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Robotic level III inferior vena cava (IVC) tumor thrombectomy was described recently. We present ongoing robotic advances in this arena in a case series of six patients with Mayo level II–III thrombi who underwent robotic caval thrombectomy, radical nephrectomy, and retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy. In four patients, proximal intra- or retrohepatic IVC control was obtained solely with an intracaval Fogarty balloon catheter; in one patient, robot-guided flexible cystoscopy of the IVC lumen was performed to rule out any residual or secondary skip thrombi. In one patient, the caval wall defect after thrombus excision was reconstructed robotically using a bovine pericardial patch. Finally, a patient with concomitant renal and adrenal tumors had two distinct thrombi of levels I and III; a robotic double thrombectomy was performed. Mean renal tumor size was 8.4 cm (±1.6). Four thrombi (66%) were level III. Mean operative time was 6.4 h (±1.7); IVC clamp time, 53.5 min (±29.8); blood loss, 668 ml (±692); and hospital stay, 5.5 d (±3.8). Two patients required blood transfusions. Complications included Clavien grade 1 ( n = 2), grade 3a ( n = 1), and grade 5 ( n = 1). Mean follow-up was 5.8 mo (±4.3). Robotic IVC thrombectomy is a viable alternative to open surgery for appropriately selected cases by experienced teams. Patient summary We present ongoing robotic surgical advances in a case series of six patients with blood clots in the inferior vena cava. These innovations will help further advance the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The safety and feasibility of robot-assisted laparoscopic inferior vena cava (IVC) thrombectomy (RAL-IVCTE) have been investigated in limited reports. Objective To share our initial experience with RAL-IVCTE, as well as describe respectively the detailed techniques for RAL-IVCTE for left or right renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Design, setting, and participants From May 2013 to July 2014, 17 patients with RCC involving IVC tumor thrombus were admitted to our hospital. Surgical procedure For right RCC, the caudal IVC, left renal vein, and cephalic IVC were sequentially clamped. The IVC wall was cut, and the thrombus was removed. For left RCC, the left renal vein, which included the thrombus, was ligated with Endo-GIA. The caudal IVC, right renal artery, right renal vein, and cephalic IVC were sequentially clamped. Measurements The detailed techniques for RAL-IVCTE for different sides were described and the perioperative outcomes recorded. Results and limitations The operations were successfully performed without open conversion. Median operation time was 131 min (100–150 min) and 250 min (190–275 min) for the right and left RCC, respectively. Median estimated blood loss was 240 ml (145–320 ml). Median IVC blocking time was 17 min (12–25 min). For left RCC, median warm ischemia time for the right kidney was 18 min (14–22 min). A grade IV complication—bleeding from tributaries of the IVC—developed in one case and was successfully resolved with intraoperative endoscopic suture. Conclusions RAL-IVCTE is safe and feasible. For left RCC involving IVC thrombus, right renal warm ischemia time is necessary during the procedure, requiring a more advanced technical skill. The therapeutic effect and overall survival rate require further investigation with a larger sample size and longer follow-up. Patient summary Robot-assisted laparoscopic inferior vena cava thrombectomy is technically challenging but safe and feasible. The therapeutic effect needs further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Long-term oncologic data on patients undergoing robot-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) are limited and based largely on single-institution series. Objective Report survival outcomes of patients who underwent RARC ≥5 yr ago. Design, setting, and participants Retrospective review of the prospectively populated International Robotic Cystectomy Consortium multi-institutional database identified 743 patients with RARC performed ≥5 yr ago. Clinical, pathologic, and survival data at the latest follow-up were collected. Patients with palliative RARC were excluded. Final analysis was performed on 702 patients from 11 institutions in 6 countries. Intervention RARC. Outcome measurements and statistical analysis Outcomes of interest, recurrence-free survival (RFS), cancer-specific survival (CSS), and overall survival (OS) were plotted using Kaplan-Meier survival curves. A Cox proportional hazards model was used to identify factors that predicted outcomes. Results and limitations Pathologic organ-confined (OC) disease was found in 62% of patients. Soft tissue surgical margins (SMs) were positive in 8%. Median lymph node (LN) yield was 16, and 21% of patients had positive LNs. Median follow-up was 67 mo (interquartile range: 18–84 mo). Five-year RFS, CSS, and OS were 67%, 75%, and 50%, respectively. Non-OC disease and SMs were associated with poorer RFS, CSS, and OS on multivariable analysis. Age predicted poorer CSS and OS. Adjuvant chemotherapy and positive SMs were predictors of RFS (hazard ratio: 3.20 and 2.16; p < 