Magnet-Assisted Robotic Prostatectomy Using the da Vinci SP Robot: An Initial Case Series

Area of Science:

• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Robotic Surgery
• Urologic Oncology

Background:

• Traditional minimally invasive surgery relies on patient positioning or extra instruments for tissue retraction.
• The Levita™ Magnetic Surgical System offers a noninvasive magnetic retraction solution.
• Previous use demonstrated feasibility in multiport robotic prostatectomy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report the initial multi-institutional case series of magnet-assisted robotic prostatectomy using the da Vinci SP single-port robotic platform.
• To evaluate the feasibility, safety, and effectiveness of this combined approach.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective chart review of 15 patients undergoing robot-assisted radical prostatectomy for prostate cancer.
• Utilized the da Vinci SP surgical system with a single Levita magnetic retractor.
• Collected and analyzed preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative data.

Main Results:

• The procedure was feasible and safe in all 15 patients, with no conversions to multiport, laparoscopy, or open surgery.
• No intraoperative or postoperative complications were reported.
• Average operative time was 224 minutes, with an average blood loss of 198 mL. Patients were discharged within 2 days.

Conclusions:

• Robotic prostatectomy with the da Vinci SP system and magnetic retraction is feasible, safe, and effective.
• The magnetic retractor enhances tissue exposure and surgical ergonomics, replicating multiport techniques.
• Further research is warranted to explore magnetic retractor use in robotic surgery and optimize single-port techniques.