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Updated: May 23, 2026

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Retzius-Sparing Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy
Published on: May 19, 2022
Robotic transrectal ultrasonography during robot-assisted radical prostatectomy
Andrew J Hung1, André Luís De Castro Abreu, Sunao Shoji
1USC Institute of Urology, Center for Image-Guided Surgery, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA.
European Urology
|April 24, 2012
Summary
Robotically manipulated transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) provides real-time guidance during robot-assisted prostatectomy (RAP), enhancing surgical precision. This technology is safe and feasible, improving outcomes for prostate cancer patients.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Surgical Technology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Robot-assisted prostatectomy (RAP) is a standard treatment for prostate cancer.
- Real-time intraoperative imaging can potentially improve surgical precision and outcomes.
- Transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) offers detailed visualization of prostate anatomy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility and safety of robotically manipulated transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) for real-time intraoperative guidance during robot-assisted prostatectomy (RAP).
Main Methods:
- Ten patients undergoing RAP for prostate cancer were assessed using a robotically manipulated TRUS device (ViKY System).
- Preoperative and intraoperative biplanar TRUS evaluations were performed.
- Real-time findings were relayed to the robotic surgeon during critical dissection steps.
Main Results:
- Robotic TRUS evaluation was successful in all patients.
- Fifty percent of patients had TRUS-visible hypoechoic lesions confirmed as cancerous.
- Real-time TRUS findings were particularly useful during bladder neck and apical dissection, neurovascular bundle preservation, and assessment of prostate lesions.
- Ninety percent of patients achieved negative margins, even with lesions near the capsule.
Conclusions:
- Real-time robotic TRUS guidance is feasible and safe during RAP.
- This technology provides valuable anatomic information to the surgeon.
- Robotic TRUS can enhance functional preservation and oncologic success in prostate cancer surgery.
