Image guidance in robot-assisted radical prostatectomy: how far do we stand?
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Updated: Feb 1, 2026

Retzius-Sparing Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy
Published on: May 19, 2022
Alberto Martini1,2, Vinayak G Wagaskar1, Paolo Dell'Oglio2
1Department of Urology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, New York, USA.
Purpose Of Review:
Over the past decades, several efforts have been made for integrating multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) in the diagnostic pathways of prostate cancer. Despite this fact, the role of mpMRI in planning surgery has been explored in a relatively small number of studies. The aim of this review is to summarize the current evidence with respect to imaging and specifically mpMRI in planning robot-assisted radical prostatectomy.
Recent Findings:
Novel tools integrating mpMRI and clinical data have been described for planning surgery. mpMRI results in adds value to models based on clinical parameters only. Three-dimensional printed models of the prostate and prostatic tumor may help in planning surgery, however only few studies with limited number of patients are currently available in this regard. Finally, the integration of mpMRI renderings in the robotic console may help in surgical planning and might increase the diffusion of imaging for planning (and performing) surgery.
Summary:
Imaging in planning surgery is still underutilized. Thus, further studies are needed to increase the use of mpMRI in planning surgery and also in performing surgery.
Insights
Multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) shows promise for planning robot-assisted radical prostatectomy, integrating with clinical data and robotic consoles. Further research is needed to increase its utilization in surgical planning and performance.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Radiology
- Surgical Oncology
Background:
- Multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) has been increasingly integrated into prostate cancer diagnostics.
- However, its application in surgical planning, particularly for robot-assisted radical prostatectomy, remains less explored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current evidence on the use of imaging, specifically mpMRI, in planning robot-assisted radical prostatectomy.
- To summarize novel tools and techniques for integrating mpMRI into surgical planning workflows.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating mpMRI for surgical planning in prostate cancer.
- Analysis of novel tools, including 3D models and robotic console integration.
Main Results:
- Novel tools integrating mpMRI and clinical data enhance surgical planning models.
- 3D printed models and mpMRI renderings in robotic consoles show potential but require further validation.
- mpMRI adds value beyond clinical parameters alone for surgical planning.
Conclusions:
- Imaging, especially mpMRI, is currently underutilized in surgical planning for prostate cancer.
- Further studies are essential to validate and promote the use of mpMRI in both planning and performing robot-assisted radical prostatectomy.
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