Cirugía robótica colorectal, en un hospital de comunidad cerrada: experiencia inicial leído en sesión SACP, 11 de octubre de 2019 / Colorectal robotic surgery in a closed community hospital: initial experience read in SACP session, october 11, 2019

Introducción: La introducción del sistema Da Vinci, ha revolucionado el campo de la cirugía mínima invasiva en el cual el cirujano tiene control de la cámara 3D y los instrumentos son de gran destreza y confort ergonómico, acortando la curva de aprendizaje quirúrgica. Objetivo: Describir nuestra experiencia inicial de cirugía robótica colorectal en un hospital de comunidad cerrada de la Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires. Materiales y Método: Estudio retrospectivo descriptivo sobre una base prospectiva de cirugías colorectales robóticas realizadas por el mismo equipo quirúrgico desde mayo de 2016 a abril de 2019. Resultados: Se operaron 41 pacientes. Trece de ellos fueron colectomías derechas, 17 colectomías izquierdas y 11 cirugías de recto. El tiempo quirúrgico promedio fue de 170 minutos (90-330), la estadía hospitalaria de 4 días (3-30), la tasa de conversión de 7,31% (3/41 pacientes) y la tasa de dehiscencia anastomótica del 9,75% (4/41 pacientes). Morbilidad global del 19.5% (8/41 pacientes). Conclusión: Hemos repasado los resultados iniciales de nuestra experiencia en cirugía robótica colorectal en un número reducido de casos, pero suficiente para evaluar la seguridad y reproducibilidad del método al comienzo de una curva de aprendizaje.

Introduction: The introduction of the Da Vinci System, has revolved the field of invasive minimal surgery in which the surgeon has control of the 3d camera and the instruments are of great strength and ergonomic comfort by cutting the surgical learning curve. Objective: Of this preliminary presentation is to describe our initial experience of colorectal robotic surgery in a closed community hospital of the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires. Materials and Method: Retrospective descriptive study on a prospective basis of robotic colorectal surgeries performed by the same surgical team from May 2016 to April 2019.Results: 41 patients were operated. 13 of them were right colectomies, 17 left colectomies and 11 rectum surgeries. The average surgical time was 170 minutes (90-330), the average hospital stay of 4 days (3-30), the conversion rate of 7.31% (3/41 patients) and the anastomotic dehiscence rate of 9 , 75% (4/41 patients). Overall morbidity of 19.5% (8/41 patients).Conclusion: We have reviewed the initial results of our experience in colorectal robotic surgery in a reduced number of cases but sufficient to evaluate the security and reproducibility of the methodic learning of a learning curve.

Artroplastía total de rodilla con asistencia de brazo-robótico: resultados clínicos postoperatorios tempranos / Robotic arm-assisted total knee arthroplasty: early postoperative results

OBJETIVO: Describir los resultados clínicos postoperatorios tempranos de la primera serie de pacientes operados de artroplastía total de rodilla (ATR) con asistencia de brazo-robótico en Latinoamérica. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Estudio prospectivo de 52 pacientes (53 rodillas) con gonartoris tricompartimental sintomática operados de ATR primaria con asistencia de brazo-robótico (RIO-MAKO) de manera consecutiva, con seguimiento a 2 meses postoperados. No se excluyeron pacientes. Se utilizó el mismo protocolo anestésico y de rehabilitación. Se realizó revisión de fichas clínicas para recolectar los siguientes resultados: tiempo de isquemia quirúrgica, estadía hospitalaria, tiempo a marcha, dolor postoperatorio diario [Escala visual análoga (EVA)], uso de opioides, rangos de movilidad articular (ROM), pérdida sanguínea, complicaciones y eje mecánico postoperatorio. RESULTADOS: Tiempos de Isquemia: 82 minutos (60­120). Estadía Hospitalaria: 4 días (2­12). Dolor postoperatorio: EVA el mismo día operatorio de 0 (0­10) y previa al alta de 0 (rango 0­4), con 0,3 purgas (0­6,5) de opioides por paciente. Tiempo a marcha (día logrado): 1 día (1­3), cuarenta y cinco pacientes (84,9%) iniciaron la marcha el primer día postoperatorio. ROM (Extensión-Flexión): Aumento progresivo durante el seguimiento. En el control ambulatorio de los dos primeros meses [23 días (13­50)], veintiún pacientes (40%) alcanzaron un ROM mayor o igual a 0­90° y once (20%) presentaron un ROM funcional máximo (0­120°). Pérdida sanguínea: Siete pacientes (13,2%) requirieron transfusión. Complicaciones: un paciente (1,89%) presentó una dehiscencia del cierre de la artrotomía. No hubo otras complicaciones. Eje mecánico postoperatorio: 179,1° (178,2­180). DISCUSIÓN: Los resultados concuerdan con la evidencia descrita en otras regiones, sugiriendo que la asistencia de brazo-robótico permite resultados postquirúrgicos reproducibles. CONCLUSIÓN: Los resultados clínicos postoperatorios tempranos de esta serie de pacientes operados de ATR con asistencia de brazo-robótico, muestran una baja percepción del dolor, con bajo consumo de opioides, una rápida recuperación funcional de la marcha y ROM, y excelentes resultados desde el punto de vista del eje mecánico postoperatorio. NIVEL DE EVIDENCIA: IV.

