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Retzius-Sparing Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy
Published on: May 19, 2022
Changes in penile length after robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy
Jason D Engel1, Douglas E Sutherland, Stephen B Williams
1Department of Urology, George Washington University Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia, USA. jengel1@dcurology.net
Journal of Endourology
|December 1, 2010
Summary
Robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RALRP) for prostate cancer may cause temporary penile shrinkage. Penile length typically returns to preoperative measurements by 9 months after surgery.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Oncology
- Mens Health
Background:
- Radical prostatectomy is a common treatment for prostate cancer.
- Previous studies indicate penile size reduction after open surgery.
- Robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RALRP) is an alternative surgical approach.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate changes in penile length after RALRP.
- To compare postoperative penile length to preoperative measurements.
Main Methods:
- A subset of men undergoing RALRP had stretched penile length (SPL) measured.
- Measurements were taken pre-surgery and at multiple intervals up to 11 months.
- Patients received either intraurethral alprostadil or oral sildenafil post-surgery.
Main Results:
- Mean SPL decreased significantly at 1 month post-RALRP (11.77 cm to 11.13 cm).
- A trend toward SPL recovery was observed at 3 and 6 months.
- Mean SPL was not significantly different from baseline by 9, 10, and 11 months.
Conclusions:
- RALRP can lead to a short-term decrease in penile length.
- Penile length generally recovers to preoperative levels within 9 months after RALRP.
- This finding is important for patient counseling regarding sexual function after prostate cancer surgery.
