 3 sessions. Five surgeons completed the survey; most respondents evaluated themselves as having improved in desired areas and feeling more confident performing the discussed steps of the operation. Discussed surgical principles varied by experience group; when subjectively quantifying the difficulty of surgical steps, the more difficult steps were discussed by the higher experience groups compared to the junior surgeons. The senior surgeons also focused more on oncologic potency, continence outcomes, and more theory-driven questions while the junior surgeons tended to focus more on anatomic and technique-based questions such as tissue handling and the use of cautery and clips. Overall, the surgeons thought this program provoked critical discussion and subsequently modified their technique, and "agreed" or "strongly agreed" that they would seek further sessions.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical coaching at a large medical center is not only feasible but was rated positively by surgeons across all levels of experience. Coaching led to subjective self-improvement and increased self-confidence among most surgeons. Surgeons also felt that this program offered a safe space to acquire new skills and think critically after finishing residency/fellowship. Themes discussed and takeaways from the sessions varied based on surgeon experience level. While further research is needed to more objectively quantify the impact coaching has on surgeon metrics and patient outcomes, the results of this study supports the initial "proof-of-concept" of peer-based surgical coaching and its potential benefits in accelerating the learning curve for surgeons' post-residency.

Robotic Radical Prostatectomy for Prostate Cancer in Renal Transplant Recipients: Results from a Multicenter Series

BACKGROUND

Despite an expected increase in prostate cancer (PCa) incidence in the renal transplant recipient (RTR) population in the near future, robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) in these patients has been poorly detailed. It is not well understood whether results are comparable to RARP in the non-RTR setting.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the surgical technique for RARP in RTR and report results from our multi-institutional experience.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This was a retrospective review of the experience of four referral centers.

SURGICAL PROCEDURE

Transperitoneal RARP with pelvic lymph node dissection in selected patients.

MEASUREMENTS

We measured patient, PCa, and graft baseline features; intraoperative and postoperative parameters; complications, (Clavien classification); and oncological and functional outcomes.

RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS

We included 41 men. The median age, American Society of Anesthesiologists score, preoperative renal function, and prostate-specific antigen were 60 yr (interquartile range [IQR] 57-64), 2 points (IQR 2-3), 45 ml/min (IQR 30-62), and 6.5 ng/ml (IQR 5.2-10.2), respectively. Four men (9.8%) had a biopsy Gleason score >7. The majority of the patients (70.7%) did not undergo lymphadenectomy. The median operating time, hospital stay, and catheterization time were 201 min (IQR 170-250), 4 d (IQR 2-6), and 10 d (IQR 7-13), respectively. At final pathology, 11 men had extraprostatic extension and seven had positive surgical margins. At median follow-up of 42 mo (IQR 24-65), four men had biochemical recurrence, including one case of local PCa persistence and one local recurrence. No metastases were recorded while two patients died from non-PCa-related causes. Continence was preserved in 86.1% (p not applicable) and erections in 64.7% (p = 0.0633) of those who were continent/potent before the procedure. Renal function remained unchanged (p = 0.08). No intraoperative complications and one major (Clavien 3a) complication were recorded.

CONCLUSIONS

RARP in RTR is safe and feasible. Overall, operative, oncological, and functional outcomes are comparable to those described for the non-RTR setting, with graft injury remaining undescribed. Further research is needed to confirm our findings.

PATIENT SUMMARY

Robot-assisted removal of the prostate is safe and feasible in patients who have a kidney transplant. Cancer control, urinary and sexual function results, and surgical complications seem to be similar to those for patients without a transplant, but further research is needed.

Robot-assisted radical prostatectomy versus standard laparoscopic radical prostatectomy: an evidence-based analysis of comparative outcomes

PURPOSE

To provide a systematic analysis of the comparative outcomes of robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) versus laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP) in the treatment of prostate cancer based on the best currently available evidence.

METHODS

An independent systematic review of the literature was performed up to February 2021, using MEDLINE^®, EMBASE^®, and Web of Science^® databases. Preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analysis (PRISMA) recommendations were followed to design search strategies, selection criteria, and evidence reports. The quality of the included studies was determined using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale for non-randomized controlled trials. Demographics and clinical characteristics, surgical, pathological, and functional outcomes were collected.

