A Review of the Robotic Radical Prostatectomy Outcomes

ABSTRACT Robotic radical prostatectomy was first performed in 2000. The superior range of movement as well as better ergonomics were clear advantages of this technology. This technology and its cost can however only be justified, if it has clear data confirming its equivalence or preferably superiority in management. Open radical retropubic prostatectomy has previously been the gold standard for oncological outcomes in organ confined prostate cancer. Follow-up data showed good 5-year cancer free survival and mortality and Walsh's technique contributed significantly to improvement of quality of life issues, such as sexual function. In spite of improved survival rates with other less invasive modalities, such as brachytherapy and intensity-modulated radiotherapy, the radical prostatectomy is still a popular treatment choice as there is long-term data to support evidence of durable cancer control. The recovery and cost of the open procedure has often been a disadvantage. Minimal access surgery was able to overcome these issues with good surgical outcomes. Robotic surgery may well be the next step in surgical and technological revolution and has the possibility of making minimally invasive surgery accessible to surgeons with less laparoscopic experience. This review will attempt to assess the outcomes of robotic surgery to determine if it is indeed a feasible option for the treatment of organ confined prostate cancer, by assessing the surgical outcomes. How to cite this article Maharajh S. A Review of the Robotic Radical Prostatectomy Outcomes. World J Laparosc Surg 2013;6(2):69-73.