0.001 and p < 0.005, respectively). Stratified survival curves demonstrated poorer outcomes for positive SM, LN, and non-OC disease. Retrospective interrogation and lack of contemporaneous comparison groups that underwent open radical cystectomy were major limitations. Conclusions The largest multi-institutional series to date reported long-term survival outcomes after RARC. Patient summary Patients who underwent robot-assisted radical cystectomy for bladder cancer have acceptable long-term survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Long-term cancer control outcomes in clinically high-risk prostate cancer (PCa) patients treated with robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) remain unknown. Objective To report on long-term biochemical recurrence (BCR)–free survival, clinical recurrence (CR)–free survival, and salvage therapy rates in these patients. Given the heterogeneity of high-risk patients, a second objective was to stratify them according to their BCR risk (using preoperative parameters), in an effort to counsel them better preoperatively regarding their cancer control outcomes. Design, setting, and participants We evaluated 1100 D’Amico high-risk PCa patients who underwent RARP between 2002 and 2013 at three tertiary care centers. Outcome measures and statistical analyses Outcomes consisted of BCR-free survival, CR-free survival, and salvage therapy rates. Regression tree analysis stratified patients into novel risk groups based on preoperative characteristics and corresponding BCR risk. Kaplan-Meier curves estimated BCR-free survival, CR-free survival, and salvage therapy rates in the entire cohort and after stratification according to the novel risk groups (RGs). Results and limitations Median age and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) were 63 yr and 6.5 ng/ml, respectively. Biopsy Gleason score (GS) was ≥8 in 57.7%. Mean follow-up was 53 mo (median: 49 mo). At 10 yr, BCR-free survival, CR-free survival, and salvage therapy rates were 50%, 87%, and 37%, respectively. Regression tree analysis stratified patients into five novel RGs): RG1, very low risk (GS ≤6); RG2, low risk (PSA ≤10 ng/ml; GS: 7); RG3, intermediate risk (PSA ≤10 ng/ml; GS ≥8); RG4, high risk (PSA >10 ng/ml; GS: 7); RG5, very high risk (PSA >10 ng/ml; GS ≥8). In these RGs, the 10-yr BCR-free survival rates were 86%, 70%, 36%, 31%, and 26% ( p < 0.001), respectively; the 10-yr CR-free survival rates were 99%, 96%, 85%, 67%, and 55% ( p < 0.001), respectively; and the 10-yr salvage therapy rates were 9.8%, 16%, 42%, 47%, and 64% ( p < 0.001), respectively. Conclusions Most patients with clinically high-risk PCa treated with RARP alone remain CR free at long term. Nonetheless, almost 37% of the patients at 10 yr require salvage therapy. Our novel tool allows accurate stratification of these heterogeneous patients according to their BCR, CR, and salvage therapy risks. This may help inform patients preoperatively about their cancer control outcomes postoperatively. Patient summary Robot-assisted radical prostatectomy confers lasting long-term oncologic control in most high-risk prostate cancer patients. Our novel risk grouping might serve as a useful tool for setting expectations and counseling patients regarding their cancer control outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The development of structured and validated training curricula is one of the current priorities in robot-assisted urological surgery. Objective To establish the feasibility, acceptability, face validity, and educational impact of a structured training curriculum for robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP), and to assess improvements in performance and ability to perform RARP after completion of the curriculum. Design, setting, and participants A 12-wk training curriculum was developed based on an expert panel discussion and used to train ten fellows from major European teaching institutions. The curriculum included: (1) e-learning, (2) 1 wk of structured simulation-based training (virtual reality synthetic, animal, and cadaveric platforms), and (3) supervised modular training for RARP. Outcome measurements and statistical analysis The feasibility, acceptability, face validity, and educational impact were assessed using quantitative surveys. Improvement in the technical skills of participants over the training period was evaluated using the inbuilt validated assessment metrics on the da Vinci surgical simulator (dVSS). A final RARP performed by fellows on completion of their training was assessed using the Global Evaluative Assessment of Robotic Skills (GEARS) score and generic and procedure-specific scoring criteria. Results and limitations The median baseline experience of participants as console surgeon was 4 mo (interquartile range [IQR] 0–6.5 mo). All participants completed the curriculum and were involved in a median of 18 RARPs (IQR 14–36) during modular training. The overall score for dVSS tasks significantly increased over the training period ( p < 0.001-0.005). At the end of the curriculum, eight fellows (80%) were deemed able by their mentors to perform a RARP independently, safely, and effectively. At assessment of the final