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.

Outcomes of Salvage Robotic-assisted Radical Prostatectomy in the last decade: systematic review and perspectives of referral centers.

PURPOSE: Salvage robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy (S-RARP) has gained prominence in recent years for treating patients with cancer recurrence following non-surgical treatments of Prostate Cancer. We conducted a systematic literature review to evaluate the role and outcomes of S-RARP over the past decade. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A systematic review was conducted, encompassing articles published between January 1st, 2013, and June 1st, 2023, on S-RARP outcomes. Articles were screened according to PRISMA guidelines, resulting in 33 selected studies. Data were extracted, including patient demographics, operative times, complications, functional outcomes, and oncological outcomes. RESULTS: Among 1,630 patients from 33 studies, radiotherapy was the most common primary treatment (42%). Operative times ranged from 110 to 303 minutes, with estimated blood loss between 50 to 745 mL. Intraoperative complications occurred in 0 to 9% of cases, while postoperative complications ranged from 0 to 90% (Clavien 1-5). Continence rates varied (from 0 to 100%), and potency rates ranged from 0 to 66.7%. Positive surgical margins were reported up to 65.6%, and biochemical recurrence ranged from 0 to 57%. CONCLUSION: Salvage robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy in patients with cancer recurrence after previous prostate cancer treatment is safe and feasible. The literature is based on retrospective studies with inherent limitations describing low rates of intraoperative complications and small blood loss. However, potency and continence rates are largely reduced compared to the primary RARP series, despite the type of the primary treatment. Better-designed studies to assess the long-term outcomes and individually specify each primary therapy impact on the salvage treatment are still needed. Future articles should be more specific and provide more details regarding the previous therapies and S-RARP surgical techniques.

Reporting and grading of complications for intracorporeal robot-assisted radical cystectomy: an in-depth short-term morbidity assessment using the novel Comprehensive Complication Index®.

OBJECTIVE: To assess suitability of Comprehensive Complication Index (CCI®) vs. Clavien-Dindo classification (CDC) to capture 30-day morbidity after robot-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 128 patients with bladder cancer (BCa) undergoing intracorporeal RARC with pelvic lymph node dissection between 2015 and 2021 were included in a retrospective bi-institutional study, which adhered to standardized reporting criteria. Thirty-day complications were captured according to a procedure-specific catalog. Each complication was graded by the CDC and the CCI®. Multivariable linear regression (MVA) was used to identify predictors of higher morbidity. RESULTS: 381 complications were identified in 118 patients (92%). 55 (43%), 43 (34%), and 20 (16%) suffered from CDC grade I-II, IIIa, and ≥ IIIb complications, respectively. 16 (13%), 27 (21%), and 2 patients (1.6%) were reoperated, readmitted, and died within 30 days, respectively. 31 patients (24%) were upgraded to most severe complication (CCI® ≥ 33.7) when calculating morbidity burden compared to corresponding CDC grade accounting only for the highest complication. In MVA, only age was a positive estimate (0.44; 95% CI = 0.03-0.86; p = 0.04) for increased cumulative morbidity. CONCLUSION: The CCI® estimates of 30-day morbidity after RARC were substantially higher compared to CDC alone. These measurements are a prerequisite to tailor patient counseling regarding surgical approach, urinary diversion, and comparability of results between institutions.

Impact of obesity on perioperative, functional and oncological outcomes after robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy in a high-volume center.

