Toggling Technique Allows Retrograde Early Release to Facilitate Neurovascular Bundle Sparing During Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy: A Propensity Score-Matching Study.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to present the surgical facilitation of neurovascular bundle (NVB) sparing using the toggling technique (30° lens down/up switching) and to evaluate erectile dysfunction (ED) recovery after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP). METHODS: We assessed 144 patients (group with toggling, n = 72; group without toggling, n = 72) who underwent RARP with bilateral NVB sparing using propensity score matching. Inclusion criteria were ≥ 1 year follow-up and preoperative potency as per the Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) questionnaire (≥ 17 points). Recovery of ED after RARP was defined as return to baseline sexual function or self-assessment regarding successful intercourse. The subjective surgeon's nerve sparing (SNS) score and tunneling success rates were used to evaluate surgical facilitation. The recovery rate of ED between the groups was analyzed using Kaplan-Meier analysis. RESULTS: A better ED recovery trend was confirmed according to the SNS score (R² = 0.142, P = 0.004). In the analysis of NVB sparing ease, the toggling group showed higher SNS scores (on right/left side: P = 0.011 and < 0.001, respectively) and overall tunneling success rates (87% vs. 74%, P = 0.001) than the group without toggling. Overall, ED recovery rates were 82% (59/72) and 75% (54/72) in the groups with and without toggling, respectively, at the 1-year follow-up (P = 0.047), and the toggling group showed a faster ED recovery rate at 3 months (47% vs. 35%, P = 0.013). In a specific analysis of the potent cohort (< 60 years, bilateral full NVB spared, SHIM score ≥ 22), the ED recovery rate reached 87% (14/16) in the toggling group. CONCLUSION: The retrograde early release with the toggling technique improves the facilitation of NVB sparing, leading to improved ED recovery.

A Predictive Preoperative and Postoperative Nomogram for Postoperative Potency Recovery after Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy.

PURPOSE: Prediction of potency recovery following robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) is useful for better patient counseling and postoperative treatment strategies. In this study we propose a preoperative and postoperative nomogram to predict postoperative potency recovery following RARP. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients from development set (6,502) were selected to develop the nomograms, and patients in validation set (2,706) were used for validation. Cox regression models were fitted on the development cohort to predict potency recovery after RARP using as prognostic factors the covariates selected. Two nomograms were drawn using the regression coefficients of the preoperative and postoperative Cox models. RESULTS: The discrimination ability of the preoperative model was evaluated on the development cohort using the receiver operator curves estimated at 3, 6, 12 and 24 months. The AUC at these time points was 0.726, 0.734, 0.754, and 0.778, respectively. The areas under the curve of the postoperative model at 3, 6, 12 and 24 months were 0.746, 0.756 and 0.777, and 0.801, respectively. Preoperative and postoperative predictive models were validated using a separate set of 2,706 patients. The AUCs of the preoperative model at 3, 6, 12 and 24 months were 0.789, 0.772, 0.768, and 0.778, respectively. The ROC curves of the postoperative model at 3, 6, 12 and 24 months with AUCs of 0.807, 0.797, 0.793 and 0.798, respectively. Along with age and preoperative sexual function, nerve-sparing technique determines the potency outcomes justifying better AUC for postoperative model vs the preoperative model. CONCLUSIONS: The above nomograms help us to predict with good accuracy the probability of potency recovery within 3, 6, 12 and 24 months following surgery taking into consideration preoperative and postoperative factors. This is a novel tool for the care giver to predict realistic expectation of potency outcomes to the patients, while preoperative and immediate postoperative counseling.