OBJECTIVE: Describe the early clinical postoperative outcomes, of the first series of patients operated on Robotic Arm-Assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) in Latin America. MATERIAL AND METHOD: Retrospective study including 52 patients (53 knees) with advanced symptomatic knee osteoarthritis, consecutively operated on Robotic ArmAssisted TKA (RIO-MAKO) during October 2018 and May 2019 with two months of follow-up. No patients were excluded from the study. The same anesthetic and rehabilitation protocol was followed for all patients. Data were obtained from the clinical files for the following outcomes: Surgical tourniquet time, hospital stay, time to walk, postoperative daily pain [Visual Analog Scale (VAS)], opioid consumption, range of motion (ROM), blood loss, complications, and the attained postoperative mechanical axis. RESULTS: Tourniquet Time: 82 minutes (60­120). Hospital Stay: 4 days (2­12). Postoperative Pain: VAS of 0 (0­10) the same day of surgery, and 0 (0­4) before discharge. The opioid consumption was 0,3 purge (0­6,5) per patient. Time to Walk (Day achieved): 1st day (1­3), forty-five patients (84,9%) walked on their first postoperative day. ROM (Extension-Flexion): progressively increases during the follow up. On the first two-month visits [23 days (13­50)], twenty-one patients (40%) reached a ROM equal or superior to 0­90°, and eleven (20%) presented a maximal functional ROM (0­120°). Blood Loss: Seven patients (13.2%) required a blood transfusion. Complications: one patient (1.89%) presented dehiscence of the arthrotomy closure. No other complications were registered. Postoperative Mechanical Axis: 179.1° (178.2­180). DISCUSSION: The results coincide with the reported evidence from other regions. Robotic-arm assistance may generate reproducible postoperative results. CONCLUSIONS: The early postoperative clinical results of this series of patients operated on Robotic Arm-Assisted TKA show a low pain perception and opioid use, a rapid functional rehabilitation in terms of gait and ROM, and excellent postoperative mechanical alignment. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

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.

Prospective evaluation of the effect of adherent perinephric fat on outcomes of robotic assisted partial nephrectomy following elimination of the learning curve

ABSTRACT Purpose: To prospectively evaluate the association of adherent perinephric fat (APF) on perioperative outcomes of robotic-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) following elimination of the surgical learning curve. Materials and Methods: 305 consecutive RAPNs performed by a single experienced surgeon were analyzed. The first 100 RAPNs were considered the learning curve and therefore excluded. APF was defined as the necessity of subcapsular renal dissection to mobilize the tumor from surrounding perinephric fat. Perioperative outcomes were evaluated including operative time, warm ischemia time (WIT), postoperative complications, length of stay, margins, ischemia, and complications score (MIC), estimated blood loss (EBL), and change in pre-operative to postoperative day 1 (POD 1) laboratory values. After correction for multiple comparisons, P values ≤0.0045 were considered statistically significant but associations with P values ≤0.05 were also mentioned in the study results. Results: Fifty-eight (28.3%) patients had APF. Patients with APF had longer operative times compared to those without APF (median, 213 vs. 192 minutes, P <0.001). There was some evidence of higher increase in change in creatinine from preoperative to POD 1 among those with APF compared to those without APF, although this was not statistically significant (median, 0.2 vs. 0.1mg/dL, P=0.03). There were no other statistically significant associations between presence of APF and perioperative outcomes. Conclusions: APF is associated with increased operative time but no change in other perioperative outcomes. Surgeon experience does not affect perioperative outcomes associated with APF.