RESULTS

Twenty-six studies were identified. Only 16 "high-quality" (RCTs and Newcastle-Ottawa scale 8-9) studies were included in the meta-analysis. Among the 13,752 patients included, 6135 (44.6%) and 7617 (55.4%) were RARP and LRP, respectively. There was no difference between groups in terms of demographics and clinical characteristics. Overall and major complication (Clavien-Dindo ≥ III) rates were similar in LRP than RARP group. The biochemical recurrence (BCR) rate at 12months was significantly lower for RARP (OR: 0.52; 95% CI 0.43-0.63; p < 0.00001). RARP reported lower urinary incontinence rate at 12months (OR: 0.38; 95% CI 0.18-0.8; p = 0.01). The erectile function recovery rate at 12months was higher for RARP (OR: 2.16; 95% CI 1.23-3.78; p = 0.007).

CONCLUSION

Current evidence shows that RARP offers favorable outcomes compared with LRP, including higher potency and continence rates, and less likelihood of BCR. An assessment of longer-term outcomes is lacking, and higher cost remains a concern of robotic versus laparoscopic prostate cancer surgery.

Association Between Oncotype DX Genomic Prostate Score and Adverse Tumor Pathology After Radical Prostatectomy

BACKGROUND

The Oncotype DX assay is a clinically validated 17-gene genomic assay that provides a genomic prostate score (GPS; scale 0-100) measuring the heterogeneous nature of prostate tumors. The test is performed on prostate tissue collected during biopsy. There is a lack of data on the association between the GPS and tumor pathology after radical prostatectomy (RP).

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association between GPS and final pathology, including extraprostatic extension (EPE), positive surgical margin (PSM), and seminal vesicle invasion (SVI).

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

Data for the 749 patients who underwent Oncotype DX assay and RP at a referral prostate cancer center between 2015 and 2019 were retrospectively assessed to evaluate the association between GPS and unfavorable pathology parameters.

INTERVENTION

After a GPS genetic test, patients underwent robotic RP performed by the same surgeon.

OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the association between GPS and EPE, PSM, and SVI. The models were adjusted for age, clinical stage, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level, Gleason score, and time between the genomic assay and surgery. The median time between Oncotype DX assay and surgery was 176 d (interquartile range [IQR] 141-226). The median age was 63 yr (IQR 58-68), median GPS was 29 (IQR 21-39), and median PSA was 5.7 ng/ml (IQR 4.6-7.7). In multivariable analyses assessing the odds ratio (OR) per 20-point change in GPS, GPS was an independent predictor of EPE (OR 1.8, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.4-2.3) and SVI (OR 2.1, 95% CI 1.3-3.4). In addition, when patients were grouped by GPS quartile, the percentage of cases with EPE and SVI increased with the GPS quartile.

CONCLUSIONS

We provide evidence that the Oncotype DX GPS is significantly associated with adverse pathology after RP. Specifically, the risk of EPE and SVI increases with the GPS. Therefore, use of the Oncotype DX GPS may help clinicians to improve preoperative patient counseling and develop surgical strategies for patients with a higher chance of EPE or unfavorable pathological features.

PATIENT SUMMARY

We studied whether the score for a prostate genetic test was associated with prostate cancer pathology findings for patients who had their prostate removed. We found that the risk of prostate cancer spread outside the gland and to the seminal vesicle increases with higher test scores. These findings may help surgeons in counseling patients on surgical options for prostate cancer.

Retzius-sparing robot-assisted radical prostatectomy: Perioperative and immediate continence outcomes of an initial series

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this work is to present initial perioperative, immediate continence and oncological results in a series of 25 prostate cancer patients treated with Retzius-sparing robot-assisted radical prostatectomy.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed a series of 25 patients treated with Retzius-sparing robot-assisted radical prostatectomy for cT1-T2b prostate cancer between 2018-2019. The 5 stages of surgery are described. We make a descriptive statistic of our initial series and its outcomes in terms of immediate continence, defined as the use of 0 pad/diapers or 1 safety pad/diaper every 24 hours, one week after catheter removal.

RESULTS

Median follow-up, 6 months (3-18). Median PSA, 6.1 ng/ml (4-14.3). All surgeries were performed through a posterior intrafascial approach, and bilateral nerve-sparing was carried out in 84% of the cases. Affected surgical margins were present in 28%, being the apex the most frequent site of affectation. Surgical complications: 1 (4%) patient required transfusion of blood products in the immediate postoperative period. Mean hospital stay was 48 hours. Functional outcomes: 80% of the patients present immediate continence. 80% of continent patients do not require the use of any safety pads/diapers. Oncological outcomes: 84% are free of biochemical-progression in a median follow-up of 6 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Initial functional results in terms of immediate continence are very satisfactory in patients who have undergone Retzius-sparing robot-assisted radical prostatectomy without negative impact on prognosis.

