Evaluation of the learning curve for Thulium fiber laser enucleation of prostate (ThuFLEP): retrospective study of a single-surgeon experience in real-world settings.

PURPOSE: To assess the learning curve of Thulium Fiber Laser Enucleation of prostate (ThuFLEP) of a single surgeon inexperienced in laser endoscopic enucleation of prostate (EEP). METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed all patients with benign prostate hyperplasia undergoing ThuFLEP at our center between January 2022 and August 2023 by one surgeon. Inclusion criteria were International Prostate Symptom Score > 7, prostate volume < 200 g, and maximal urinary flow rate < 15 mL/s. The surgeon was inexperienced in laser EEP and trained by watching educational videos of ThuFLEP before starting to perform the procedure under mentoring during the first 4 cases. Procedural data (enucleation and morcellation efficiency, complications) and functional results up to 3 months were evaluated. Patients were divided into 4 cohorts of 20 consecutive cases to evaluate outcomes evolution throughout time. RESULTS: The mean age of the patients was 69.9 years (SD 7.8) and mean prostate volume was 89.9 g (SD 25.8). Preoperative functional parameters were comparable between the groups. Mean enucleation efficiency (EE) ratio and morcellation efficiency (ME) ratio reached respectively 0.78 g/min (SD 0.55) and 2.49 g/min (SD 1.03) and both variables significantly increased from group 1 to group 3 (p < 0,001). Perioperative complications remained low throughout the caseload with similar significant 3-month functional improvements between all groups. CONCLUSION: This is the first study to evaluate ThuFLEP learning curve for a single surgeon inexperienced in laser EEP with limited mentoring. Under these real-world conditions, nearly 60 cases were needed to complete the learning curve with a complications rate remaining low throughout the training process.

The long-term learning curve of holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) in the en-bloc technique: a single surgeon series of 500 consecutive cases.

PURPOSE: To evaluate perioperative parameters, clinical outcomes, and the learning curve of holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) of a single surgeon in 500 consecutive cases. METHODS: Demographic parameters, outcomes, and adverse events were evaluated. The learning curve for HoLEP in en-bloc technique of the first 500 consecutive patients was analyzed in clusters of 100 (clusters 1-5) using the Wilcoxen rank test, Chi² test and Kruskal Wallis test. RESULTS: Enucleation weight was similar in the clusters 1,2,3, and 5 (62 g, 63 g, 61 g, 61 g), in cluster 4 it was slightly higher at 73 g. There was a significant reduction in operating time from 67 min (cluster 1) to 57 min (cluster 2), 46 min (cluster 3), 53 min (cluster 4), and 43 min (cluster 5), p < 0.001. Enucleation efficiency (g/min) showed a steady increase (1.72, 2.24, 2.79, 2.92 vs. 2.99, p < 0.001). Laser energy efficiency also improved (2.17 vs. 2.12 vs. 1.71 vs. 1.65 vs. 1.55; p < 0.001). There was no measurable learning curve regarding the length of hospital stay (mean 2.5 days), catheterization time (1.9 days), hemoglobin drop (approx. 1 g/dl) or complications (p > 0.1). CONCLUSIONS: HoLEP using the en-bloc technique is a safe and highly effective method. Over time, a slight but steady learning curve and improvement in operation time, enucleation efficiency and laser energy efficiency were shown even for an experienced surgeon - after 500 cases, still no plateau was reached. There was no measurable learning curve regarding blood loss, complications, length of hospital stay, and catheterization time.

How Surgeons Think to Avoid Error: A Case Study of the Neurovascular Bundle Sparing During a Robotic Prostatectomy.