Intracorporeal renal hypothermia with ice slush for robot-assisted partial nephrectomy in a highly complex renal mass

ABSTRACT

A comparison of perioperative outcome between robot-assisted and laparoscopic radical prostatectomy: experience of a single institution

ABSTRACT Purpose To compare perioperative and pathological results in different approaches of robotic or laparoscopic radical prostatectomy. Materials and Methods We retrospectively reviewed 206 patients diagnosed with prostate cancer (PC) from June 2016 to October 2017 in the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University. A total of 132 cases underwent robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RLRP) including 54 patients on transperitoneal robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (Tp-RLRP) and 78 on extraperitoneal robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (Ep-RLRP). Meanwhile, 74 patients performed with extraperitoneal laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (Ep-LPR) were also included. Perioperative and pathological data were compared among these groups. Results All operations were completed without conversion. There was no significant difference in basic and pathological characteristics of patients between each two groups. In Tp-RLRP vs. Ep-RLRP: Significant differences were found in the comparison in total operation time [235.98 ± 59.16 vs. 180.45 ± 50.27 min, P = 0.00], estimated blood loss (EBL) [399.07 ± 519.57 vs. 254.49 ± 308.05 mL, P = 0.0473], postoperative pelvic drainage time [5.37 ± 2.33 vs. 4.24 ± 3.08 d, P = 0.0237] and postoperative length of stay [8.15 ± 3.30 vs. 6.49 ± 3.49 d, P = 0.0068] while no significant differences were detected in other variables. In Ep-RLRP vs. Ep-LPR: Longer total operation time was observed in Ep-RLRP when compared to Ep-LPR [180.45 ± 50.27 vs. 143.80 ± 33.13 min, P = 0.000]. No significant differences were observed in other variables. Conclusion In RLRP, Ep-RLRP was proved a safe and effective approach based on the perioperative results compared to Tp-RLRP. Ep-RLRP and Ep-LPR provides equivalent perioperative and pathological outcomes.

Factors affecting urinary continence and sexual potency recovery after robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy

ABSTRACT Introduction Robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) is the most recent surgical technique for localized prostate cancer. The Da Vinci (Intuitive Surgical, Sunnyvale, CA) system was first introduced in Brazil in 2008, with a fast growing number of surgeries performed each year. Objective Our primary endpoint is to analyze possible predictors of functional outcomes, related to patient and tumor features. As secondary endpoint, describe functional outcomes (urinary continence and sexual potency) from RARP performed in the Sírio-Libanês Hospital (SLH), a private institution, in São Paulo, from April 2008 to December 2015. Materials and Method Data from 104 consecutive patients operated by two surgeons from the SLH (MA and SA) between 2008 and 2015, with a minimum 12 months follow-up, were collected. Patient features (age, body mass index - BMI, PSA, date of surgery and sexual function), tumor features (tumor stage, Gleason and surgical margins) and follow-up data (time to reach urinary continence and sexual potency) were the variables collected at 1, 3, 6 and 12 month and every 6 months thereafter. Continence was defined as the use of no pad on medical interview and sexual potency defined as the capability for vaginal penetration with or without fosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors. Results Mean age was 60 years old and mean BMI was 28.45 kg/m2. BMI >30kg/m2 (p<0.001) and age (p=0.011) were significant predictors for worse sexual potency after surgery. After 1, 3, 6 and 12 months, 20.7%, 45.7%, 60.9% and 71.8% from patients were potent, respectively. The urinary continence was reached in 36.5%, 80.3%, 88.6% and 92.8% after 1, 3, 6 and 12 months, respectively. Until the end of the study, only one patient was incontinent and 20.7% were impotent. Conclusion Age was a predictor of urinary and erectile function recovery in 12 months. BMI was significant factor for potency recovery. We obtained in a private hospital good functional results after 12 months of follow-up.