OBJECTIVE: To compare surgical, oncological and functional outcomes between obese vs. normal-weight prostate cancer (PCa) patients treated with robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP). MATERIALS AND METHODS: We assessed 4555 consecutive RARP patients from a high-volume center 2008-2018. Analyses were restricted to normal-weight vs. obese patients (≥ 30 kg/m2). Multivariable cox regression analyses (MVA) assessed the effect of obesity on biochemical recurrence (BCR), metastatic progression (MP), erectile function and urinary continence recovery. Analyses were repeated after propensity score matching. RESULTS: Before matching, higher rates of pathological Gleason Grade group ≥ 4 (14 vs. 18%; p = 0.004) and pT3 stage (33 vs. 35%; p = 0.016) were observed in obese patients, with similar observations for surgery time, blood loss and 30-day wound- and surgical complication rates. For normal-weight vs. obese patients, BCR- and MP-free rates were 86 vs. 85% (p = 0.97) and 97.5 vs.97.8% (p = 0.8) at 48 months. Similarly, rates of erectile function at 36 months and urinary continence at 12 months were 56 vs. 49% (p = 0.012) and 88 vs. 85% (p = 0.003), respectively. Before and after propensity score matching, obesity had no effect on BCR or MP, but a negative effect on erectile function (matched HR 0.87, 95%CI 0.76-0.99; p = 0.029) and urinary continence recovery (matched HR 0.91, 95%CI 0.84-0.98; p = 0.014). CONCLUSIONS: Obesity did not represent a risk factor of BCR or MP after RARP despite higher rates of adverse pathological features. However, obesity was associated with higher risk of perioperative morbidity and impaired functional outcomes. Such information is integral for patient counselling. Thus, weight loss before RARP should be encouraged.

Feasibility of robot-assisted radical prostatectomy in men at senior age ≥75 years: perioperative, functional, and oncological outcomes of a high-volume center.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to assess whether age ≥75 years impairs surgical, functional, and oncological outcomes after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients with prostate cancer (PCa) were stratified in ≥75(n = 669) vs. <70 years(n = 8,268). Multivariable cox regression analyses (MVA) tested for effect of senior age on erectile function-, urinary continence-recovery, biochemical recurrence (BCR), and metastatic progression (MP). RESULTS: RARP duration, blood loss, and 30d complication rates were similar between groups. For patients ≥75 vs. <70 years, rates of erectile function after 36 and urinary continence after 12 months were 27 vs. 56% (p < 0.001) and 85 vs. 86% (p = 0.99), respectively. Mean quality of life (QoL) score after 12 months improved in both groups (p = 0.9). At 48 months, BCR- and MP-free rates were 77 vs. 85% (p < 0.001) and 97 vs. 98% (p = 0.3), respectively. MVA confirmed the negative effect of senior age on erectile function but no significant effect on urinary continence, BCR or MP, before and after propensity score matching. CONCLUSION: Apart from erectile function, senior age has no significant effect on urinary continence recovery, BCR- or MP-free rates after RARP. Post-RARP QoL improved even in senior patients. Modern therapy of senior PCa patients should be based on individual counseling than just age.

Oncologic impact of concomitant prostate cancer characteristics at the time of radical cystoprostatectomy for bladder cancer: a population-based analysis.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic impact of concomitant prostate cancer (PCa) of the cancer-specific mortality (CSM) in the aging patient's papulation with bladder cancer (BCa) treated with radical cystoprostatectomy (RCP). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Within the SEER database (2004-2015), 1468 patients were treated with RCP for BCa harboring histopathological PCa findings. To account for other cause mortality (OCM), multivariable competing risk regression (CRR) tested for potential BCa-CSM differences according to PCa characteristics risk factors predicting CSM. RESULTS: CRR analysis revealed that only following BCa characteristics, as high pathological tumor stages(Ta/Tis/T1 [REF.] vs. T2; HR 2.03, 95% CI: 1.16-3.57, p = 0.014 vs. T3; HR 4.32, 95% CI: 2.45-7.61, p < 0.001 vs. T4; HR 5.06, 95% CI: 2.77-9.22, p < 0.001), as well unfavorable BCa grade IV (Grade I-II [REF.] vs. Grade IV; HR 0.58, 95% CI: 0.35-0.98, p < 0.041) achieved independent predictor status of CSM. With regard to PCa characteristics, none of the covariates yielded independent predictor status of CSM. CONCLUSIONS: Our study, based on the largest population cohort, demonstrates that even in organ-confined BCa patients, concomitant PCa as second malignancy does not represent a risk factor for survival.