Trends in clinical and oncological outcomes of robot-assisted radical prostatectomy before and after the 2012 US Preventive Services Task Force recommendation against PSA screening: a decade of experience.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the influence of the 2012 US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommendation against prostate-specific antigen (PSA)-based screening on oncological and functional outcomes following robot-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP). MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively analysed patients who underwent RALP between 2008 and 2018 with a minimum of 12-month follow-up from a prospectively collected institutional review board-approved database. The impact of the USPSTF recommendation against PSA screening on our surgical outcomes was assessed using a logistic regression model using two groups comprising patients treated before/after the USPSTF statement and indicating time trends for each successive year. RESULTS: The mean preoperative PSA increased from 6.0 to 7.4 ng/mL after the USPSTF recommendation. We detected statistically significant time-trend changes after 2012, including an increase in the positive slope of Gleason ≥3 + 4 or ≥pT3 disease. We detected a fall in bilateral full nerve-sparing and an increase in partial nerve-sparing. The total positive surgical margin (PSM) rate increased after the USPSTF recommendation; however, PSM rates pertinent to each pathological stage did not change significantly after 2012. There was a significant negative trend change in the postoperative 12-month continence and potency rates, indicating a breakpoint in functional outcomes after 2012. We detected a 1.7-fold increase in 12-month biochemical recurrence (BCR) rates. The 12-month BCR, potency and continence rates were maintained in young (<55 years) patients with a Sexual Health Inventory for Men score >22 and low-volume disease. CONCLUSION: Since the USPSTF's recommendation in 2012, we have seen a significant increase in the incidence of high-risk disease that has forced us to modify our approach to the procedure and the grade of nerve-sparing used, leading to a wider resection, in order to reduce PSMs. This has led to a decrease in postoperative functional recovery. Patients with favourable characteristics had good outcomes before and after the USPSTF's recommendation, implying that the quality of surgery did not change over time.

A novel tool for predicting extracapsular extension during graded partial nerve sparing in radical prostatectomy.

OBJECTIVES: To create a statistical tool for the estimation of extracapsular extension (ECE) level of prostate cancer and determine the nerve-sparing (NS) approach that can be safely performed during radical prostatectomy (RP). PATIENTS AND METHODS: A total of 11 794 lobes, from 6 360 patients who underwent robot-assisted RP between 2008 and 2016 were evaluated. Clinicopathological features were included in a statistical algorithm for the prediction of the maximum ECE width. Five multivariable logistic models were estimated for: presence of ECE and ECE width of >1, >2, >3, and >4 mm. A five-zone decision rule based on a lower and upper threshold is proposed. Using a graphical interface, surgeons can view patient's pre-treatment characteristics and a curve showing the estimated probabilities for ECE amount together with the areas identified by the decision rule. RESULTS: Of the 6 360 patients, 1 803 (28.4%) were affected by non-organ-confined disease. ECE was present in 1 351 lobes (11.4%) and extended beyond the capsule for >1, >2, >3, and >4 mm in 498 (4.2%), 261 (2.2%), 148 (1.3%), 99 (0.8%) cases, respectively. ECE width was up to 15 mm (interquartile range 1.00-2.00). The five logistic models showed good predictive performance, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was: 0.81 for ECE, and 0.84, 0.85, 0.88, and 0.90 for ECE width of >1, >2, >3, and >4 mm, respectively. CONCLUSION: This novel tool predicts with good accuracy the presence and amount of ECE. Furthermore, the graphical interface available at www.prece.it can support surgeons in patient counselling and preoperative planning.

Posterior musculofascial reconstruction after radical prostatectomy: an updated systematic review and a meta-analysis.

To evaluate the influence of posterior musculofascial plate reconstruction (PR) on early return of continence after radical prostatectomy (RP); an updated systematic review of the literature. A systematic review of the literature was performed in June 2015, following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement and searching Medline, Embase, Scopus and Web of Science databases. We searched the terms posterior reconstruction prostatectomy, double layer anastomosis prostatectomy across the 'Title' and 'Abstract' fields of the records, with the following limits: humans, gender (male), and language (English). The authors reviewed the records to identify studies comparing cohorts of patients who underwent RP with or without restoration of the posterior aspect of the rhabdosphincter. A meta-analysis of the risk ratios estimated using data from the selected studies was performed. In all, 21 studies were identified, including three randomised controlled trials. The overall analysis of comparative studies showed that PR improved early continence recovery at 3-7, 30, and 90 days after catheter removal, while the continence rate at 180 days was statistically but not clinically affected. Statistically significantly lower anastomotic leakage rates were described after PR. There were no significant differences for positive surgical margins rates or for complications such as acute urinary retention and bladder neck stricture. The analysis confirms the benefits at 30 days after catheter removal already discussed in the review published in 2012, but also shows a significant advantage in terms of urinary continence recovery in the first 90 days. A multicentre prospective randomised controlled trial is currently being conducted in several institutions around the world to better assess the effectiveness of PR in facilitating an earlier recovery of postoperative urinary continence.