OBJECTIVE: To illustrate how experts efficiently navigate a "slowing down moment" to obtain optimal surgical outcomes using the neurovascular bundle sparing during a robotic prostatectomy as a case study. DESIGN: A series of semistructured interviews with four expert uro-oncologists were completed using a cognitive task analysis methodology. Cognitive task analysis, CTA, refers to the interview and extraction of a general body of knowledge. Each interview participant completed four 1 to 2-hour semistructured CTA interviews. The interview data were then deconstructed, coded, and analyzed using a grounded theory analysis to produce a CTA-grid for a robotic prostatectomy for each surgeon, with headings of: surgical steps, simplification maneuvers, visual cues, error/complication recognition, and error/complication management and avoidance. SETTING: The study took place at an academic teaching hospital located in an urban center in Canada. PARTICIPANTS: Four expert uro-oncologists participated in the study. RESULTS: Visual cues, landmarks, common pitfalls, and technique were identified as the 4 key components of the decision-making happening during a slowing down moment in the neurovascular bundle sparing during a robotic prostatectomy. CONCLUSION: The data obtained from the CTA is novel information identifying patterns and cues that expert surgeons use to inform their surgical decision-making and avoid errors. This decision-making knowledge of visual cues, landmarks, common pitfalls and techniques is also generalizable for other surgical subspecialties. Surgeon educators, surgical teaching programs and trainees looking to improve their decision-making skills could use these components to guide their educational strategies.

Efficacy of educational stepwise robot-assisted radical prostatectomy procedure for urology residents.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of an educational stepwise robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) procedure for urology residents. METHODS: We performed a detailed evaluation of 42 RARP procedures performed by a single urology resident from July 2019 to February 2022. The RARP procedures were divided into the following nine steps: (1) bladder dissection, (2) endopelvic fascia dissection, (3) bladder neck dissection, (4) seminal vesicle dissection, (5) Denonvilliers' fascia dissection, (6) dorsal vascular complex ligation, (7) dissection of the prostatic apex, (8) posterior anastomosis, and (9) urethro-vesical anastomosis. The procedures were further subcategorized as anatomical understanding, spatial recognition, and technical skills for evaluation of resident training. The surgeries were divided into first and second halves, and patient characteristics and operative outcomes were statistically analyzed. The operative time of each of the nine steps and the reasons for proctor intervention were compared. RESULTS: Among 42 patients, there were no significant differences in operative outcomes between the two groups. The median operative time was 169 min (164 vs. 179 min, p = .12), and the median console time was 128 min (127 vs. 130 min, p = .74). Although there were no significant differences in the time of the nine steps, the resident significantly overcame (7) dissection of the prostatic apex and (8) posterior anastomosis based on the evaluation of the proctored reasons for intervention. CONCLUSIONS: Urology residents can safely perform and efficiently learn RARP with this stepwise educational system. This educational stepwise RARP procedure can effectively help residents to develop their skills.

Automated performance metrics and surgical gestures: two methods for assessment of technical skills in robotic surgery.

The objective of this study is to compare automated performance metrics (APM) and surgical gestures for technical skills assessment during simulated robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP). Ten novices and six experienced RARP surgeons performed simulated RARPs on the RobotiX Mentor (Surgical Science, Sweden). Simulator APM were automatically recorded, and surgical videos were manually annotated with five types of surgical gestures. The consequences of the pass/fail levels, which were based on contrasting groups' methods, were compared for APM and surgical gestures. Intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) analysis and a Bland-Altman plot were used to explore the correlation between APM and surgical gestures. Pass/fail levels for both APM and surgical gesture could fully distinguish between the skill levels of the surgeons with a specificity and sensitivity of 100%. The overall ICC (one-way, random) was 0.70 (95% CI: 0.34-0.88), showing moderate agreement between the methods. The Bland-Altman plot showed a high agreement between the two methods for assessing experienced surgeons but disagreed on the novice surgeons' skill level. APM and surgical gestures could both fully distinguish between novices and experienced surgeons in a simulated setting. Both methods of analyzing technical skills have their advantages and disadvantages and, as of now, those are only to a limited extent available in the clinical setting. The development of assessment methods in a simulated setting enables testing before implementing it in a clinical setting.

Does the experience of the bedside assistant effect the results of robotic surgeons in the learning curve of robot assisted radical prostatectomy?

