Robot‐Assisted Radical Prostatectomy

Abstract

With the introduction of the da Vinci® Surgical System we are witnessing a paradigm shift from open to robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RARP) as the procedure of choice at many centers worldwide. When compared to the open approach, early studies indicate that RARP has comparable outcomes in short-term oncologic control, potency, and continence. However, RARP is still in its infancy compared to open radical prostatectomy. Indeed, current results of experienced uro-oncologists with open radical prostatectomy have set high standards in oncologic and functional outcomes. This chapter describes the important steps of RARP, and some of the technical nuances and modifications that have been described to improve oncologic and functional outcomes, and discusses the importance of the surgical learning curve and self-assessment of outcomes.