Continence outcomes of robot-assisted radical prostatectomy in patients with adverse urinary continence risk factors.

OBJECTIVE: To analyse the continence outcomes of robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) in suboptimal patients that have challenging continence recovery factors such as enlarged prostates, elderly patients, higher body mass index (BMI), salvage prostatectomy, and bladder neck procedures before RARP. PATIENTS AND METHODS: From January 2008 through November 2012, 4,023 patients underwent RARP by a single surgeon at our institution. Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data identified 3,362 men who had minimum of 1-year follow-up. This cohort of patients was stratified into six groups: Group I, aged ≥70 years (451 patients); Group II, BMI ≥35 kg/m(2) (197); Group III, prior bladder neck procedures (103); Group IV, prostate weight ≥80 g (280); and Group V, salvage prostatectomy (41). Group VI consisted of patients (2 447) with none of these risk factors. Continence outcomes at follow-up were analysed for all groups. RESULTS: The continence rate at 1 year and mean (sd) time to continence in different groups were: for patients aged ≥70 years, 85.6% and 3.2 (4.5) months; BMI of ≥35 kg/m(2) , 87.8% and 3.1 (4.5) months; prior bladder neck treatment, 82.4% and 3.4 (4.7) months; prostate weight of ≥80 g, 85.8% and 3.3 (4.4) months; salvage procedures, 51.3% and 6.6 (8.3) months; and in Group VI (none of the risk factors), 95.1% and 2.4 (3.2) months. The continence rate was significantly higher in group VI compared with the salvage group (group V) at the different follow-up intervals (P < 0.001). When compared with the other groups (I-IV), the continence rate, although higher, was not statistically significant at the different intervals in group VI (no risk). The mean time to continence was significantly lower in group VI compared with the other groups (I-V; P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: This study has shown that selected risk factors adversely affect the time to return of continence after RARP, yet aside from salvage patients, there was no statistically significant difference demonstrated between the adverse-risk groups included. Patients undergoing salvage RP had significantly lower continence rates at the various intervals compared with the other groups. Patients with the risk factors identified should be counselled concerning expectations for achieving urinary continence.

Does surgeon subjective nerve sparing score predict recovery time of erectile function following robot-assisted radical prostatectomy?

INTRODUCTION: During robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP), the quality of nerve sparing (NS) was usually classified by laterality of NS (none, unilateral, and bilateral) or degree of NS (none, partial, and full). Recently, side-specific NS have been more frequently performed, but previous NS grading system might not reflect the differential NS in each side. AIM: Herein, we assessed whether a subjective NS score (NSS) incorporating both degree of NS and NS laterality can predict the time to potency recovery following RARP. METHODS: Data were analyzed from 1,898 patients who had left and right neurovascular bundle sparing quality scores and at least one year of follow-up after RARP was performed between January 2008 and October 2011. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Cox proportional hazard method analyses were used to determine predictive factors for early recovery. Multivariate linear regression models were used to assess subjective NSS in an effort to predict time to potency recovery. Subjective NSSs were compared to a model based on the three grades according to laterality and degree. RESULTS: Time to potency recovery showed a statistically significant difference in favor of higher NSS by the Cox proportional hazard regression analysis (NSS 0 vs. NSS 5-6, 7-8, and 9-10; P < 0.01). The regression model indicated that the statistical significance of the subjective NSS covering the differential NS is not different from that of the conventional three-grade scales, while it has a higher R(2). The regression equation with subjective NSS was as follows: Log (Time) = 5.163 - (0.035 × SHIM Score) + 0.028 Age - (0.101 × Subjective NSS). CONCLUSION: The subjective NSS can reflect NS degree for each side based on the visual cues. Regression model can be used to help inform the patient about the time to postoperative potency regain, which is an important patient concern following RARP.