RARP, the participants achieved an average score ≥4 (scale 1–5) for all domains using the GEARS scale and an average score >10 (scale 4–16) for all procedural steps using a generic dedicated scoring tool. In performance comparison using this scoring tool, the experts significantly outperformed the fellows (mean score for all steps 13.6 vs 11). Conclusions The European robot-assisted urologic training curriculum is acceptable, valid, and effective for training in RARP. Patient summary This study shows that a 12-wk structured training program including simulation-based training and mentored training in the operating room allows surgeons with limited robotic experience to increase their robotic skills and their ability to perform the surgical steps of robot-assisted radical prostatectomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a propensity-matched analysis of patients undergoing placement of dehydrated human amnion/chorion membrane (dHACM) around the neurovascular bundle (NVB) during nerve-sparing (NS) robot-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RARP). From March 2013 to July 2014, 58 patients who were preoperatively potent (Sexual Health Inventory for Men [SHIM] score >19) and continent (no pads) underwent full NS RARP. Postoperative outcomes were analyzed between propensity-matched graft and no-graft groups, including time to return to continence, potency, and biochemical recurrence. dHACM use was not associated with increased operative time or blood loss or negative oncologic outcomes ( p > 0.500). Continence at 8 wk returned in 81.0% of the dHACM group and 74.1% of the no-dHACM group ( p = 0.373). Mean time to continence was enhanced in group 1 patients (1.21 mo) versus (1.83 mo; p = 0.033). Potency at 8 wk returned in 65.5% of the dHACM patients and 51.7% of the no-dHACM group ( p = 0.132). Mean time to potency was enhanced in group 1, (1.34 mo), compared to group 2 (3.39 mo; p = 0.007). Graft placement enhanced mean time to continence and potency. Postoperative SHIM scores were higher in the dHACM group at maximal follow-up (mean score 16.2 vs 9.1). dHACM allograft use appears to hasten the early return of continence and potency in patients following RARP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Reports on long-term oncologic outcomes for patients who undergo robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) are scant, as for radical prostatectomy covering only the contemporary prostate-specific antigen (PSA) era. Objective To evaluate cancer control in men who underwent RARP at least 10 yr ago. Design, setting, and participants From 2001 to 2003, we followed 483 consecutive men with localized prostate cancer who underwent RARP at a high-volume tertiary center. Intervention RARP as first-line therapy. Outcome measurements and statistical analysis We calculated biochemical recurrence –free survival (BCRFS), metastasis-free survival (MFS), and cancer-specific survival (CSS). Actuarial rates were estimated via Kaplan-Meier. Cox proportional hazards models were used to identify variables predictive of biochemical recurrence (BCR), receipt of salvage therapy, and metastases. Results and limitations There were 108 patients with BCR at a median follow-up of 121 mo (interquartile range: 97–132). Actuarial BCRFS, MFS, and CSS rates at 10 yr were 73.1%, 97.5%, and 98.8%, respectively. On multivariable analysis, D’Amico risk groups or pathologic Gleason grade, stage, and margins were the strongest predictors of BCR depending on whether preoperative or postoperative variables were considered. The value of the detectable PSAs together with disease severity were independent predictors of receipt of salvage therapy, together with a persistent PSA for metastases. Conclusions In contemporary patients with localized prostate cancer, RARP confers effective 10-yr cancer control. Disease severity and PSA measurements can be used to guide more personalized and cost-effective postoperative surveillance regimens. Patient summary Robot-assisted radical prostatectomy confers effective 10-yr cancer control for men with localized disease, similar to the open approach. Recurrence is best predicted by postoperative disease severity. Persistent disease signals the risk of progression likely requiring early salvage treatment; lower postoperative risk warrants protracted surveillance beyond 5 yr from surgery, and those with higher risk may require follow-up beyond 10 yr. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context Robotic partial nephrectomy (RPN) is rapidly increasing; however, the benefit of RPN over laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN) is controversial. Objective To compare perioperative outcomes of RPN and LPN. Evidence acquisition We searched Ovid-Medline, Ovid-Embase, the Cochrane Library, KoreaMed, KMbase, KISS, RISS, and KisTi from their inception through August 2013. Two independent reviewers extracted data using a standardized form. Quality of the selected studies was assessed using the methodological index for nonrandomized studies. Evidence synthesis A total of 23 studies and 2240 patients were included. All studies were cohort studies with no randomization, and the methodological quality