ABSTRACT Introduction: The success of the robot assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) procedures depend on a successful team, however the literature focuses on the performance of a console surgeon. The aim of this study was to evaluate surgical outcomes of the surgeons during the learning curve in relation to the bedside assistant's experience level during RARP. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed two non - laparoscopic, beginner robotic surgeon's cases, and we divided the patients into two groups. The first surgeon completed the operations on 20 patients with a beginner bedside assistant in February - May 2009 (Group-1). The second surgeon completed operations on 16 patients with an experienced (at least 150 cases) bedside assistant in February 2015 - December 2015 (Group-2). The collected data included age, prostate volume, prostate specific antigen (PSA), estimated blood loss, complications and percent of positive surgical margins. In addition, the elapsed time for trocar insertion, robot docking, console surgery, specimen extraction and total anesthesia time were measured separately. Results: There were no significant differences between the groups in terms of age, comorbidity, prostate volume, PSA value, preoperative Gleason score, number of positive cores, postoperative Gleason score, pathological grade, protection rate of neurovascular bundles, surgical margin positivity, postoperative complications, length of hospital stay, or estimated blood loss. The robot docking, trocar placement, console surgery, anesthesia and specimen extraction times were significantly shorter in group 2 than they were in group 1 (17.75 ± 3.53 min vs. 30.20 ± 7.54 min, p ≤ 0.001; 9.63 ± 2.71 min vs. 14.40 ± 4.52 min, p = 0.001; 189.06 ± 27.70 min vs. 244.95 ± 80.58 min, p = 0.01; 230.94 ± 30.83 min vs. 306.75 ± 87.96 min, p = 0.002; 10.19 ± 2.54 min vs. 17.55 ± 8.79 min, p = 0.002; respectively). Conclusion: Although the bedside assistant's experience in RARP does not appear to influence the robotic surgeon's oncological outcomes during the learning curve, it may reduce the potential complications by shortening the total operation time.

Serving as a bedside surgeon before performing robotic radical prostatectomy improves surgical outcomes

ABSTRACT Introduction: To evaluate the influence of previous experience as bedside assistants on patient selection, perioperative and pathological results in robot assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy. Materials and Methods: The first 50 cases of two robotic surgeons were reviewed retrospectively. Group 1 consisted of the first 50 cases of the surgeon with previous experience as a robotic bedside assistant between September 2016-July 2018, while Group 2 included the first 50 cases of the surgeon with no bedside assistant experience between February 2009-December 2009. Groups were examined in terms of demographics, prostate volume, presence of median lobe, prostate specific antigen (PSA), preoperative Gleason score, positive core number, clinical stage, console surgery time, estimated blood loss, postoperative Gleason score, pathological stage, positive surgical margin rate, postoperative complications, length of hospital stay and biochemical recurrence rate. Results: Previous abdominal surgery and the presence of median lobe hypertrophy rates were higher in Group 1 than in Group 2 (20% vs. 4%, p=0.014; 24% vs. 6%, p=0.012; respectively). In addition, patients in Group 1 were in a higher clinical stage than those in Group 2 (cT2: 70% vs. 28%, p=0.001). Median console surgery time and median length of hospital stay was significantly shorter in Group 1 than in Group 2 (170 min vs. 240 min, p=0.001; 3 vs. 4, p=0.022; respectively). Clavien grade 3 complication rate was higher in Group 2 but was statistically insignificant. Conclusion: Our findings might reflect that previous bedside assistant experience led to an increase in self-confidence and the ability to manage troubleshooting and made it more likely for surgeons to start with more difficult cases with more challenging patients. It is recommended that novice surgeons serve as bedside assistants before moving on to consoles.

A safe teaching protocol of LRP (Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy)

ABSTRACT Purpose The LRP has a steep learning curve to obtain proficiency during which patient safety may be compromised. We present an adapted modular training system which purpose to optimize the learning curve and perform a safe surgery. Materials and Methods A retrospective analysis of the LRP safe learning protocol applied during a fellowship program over eight years (2008-2015). The surgery was divided in 12 steps and 5 levels of difficulty. A maximum time interval was stipulated in 240 minutes. After an adaptation, the fellows had 120 minutes to perform all the corresponding modules to its accumulated skill. The participants gradually and safely pass through the steps and difficulty levels. Surgeries performed by fellows were analyzed as a single group and compared to a prior series performed by tutor. Results In eight years, 250 LRP were performed (25 per apprentice) during fellowship program and 150 procedures after completion. The baseline characteristics were comparable. Most cases operated were of intermediate risk. Mean operative time was longer in the fellow group when compared to the tutor (150 min). Mean estimated blood loss were similar among the groups. Functional and oncological outcomes were better in the Tutor's group. No conversion to open surgery was performed. Conclusions The LRP safe learning protocol proved to be an effective method to optimize the learning curve and perform safe surgery. However, the tutor's functional and oncological results were better, showing that this is a procedure with a steep learning curve and proficiency demands more than 25 cases.