Current status of robotic simulators in acquisition of robotic surgical skills.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This article provides an overview of the current status of simulator systems in robotic surgery training curriculum, focusing on available simulators for training, their comparison, new technologies introduced in simulation focusing on concepts of training along with existing challenges and future perspectives of simulator training in robotic surgery. RECENT FINDINGS: The different virtual reality simulators available in the market like dVSS, dVT, RoSS, ProMIS and SEP have shown face, content and construct validity in robotic skills training for novices outside the operating room. Recently, augmented reality simulators like HoST, Maestro AR and RobotiX Mentor have been introduced in robotic training providing a more realistic operating environment, emphasizing more on procedure-specific robotic training . Further, the Xperience Team Trainer, which provides training to console surgeon and bed-side assistant simultaneously, has been recently introduced to emphasize the importance of teamwork and proper coordination. SUMMARY: Simulator training holds an important place in current robotic training curriculum of future robotic surgeons. There is a need for more procedure-specific augmented reality simulator training, utilizing advancements in computing and graphical capabilities for new innovations in simulator technology. Further studies are required to establish its cost-benefit ratio along with concurrent and predictive validity.

Elbow hemiarthroplasty using a "triceps-on" approach for the management of acute distal humeral fractures.

BACKGROUND: Total elbow arthroplasty is an established option for the primary treatment of acute distal humeral fractures, but there are sparse data regarding elbow hemiarthroplasty (EHA) as an alternative. We present the outcome of EHA performed with a modular anatomic prosthesis and a "triceps-on" surgical technique. METHODS: Eighteen consecutive patients underwent EHA for an acute fracture. Two patients died, leaving a study group of 16 patients with minimum 2-year follow-up. Clinical evaluation included range of motion; Mayo Elbow Performance Score; Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score; and Oxford Elbow Score. Radiographic assessment looked at alignment, evidence of loosening, ulnar and radial head wear, heterotopic ossification, and whether healing of the condyles had occurred. RESULTS: Mean follow-up was 35 months (24-79 months). The mean scores were as follows: Mayo Elbow Performance Score, 89.6; shortened Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score, 11.2; and Oxford Elbow Score, 43.7. The mean flexion and pronation-supination arcs were 116° and 172° respectively. Radial head wear was absent in 13 patients and mild in 3. Ulnar wear was absent in 6 patients, mild in 8, and moderate in 2. Wear was not associated with greater pain or inferior functional scores. There was no sign of aseptic loosening, and complete condylar bone union occurred in 15 elbows. There was 1 complication, a transient ulnar nerve neurapraxia that resolved without intervention. CONCLUSION: EHA with a modular anatomic implant using a triceps-on approach is a reliable technique for the management of acute unreconstructible distal humeral fractures in older patients.

Isolation, development and identification of salt-tolerant bacterial consortium from crude-oil-contaminated soil for degradation of di-azo dye Reactive Blue 220.

The objective of this study was development and characterization of a halophilic bacterial consortium for rapid decolorization and degradation of a wide range of dyes and their mixtures. The 16S rRNA gene analysis of developed halophilic consortium VN.1 showed that the bacterial consortium contained six bacterial strains, which were identified as Pseudomonas fluorescens HM480360, Enterobacter aerogenes HM480361, Shewanella sp. HM589853, Arthrobacter nicotianae HM480363, Bacillus beijingensis HM480362 and Pseudomonas aeruginosa JQ659549. Halophilic consortium VN.1 was able to decolorize up to 2,500 mg/L RB220 with >85% chemical oxygen demand (COD) reduction under static condition at 30 °C and pH 8.0 in the presence of 7% NaCl. VN.1 also exhibited more than 85% COD reduction with >25 mg/(L h) rate of decolorization in the case of different reactive dye mixtures. We propose the symmetric cleavage of RB220 using Fourier transform infrared, high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), nuclear magnetic resonance and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis, and confirmed the formation of sodium-4-aminobenzenesulfonate, sodium-6-aminonepthalenesulfonate, and sodiumbenzene/nepthalenesulfonate. Toxicity studies confirm that the biodegraded products of RB220 effluent stimulate the growth of plants as well as the bacterial community responsible for soil fertility.

Bio-optic characterization of Discosphaera tubifer bloom occurs in an overcrowded fishing harbour at Veraval, India.

