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Retzius-Sparing Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy
Published on: May 19, 2022
Robot-assisted radical prostatectomy in men aged > or =70 years
Kristin A Greco1, Joshua J Meeks, Simon Wu
1Department of Urology, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.
BJU International
|July 9, 2009
Summary
Robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) outcomes in elderly men with prostate cancer are comparable to younger men. Age is not a contraindication, though recovery may be slightly longer.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Oncology
- Geriatric Surgery
Background:
- The aging population is increasing the number of elderly men diagnosed with localized prostate cancer.
- Many elderly men with prostate cancer seek surgical treatment options.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the outcomes of robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) in elderly men (>=70 years) compared to younger men (<70 years).
Main Methods:
- Prospective data collection from 203 men undergoing RARP between 2005-2008.
- Patients were stratified into two age groups: >=70 years and <70 years.
- Comparison of baseline characteristics, surgical outcomes, and recovery metrics between the age groups.
Main Results:
- Older men (>=70 years) had a higher pathological Gleason grade.
- No significant differences in surgical complications were observed between age groups.
- Continence rates were transiently lower in older men at 6 months but normalized by 12 months.
- Older patients experienced a longer delay in returning to driving post-surgery.
Conclusions:
- Robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) outcomes in elderly men are largely comparable to younger counterparts.
- Higher pathological Gleason grade and transient continence delays are noted in older men.
- Advanced age should not preclude RARP for localized prostate cancer; preoperative expectation management is crucial.