varied. There was no significant difference between the two groups regarding complications of Clavien-Dindo classification grades 1–2 ( p = 0.62), Clavien-Dindo classification grades 3–5 ( p = 0.78), change of serum creatinine ( p = 0.65), operative time ( p = 0.35), estimated blood loss ( p = 0.76), and positive margins ( p = 0.75). The RPN group had a significantly lower rate of conversion to open surgery ( p = 0.02) and conversion to radical surgery ( p = 0.0006), shorter warm ischemia time (WIT; p = 0.005), smaller change of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR; p = 0.03), and shorter length of stay (LOS; p = 0.004). Conclusions This meta-analysis shows that RPN is associated with more favorable results than LPN in conversion rate to open or radical surgery, WIT, change of eGFR, and shorter LOS. To establish the safety and effectiveness outcomes of robotic surgery, well-designed randomized clinical studies with long-term follow-up are needed. Patient summary Robotic partial nephrectomy (PN) is more favorable than laparoscopic PN in terms of lower conversion rate to radical nephrectomy, a favorable renal function indexed estimated glomerular filtration rate, shorter length of hospital stay, and shorter warm ischemia time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context Although open radical cystectomy (ORC) is still the standard approach, laparoscopic radical cystectomy (LRC) and robot-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) have gained popularity. Objective To report a systematic literature review and cumulative analysis of perioperative outcomes and complications of RARC in comparison with ORC and LRC. Evidence acquisition Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched using a free-text protocol including the terms robot-assisted radical cystectomy or da Vinci radical cystectomy or robot* radical cystectomy . RARC case series and studies comparing RARC with either ORC or LRC were collected. Cumulative analysis was conducted. Evidence synthesis The searches retrieved 105 papers. According to the different diversion type, overall mean operative time ranged from 360 to 420 min. Similarly, mean blood loss ranged from 260 to 480 ml. Mean in-hospital stay was about 9 d for all diversion types, with consistently high readmission rates. In series reporting on RARC with either extracorporeal or intracorporeal conduit diversion, overall 90-d complication rates were 59% (high-grade complication: 15%). In series reporting RARC with intracorporeal continent diversion, the overall 30-d complication rate was 45.7% (high-grade complication: 28%). Reported mortality rates were ≤3% for all diversion types. Comparing RARC and ORC, cumulative analyses demonstrated shorter operative time for ORC, whereas blood loss and in-hospital stay were better with RARC (all p values <0.003). Moreover, 90-d complication rates of any-grade and 90-d grade 3 complication rates were lower for RARC (all p values <0.04), whereas high-grade complication and mortality rates were similar. Conclusions RARC can be performed safely with acceptable perioperative outcome, although complications are common. Cumulative analyses demonstrated that operative time was shorter with ORC, whereas RARC may provide some advantages in terms of blood loss and transfusion rates and, more limitedly, for postoperative complication rates over ORC and LRC. Patient summary Although open radical cystectomy (RC) is still regarded as a standard treatment for muscle-invasive bladder cancer, laparoscopic and robot-assisted RC are becoming more popular. Robotic RC can be safely performed with acceptably low risk of blood loss, transfusion, and intraoperative complications; however, as for open RC, the risk of postoperative complications is high, including a substantial risk of major complication and reoperation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context Although open radical cystectomy (ORC) is still the standard approach, laparoscopic radical cystectomy (LRC) and robot-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) are increasingly performed. Objective To report on a systematic literature review and cumulative analysis of pathologic, oncologic, and functional outcomes of RARC in comparison with ORC and LRC. Evidence acquisition Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched using a free-text protocol including the terms robot-assisted radical cystectomy or da Vinci radical cystectomy or robot* radical cystectomy . RARC case series and studies comparing RARC with either ORC or LRC were collected. A cumulative analysis was conducted. Evidence synthesis The searches retrieved 105 papers, 87 of which reported on pathologic, oncologic, or functional outcomes. Most series were retrospective and had small case numbers, short follow-up, and potential patient selection bias. The lymph node yield during lymph node dissection was 19 (range: 3–55), with half of the series following an extended template (yield range: 11–55). The lymph node–positive rate was 22%. The performance of lymphadenectomy was correlated with surgeon and institutional volume. Cumulative analyses showed no significant difference in lymph node yield between RARC and ORC. Positive surgical margin (PSM) rates were 5.6% (1–1.5% in pT2 disease and 0–25% in pT3 and higher disease). PSM rates did not appear to decrease with sequential case numbers. Cumulative analyses showed no significant difference in rates of surgical margins between RARC and ORC or RARC and LRC. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy use ranged from 0% to 31%, with adjuvant chemotherapy used in 4–29% of patients. Only six series reported a mean follow-up of >36 mo. Three-year disease-free survival (DFS), cancer-specific survival (CSS), and overall survival (OS) rates were 67–76%, 68–83%, and 61–80%, respectively. The 5-yr DFS, CSS, and OS rates were 53–74%, 66–80%, and 39–66%, respectively. Similar to ORC, disease of higher pathologic stage or evidence of lymph node involvement was associated with worse survival. Very limited data were available with respect to functional outcomes. The 12-mo continence rates with continent diversion were 83–100% in men for daytime continence and 66–76% for nighttime continence. In one series, potency was recovered in 63% of patients who were evaluable at 12 mo. Conclusions Oncologic and functional data from RARC remain immature, and longer-term prospective studies are needed. Cumulative analyses demonstrated that lymph node yields and PSM rates were similar between RARC and ORC. Conclusive long-term survival outcomes for RARC were limited, although oncologic outcomes up to 5 yr were similar to those reported for ORC. Patient summary Although open radical cystectomy (RC) is still regarded as the standard treatment for muscle-invasive bladder cancer, laparoscopic and robot-assisted RCs are becoming more popular. Templates of lymph node dissection, lymph node yields, and positive surgical margin rates are acceptable with robot-assisted RC. Although definitive comparisons with open RC with respect to oncologic or functional outcomes are lacking, early results appear comparable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context Robot-assisted surgery is increasingly used for radical cystectomy (RC) and urinary reconstruction. Sufficient data have accumulated to allow evidence-based consensus on key issues such as perioperative management, comparative effectiveness on surgical complications, and oncologic short- to midterm outcomes. Objective A 2-d conference of experts on RC and urinary reconstruction was organized in Pasadena, California, and the City of Hope Cancer Center in Duarte, California, to systematically review existing peer-reviewed literature on robot-assisted RC (RARC), extended lymphadenectomy, and urinary reconstruction. No commercial support was obtained for the conference. Evidence acquisition A systematic review of the literature was performed in agreement with the PRISMA statement. Evidence synthesis Systematic literature reviews and individual presentations were discussed, and consensus on all key issues was obtained. Most operative, intermediate-term oncologic, functional, and complication outcomes are similar between open RC (ORC) and RARC. RARC consistently results in less blood loss and a reduced need for transfusion during surgery. RARC generally requires longer operative time than ORC, particularly with intracorporeal reconstruction. Robotic assistance provides ergonomic value for surgeons. Surgeon experience and institutional volume strongly predict favorable outcomes for either open or robotic techniques. Conclusions RARC appears to be similar to ORC in terms of operative, pathologic, intermediate-term oncologic, complication, and most functional outcomes. RARC consistently results in less blood loss and a reduced need for transfusion during surgery. RARC can be more expensive than ORC, although high procedural volume may attenuate this difference. Patient summary Robot-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) is an alternative to open surgery for patients with bladder cancer who require removal of their bladder and reconstruction of their urinary tract. RARC appears to be similar to open surgery for most important outcomes such as the rate of complications and intermediate-term cancer-specific survival. Although RARC has some ergonomic advantages for surgeons and may result in less blood loss during surgery, it is more time consuming and may be more expensive than open surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background An improved armamentarium has had a significant impact on the emerging role of flexible ureteroscopy (FURS) for the management of nephrolithiasis; however, FURS still represents a challenging technique. Objective To examine a robotic device designed for FURS for its impact on ergonomics and outcome of the procedure based on the IDEAL (idea, development, evaluation, assessment, long-term study) framework. Design, setting, and participants Roboflex Avicenna consists of a surgeon's console and a manipulator for the flexible ureterorenoscope. Following experimental evaluation of the prototype (IDEAL stage 1) and receipt of ethical approval, seven surgeons treated 81 patients (mean age: 42 yr [range: 6–68]) with renal calculi (mean volume: 1296 ± 544 mm 3 [range: 432–3100 mm 3 ]) in an observational study (IDEAL stage 2). Surgical procedure Robotic FURS