Towards development and validation of an intraoperative assessment tool for robot-assisted radical prostatectomy training: results of a Delphi study

ABSTRACT Introduction As urology training shifts toward competency-based frameworks, the need for tools for high stakes assessment of trainees is crucial. Validated assessment metrics are lacking for many robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP). As it is quickly becoming the gold standard for treatment of localized prostate cancer, the development and validation of a RARP assessment tool for training is timely. Materials and methods We recruited 13 expert RARP surgeons from the United States and Canada to serve as our Delphi panel. Using an initial inventory developed via a modified Delphi process with urology residents, fellows, and staff at our institution, panelists iteratively rated each step and sub-step on a 5-point Likert scale of agreement for inclusion in the final assessment tool. Qualitative feedback was elicited for each item to determine proper step placement, wording, and suggestions. Results Panelist's responses were compiled and the inventory was edited through three iterations, after which 100% consensus was achieved. The initial inventory steps were decreased by 13% and a skip pattern was incorporated. The final RARP stepwise inventory was comprised of 13 critical steps with 52 sub-steps. There was no attrition throughout the Delphi process. Conclusions Our Delphi study resulted in a comprehensive inventory of intraoperative RARP steps with excellent consensus. This final inventory will be used to develop a valid and psychometrically sound intraoperative assessment tool for use during RARP training and evaluation, with the aim of increasing competency of all trainees.

Open suprapubic versus retropubic prostatectomy in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia during resident's learning curve: a randomized controlled trial

ABSTRACT Purpose: This study compared the suprapubic (SP) versus retropubic (RP) prostatectomy for the treatment of large prostates and evaluated perioperative surgical morbidity and improvement of urinary symptoms. Materials and Methods: In this single centre, prospective, randomised study, 65 consecutive patients with LUTS and surgical indication with prostate volume greater than 75g underwent open prostatectomy to compare the RP (32 patients) versus SP (33 patients) technique. Results: The SP group exhibited a higher incidence of complications (p=0.002). Regarding voiding pattern analysis (IPSS and flowmetry), both were significantly effective compared to pre-treatment baseline. The RP group parameters were significantly better, with higher peak urinary flow (SP: 16.77 versus RP: 23.03mL/s, p=0.008) and a trend of lower IPSS score (SP: 6.67 versus RP 4.14, p=0.06). In a subgroup evaluation of patients with prostate volumes larger than 100g, blood loss was lower in those undergoing SP prostatectomy (p=0.003). Patients with prostates smaller than 100g in the SP group exhibited a higher incidence of low grade late complications (p=0.004). Conclusions: The SP technique was related to a higher incidence of minor complications in the late postoperative period. High volume prostates were associated with increased bleeding when the RP technique was utilized. The RP prostatectomy was associated with higher peak urinary flow and a trend of a lower IPSS Score.

4-Ports endoscopic extraperitoneal radical prostatectomy: preliminary and learning curve results

ABSTRACT Introduction There is a lack of studies in our national scenario regarding the results obtained by laparoscopic radical prostatectomy technique (LRP). Except for a few series, there are no consistent data on oncological, functional, and perioperative results on LRP held in Brazil. As for the LRP technique performed by extraperitoneal access (ELRP), when performed by a single surgeon, the results are even scarcer. Objective To analyze the early perioperative and oncologic results obtained with the ELRP, throughout the technical evolution of a single surgeon. Patients and methods A non-randomized retrospective study was held in a Brazilian hospital of reference. In the 5-year period, 115 patients underwent the ELRP procedure. Patients were divided into two groups, the first 57 cases (Group 1) and the following 58 cases, (Group 2). A comparative analysis between the groups of efficacy results and ELRP safety was carried out. Results The average age of patients was 62.8 year-old and the PSA of 6.9ng/dl. The total surgery time was 135.8 minutes on average, and the urethral-bladder anastomosis was 21.9 min (23.3 min versus 20.7 min). The positive surgical margins (PSM) rate was 17.1%, showing no difference between groups (16.4% versus 17.9%; p=0.835). There was statistical difference between the groups in relation to the anastomosis time, estimated blood loss and the withdrawal time of the urinary catheter. Conclusion The ELRP technique proved to be a safe and effective procedure in the treatment of prostate cancer, with low morbidity.