Learning robotic pyeloplasty without simulators: an assessment of the learning curve in the early robotic era

OBJECTIVE: To analyze our experience and learning curve for robotic pyeloplasty during this robotic procedure. METHODS: Ninety-nine patients underwent 100 consecutive procedures. Cases were divided into 4 groups of 25 consecutive procedures to analyze the learning curve. RESULTS: The median anastomosis times were 50.0, 36.8, 34.2 and 29.0 minutes (p=0.137) in the sequential groups, respectively. The median operative times were 144.6, 119.2, 114.5 and 94.6 minutes, with a significant difference between groups 1 and 2 (p=0.015), 1 and 3 (p=0.002), 1 and 4 (p<0.001) and 2 and 4 (p=0.022). The mean hospital stay was 7.08, 4.76, 4.88 and 4.20 days, with a difference between groups 1 and 2 (p<0.001), 1 and 3 (p<0.001) and 1 and 4 (p<0.001). Clinical and radiological improvements were observed in 98.9% of patients. One patient presented with recurrent obstruction. CONCLUSIONS: Our results demonstrate a high success rate with low complication rates. A significant decrease in hospital stay and surgical time was evident after 25 cases.

Super-selective robot-assisted partial nephrectomy using near-infrared flurorescence versus early-unclamping of the renal artery: results of a prospective matched-pair analysis

ABSTRACT Introduction Super-selective clamping of tumor-specific segmental arteries was developed to eliminate ischemia of the remnant kidney while limiting hemorrhage during partial nephrectomy. The objective is to evaluate the benefice of super-selective clamping on renal functional outcome, compared to early-unclamping of the renal artery. Materials and Methods From March 2015 to July 2016, data from 30 patients undergoing super-selective robot-assisted PN (RAPN) for a solitary tumor by a single surgeon were prospectively collected. Tumor devascularization was assessed using indocyanine green near-infrared fluorescence. A matched-pair analysis with a retrospective cohort undergoing early-unclamping was conducted, adjusting on tumor complexity and preoperative eGFR. Perioperative, oncologic and functional outcomes using DMSA-renal scintigraphy were assessed. Multivariate analysis was performed to identify predictors of postoperative renal function and de novo chronic kidney disease (CKD). Results Super-selective RAPN was successful in 23/30 patients (76.7%), 5 requiring secondary main artery clamping due to persistent tumor fluorescence. Matched-pair analysis showed similar operating time, blood loss, positives margins and complication rates. Super-selective clamping was associated with an improved eGFR variation at discharge (p=0.002), 1-month (p=0.01) and 6-month post-op (-2%vs-16% p=0.001). It also led to a better relative function on scintigraphy (46%vs40% p=0.04) and homolateral eGFR (p=0.04), and fewer upstaging to CKD stage ≥3 (p=0.03). On multivariate analysis, super-selective clamping was a predictor of postoperative renal function. Conclusion Super-selective RAPN leads to an improved preservation of renal function and a reduced risk of de novo CKD stage≥3, while keeping the benefit of main artery clamping on perioperative outcomes.

Experiencia inicial con cirugía revisional bariátrica asistida por robot / Initial experience with robotic assisted revisional bariatric surgery

Resumen Introducción La cirugía bariátrica robótica es una técnica novedosa y en desarrollo en Chile. Los procedimientos bariátricos revisionales han aumentado durante los últimos años. No existen publicaciones en nuestro país relacionadas con experiencias en cirugía bariátrica revisional robótica. El objetivo de este estudio es describir la experiencia inicial y los resultados a corto plazo con el uso de la cirugía robótica en estos procedimientos. Material y Métodos Realizamos una revisión retrospectiva de todos los pacientes sometidos a cirugía bariátrica revisional asistida por robot, en Clínica Santa María, de Santiago de Chile. Analizamos las características demográficas, resultados quirúrgicos, morbilidad, mortalidad y tiempo de estadía hospitalaria. Resultados Se realizaron un total de 59 cirugías bariátricas revisionales asistidas por robot, 11 remodelamientos de gastrectomía en manga, 34 bypass gástrico en Y-Roux, 1 remodelamiento del pouch gástrico en un bypass gástrico en Y-Roux, 3 extracciones de banda gástrica ajustable, 1 de ellas con gastrectomía en manga simultánea, 5 instalaciones de banda gástrica ajustable en pacientes con bypass gástrico en Y-Roux, 3 gastrectomías totales, 1 resección de fístula gastro-gástrica y una anastomosis gastroyeyunal. La edad promedio fue de 47,8 años. El Índice de Masa Corporal promedio preoperatorio fue de 33,86 kg/m2. El tiempo quirúrgico promedio fue de 101,63 min. Se observaron complicaciones postoperatorias en 3 pacientes (5,08%). En 2 (3,39%) de ellos, se requirió una reoperación. No hubo fallecidos. El tiempo promedio de estadía hospitalaria fue de 3,6 días. conclusión La cirugía bariátrica revisional asistida por robot es una técnica novedosa, que parece ser segura y efectiva.