Perioperative and Postoperative Outcomes of Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy in Prostate Cancer Patients with Prior Transurethral Subvesical Deobstruction: Results of a High-Volume Center.

PURPOSE: Prostate cancer patients who are scheduled for robot-assisted radical prostatectomy often have a history of transurethral resection or laser enucleation of the prostate as treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia. We examined if these patients have impaired surgical, functional and oncologic outcomes compared to those who have no symptom burden of moderate to severe benign prostatic hyperplasia and no previous transurethral resection or laser enucleation of the prostate. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We compared 368 robot-assisted radical prostatectomy patients with previous transurethral resection or laser enucleation of the prostate (group A) to 4,945 robot-assisted radical prostatectomy patients without transurethral resection or laser enucleation of the prostate and without moderate or severe benign prostatic hyperplasia symptoms (group B) at a high-volume robot-assisted radical prostatectomy center. Multivariable Cox regression analyses assessed impact of transurethral resection or laser enucleation of the prostate on erectile function and urinary continence recovery, biochemical recurrence or metastatic progression. Analyses were repeated after propensity score matching. RESULTS: No relevant differences in surgical outcomes, such as surgical margin and 30-day complications rates, were observed. Urinary continence recovery rates at 12 months were 67% vs 74% (group A vs B; p <0.001). Erectile function recovery rates at 24 months were 52% vs 62% (p <0.001). Biochemical recurrence-free rates at 36 months were identical, at 87.3% vs 87.8%. Before and after propensity score matching, transurethral resection or laser enucleation of the prostate negatively affected erectile function recovery (matched HR 0.68, 95% CI 0.53-0.88; p=0.003) in multivariable Cox regression analyses. Similarly, transurethral resection or laser enucleation of the prostate had negative effect on urinary continence recovery (HR 0.84, 95% CI 0.73-0.97; p=0.015) but no effect on biochemical recurrence or metastatic progression. CONCLUSIONS: Previous transurethral resection or laser enucleation of the prostate does not negatively impact surgical, complication-related, and oncologic outcomes if the robot-assisted radical prostatectomy is performed by highly experienced surgeons. However, transurethral resection or laser enucleation of the prostate negatively affects erectile function and urinary continence recovery.

Superior early and long-term continence following early micturition on day 2 after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy: a randomized prospective trial.

PURPOSE: To elucidate early and long-term continence and patient comfort depending on type and duration of catheterization after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy. METHODS: 198 patients were randomized prospectively into three groups (May 2016-July 2017): A transurethral catheter with micturition on postoperative day (POD) 5 was placed in the control group (TD5); a suprapubic tube (SPT) with micturition on POD 5 was placed in the group SD5 or with micturition on POD 2 in group SD2, respectively. Questionnaires were used for catheter-related satisfaction. Functional outcome analysis included residual volume analysis, uroflowmetry, IPSS, 12-h pad test, and daily pad use. Follow-up was conducted up to 12 months. RESULTS: Postoperative comfort and catheter-related complications were similar in the three groups. However, on the day of catheter removal, continence was significantly better in the 12-h pad test for the SD2 group with 14 ml vs. 30 ml (TD5) and 24 ml (SD5), p = 0.007. Median residual urine volume between the groups was comparable with 17 ml in TD5, 7 ml in SD5, and 11 ml in SD2, (p = 0.07). Postoperative IPSS did not differ significantly in the follow-up period. After 4 weeks, 63% of the patients in SD2 were continent (no pad/day) compared to 33% in TD5 and 41% in SD5, p = 0.004. After 12 months, 76% were continent in TD5, 87% in SD5, and 94% in SD2, p = 0.023. CONCLUSIONS: Early micturition after SPT placement in robotic radical prostatectomy seems to be beneficial without an increased risk of complications.

Non-Invasive Ventilation (NIV) and Homeostatic Model Assessment (HOMA) Index in Stable Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Patients with Chronic Hypercapnic Respiratory Failure: A Pilot Study.