Formación del personal en la prostatectomía radical laparoscópica asistida por robot / Staff training in robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy

Objetivo: La Prostatectomía Radical asistida por Robot (PRAR) ha generado una nueva tendencia en el binomio enseñanza/aprendizaje agrupando estas técnicas en módulos de entrenamiento como aprendizaje teórico, practico, asesoramiento personalizado y herramientas modernas como simulación y práctica en modelos virtuales. Esta revisión resume la tendencia actual en el proceso de enseñanza de la PRAR. Hallazgos recientes: La tendencia actual en la adquisición de la curva de la PRAR es proporcionar al urólogo un proceso de enseñanza bien estructurado, implementando módulos de entrenamiento graduales, que le permitan comprender en todos los aspectos el desenvolvimiento de la cirugía radical de próstata con un sistema robótico. Dicho proceso consiste en analizar las bases teóricas, realizar entrenamiento con simulado res de alta calidad, interactuar con él supervisor tanto en casos in vivo como en ayudantía de cirugías, hasta completar la fase avanzada en consola con entrenamiento háptico y asesoramiento directo del supervisor, mientras se adquiere la curva de aprendizaje. La evidencia demuestra que la retroalimentación del alumno y proctor supervisor con el uso de modelos virtuales, análisis de videos inmediatamente posterior al procedimiento y un centro de alto volumen logran acortar el proceso de enseñanza. La formación en cirugía robótica nunca culmina, por el contrario, la fase final del alumno, es cuando se encuentra preparado para realizar el efecto multiplicador de su curva de aprendizaje. Conclusión: La Cirugía Robótica ha cambiado la perspectiva de la enseñanza de la Medicina, mediante el uso de modelos virtuales. Conocimientos teóricos, entrenamiento virtual y el asesoramiento del supervisor son pasos necesarios en la curva de aprendizaje. Direcciones futuras esperadas son la evolución de los modelos virtuales similares al escenario real

Objective of the review: Robot assisted Radical prostatectomy (RARP) has generated a new trend in the binomial teaching/learning, grouping these techniques in training modules such as theoretical learning, practice, personalized counseling, and modern tools like simulation and practice in virtual models. This review summarizes the current trend in the teaching process of RARP. Recent findings: Current trends in the acquisition of the RARP learning curve is to provide the Urologist with a well-structured teaching process, implementing gradual training modules, which make possible to understand all aspects of the development of prostate surgery with a robotic system. This process consists in analyzing the theoretical aspects, perform training with high quality simulators and proctorization, in both cases in vivo and as assistant, until completion of the advanced phase in console with haptic training and proctor’s direct advice, while the learning curve is being completed. The evidence shows that student and proctor feedback with the use of virtual models, immediately post-procedure video analysis, and a high-volume center are able to shorten the teaching process. The learning process never culminates, in other words, the final phase of the student, is when he is prepared to teaching the multiplier effect of his learning curve. Conclusions: Virtual models in Robotic surgery has changed the perspective teaching process of medicine. Theoretical knowledge, virtual training and Proctor’s advice are essential steps in the learning curve. Future directions, evolution of virtual models in a similar fashion to the real scenario

Diagnósticos de enfermagem e modelo téorico de Roy em pacientes prostatectomizados / Nursing diagnosis and roy´s theoretical model in prostatectomized patients

