In a nutshell
This study aimed to evaluate two less invasive surgeries in the treatment of localized prostate cancer (PCa). This study found that there was no difference in urinary symptoms 12 months after the two methods.
Some background
Prostate surgery is a treatment option for prostate cancer (PCa). This surgery can be carried out by classic methods (open surgery) or by using special tools, called robotic-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP). Radical perineal prostatectomy (RPP) is another less invasive option. It involves a small cut in the perineum (the area under the scrotum and before the anus).
It is thought that these less invasive surgeries can help with side-effects as smaller cuts can be made during surgery. It is unclear if RALP or RPP is better in terms of urinary outcomes.
Methods & findings
This study included 558 men who had their prostates removed. 458 had RALP and 100 had RPP. Questionnaires were used to determine urinary symptoms at baseline and at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months after surgery.
Overall urinary recovery was greater for RALP than RPP at 6 months. Urinary incontinence (involuntary leakage of urine) was also better after RALP compared to RPP at 6 months. However, no differences in urinary incontinence or urinary function scores were seen at 12, 18, or 24 months between the two surgeries.
The bottom line
This study found that RALP leads to faster urinary function recovery at 6 months, but there are no differences in urinary symptoms 12 months after surgery between RALP and RPP.
The fine print
A higher number of patients undergoing RALP than RPP had pelvic lymph node removal. This could indicate a more advanced cancer. Also, the two groups had a different number of participants. This might affect the results.
What’s next?
If you have concerns about PCa treatment, please consult with your doctor.
Published By :
International urology and nephrology
Date :
Oct 16, 2018