Background Robotics in bariatric surgery is a novel development in medical institutions in Chile. Revisional bariatric procedures have increased during the last years. There are no publications in our country related to the initial experience and results in robotic revisional bariatric surgery. The aim of this study is to describe the initial experience and short term outcomes with robotic revisional bariatric surgery. Study Design We conducted a retrospective study of all consecutive robotic revisional bariatric surgeries performed by a single surgeon in Clínica Santa María in Santiago, Chile. We analyzed demographic characteristics and surgical outcomes, morbidity, mortality and length of hospital stay. Results 59 revisional bariatric surgeries were performed, 11 reshaping of sleeve gastrectomy, 34 Roux in Y gastric bypass, 1 pouch reshaping of Roux in Y gastric bypass, 3 extractions of laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding, 1 of them with simultaneous sleeve gastrectomy, 5 laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding to patients with previous Roux in Y gastric bypass, 3 total gastrectomy, 1 resection of gastro-gastric fistula and 1 gastro enteral anastomosis. Mean age was 47.8 years. Average preoperative body mass index was 33.86 kg/m2. Mean surgical time was 101.63 minutes. Postoperative complications were observed in 3 patients (5.08%). In 2 (3.39%) of this patient, reoperation was required. There were no deaths in this group. Average length of hospital stay was 3.6 days. Conclusion Robotic revisional bariatric surgery is a novel technique that appears to be safe and effective.

Introduction of robotic surgery for endometrial cancer into a Brazilian cancer service: a randomized trial evaluating perioperative clinical outcomes and costs

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcome and costs after the implementation of robotic surgery in the treatment of endometrial cancer, compared to the traditional laparoscopic approach. METHODS: In this prospective randomized study from 2015 to 2017, eighty-nine patients with endometrial carcinoma that was clinically restricted to the uterus were randomized in robotic surgery (44 cases) and traditional laparoscopic surgery (45 cases). We compared the number of retrieved lymph nodes, total time of surgery, time of each surgical step, blood loss, length of hospital stay, major and minor complications, conversion rates and costs. RESULTS: The ages of the patients ranged from 47 to 69 years. The median body mass index was 31.1 (21.4-54.2) in the robotic surgery arm and 31.6 (22.9-58.6) in the traditional laparoscopic arm. The median tumor sizes were 4.0 (1.5-10.0) cm and 4.0 (0.0-9.0) cm in the robotic and traditional laparoscopic surgery groups, respectively. The median total numbers of lymph nodes retrieved were 19 (3-61) and 20 (4-34) in the robotic and traditional laparoscopic surgery arms, respectively. The median total duration of the whole procedure was 319.5 (170-520) minutes in the robotic surgery arm and 248 (85-465) minutes in the traditional laparoscopic arm. Eight major complications were registered in each group. The total cost was 41% higher for robotic surgery than for traditional laparoscopic surgery. CONCLUSIONS: Robotic surgery for endometrial cancer presented equivalent perioperative morbidity to that of traditional laparoscopic surgery. The duration and total cost of robotic surgery were higher than those of traditional laparoscopic surgery.