Estudo descritivo, cujo objetivo foi identificar o perfil dos diagnósticos de enfermagem da NANDA Internacional nos pacientes em pós-operatório imediato de prostatectomia e relacioná-los com problemas adaptativos do Modelo de Adaptação de Roy. Realizado em um hospital universitário do Nordeste do Brasil, entre novembro/2010 e abril/2011, com amostra de 50 indivíduos. A coleta ocorreu por meio de entrevista e exame físico, com posterior análise por meio do raciocínio clínico. Foram encontradas as relações: risco de quedas e potencial para lesão; deambulação prejudicada e mobilidade andar e/ou coordenação restritos; déficits no autocuidado e perda de habilidade para o autocuidado; dor aguda e dor aguda; insônia/padrão do sono prejudicado e privação do sono; constipação e constipação. Portanto, a maioria dos diagnósticos de enfermagem identificados são similares aos problemas adaptativos segundo Roy.

Learning curve for radical retropubic prostatectomy

PURPOSE: The learning curve is a period in which the surgical procedure is performed with difficulty and slowness, leading to a higher risk of complications and reduced effectiveness due the surgeon's inexperience. We sought to analyze the residents' learning curve for open radical prostatectomy (RP) in a training program. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted a prospective study from June 2006 to January 2008 in the academic environment of the University of São Paulo. Five residents operated on 184 patients during a four-month rotation in the urologic oncology division, mentored by the same physician assistants. We performed sequential analyses according to the number of surgeries, as follows: = 10, 11 to 19, 20 to 28, and = 29. RESULTS: The residents performed an average of 37 RP each. The average psa was 9.3 ng/mL and clinical stage T1c in 71 percent of the patients. The pathological stage was pT2 (73 percent), pT3 (23 percent), pT4 (4 percent), and 46 percent of the patients had a Gleason score 7 or higher. In all surgeries, the average operative time and estimated blood loss was 140 minutes and 488 mL. Overall, 7.2 percent of patients required blood transfusion, and 23 percent had positive surgical margins. CONCLUSION: During the initial RP learning curve, we found a significant reduction in the operative time; blood transfusion during the procedures and positive surgical margin rate were stable in our series.

Transperitoneal versus extraperitoneal laparoscopic radical prostatectomy during the learning curve: does the surgical approach affect the complication rate?

Purpose: To compare the perioperative complication rate obtained with the transperitoneal laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (TLRP) and with the extraperitoneal LRP (ELRP) during the learning curve (LC). Materials and Methods: Data of the initial 40 TLRP (Group 1) were retrospectively compared with the initial 40 ELRP (Group 2). Each Group of patients was operated by two different surgeons. Results: The overall surgical time (175 min x 267.6 min; p < 0.001) and estimated blood loss (177.5 mL x 292.4 mL; p < 0.001) were statistically better in the Group 1. Two intraoperative complications were observed in Group 1 (5 percent) represented by one case of bleeding and one case of rectal injury, whereas four complications (10 percent) were observed in Group 2, represented by two cases of bleeding, one bladder and one rectal injuries (p = 0.675). Open conversion occurred once in each Group (2.5 percent). Overall postoperative complications were similar (52.5 percent x 35 percent; p = 0.365). Major early postoperative complications occurred in three and in one case in Group 1 and 2, respectively. Group 1 had two peritonitis (fecal and urinary), leading to one death in this group. Conclusions: No statistical differences in overall complication rates were observed. The transperitoneal approach presented more serious complications during the early postoperative time and this fact is attributed to the potential chance of intraperitoneal peritonitis not observed with the extraperitoneal route.

El aprendizaje de la Prostatectomía Radical Laparoscópica según el modelo de Leipzig. Análisis de un programa tutelado progresivo / Learning laparoscopic radical prostatectomy with the Leipzig program. Analysis of the training module program