Is "extreme" bladder neck preservation in robot-assisted radical prostatectomy a safe procedure?

INTRODUCTION

The aim was to investigate the surgical and pathological outcomes of an "extreme" bladder neck preservation in prostate cancer patients treated with robotic radical prostatectomy. The greatest concern about the "extreme" bladder neck preservation is the potential risk of creating a positive surgical margin at the level of bladder neck.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We prospectively collected data from 88 patients with diagnosed prostate cancer who underwent robotic radical prostatectomy with "'extreme' bladder neck preservation." All surgical procedures were performed by the same expert surgeon (F.D.M.). In this study, "'extreme' bladder neck preservation" was considered when the length of the spared intraprostatic segment of bladder neck was ⩾1 cm. We compared the histopathologic data with those of a homogeneous similar cohort of 88 consecutive patients who underwent robotic radical prostatectomy without bladder neck preservation.

RESULTS

The two groups analyzed were comparable according to clinical and pathological characteristics. A positive surgical margin at the level of bladder neck was found in five (5.7%) cases in the "extreme" bladder neck preservation group and in six cases (6.8%) in the no-bladder neck preservation group. The prostatic base was involved by neoplasia in 14 and 19 patients (15.9% and 21.6%, respectively); of these, five (35.7%) and six (31.6%) had positive surgical margin at the level of bladder neck, respectively. The pathological staging in positive surgical margin at the level of bladder neck patients was pT3 in five (100%) cases in the "extreme" bladder neck preservation group and in four (66.7%) cases when we decided not to preserve the bladder neck.

CONCLUSION

We demonstrated that "extreme" bladder neck preservation is a safe oncological procedure with similar pathologic findings of a comparable no-bladder neck preservation series. Positive surgical margins at the level of bladder neck are linked to neoplasia with adverse pathological features, rather than the "extreme" bladder neck preservation procedure.

The EORTC quality of life questionnaire predicts early and long-term incontinence in patients treated with robotic assisted radical prostatectomy: Analysis of a large single center cohort

OBJECTIVES

The aim of our study is to evaluate the role of preoperative quality of life (QL) as a possible risk factor for post robotic assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) urinary incontinence. The secondary aim is to evaluate the possible effect of preoperative QL on post RARP lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and erectile dysfunction (ED).

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Between 2012 and 2017, all patients undergoing RARP for prostate cancer were enrolled. Patient's demographic, clinical, and histological characteristics were recorded. ED, LUTS, urinary incontinence, and QL were evaluated at baseline and postoperatively at 3, 6, and 12 months. Incontinence was evaluated with the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire - Urinary Incontinence Short Form questionnaire and QL with the EORTC QLQ-C30 global health score (QLQ-GHS). Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the risk of postoperative incontinence, moderate/severe incontinence, LUTS, and moderate/severe ED.

RESULTS

Overall 4,603 patients were enrolled. Incontinence rates at 3, 6, and 12 months were respectively 17%, 10%, and 8%. On multivariate analysis, QL was an independent predictor of early incontinence (QLQ-GHS:0.71, CI:0.59-0.86; P= 0.001), severe incontinence (QLQ-GHS:0.65, CI:0.49-0.97; P= 0.006), and LUTS (QLQ-GHS:0.48, CI:0.41-0.57; P= 0.001). Single center design may be considered a limitation.

CONCLUSIONS

In our study a comprehensive evaluation of preoperative patient's QL, assessed by the EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaire, can predict the early and long-term moderate/severe incontinence risk in RARP treated patients. Further studies should confirm our results.

Best practices in near-infrared fluorescence imaging with indocyanine green (NIRF/ICG)-guided robotic urologic surgery: a systematic review-based expert consensus

PURPOSE

The aim of the present study is to investigate the impact of the near-infrared (NIRF) technology with indocyanine green (ICG) in robotic urologic surgery by performing a systematic literature review and to provide evidence-based expert recommendations on best practices in this field.

METHODS

All English language publications on NIRF/ICG-guided robotic urologic procedures were evaluated. We followed the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses) statement to evaluate PubMed^®, Scopus^® and Web of Science™ databases (up to April 2019). Experts in the field provided detailed pictures and intraoperative video-clips of different NIRF/ICG-guided robotic surgeries with recommendations for each procedure. A unique QRcode was generated and linked to each underlying video-clip. This new exclusive feature makes the present the first "dynamic paper" that merges text and figure description with their own video providing readers an innovative, immersive, high-quality and user-friendly experience.