Prospective evaluation of vesicourethral anastomosis outcomes in robotic radical prostatectomy during early experience in a university hospital

ABSTRACT Purpose: Robotic assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) presents challenges for the surgeon, especially during the initial learning curve. We aimed to evaluate early and mid-term functional outcomes and complications related to vesicourethral anastomosis (VUA), in patients who underwent RARP, during the initial experience in an academic hospital. We also assessed possible predictors of postoperative incontinence and compared these results with the literature. Materials and Methods: We prospectively collected data from consecutive patients that underwent RARP. Patients with at least 6 months of follow-up were included in the analysis for the following outcomes: time to complete VUA, continence and complications related to anastomosis. Nerve-sparing status, age, BMI, EBL, pathological tumor staging, and prostate size were evaluated as possible factors predicting early and midterm continence. Results were compared with current literature. Results: Data from 60 patients was assessed. Mean time to complete VUA was 34 minutes, and console time was 247 minutes. Continence in 6 months was 90%. Incidence of urinary leakage was 3.3%, no patients developed bladder neck contracture or postoperative urinary retention. On multivariate analysis, age and pathological staging was associated to 3-month continence status. Conclusion: Our data show that, during early experience with RARP in a public university hospital, it is possible to achieve good results regarding continence and other outcomes related to VUA. We also found that age and pathological staging was associated to early continence status.

Impact of prior abdominal surgery on the outcomes after robotic - assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy: single center experience

ABSTRACT Purpose: To evaluate the influence of prior abdominal surgery on the outcomes after robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RALP). Materials and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed patients with prostate cancer who underwent RALP between June 2012 and February 2015 at our institution. Patients with prior abdominal surgery were compared with those without prior surgery while considering the mean total operating, console, and port-insertion times; mean estimated blood loss; positive surgical margin rate; mean duration of catheterization; and rate of complications. Results: A total of 203 patients who underwent RALP during the study period were included in this study. In all, 65 patients (32%) had a prior history of abdominal surgery, whereas 138 patients (68%) had no prior history. The total operating, console, and port-insertion times were 328 and 308 (P=0.06), 252 and 242 (P=0.28), and 22 and 17 minutes (P=0.01), respectively, for patients with prior and no prior surgery. The estimated blood losses, positive surgical margin rates, mean durations of catheterization, and complication rates were 197 and 170 mL (P=0.29), 26.2% and 20.2% (P=0.32), 7.1 and 6.8 days (P=0.74), and 12.3% and 8.7% (P=0.42), respectively. Furthermore, whether prior abdominal surgery was performed above or below the umbilicus or whether single or multiple surgeries were performed did not further affect the perioperative outcomes. Conclusions: Our results suggest that RALP can be performed safely in patients with prior abdominal surgery, without increasing the risk of complications.

Robotic pulmonary lobectomy for lung cancer treatment: program implementation and initial experience / Lobectomia pulmonar robótica para tratamento do câncer de pulmão e de metástases pulmonares: implantação do programa e experiência inicial

ABSTRACT Objective: To describe the implementation of a robotic thoracic surgery program at a public tertiary teaching hospital and to analyze its initial results. Methods: This was a planned interim analysis of a randomized clinical trial aimed at comparing video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery and robotic surgery in terms of the results obtained after pulmonary lobectomy. The robotic surgery program developed at the Instituto do Câncer do Estado de São Paulo, in the city of São Paulo, Brazil, is a multidisciplinary initiative involving various surgical specialties, as well as anesthesiology, nursing, and clinical engineering teams. In this analysis, we evaluated the patients included in the robotic lobectomy arm of the trial during its first three months (from April to June of 2015). Results: Ten patients were included in this analysis. There were eight women and two men. The mean age was 65.1 years. All of the patients presented with peripheral tumors. We performed right upper lobectomy in four patients, right lower lobectomy in four, and left upper lobectomy in two. Surgical time varied considerably (range, 135-435 min). Conversion to open surgery or video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery was not necessary in any of the cases. Intraoperative complications were not found. Only the first patient required postoperative transfer to the ICU. There were no deaths or readmissions within the first 30 days after discharge. The only postoperative complication was chest pain (grade 3), in two patients. Pathological examination revealed complete tumor resection in all cases. Conclusions: When there is integration and proper training of all of the teams involved, the implementation of a robotic thoracic surgery program is feasible and can reduce morbidity and mortality.