Introducción y objetivo: En la mayoría de los casos el aprendizaje de la prostatectomía radical laparoscópica no se completa durante la residencia. Ante esta problemática internacional surgen las becas o “fellow ships” de los centros de excelencia europeos y norteamericanos. El objetivo del presente trabajo es evaluar la eficiencia de la beca de formación propuesta por el grupo alemán. Material y método: Describimos la evolución de un becario durante el entrenamiento progresivo, tutorizado por módulos descrito por el grupo de Leipzig, evaluamos la eficiencia del modelo describiendo los resultados de las primeras 30 prostatectomías radicales del becario como cirujano autónomo, comparamos los resultados con la serie histórica del centro, con la curva de aprendizaje de residentes del mismo centro y de otros centros. Resultados: El becario cumplimentó el entrenamiento por módulos en 7 meses posteriormente se le asignaron 30 prostatectomías radicales sin la obligatoriedad de ser ayudado por un cirujano experto. En el 46,67% de los pacientes se aplicó una técnica intrafascial. El tiempo quirúrgico medio fue de 2h y 27 minutos, incluida la linfadenectomía (realizada en 20/30 pacientes). Dos pacientes presentaron márgenes positivos, todas las anastomosis, menos un paciente, fueron estancas. La sonda se retiró al quinto día (mediana). No se detectaron complicaciones intraoperatorias ni en el posoperatorio tardío. Los resultados de éstas, se superponen a la de los residentes del mismo centro y a la de otros urólogos que siguen un entrenamiento tutelado de larga duración. Conclusiones: El aprendizaje de la prostatectomía radical laparoscópica debe seguir un modelo tutorizado progresivo de larga duración. Hasta la expansión definitiva de la técnica, el programa de formación tipo “fellow” que imparte el grupo de Leipzig es un modelo de formación completo y efectivo (AU)

Introduction and objective: In most cases the learning curve of laparoscopic radical prostatectomy is not completed during the residency. This is why International Fellowship programs are becoming more popular. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the efficiency of the fellowship program of the German group. Material and methods: We describe the evolution of our last fellow in the modular training program developed by the Leipzig group. We also evaluate the efficiency of this program by analyzing the results of 30 procedures performed by the fellow as first surgeon. In addition we have reviewed the literature and compared those outcomes with previous series of the clinic and other training programs. Results: The training programme was completed in four months. After this time, the fellow performed 30 procedures without any assistance from a tutor. 46,67% of these procedures were nerve sparing. The time average was 2 hours and 27minutes. The programme includes lymphadenectomy in 20 patients. Two patients had positive margins, all anastomosis were tight except for one. Urethral catheter was removed on the fifth day and there were no other intraoperative or early postoperative complications. Results may be compared to previous results of other residents of the department and also of other groups where a long term tutor program was performed. Conclusion: The learning process of laparoscopic radical prostatectomy should follow a long term tutorized model. Until the definitive expansion/development of this technique, the Leipzig Fellowship program is a complete and effective formation schedule (AU)

Prostatectomía radical laparoscópica: la curva de aprendizaje con tutor / Laparoscopic radical prostatectomy: learning curve with a mentor training program

Objetivos: Exponer con detalle el sistema de aprendizaje de la prostatectomía radical laparoscópica (PRL) con tutor llevado a cabo en nuestro centro así como los resultados. Material y métodos: Se realiza el análisis de variables intraquirúrgicas, postoperatorias y del control quirúrgico y oncológico de la pieza, de 105 PRL (marzo 2004-diciembre 2005) según los siguientes grupos: Grupo 1: tutor como primer cirujano y alumno como asistente. Grupo 2 alumno como primer cirujano y el tutor como ayudante. Grupo 3: alumno como primer cirujano y otro alumno/residente como ayudante. Resultados: No se han observado diferencias significativas en cuanto la media de tiempo quirúrgico (TQ) entre el grupo 2 y 3 (188’-170’, p=0,09). Ésta ha sido menor en el Grupo 1 (150’, p<0,05), disminuyendo con el tiempo. La pérdida sanguínea, el control quirúrgico-oncológico, el estadio patológico y el tiempo de estancia hospitalaria han sido similares en los tres grupos. Conclusiones: La presencia de un laparoscopista experto como tutor permite aprender la PRL de manera segura y efectiva. En espera de los resultados funcionales y oncológicos a largo plazo, este sistema de aprendizaje no se asocia ni con un mayor riesgo para el paciente ni con un peor control quirúrgico/oncológico. Consideramos que este método es fácilmente reproducible y permite un acortamiento de la curva de aprendizaje