The effects of Non-invasive Ventilation (NIV) on Insulin Resistance (IR) in stable Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) patients have not been fully explored. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of NIV on IR and adiponectin levels during one year application of NIV in stable COPD patients with Chronic Hypercapnic Respiratory Failure. Twenty-five (25) stable COPD patients with Chronic Hypercapnic Respiratory Failure and with no self-reported comorbidities completed the study. NIV was administered in the spontaneous/timed mode via a full face mask using a bi-level positive airway pressure system. Spirometry, blood pressure, arterial blood gases, dyspnea, daytime sleepiness, serum fasting glucose and insulin levels were assessed. IR was assessed with the calculation of the Homeostatic Model Assessment (HOMA) index. Adiponectin was measured with radioimmunoassay. Study participants were re-evaluated on the first, third, sixth, ninth and twelfth month after the initial evaluation. There was a significant improvement in FEV1 values from the first month (34.1 ± 11.6% vs 37 ± 12.3%, p = 0.05). There was a significant decrease in IR by the ninth month of NIV use (3.4 ± 2.3 vs 2.2 ± 1.4, p < 0.0001), while adiponectin levels significantly improved from the first month of NIV use. Stepwise regression analysis revealed that baseline HOMA index was associated with paCO2 (ß = 0.07 ± 0.02, p = 0.001), while baseline adiponectin levels were associated with FVC (ß = 0.05 ± 0.02, p = 0.035) and the concentration of serum bicarbonate (HCO3-) (-ß = 0.18 ± 0.06, p = 0.002). Insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism as well as adiponectin levels improved along with the improvements in respiratory failure.

[Robotic-Assisted DIEP Flap Harvest for Autologous Breast Reconstruction: Case Report, Technical Aspects and Identification of Suitable Patients]. / Die robotisch-assistierte Hebung der DIEP-Lappenplastik zur Brustrekonstruktion: Fallbericht, technische Aspekte und Identifikation geeigneter Patientinnen.

BACKGROUND: Robotic-assisted harvest of the deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap is an innovative modification of the traditional open preparation for autologous breast reconstruction. It is assumed that donor-site morbidity (herniae, bulging) is reduced by minimising the fascial incision length in robotic-assisted DIEP flap harvest. MATERIAL & METHODS: This is the first report of a robotic-assisted DIEP harvest in Germany, which was performed in April 2023 at the University Hospital of Freiburg in an interdisciplinary approach of the Departments of Plastic Surgery, Urology and Gynaecology. To determine the value of this novel technique, we assessed the demand by retrospectively performing an analysis of potential patients and conducted a cost analysis based on the breast reconstructions with DIEP flap harvest performed between April 2021 and May 2023 at the Department of Plastic Surgery at Freiburg University Hospital. To this end, we carried out a retrospective analysis of preoperative CT angiographies to determine the proportion of patients suitable for a robotic-assisted procedure in a post-hoc analysis. Furthermore, we describe the basic robotic-assisted techniques and discuss the TEP and TAPP laparoscopic approaches. RESULTS: In line with the previously published literature, a short intramuscular course (≤25 mm) and a perforator diameter of≥1.5 mm and≥2.7 mm (subgroup) were defined as a crucial condition for the robotic-assisted procedure. We analysed 65 DIEP flaps harvested in 51 patients, of which 26 DIEP flaps in 22 patients met both criteria, i. e.≤25 mm intramuscular course and≥1.5 mm diameter of the perforator, while 10 DIEP flaps in 10 patients additionally met the criteria of the subgroup (≥2.7 mm diameter). Based on the intramuscular course of the perforators in the CT angiographies of those 26 DIEP flaps, a potential reduction of the fascial incision of 96.8±25.21 mm (mean±standard deviation) compared with the conventional surgical approach was calculated. The additional material costs in our case were EUR 986.01. However, ischaemia time was 33,5 minutes longer than the median of the comparative cohort. CONCLUSION: The robotic-assisted procedure has already proven to be a feasible alternative in a suitable patient population. However, further studies are needed to confirm that robotic-assisted DIEP flap harvest actually reduces harvest site morbidity and thereby justifies the additional costs and complexity.

