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Published on: May 19, 2022
Impact of Robotic Fellowship Experience on Perioperative Outcomes of Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Partial
Michael A Moriarty1, Kenneth G Nepple1, Chad R Tracy1
1Department of Urology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA.
Background:
We analyzed differences in patient selection and perioperative outcomes between robotic-fellowship trained and non-fellowship trained surgeons in their initial experience with robotic-assisted laparoscopic partial nephrectomy.
Methods:
Data through surgeon case 10 was analyzed. Forty patients were identified from two fellowship trained surgeons (n = 20) and two non-fellowship trained surgeons (n = 20).
Results:
Fellowship trained surgeons performed surgery on masses of higher nephrometry score (8.0 vs. 6.0, p = 0.007) and more posterior location (60 vs. 25%, p = 0.03). Retroperitoneal approach was more common (50 vs. 0%, p = 0.0003). Fellowship trained surgeons trended toward shorter warm ischemia time (25.5 vs. 31.0 min, p = 0.08). There was no significant difference in perioperative complications (35 vs. 35%, p = 0.45) or final positive margin rates (0 vs. 15%, p = 0.23).
Conclusion:
Fellowship experience may allow for treating more challenging and posterior tumors in initial practice and significantly more comfort performing retroperitoneal robotic-assisted laparoscopic partial nephrectomy.