RESULTS

Our electronic search identified a total of 576 papers. Of these, 36 studies included in the present systematic review reporting the use of NIRF/ICG in robotic partial nephrectomy (n = 13), robotic radical prostatectomy and lymphadenectomy (n = 7), robotic ureteral re-implantation and reconstruction (n = 5), robotic adrenalectomy (n = 4), robotic radical cystectomy (n = 3), penectomy and robotic inguinal lymphadenectomy (n = 2), robotic simple prostatectomy (n = 1), robotic kidney transplantation (n = 1) and robotic sacrocolpopexy (n = 1).

CONCLUSION

NIRF/ICG technology has now emerged as a safe, feasible and useful tool that may facilitate urologic robotic surgery. It has been shown to improve the identification of key anatomical landmarks and pathological structures for oncological and non-oncological procedures. Level of evidence is predominantly low. Larger series with longer follow-up are needed, especially in assessing the quality of the nodal dissection and the feasibility of the identification of sentinel nodes and the impact of these novel technologies on long-term oncological and functional outcomes.

Detailed analysis of patient-reported lower urinary tract symptoms and effect on quality of life after robotic radical prostatectomy

OBJECTIVE

To prospectively evaluate short- to medium-term patient-reported lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and their effect on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) using validated questionnaires in a large cohort of patients following robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) for prostate cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

HRQoL and LUTS outcomes were prospectively assessed in 357 consecutive men undergoing RARP at a single center from 2012 to 2015 using the functional assessment of cancer therapy-prostate (FACT-P) and the international consultation on incontinence modular questionnaire-male LUTS (ICIQ-MLUTS). Questionnaires were administered at baseline, 6, 12, and 18 months. Data were analyzed using paired t-tests and ANOVA.

RESULTS

Questionnaire completion rates were high (over 60% of eligible men completed 18-month follow-up). Mean Total FACT-P did not significantly change after RARP: 125.95 (standard deviation [SD] = 19.82) at baseline and 125.86 (SD = 21.14) at 18-months (P = 0.55). Mean total ICIQ-MLUTS also remained unchanged: 18.69 (SD = 10.70) at baseline and 18.76 (SD = 11.33) at 18-months (P = 0.11). Mean voiding score significantly reduced from 10.34 (SD = 5.78) at baseline to 6.33 (SD = 3.99) at 6 months after RARP (P<0.001). A reciprocal significant increase in storage score was observed: 5.34 (SD = 4.26) at baseline, 9.65 (SD = 5.71) at 6 months (P<0.001). Subanalyses of ICIQ-MLUTS scores revealed increases in storage symptoms were exclusively within urinary incontinence domains and included significant increases in both urge and stress urinary incontinence scores.

CONCLUSION

Overall, patient-reported outcome measures evaluating HRQoL and LUTS do not significantly change after RARP. Detailed analysis reveals significant changes within LUTS domains do occur after surgery which could be overlooked if only total LUTS scores are reported.

Robot-assisted nerve-sparing radical prostatectomy using near-infrared fluorescence technology and indocyanine green: initial experience

INTRODUCTION

Indocyanine green (ICG) is a fluorescent molecule that provokes detectable photon emission. The use of ICG with near-infrared (NIR) imaging system (Akorn, Lake Forest, IL) has been described during robotic partial nephrectomy (RAPN) as an adjunctive means of identifying renal artery and parenchymal perfusion. We propose the use of the ICG with NIR fluorescence during laparoscopic robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP), to identify the benchmark artery improving the preservation of neurovascular bundle and to improve the visualization of the vascularization and then the hemostasis.

METHODS

From April 2015 to February 2016, 62 patients underwent to RARP in our Urology Unit. In 26 consecutive patients, in the attempt to have a better visualization of neurovascular bundles, we used to inject ICG during the procedure. We evaluated the percentage of identification of neurovascular bundles using NIR fluorescence. Then, we evaluated complications related to injection of ICG and operative time differences between RARP with and without ICG injection performed by the same surgeons.

RESULTS

We identified prostatic arteries and neurovascular bundles using NIR fluorescence technology in all patients (100%). There was not any increase in the operative time compared with RARP without ICG injection performed by the same surgeons. Complications related to injection of ICG did not occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

In our experience, even if on a limited number of patients, the application of ICG with NIR fluorescence during RARP is helpful to identify the benchmark artery of neurovascular bundle.