If not now, then when? The need for new evidence in the robotic management of upper tract urothelial carcinoma.

Current guidelines recommend radical nephroureterectomy with bladder cuff excision as the standard surgical treatment for high-risk upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC). While large evidence is available regarding open and laparoscopic nephroureterectomy, data focusing on robotic nephroureterectomy (RNU) in UTUC are mostly limited with mixed results, especially in locally advanced disease. In light of the recent introduction of new robotic platforms, it is of utmost importance to further investigate oncologic outcomes associated with RNU. Moreover, stronger data exploring different operative settings (i.e. robotic arms and trocars placement) for the new robotic systems are eagerly warranted. To give an answer to such open clinical questions, the Junior ERUS/Young Academic Urologist Working Group on Robot-assisted Surgery designed a multicentric project involving different high-volume centers across the world. The aim of the study will be exploring surgical and oncologic outcomes of RNU, specifically focusing on several clinical unmet needs, such as best operative setting for new robotic platforms, lymph node dissection (LDN) template and robotic bladder cuff management.

Atlas of Intracorporeal Orthotopic Neobladder Techniques After Robot-assisted Radical Cystectomy and Systematic Review of Clinical Outcomes.

BACKGROUND: Multiple and heterogeneous techniques have been described for orthotopic neobladder (ONB) reconstruction after robot-assisted radical cystectomy. Nonetheless, a systematic assessment of all the available options is lacking. OBJECTIVE: To provide the first comprehensive step-by-step description of all the available techniques for robotic intracorporeal ONB together with individual intraoperative, perioperative and functional outcomes based on a systematic review of the literature. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: We performed a systematic review of the literature, and MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched to identify original articles describing different robotic intracorporeal ONB techniques and reporting intra- and perioperative outcomes. Studies were categorized according to ONB type, providing a synthesis of the current evidence. Video material was provided by experts in the field to illustrate the surgical technique of each intracorporeal ONB. SURGICAL PROCEDURE: Nine different ONB types were identified: Studer, Hautmann, Y shape, U shape, Bordeaux, Pyramid, Shell, Florence Robotic Intracorporeal Neobladder, and Padua Ileal Neobladder. MEASUREMENTS: Continuous and categorical variables are presented as mean ± standard deviation and as frequencies and proportions, respectively. RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS: Of 2587 studies identified, 19 met our inclusion criteria. No cohort studies or randomized control trials comparing different neobladder types are available. Available techniques for intracorporeal robotic ONB reconstruction have similar operative time, estimated blood loss, intraoperative complications, and length of stay. Major variability exists concerning postoperative complications and functional outcomes, likely related to reporting bias. CONCLUSIONS: Several techniques are described for intracorporeal ONB during robot-assisted radical cystectomy with comparable perioperative outcomes. We provide the first step-by-step surgical atlas for robot-assisted ONB reconstruction. Further comparative studies are needed to assess any advantage of one technique over others. PATIENT SUMMARY: Patients elected for radical cystectomy should be aware that multiple techniques for robotic orthotopic neobladder are available, but that current evidence does not favor one type over the others.

Low-grade albuminuria in children with obstructive sleep apnea.