Discosphaera tubifer, a coccolithophore has been first time reported as a bloom-forming organism from an over-crowded fishing harbour at Veraval, west coast of India. Physiochemical and optical parameters were measured following standard protocols. Average concentration of inorganic nutrients, such as NO2-N (17.26 ± 2.92 µM), NO3-N (643.80 ± 215.99 µM), PO4-P (74.10 ± 26.52 µM) and SiO3-Si (137.66 ± 25.83 µM) were recorded as very high at Veraval port as compared to other coastal stations i.e., 1.48 ± 0.66, 49.16 ± 13.73, 10.03 ± 5.31 and 96.23 ± 22.74 µM, respectively. The pH and salinity (‰) were observed to be low (7.80 ± 0.15 and 28.00 ± 4.54 ‰) as compared to coastal seawaters (8.34 ± 0.06 and 33.24 ± 2.32 ‰). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and spectral signature (absorbance and reflectance) study revealed that the bloom-forming organism was D. tubifer. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) study detected that chlorophyllide-a represent nearly 47.53 % of total pigment composition followed by chlorophyll c2 (27.40 %) and chlorophyll c3 (14.25 %). Four prominent absorption peaks were observed within 350 to 700 nm. The first peak was very wide and ranged from 350 to 530 nm and the rest of the three peaks ranged from 550 to 590, 590 to 650 and 650 to 690 nm, respectively. In case of reflection, three peaks appeared between 550 and 590, 590 and 630 and 630 and 670 nm. Nearly 100 % reflection was observed after 720 nm. The eutrophic condition of the port water along with low salinity and low pH might be the reason for D. tubifer bloom formation. This species-specific spectral signature of the D. tubifer bloom may be helpful for developing algorithm of remote sensing data analysis.

Handling difficult anastomosis. Tips and tricks in obese patients and narrow pelvis.

Vesico-urethral anastomosis (VUA) is a technically challenging step in robotic-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP) in obese individuals. We describe technical modifications to facilitate VUA encountered in obese individuals and in patients with a narrow pelvis. A Pubmed literature search was performed between 2000 and 2012 to review all articles related to RALP, obesity and VUA for evaluation of technique, complications and outcomes of VUA in obese individuals. In addition to the technical modifications described in the literature, we describe our own experience to encounter the technical challenges induced by obesity and narrow pelvis. In obese patients, technical modifications like use of air seal trocar technology, steep Trendlenburg positioning, bariatric trocars, alterations in trocar placement, barbed suture and use of modified posterior reconstruction facilitate VUA in robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy. The dexterity of the robot and the technical modifications help to perform the VUA in challenging patients with lesser difficulty. The experience of the surgeon is a critical factor in outcomes in these technically challenging patients, and obese individuals are best avoided during the initial phase of the learning curve.

Proposal of a method to assess and report the extent of residual neurovascular tissue present in radical prostatectomy specimens.

OBJECTIVE: To propose a method to assess and report the amount of neurovascular tissue present in radical prostatectomy (RP) specimens. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The data of 133 consecutive patients who underwent robot-assisted RP by a single surgeon (V.R.P.) were prospectively collected. Degree of nerve sparing (NS) was graded intraoperatively by the surgeon independently at either side as complete, partial or none. A pathologist who was 'blinded' to the surgeon's classification measured the following parameters at the posterolateral aspect of the apex, base and mid prostate at either side of the RP specimen: length, width and area of neural tissue, number of nerves per high-power field and number of total slides containing neural tissue. Measurements were correlated to the surgeon's intraoperative perception. RESULTS: All measurements correlated significantly with surgeon's intent of NS at all locations (P = 0.001). Among them, the cross-sectional area had the highest correlation coefficient (-0.550 at apex, -0.604 at mid prostate and -0.606 at the base). CONCLUSIONS: The cross-sectional area of nerve tissue showed the highest correlation with surgeon's intent of NS at all locations. Having a standardised method of assessing and reporting residual nerve tissue allows the surgeon to objectively evaluate the quality of nerve preservation and to compare the progress of his NS technique over time.

Outcomes of salvage robot-assisted radical prostatectomy in patients who had primary focal versus whole-gland ablation: a multicentric study.

