[Nerve-sparing robot-assisted laparoscopic radical cystectomy: Clinical application and effect]

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Oncology
• Robotic Surgery

Background:

• Radical cystectomy is a standard treatment for invasive bladder cancer.
• Preserving sexual function after radical cystectomy is a significant concern for patients.
• Nerve-sparing techniques aim to minimize damage to neurovascular bundles during surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the clinical feasibility and outcomes of nerve-sparing robot-assisted laparoscopic radical cystectomy (NSRA-LSRC).
• To assess the impact of NSRA-LSRC on postoperative sexual function.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 12 patients undergoing NSRA-LSRC between March 2016 and May 2018.
• Procedure involved bladder and prostate excision, pelvic lymph node dissection, and preservation of neurovascular bundles.
• Postoperative sexual function assessed using the IIEF-5 score, with PDE5I use encouraged.

Main Results:

• All procedures were technically successful with negative surgical margins.
• No major intraoperative or postoperative complications, recurrence, or metastasis were observed.
• At 12 months post-surgery, 41.7% of patients achieved satisfactory sexual intercourse with medication assistance.

Conclusions:

• NSRA-LSRC is a clinically feasible approach for bladder cancer treatment.
• The nerve-sparing technique demonstrates potential in preserving sexual function post-cystectomy.
• Further research is warranted to optimize outcomes and patient selection for NSRA-LSRC.