Small urinary protein loss (low-grade albuminuria or microalbuminuria) may reflect altered permeability of the glomerular filtration barrier. In the present study, it was hypothesized that children with obstructive sleep apnea have an increased risk of microalbuminuria compared with control subjects without sleep-disordered breathing. Albumin-to-creatinine ratio was measured in morning spot urine specimens collected from consecutive children with or without snoring who were referred for polysomnography. Three groups were studied: (i) control subjects (no snoring, apnea-hypopnea index < 1 episode h(-1) ; n = 31); (ii) mild obstructive sleep apnea (snoring, apnea-hypopnea index = 1-5 episodes h(-1) ; n = 71); and (iii) moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea (snoring, apnea-hypopnea index > 5 episodes∙h(-1) ; n = 27). Indications for polysomnography in control subjects included nightmares, somnambulism and morning headaches. An albumin-to-creatinine ratio > median value in the control group (1.85 mg of albumin per g of creatinine) was defined as elevated. Logistic regression analysis revealed that children with moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea, but not those with mild obstructive sleep apnea, had increased risk of elevated albumin-to-creatinine ratio relative to controls (reference) after adjustment for age, gender and presence of obesity: odds ratio 3.8 (95% confidence interval 1.1-12.6); P = 0.04 and 1.5 (0.6-3.7); P > 0.05, respectively. Oxygen desaturation of hemoglobin and respiratory arousal indices were significant predictors of albumin-to-creatinine ratio (r = 0.31, P = 0.01; and r = 0.43, P < 0.01, respectively). In conclusion, children with moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea are at significantly higher risk of increased low-grade excretion of albumin in the morning urine as compared with control subjects without obstructive sleep apnea. These findings may reflect altered permeability of the glomerular filtration barrier related to nocturnal hypoxemia and sympathetic activation which are induced by obstructive sleep apnea.

Differences in Quality of Life between German and Dutch Patients with Prostate Cancer Treated with Robot-assisted Radical Prostatectomy: Implications for International Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trials.

BACKGROUND: As a local treatment for prostate cancer (PCa), robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) may have a quality of life (QoL) benefit over open surgery. Recent analyses revealed substantial between-country differences in the function and symptom scale scores for the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 (EORTC QLQ-C30), which is typically used to assess patient-reported QoL. Such differences could have implications for multinational studies in PCa. OBJECTIVE: To examine whether nationality is significantly associated with patient-reported QoL. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: The study cohort comprised Dutch and German patients with PCa treated with RARP in a single high-volume prostate center from 2006 to 2018. Analyses were restricted to patients who were preoperatively continent with at least one follow-up time point. OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: QoL was measured in terms of the global Quality of Life (QL) scale score and the overall summary score for the EORTC QLQ-C30. Linear mixed models for repeated-measures multivariable analyses (MVAs) were used to examine the association between nationality and both the global QL score and the summary score. MVAs were further adjusted for QLQ-C30 baseline values, age, Charlson comorbidity index, preoperative prostate-specific antigen, surgical expertise, pathological tumor and nodal stage, Gleason grade, degree of nerve-sparing, surgical margin status, 30-d Clavien-Dindo grade complications, urinary continence recovery, and biochemical recurrence/postoperative radiotherapy. RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS: For Dutch (n = 1938) versus German (n = 6410) men, the mean baseline scores were 82.8 versus 71.9 for the global QL scale score and 93.4 versus 89.7 for the QLQ-C30 summary score. Urinary continence recovery (QL: +8.9, 95% confidence interval [CI] 8.1-9.8; p < 0001) and Dutch nationality (QL: +6.9, 95% CI 6.1-7.6; p < 0001) were the strongest positive contributors to the global QL and summary scores, respectively. The main limitation is the retrospective study design. In addition, our Dutch cohort may not be representative of the general Dutch population and reporting bias cannot be ruled out. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings provide observational evidence under specific conditions involving the same setting for patients of two different nationalities suggesting that cross-national patient-reported QoL differences appear to be real and may need to be taken into consideration in multinational studies. PATIENT SUMMARY: We observed differences in the quality-of-life scores reported by Dutch and German patients with prostate cancer after they underwent robot-assisted removal of the prostate. These findings should be taken into consideration in cross-national studies.

Discrimination, Reliability, Sensitivity, and Specificity of Robotic Surgical Proficiency Assessment With Global Evaluative Assessment of Robotic Skills and Binary Scoring Metrics: Results From a Randomized Controlled Trial.