In the present study, we present comparative outcomes of radical prostatectomy after whole-gland therapy (wg-SRARP) and focal gland therapy (f-SRARP). The study assessed 339 patients who underwent salvage robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (SRARP); 145 patients who had primary focal therapy and 194 patients who had primary whole-gland treatment. SRARP was performed in all cases using a standardized technique developed at respective institutes with the da Vinci Xi Surgical System. Our primary endpoint was the comparison of the functional and oncological outcomes between the groups. Cox proportional hazard was used to study the functional and oncological outcomes. The median total operative time for f-SRARP was 18 min higher than wg-RARP (p < 0.001). Higher rates of nerve-sparing were performed in f-SRARP (focal vs whole gland; bilateral-15.2% vs 9.3%; unilateral 49% vs 28.4%; p < 0.001). wg-SRARP had higher rates of ISUP 5 (26.3% vs 19.3%; p < 0.001) and deferred ISUP score due to altered pathology (14.8% vs 0.7; p < 0.001), while f-SRARP had higher rates of ISUP 4 (11.7% vs 10.7%; p < 0.001) and ≥ pT3a (64.8% vs 51.6%; p < 0.001). Positive margins were significantly higher with f-SRARP (26.2% vs 10.3%; p < 0.001). Functional outcomes were poor in both the groups. However, postoperative continence was higher and faster in patients who had f-SRARP compared to wg-SRARP (69% vs. 54.6%; p = 0.013). We could not identify statistically significant difference in postoperative potency recovery and biochemical recurrence. We present the largest multi-institutional analyses of f-SRARP and wg-SRARP. SRARP is challenging wherein patients have adverse pathological features and increased surgical complexity irrespective of the primary treatment. Focal therapy group had higher rates of nerve-sparing, however, with increased positive surgical margins. Both groups had poor functional outcomes regardless of nerve-sparing degree, indicating significant ipsilateral and contralateral damage to tissues surrounding the prostate during primary treatment. We believe that this analysis is crucial for counseling patients regarding expected outcomes before performing a salvage treatment following ablative therapy failure.

Factors affecting return of continence 3 months after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy: analysis from a large, prospective data by a single surgeon.

PURPOSE: In this study we identified preoperative or intraoperative factors responsible for the early return of continence after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy using data from a high volume center. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Data from 1,299 patients who underwent robot-assisted radical prostatectomy performed by a single surgeon from January 2008 to June 2010 were collected prospectively and analyzed retrospectively. Patients were categorized according to whether they regained continence (no pad and no urinary leakage) within 3 months and variables were then compared. A self-administered validated questionnaire (Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite) was used for assessment of continence status and time to recovery. RESULTS: Within 3 months after surgery 86.3% of patients (1,121/1,299) had recovered continence. Multivariable Cox regression analysis revealed that only age (p <0.001, hazard ratio 0.98, 95% CI 0.97-0.99) and performance of a nerve sparing procedure were independent predictors. After adjusting for age, the hazard ratio was 1.61 (95% CI 1.25-2.07, p <0.001) for partial nerve sparing and 1.44 (1.13-1.83, p = 0.003) for bilateral nerve sparing compared to the nonnerve sparing group. Median time (95% CI) to the recovery of continence was prolonged in the nonnerve sparing group compared to nerve sparing counterparts at 6 (5.12-6.88), 4 (3.60-4.40) and 5 weeks (4.70-5.30) in the nonnerve sparing, partial nerve sparing and bilateral nerve sparing groups, respectively, with log rank p <0.01. CONCLUSIONS: Findings from our analysis indicate that the likelihood of postoperative urinary control was significantly higher in younger patients and when a nerve sparing procedure was performed.

Modified technique of robotic-assisted simple prostatectomy: advantages of a vesico-urethral anastomosis.

