Open versus laparoscopic radical prostatectomy

Expert laparoscopic surgeons have demonstrated that laparoscopic radical prostatectomy with or without robotic assistance can be performed with excellent results. There is no evidence that laparoscopic radical prostatectomy with or without robotic assistance offers any clinically relevant advantage over open radical prostatectomy. Laparoscopic radical prostatectomy with or without robotic assistance requires a significant learning curve, is a longer surgical procedure, carries greater costs, and requires an expanded operating room team. The literature suggests that laparoscopic radical prostatectomy is associated with more intraoperative complications and higher positive surgical margins. The lesser amount of postoperative bleeding associated with laparoscopic radical prostatectomy is not clinically relevant. Laparoscopic radical prostatectomy is not associated with less pain and does not facilitate earlier urinary catheter removal. The best way to improve overall outcomes after radical prostatectomy is to direct patients to expert open or laparoscopic surgeons.