RESUMO Objetivo: Descrever a implantação de um programa de cirurgia torácica robótica em um hospital terciário público universitário e analisar seus resultados iniciais. Métodos: Este estudo é uma análise interina planejada de um ensaio clínico aleatorizado cujo objetivo é comparar resultados da lobectomia pulmonar por videotoracoscopia com a robótica. O programa de cirurgia robótica do Instituto do Câncer do Estado de São Paulo, localizado na cidade de São Paulo (SP), foi uma iniciativa multidisciplinar que envolveu diversas especialidades cirúrgicas e equipes de anestesia, enfermagem e engenharia clínica. Nesta análise, avaliamos os pacientes incluídos no braço lobectomia robótica durante os primeiros três meses do estudo (de abril a junho de 2015). Resultados: Dez pacientes foram incluídos nesta análise. Eram oito mulheres e dois homens. A média de idade foi de 65,1 anos. Todos apresentavam tumores periféricos. Foram realizadas lobectomia superior direita, em quatro pacientes; lobectomia inferior direita, em quatro; e lobectomia superior esquerda, em dois. Os tempos cirúrgicos variaram bastante (variação, 135-435 min). Não foi necessária a conversão para técnica aberta ou videotoracoscópica em nenhum paciente. Não foram observadas complicações intraoperatórias. Apenas o primeiro paciente foi encaminhado à UTI no pós-operatório. Não houve mortalidade nem reinternações em 30 dias após a alta. A única complicação pós-operatória observada foi dor torácica (grau 3), em dois pacientes. O exame anatomopatológico revelou a ressecção completa do tumor em todos os casos. Conclusões: A implantação de um programa de cirurgia torácica robótica, quando há integração e treinamento adequado de todas as equipes envolvidas, é factível e pode reduzir a morbidade e a mortalidade.

Robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy learning curve for experienced laparoscopic surgeons: does it really exist?

ABSTRACT Background Robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy (RALP) is a minimally invasive procedure that could have a reduced learning curve for unfamiliar laparoscopic surgeon. However, there are no consensuses regarding the impact of previous laparoscopic experience on the learning curve of RALP. We report on a functional and perioperative outcome comparison between our initial 60 cases of RALP and last 60 cases of laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP), performed by three experienced laparoscopic surgeons with a 200+LRP cases experience. Materials and Methods Between January 2010 and September 2013, a total of 60 consecutive patients who have undergone RALP were prospectively evaluated and compared to the last 60 cases of LRP. Data included demographic data, operative duration, blood loss, transfusion rate, positive surgical margins, hospital stay, complications and potency and continence rates. Results The mean operative time and blood loss were higher in RALP (236 versus 153 minutes, p<0.001 and 245.6 versus 202ml p<0.001). Potency rates at 6 months were higher in RALP (70% versus 50% p=0.02). Positive surgical margins were also higher in RALP (31.6% versus 12.5%, p=0.01). Continence rates at 6 months were similar (93.3% versus 89.3% p=0.43). Patient’s age, complication rates and length of hospital stay were similar for both groups. Conclusions Experienced laparoscopic surgeons (ELS) present a learning curve for RALP only demonstrated by longer operative time and clinically insignificant blood loss. Our initial results demonstrated similar perioperative and functional outcomes for both approaches. ELS were able to achieve satisfactory oncological and functional results during the learning curve period for RALP.

Robot-Assisted Extended Pelvic Lymph Nodes Dissection for Prostate Cancer: Personal Surgical Technique and Outcomes

Objective: Extended pelvic lymph nodes dissection (EPLND) allows the removal of a higher number of lymph nodes than limited PLND. The aims of this study were to describe our robot-assisted EPLND (RAEPLND) technique with related complications, and to report the number of lymph nodes removed and the rate of lymph nodal metastasis. Materials and Methods: 153 patients underwent RAEPLND prior to robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP). Indications were defined according to Briganti nomogram, to predict risk of lymph-nodal metastasis. Lymphatic packages covering the distal tract of the common iliac artery, the medial portion of the external iliac artery, the external iliac vein and the internal iliac vessels, together with the obturator and the presacral lymphatic packages were removed on both sides. Results: Median preoperative PSA was 7.5 ng/mL (IQR 5.5–11.5). Median operative time was 150 min (135–170). Median RAEPLND alone operative time was 38 min (32.75–41.25); for right and left side, 18 (15–29) and 20 min (15.75–30) (p=0.567). Median number of lymph nodes retrieved per patient was 25 (19.25–30); 13 (11–16) and 11 (8–15) for right and left side. In 19 patients (12.41%) metastasis was found at the level of pelvic lymph nodes. Median number of positive lymph nodes was 1 (1–4.6) per patient. Complications occurred in 11 patients (7.3%). Conclusions: the number of lymph nodes removed was comparable to published data about open series, allowing the increase of detection rate of lymph nodal metastasis for minimally invasive approach without compromising complications' rate if performing the procedure following reported technique.