OBJECTIVES: To describe a technical modification during robotic-assisted simple prostatectomy (RASP) aiming to decrease perioperative blood loss, shorten the length of hospital stay and eliminate the need of postoperative continuous bladder irrigation. To describe perioperative outcomes, pathological findings and functional outcomes of our single-surgeon series using this technique. METHODS: We analysed six consecutive patients who underwent RASP using our technical modification between February and September 2010. Transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS) guided prostate biopsy was performed in all cases and revealed benign prostatic hyperplasia in two cases and benign prostatic hyperplasia plus chronic prostatitis in four cases. The mean estimated prostate volume in the TRUS was 157 ± 74 (range 90-300) mL and the average preoperative International Prostate Symptom score was 19.8 ± 9.6 (10-32). Two patients were in urinary retention before surgery. Our technique of RASP includes the standard operative steps reported during open and laparoscopic simple prostatectomy; however, with the addition of some technical modifications during the reconstructive part of the procedure. Following the resection of the adenoma, instead of performing the classical 'trigonization' of the bladder neck and closure of the prostatic capsule, we propose three modified surgical steps: plication of the posterior prostatic capsule, a modified van Velthoven continuous vesico-urethral anastomosis and, finally, suture of the anterior prostatic capsule to the anterior bladder wall. RESULTS: The patients' average age was 69 ± 4.9 (63-74) years; the mean estimated blood loss was 208 ± 66 (100-300) mL and the mean operative time was 90 ± 17.6 (75-120) min. All patients were discharged on postoperative day 1 without the need of continuous bladder irrigation at any time after RASP. No blood transfusion or perioperative complications were reported. The mean weight of the surgical specimen was 145 ± 41.6 (84-186) g. Histopathological evaluation revealed benign prostatic hyperplasia plus chronic prostatitis in five patients and prostatic adenocarcinoma (Gleason score 3+3, pT1a) with negative surgical margins in one patient. The mean serum prostate-specific antigen level decreased from 7 ± 2.5 (4.2-11) ng/mL preoperatively to 1.05 ± 0.8 (0.2-2.5) after RASP. Significant improvement from baseline was reported in the average International Prostate Symptom score (average preoperative vs postoperative, 19.8 ± 9.6 vs 5.5 ± 2.5, P= 0.01) and in mean maximum urine flow (average preoperative vs postoperative 7.75 ± 3.3 vs 19 ± 4.5 mL/s, P= 0.019) at 2 months after RASP. All patients were continent (defined as the use of no pads) at 2 months after RASP. CONCLUSIONS: Our modified technique of RASP is a safe and feasible option for treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms caused by large prostatic adenomas. Potential advantages of our technique include reduced blood loss, lower blood transfusion rates and shorter length of hospital stay with no need of postoperative continuous bladder irrigation. Larger series with longer follow-up are necessary to determine long-term outcomes in comparison to open simple prostatectomy or to the standard technique of RASP.

Current status of salvage robot-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy for radiorecurrent prostate cancer.

Radiation therapy (RT) is one of the treatment options for prostate cancer (PCa). Transperineal low-dose rate brachytherapy (BT) is another safe and effective technique for low-risk PCa. Recurrence after RT for localized PCa can be defined by a PSA value of 2 ng/mL above the nadir after RT, and biochemical recurrence (BCR) rate after RT is 40-60 %. In case of radiorecurrent PCa, treatment options include salvage radical prostatectomy (RP), cryotherapy, high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), and salvage BT. Only salvage RP has cancer control results for over 10-year follow-up in a substantial portion of patients (30-40 %). However, salvage RP is technically demanding, and experienced surgeons are needed; in fact, RT-induced cystitis, fibrosis, and tissue plane obliteration can lead to significant complications, such as rectal injuries, anastomotic stricture, and urinary incontinence. This review describes indications, oncologic and functional outcomes, surgical techniques, and complications of salvage robot-assisted RP.

Functional outcomes and complications following convertible primary total elbow arthroplasty: A single surgeon series.

Background: The data on convertible total elbow arthroplasty are limited and primarily based on multiple centre/multiple surgeon series. The aim of this study was to report the mid-term functional outcomes, radiological findings, complications and survivorship of the Latitude total elbow arthroplasty performed by a single surgeon. Study design & methods: The study included 13 patients (10 females, mean age of 72 years and varying indications) over eight years. The Oxford Elbow Score (OES), Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS), range of movements (ROM), Subjective Elbow Value (SEV), satisfaction score (SS) and the revision rate of the implant per 100 observed component years (OCY) were assessed. Results: The mean follow-up was 5.9 years (3-10 years). The Oxford Elbow Score/Mayo Elbow Performance Score improved from 15 to 42 (p value < 0.005)/26% to 93% (p value < 0.005) respectively. The arc of extension-flexion/supination-pronation improved from 63° to 106° (p = 0.00002)/123° to 142° (p = 0.32) respectively. The Subjective Elbow Value/Satisfaction Score was 83/98 respectively. There was one re-operation for a deep infection. There were no radiologic signs of loosening and the revision rate was 0.15 per 100 observed component years. Conclusions: With careful patient selection, convertible total elbow arthroplasty provides patients with good to excellent outcomes and substantial improvements in the range of movements.

