Cognitive function in patients undergoing robotic radical prostatectomy - 1 year follow up

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Neuroscience
• Psychology

Background:

• Postoperative neurocognitive disorders (PNDs) are a concern following radical prostatectomy.
• Limited longitudinal data exists on cognitive function changes after robotic radical prostatectomy (RARP).

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate longitudinal cognitive changes in patients undergoing RARP for prostate cancer.
• To identify factors, including psychological traits, associated with these cognitive trajectories.

Main Methods:

• 66 patients undergoing RARP were assessed at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months postoperatively.
• Cognitive performance (Neurotest), affective/depressive symptoms (HADS), and affective temperament (TEMPS-A) were evaluated.
• Statistical models analyzed changes in global cognitive composite (GCC) scores and influencing factors.

Main Results:

• Global cognitive composite scores showed significant changes over 12 months post-RARP.
• Depressive and anxious temperaments were significantly associated with cognitive trajectories.
• Baseline GCC, physical activity, and depressive symptoms (HADS-D) were not independent predictors in the adjusted model.

Conclusions:

• Cognitive trajectories after RARP are dynamic and influenced by psychological factors.
• Longitudinal cognitive monitoring is supported.
• Integrating psychological assessments into perioperative care may identify at-risk patients.