Material and Methods: From March 2004 through December 2005, we have performed 105 (LRP). Three groups have been analysed: Group 1: The mentor as the first surgeon with the trainee acting as the assistant. Group 2: The trainee as the first surgeon with the mentor acting as the assistant. Group 3: The trainee as the first surgeon with another trainee/resident as the assistant. We have evaluated operative, postoperative data and surgical/oncological control. Results: There was no statistical difference in mean operative time in Groups 2 and 3 (200’-198’), but there was a difference from Group 1 (148,4’) (p<0,05) we have observed a progressive operative time decrease only in Group 1. Blood loss, surgical-oncological control, pathological stage and hospital stay have been similar in the three groups. Conclusions: Skills for LRP can be effectively and safely taught by the presence of an experienced mentor. Waiting for long term results according to potency and continence, it was not associated to higher patient risk, neither to a worse surgical/oncologic outcome. We consider that this program is reproducible and allows a shorter learning curve

Curva de aprendizado inicial da prostatectomia radical retropúbica / The initial learning curve for open radical prostatectomy

Introdução: A curva de aprendizado em cirurgia é um período de sedimentação de habilidades onde procedimentos são realizados com maior dificuldade e lentidão, maior risco de complicações intra-operatórias e menor eficácia clínico-funcional devido à inexperiência do cirurgião. Nós analisamos a curva de aprendizado inicial da prostatectomia radical retropúbica realizada por médicos residentes do Setor de Uro-Oncologia do Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo. Método: estudo prospectivo, envolvendo 184 prostatectomias radicais retropúbicas, realizadas por cinco residentes consecutivamente, entre 02/06/2006 e 31/01/2008. Foram considerados: o tempo operatório, sangramento transoperatório, necessidade de transfusão sanguínea, taxa de margens cirúrgicas comprometidas, complicações intra-operatórias e avaliação funcional precoce. Resultados: cada residente realizou em média 37 cirurgias. O PSA mediano foi de 9,3 ng/mL e o estágio clínico T1c em 71% dos pacientes. O estágio patológico foi pT2 (73%), pT3 (23%), pT4 (4%); o escore de Gleason na peça cirúrgica foi de 54% (Gleason <7), 33% (Gleason 7) e 13% (Gleason >7). O tempo cirúrgico mediano foi de 140 minutos, o sangramento mediano de 488 mL e a necessidade de transfusão sanguínea de 7,2%. A taxa de margens cirúrgicas positivas de 23% foi constante nos 30 primeiros casos. A avaliação funcional precoce (até 6 meses de pós-operatório) mostrou 89% de continência, 57% de disfunção erétil e 7% de recidiva bioquímica. Conclusão: Durante a curva de aprendizado da prostatectomia radical, ocorre redução significativa do tempo operatório após 20 cirurgias e tendência de redução do sangramento e da necessidade de transfusão sanguínea após 29 cirurgias. As margens cirúrgicas permanecem estáveis em 23%.

Introduction: The learning curve is a period of skills improvement. Procedures are carried through with longer operating time, high risk of surgical complications and sub optimal functional outcomes. We have analyzed the residents' initial learning curve in open radical prostatectomy in our institution. Method: Between June of 2006 and January of 2008, 184 open radical prostatectomies have been performed in our service by five senior residents in Urology. We prospectively evaluated: operating time, blood loss, blood transfusion rate, positive surgical margins, intra-operative complications and early functional outcomes. Results: an average of 37 open radical prostatectomies was performed by each resident. Medium PSA was 9,3ng/mL; clinical stage T1c in 71% of the patients. The pathological stage was pT2 (73%), pT3 (23%), pT4 (4%) and Gleason score was 54% (Gleason <7), 33% (Gleason 7) and 13% (Gleason >7). The medium operating time was 140 minutes, medium blood loss of 488 mL and positive margins were found in 23% during the first 30 cases. Early functional outcomes (less than 6 months after surgery) revealed 89% of urinary continence, 43% of normal erectile function and 7% of biochemical recurrence. Conclusion: During the initial learning curve significant reduction in operating time occurs after first 20 procedures, blood loss and transfusion improves after 29 prostatectomies and positive margins remain stable during the first 30 patients (23%).