Outcomes of Salvage Robot-assisted Radical Prostatectomy After Focal Ablation for Prostate Cancer in Comparison to Primary Robot-assisted Radical Prostatectomy: A Matched Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Focal therapy (FT) for prostate cancer is less invasive than radical treatment but carries a risk of recurrence. Salvage robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (S-RARP) is a possible option after FT failure. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the impact of FT on functional and oncological outcomes following S-RARP. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: In a retrospective analysis of data from a prospectively collected institutional database, 53 patients who underwent S-RARP following failure of focal ablation were selected as group I; patients who had whole-gland ablation and external beam therapy were excluded. This group was matched to a control sample (matched at ratios of 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4) of men who had undergone primary RARP, using age, prostate-specific antigen (PSA), PSA density, body mass index, Sexual Health Inventory for Men score, American Urological Association symptom score, Charlson comorbidity index, prostate weight, preoperative Gleason score (GS), and history of smoking as variables. SURGICAL PROCEDURE: S-RARP after FT was performed using a standardized technique developed at our institute with the da Vinci Xi Surgical System. MEASUREMENTS: Oncological and functional outcomes were compared between the S-RARP and primary RARP groups. RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS: There was no difference in estimated blood loss (p = 0.8) between the 1:1 matched groups, but operating room time was significantly longer for S-RARP (p = 0.007). The primary RARP group had a higher proportion of patients who underwent a full nerve-sparing procedure. The S-RARP group had higher incidence of positive surgical margins (40% vs 15%; p = 0.008), GS ≥8 (25% vs 15%; p = 0.07), and positive lymph node status (9.4% vs 5.7%; p = 0.02). There was no significant difference in overall complications between the groups. The primary RARP group had a higher incidence of lymphocele drainage after surgery (15% vs 0%; p = 0.006). The main limitation of the study is its retrospective design. CONCLUSIONS: S-RALP after FT failure is feasible; however, surgery following FT leads to poorer oncological and functional outcomes. Despite the targeted nature of FT, significant nonfocal collateral damage is evident in tissues surrounding the prostate, which in turn translates to poorer functional outcomes after S-RARP. PATIENT SUMMARY: We studied the surgical challenges during robot-assisted removal of the prostate after previous focal treatment (FT) for prostate cancer and compared the outcomes to those for robot-assisted prostate removal in patients who had no previous FT. We found that this technique is safe and effective with a limited risk of complications, but poor urinary and sexual functional outcomes.

Modified apical dissection improves early continence in robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy: Comparative study between modified apical dissection and anterior suspension stitch.

PURPOSE: Recently, the modified apical dissection (MAD) technique in robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RARP) has shown excellent functional outcomes but has never been rigorously validated at various institutions. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of MAD on early continence and potency compared with the anterior suspension stitch (SS) technique. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 100 patients who underwent RARP with SS and 100 who underwent RARP with MAD by a single surgeon were propensity score matched and retrospectively compared for continence and potency recovery at 1 week and 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. RESULTS: Continence was reached in 20.6%, 33.3%, 67.2%, 74.1%, 81.1%, and 83.0% of patients in the SS group, compared with 49.2%, 73.3%, 86.8%, 96.6%, 100.0%, and 100.0% in the MAD group at postoperative 1 week and 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months, respectively. In the SS group, potency rates were 0.0%, 20.0%, 50.0%, 66.7%, 75.0%, and 83.3%; in the MAD group, the rates were 50.0%, 90.0%, 88.9%, 100.0%, 100.0%, and 100.0%. Recovery of continence was higher in the MAD group within the first 6 months (p=0.005, <0.010, 0.041, 0.016 at 1 week, 1, 3, and 6 months). There were no significant differences in potency recovery rates between the two groups (all p≥0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The MAD technique results in earlier recovery of continence compared with the SS technique.