The effect of adjunct caudal block on postoperative analgesia in robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy: A prospective randomized controlled, single blinded pilot study in a tertiary centre

Objective

Caudal block provides satisfactory postoperative pain relief in lower abdominal operations. This pilot study explores its safety and effect on postoperative pain control in patients who underwent robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RARP).

Methods

From 2013 to 2014, 40 consecutive patients were randomized into two groups - one received caudal block using ropivacaine immediately after operation, the other received standard analgesia. Primary outcome measure was pain score based on 11-point Likert scale (0-10) recorded at recovery room, and at 6, 12, 24, 48, and 72 h after operation. All analgesic requirements, opioid-related adverse events and time to passage of flatus were examined.

Results

Mean age of the two groups was similar (60.4 vs. 62.3 years, p = 0.33), as was American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) class, body mass index (BMI) and operation times. No significant difference in median pain scores was reported in recovery room (2 vs. 3, p = 0.34), and at 6 h (2 vs. 2, p = 0.94), 12 h (0 vs. 0, p = 0.62), 24 h (1 vs. 0, p = 0.58), 48 h (1 vs. 0, p = 0.36) and 72 h (0 vs. 0, p = 0.78) postoperatively between control and caudal block groups, respectively. There was a higher mean opioid usage in the caudal block group which was not statistically significant. Although this was statistically insignificant while no significant difference in mean paracetamol usage was observed postoperatively. Median time to passage of flatus was similar (2.0 vs. 2.0 days, p = 0.97). There was one case of superficial wound infection and no opioid-related adverse events observed. Hospital stay was similar in both groups (2.5 vs. 2.5 days, p = 0.96).

Conclusion

Although a safe modality, caudal block in post RARP patients does not seem to improve pain control nor reduce analgesia requirements.

Simple vs six-branches autologous suburethral sling during robot-assisted radical prostatectomy to improve early urinary continence recovery: prospective randomized study

We have recently described the use of a retropubic suburethral autologous sling created and placed during robotic radical prostatectomy (RARP). In this study, we assess the effectiveness of newly designed six-branches compared to two-branches suburethral autologous sling in improving early urinary continence (UC) recovery. 120 patients submitted to RARP were prospectively randomized according to the intraoperative positioning of six-branches (group 1, n = 60) or two-branches autologous sling (group 2, n = 60) obtained by different configuration of a same tract of vas deferens removed. Early UC recovery was assessed at 5 (catheter removal), 10 and 30 days postoperatively through the daily number of pads used and the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Urinary Incontinence-Short Form (ICIQ-UI-SF) score. UC was defined as the non-use of pad. Chi square test and Wilcoxon test were used to investigate UC recovery between the two groups. Moreover, post-voiding residual was evaluated in each patient at the same time. At catheter removal, UC rate was in groups 1 and 2, 60 and 35% (p = 0.02); at 10 days 70 and 46% (p = 0.03); at 30 days 87 and 70% (p = 0.04), respectively. One patient in group 1 experienced acute urinary retention at the time of catheter removal and was treated uneventfully with a further 7-day catheterization. These preliminary data indicate that newly designed six-branches suburethral autologous sling is able to increase the rate of early UC recovery compared to the two-arms sling previously described by us.

Erectile function post robotic radical prostatectomy: technical tips to improve outcomes?

Robotic surgery is becoming more and more commonplace. At the same time, so are complications, especially related to erectile function. The population being diagnosed with cancer is younger, with more aggressive cancers and higher expectations for good erectile function postoperatively. We conduct a retrospective analysis of literature over 20 years for Embase and Medline. Search terms used include (Robotic) AND (prostatectomy) AND (erectile function). There are a variety of multifactorial causes, resulting in worsening ED post-robotic radical prostatectomy; however, there are a number of treatments that can support this. There is much we can do to help prevent patients getting postoperative erectile dysfunction post-radical surgery. However, part of this is management of realistic patient expectations.

Regional Cost Variations of Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy Compared With Open Radical Prostatectomy

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the cost differences between robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) and open radical prostatectomy (ORP) in various census regions of the United States because RARP has been reported to be more expensive than ORP with significant regional cost variations in radical prostatectomy (RP) cost across the United States.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification codes were used to identify patients with prostate cancer who underwent RARP or ORP from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) database from 2009 to 2011. Hospital costs were compared using the Wilcoxon rank sum test and multivariable linear regression analysis adjusting for age, sex, race, comorbidities, and hospital characteristics.