Objective: To compare binary metrics and Global Evaluative Assessment of Robotic Skills (GEARS) evaluations of training outcome assessments for reliability, sensitivity, and specificity. Background: GEARS-Likert-scale skills assessment are a widely accepted tool for robotic surgical training outcome evaluations. Proficiency-based progression (PBP) training is another methodology but uses binary performance metrics for evaluations. Methods: In a prospective, randomized, and blinded study, we compared conventional with PBP training for a robotic suturing, knot-tying anastomosis task. Thirty-six surgical residents from 16 Belgium residency programs were randomized. In the skills laboratory, the PBP group trained until they demonstrated a quantitatively defined proficiency benchmark. The conventional group were yoked to the same training time but without the proficiency requirement. The final trial was video recorded and assessed with binary metrics and GEARS by robotic surgeons blinded to individual, group, and residency program. Sensitivity and specificity of the two assessment methods were evaluated with area under the curve (AUC) and receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves. Results: The PBP group made 42% fewer objectively assessed performance errors than the conventional group (P < 0.001) and scored 15% better on the GEARS assessment (P = 0.033). The mean interrater reliability for binary metrics and GEARS was 0.87 and 0.38, respectively. Binary total error metrics AUC was 97% and for GEARS 85%. With a sensitivity threshold of 0.8, false positives rates were 3% and 25% for, respectively, the binary and GEARS assessments. Conclusions: Binary metrics for scoring a robotic VUA task demonstrated better psychometric properties than the GEARS assessment.

The Dilemma of Misclassification Rates in Senior Patients With Prostate Cancer, Who Were Treated With Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy: Implications for Patient Counseling and Diagnostics.

OBJECTIVES: There is a recent paradigm shift to extend robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) to very senior prostate cancer (PCa) patients based on biological fitness, comorbidities, and clinical PCa assessment that approximates the true risk of progression. Thus, we aimed to assess misclassification rates between clinical vs. pathological PCa burden. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We compared senior patients with PCa ≥75 y (n = 847), who were propensity score matched with younger patients <75 y (n = 3,388) in a 1:4 ratio. Matching was based on the number of biopsy cores, prostate volume, and preoperative Cancer of the Prostate Risk Assessment (CAPRA) risk groups score. Multivariable logistic regression models (LRMs) predicted surgical CAPRA (CAPRA-S) upgrade, which was defined as a higher risk of the CAPRA-S in the presence of lower-risk preoperative CAPRA score. LRM incorporated the same variables as propensity score matching. Moreover, patients were categorized as low-, intermediate-, and high-risk, preoperative and according to their CAPRA and CAPRA-S scores. RESULTS: Surgical CAPRA risk strata significantly differed between the groups. Greater proportions of unfavorable intermediate risk (39 vs. 32%) or high risk (30 vs. 28%; p < 0.001) were observed. These proportions are driven by greater proportions of International Society of Urological Pathology (ISUP) Gleason Grade Group 4 or 5 (33 vs. 26%; p = 0.001) and pathological tumor stage (≥T3a 54 vs. 45%; p < 0.001). Increasing age was identified as an independent predictor of CAPRA-S-based upgrade (age odds ratio [OR] 1.028 95% CI 1.02-1.037; p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Approximately every second senior patient has a misclassification in (i.e., any up or downgrade) and each 4.5th senior patient specifically has an upgrade in his final pathology that directly translates to an unfavorable PCa prognosis. It is imperative to take such substantial misclassification rates into account for this sensitive PCa demographic of senior men. Future prospective studies are warranted to further optimize PCa workflow and diagnostics, such as to incorporate modern imaging, molecular profiling and implement these into biopsy strategies to identify true PCa burden.

Potential for optimizing the perioperative care in robotic prostatectomy patients by adoption of enhanced recovery after surgery principles.