Utilization and perioperative complications of laparoscopic cryoablation vs. robotic partial nephrectomy for localized renal tumors

To compare the utilization, perioperative complications and predictors of LCA versus RPN in the treatment of localized renal tumors.

Anesthesiologic Effects of Transperitoneal Versus Extraperitoneal Approach During Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy: Results of a Prospective Randomized Study

To compare the effects of CO₂ insufflation on hemodynamics and oxygen levels and on acid-base level during Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy (RARP) with transperitoneal (TP) versus extra-peritoneal (EP) accesses.

Factors associated with intraoperative conversion during robotic sacrocolpopexy

Objective To evaluate for potential predictors of intraoperative conversion from robotic sacrocolpopexy (RSC) to open abdominal sacrocolpopexy. Patients and Methods We identified 83 consecutive patients from 2002-2012 with symptomatic high-grade post-hysterectomy vaginal vault prolapse that underwent RSC. Multiple clinical variables including patient age, comorbidities (body-mass index [BMI], hypertension, diabetes mellitus, tobacco use), prior intra-abdominal surgery and year of surgery were evaluated for potential association with conversion. Results Overall, 14/83 cases (17%) required conversion to an open sacrocolpopexy. Patients requiring conversion were found to have a significantly higher BMI compared to those who did not (median 30.2kg/m2 versus 25.8kg/m2; p=0.003). Other medical and surgical factors evaluated were similar between the cohorts. When stratified by increasing BMI, conversion remained associated with an increased BMI. That is, conversion occurred in 3.8% (1/26) of patients with BMI ≤25 kg/m2, 14.7% (5/34) with BMI 25-29.9 kg/m2 and 34.7% (8/23) with BMI ≥30 kg/m2 (p=0.004). When evaluated as a continuous variable, BMI was also associated with a significantly increased risk of conversion to an open procedure (OR 1.18, p=0.004). Conclusions Higher BMI was the only clinical factor associated with a significantly increased risk of intra-operative conversion during robotic sacrocolpopexy. Recognition of this may aid in pre-operative counseling and surgical patient selection. .

Difference between actual vs. pathology prostate weight in TURP and radical robotic-assisted prostatectomy specimen

Introduction To investigate and highlight the effect of formaldehyde induced weight reduction in transurethral resection of prostate (TURP) and radical robotically-assisted prostatectomy (RALP) specimen as a result of standard chemical fixation. Materials and Methods 51 patients were recruited from January 2013 to June 2013 who either underwent a TURP (n=26) or RALP (n=25). Data was collected prospectively by the operating surgeon who measured the native, unfixed histology specimen directly after operation. The specimens were fixed in 10% Formaldehyde Solution BP and sent to the pathology laboratory where after sufficient fixation period was re-weighed. Results Overall mean age 64.78 years, TURP mean age 68.31 years RALP mean age 61.12years. We found that the overall prostatic specimen (n=51) weight loss after fixation was a mean of 11.20% (3.78 grams) (p≤0.0001). Subgroup analysis of the native TURP chips mean weight was 16.15 grams and formalin treated mean weight was 14.00 grams (p≤0.0001). Therefore, TURP chips had a mean of 13.32 % (2.15 grams) weight loss during chemical fixation. RALP subgroup unfixed specimen mean weight was 52.08 grams and formalin treated mean weight was 42.60 grams (p≤0.0001), a 19.32 % (9.48grams) mean weight reduction. Conclusion It has not been known that prostatic chips and whole human radical prostatectomy specimen undergo a significant weight reduction. The practical significance of the accurate prostate weight in patient management may be limited, however, it is agreed that this should be recorded correctly, as data is potential interest for research purposes and vital for precise documentation. .