RESULTS

From the NIS database, 24,636 RARP and 13,590 ORP procedures were identified and evaluated. The lowest cost overall was in the South; the highest cost RARP was in the West and for ORP in the Northeast. In multivariable analysis, adjusted according to patient and hospital characteristics, RARP was 43.3% more costly in the Midwest, 37.2% more costly in the South, and 39.1% more costly in the West (P < .0001 for all). In contrast, the cost for RARP in the Northeast was 12.8% less than for ORP (P < .0001).

CONCLUSION

Cost for RP significantly varies within the nation and in most regions it is significantly greater for RARP than for ORP. ORP in the Northeast is more costly than RARP. Further research is needed to delineate the reason for these differences and to optimize the cost of RP.

Developing a robotic prostatectomy service and a robotic fellowship programme - defining the learning curve

INTRODUCTION

Robotic radical prostatectomy (RRP) is an established treatment for prostate cancer in selected centres with appropriate expertise. We studied our single-centre experience of developing a RRP service and subsequent training of 2 additional surgeons by the initial surgeon and the introduction of United Kingdom's first nationally accredited robotic fellowship training programme. We assessed the learning curve of the 3 surgeons with regard to peri-operative outcomes and oncological results.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Three hundred consecutive patients underwent RRP between November 2008 and August 2012. Patients were divided into 3 equal groups (Group 1, case 1-100; Group 2, case 101-200; and Group 3, case 201-300). Age, ASA score, preoperative co-morbidities and indications for laparoscopic radical prostatectomy were comparable for all 3 patient groups. Peri-operative and oncological outcomes were compared across all 3 groups to assess the impact of the learning curve for laparoscopic radical prostatectomy. All surgical complications were classified using the Clavien-Dindo system.

RESULTS

The mean age was 60.7 years (range 41-74). There was a significant reduction in the mean console time (p < 0.001), operating time (p < 0.001), mean length of hospital stay (p < 0.001) and duration of catheter (p < 0.001) between the 3 groups as the series progressed. The two most important factors predictive of positive surgical margins (PSM) at RRP were the initial prostate specific antigen (PSA) and tumor stage at diagnosis. The overall PSM rate was 26.7%. For T2/T3 tumors the incidence of PSM reduced as the series progressed (Group 1-22%, Group 2-32% and Group 3-26%). The incidence of major complications i.e. grade Clavien-Dindo system score ≤ III was 2% (6/300).

CONCLUSION

RRP is a safe procedure with low morbidity. As surgeons progress through the learning curve peri-operative parameters and oncological outcomes improve. This learning curve is not affected by the introduction of a fellowship-training programme. Using a carefully structured mentored approach, RRP can be safely introduced as a new procedure without compromising patient outcomes.

Does hospital setting post robotic fellowship training affect outcomes? A multi-institutional comparison of initial outcomes between academic and community settings

The effect of practice setting on skill development post robotic fellowship training is currently unknown. We sought to compare learning curves between a high-volume academic center and a similar volume community hospital, in the setting of building a new robotic prostatectomy program. In addition, we sought to characterize benchmarks for learning curve development for post-fellowship training in robotic surgery. At two institutions, one academic (AC) and the other in the community (CO), the first 150 patients who underwent robotic laparoscopic prostatectomy over a period of 1 year were evaluated. We compared the following outcomes, operative time (OT), estimated blood loss (EBL), and positive surgical margin (PSM) rates, by two surgeons. Both surgeons completed the same surgical robotic fellowship in the same year. Cases were divided by tertile and primary outcomes measures were compared. Demographic data were similar between the two groups. Statistical differences were seen in age, preoperative Sexual Health Inventory for Men score, clinical and pathologic stage, and bladder neck reconstruction rate (p < 0.05). Overall, there was no significant difference in OT between AC (174 min) and CO (181 min) (p = 0.1099). Both EBL and PSM were lower in the AC (155 vs. 197 ml, p < 0.001 and 10 vs. 26 %, p < 0.05). The difference in OT was significant only in the first tertile of cases (AC 168 min vs. CO 193 min, p = 0.002). However, OT increased by 13 min in AC and decreased by 22 min in CO, when comparing the first and last tertile. EBL was different between AC (161ml) and CO (212 ml) only in the first tertile of cases (p = 0.002). Both AC and CO had increased EBL over the last tertile of cases (16.2 vs. 26.5 ml, respectively). These results demonstrate minor differences in outcomes between the two practice settings. Fellowship training in robotic surgery demonstrates a shorter learning curve towards achieving proficiency. Larger and longer term series will be required to assess functional outcomes and time to proficiency.