Several benefits have been reported after applying the principles of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) into the perioperative care of patients undergoing robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP). Nevertheless, there are still barriers. We aimed to identify the key areas by systematically surveying urology departments in Germany and Austria. A 27-question survey on the adoption of ERAS principles for the perioperative care of RARP patients was designed, in compliance with the guidelines on good practice in conducting and reporting of survey research. After positive testing for face and content validity, the survey was distributed via postal mail to 82 departments performing RARP. In total, 39 departments responded to our survey (response rate 48%). The ERAS adoption rates ranged from 21 to 97%, with nine ERAS principles being widely adopted (72-92% of the departments). The lowest adoption rates and, subsequently, the largest potential for optimization were detected for the preoperative nutrition counselling (21%), preoperative pelvic floor physiotherapy (54%), postoperative early initiation of nutrition (44%) and postoperative patient audit for further quality improvement (36%). High-volume centers performed more frequently a perioperative nutrition counselling (8/27; 30%) than low-volume centers (0/12; 0%; p = 0.036). The implementation of the ERAS principles into the perioperative care algorithm were medium-to-high, yet not optimal. Our real-world data assessment revealed four key areas showing low adoption rates (nutrition counselling, preoperative pelvic floor physiotherapy, early initiation of nutrition and patient audit), implying a great potential for further optimization.

Staple Containing Ureteral Stone Formation After Robot-Assisted Radical Cystectomy With Intracorporeal Neobladder Construction in a Female Patient: A Case Report of a Rare Complication.

Radical cystectomy with intracorporeal neobladder formation is a well-established treatment for patients with muscle-invasive urothelial cancer of the bladder. After the wide implementation of robotic systems, numerous centers increasingly offer intracorporeal neobladder construction using robotic staple devices. Stone formation at the area of staple material migration is a long-term complication, as staple material may migrate through the neobladder wall and act as a nidus for urine crystal aggregation. Stone formation in the upper urinary tract and the diversion segment is highly variable and corresponding management protocols are extensively reported in the previous series. However, the presence of staple material within a renal or ureteral stone has been rarely reported before. We present a case of a female patient with a staple-containing ureteral stone four years after radical cystectomy and neobladder formation and the consequent antegrade ureterorenoscopic retrieval. This treatment option is feasible, safe and easily implemented by experienced endourologists.

Chicken RAPS: Chicken Robot-assisted Pyeloplasty Simulation. Validation Study of a Novel Chicken Model for Wet Laboratory Training in Robot-assisted Pyeloplasty.

Background: Since the introduction of minimally invasive surgery, the number of simulation models available for teaching new surgeons has continued to increase. Objective: To evaluate and validate use of a model for teaching robot-assisted pyeloplasty. Design setting and participants: Twenty simulated robot-assisted pyeloplasty procedures were performed by experienced (n = 4) and novice (n = 16) surgeons using a chicken crop model at two different training centers using third- and fourth-generation robotic systems. Outcome measurements and statistical analysis: We evaluated the time needed to perform the procedure, and the sufficiency and patency of the anastomosis. Participants rated the efficiency, face validity, and possible acceptance of the model as part of a structured curriculum on a scale from 0 to10. Statistical significance for comparison of results was set at p < 0.05. Results and limitations: Robot-assisted pyeloplasty was successfully performed by 75% of the participants. The completion time was significantly higher in the novice group (p = 0.016). The model was deemed to be similar to the human ureteropelvic junction by the novice group. Both groups regarded the model as a useful simulation task as part of a standardized training curriculum, with mean scores of 6.5 versus 8.69 (p = 0.046) for face validity and 8 versus 9.25 for acceptance (p = 0.053) reported by the experienced versus novice group, respectively. Limitations of the study are the costs associated with the robotic system and the unequal number of participants in the groups. Conclusions: The chicken crop model is a low-cost and reproducible simulation model for accomplishing both the resection and reconstructive steps during the learning phase for robot-assisted pyeloplasty. Patient summary: We assessed the use of chickens as a model for practicing a robot-assisted operation called pyeloplasty to fix narrowing of the ureter (the tube that drains urine from the kidney to the bladder) where it attaches to the kidney. This model can be used for simulation of robot-assisted pyeloplasty when training new robotic surgeons.