was performed with the Roboflex Avicenna robotic device. Outcome measurements and statistical analysis Numerical data were analysed with the Mann-Whitney test, and categorical variables were analysed using the chi-square test or Fisher exact test. P values <0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results and limitations Mean robot docking time was 59.6 ± 45 s. Mean operative time was 74 min (range: 40–182). Mean fragmentation speed was 29.1 ± 6.1 mm 3 /min. Ergonomics based on a validated questionnaire showed significant advantage for robotic FURS (total score: 5.6 vs 31.3; p < 0.01). A 10/12F-access sheath was used in 72 patients. Two cases required secondary FURS, one because of malfunction of the flexible digital ureteroscope and another because of larger residual fragments. In the remaining 79 cases, complete stone disintegration was accomplished. Conclusions Roboflex Avicenna provides a suitable and safe platform for robotic FURS with significant improvement of ergonomics. Future studies should evaluate its impact on the clinical outcome of FURS. Patient summary Robotic flexible ureteroscopy (FURS) was performed with the Roboflex Avicenna robotic device. Results showed that Roboflex Avicenna provides a suitable and safe platform for robotic FURS with significant improvement of ergonomics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Several reports have shown that patients who undergo minimally invasive radical prostatectomy have a lower chance of undergoing pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND), irrespective of the disease characteristics. Objective We evaluated the rate and extension of PLND in patients who underwent robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP). We tested the adherence of the indication for PLND to the European Association of Urology (EAU) guidelines. Design, setting, and participants Our study was a multi-institutional retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data on 2985 consecutive patients who underwent RARP at five high-volume European institutions. Patients were stratified according to preoperative cancer risk group. Intervention RARP. Outcome measurements and statistical analysis The rate and extent of PLND across different institutions were analyzed. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression models evaluated the association between preoperative variables and the probability of receiving PLND, as well as the presence of lymph node invasion (LNI). Finally, the probability of LNI was calculated for each patient, and the indication for PLND was compared with the EAU guidelines’ indications. Results and limitations A lymph node dissection was performed in 1777 patients (59.7%; 34.5% of low-risk patients, 64.9% of intermediate-risk patients, and 91.2% of high-risk patients). These rates were different across institutions: 5.0–41.4% in low-risk patients ( p < 0.001), 31.3–81.4% in intermediate-risk patients ( p < 0.001), and 84.6–96.4% in high-risk patients ( p = 0.06). The mean and median number of nodes removed was 10.8, and 122 patients (4.1%) had nodal metastases. At multivariable analysis, the institution represented an independent predictor of PLND ( p < 0.001). Of patients with current indication for PLND (EAU guidelines), 77.8% actually received the procedure. Limitations were the retrospective study design with different pathologic assessment and lack of follow-up data. Conclusions PLND is performed in a high proportion of patients undergoing RARP in high-volume centers in Europe for whom the procedure is indicated by the EAU guidelines, but significant differences exist among institutions. An effort toward a more rigorous standardization of PLND is advocated. Patient summary In this paper, we investigated the indication for and extension of pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND) in different institutions in Europe. Despite PLND being widely performed, significant variations with regard to PLND do exist among different institutions. Therefore, a thrust toward more rigorous attention to PLND is advocated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hood Technique for Robotic Radical Prostatectomy - Preserving Periurethral Anatomical Structures in the Space of Retzius and Sparing the Pouch of Douglas, Enabling Early Return of... Re: Vinayak G. Wagaskar, Ankur Mittal, Stanislaw Sobotka, et al. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Traditional evaluation of the learning curve (LC) of an operation has been retrospective. Furthermore, LC analysis does not permit patient safety monitoring. Objectives: To prospectively monitor patient safety during the learning phase of robotic kidney transplantation (RKT) and determine when it could be considered learned using the techniques of statistical process control (SPC). Design, setting and participants: From January through May 2013, 41 patients with end-stage renal disease underwent RKT with regional hypothermia at one of two tertiary referral centers adopting RKT. Transplant recipients were classified into three groups based on the robotic training and kidney transplant experience of the surgeons: group 1, robot trained with limited kidney transplant experience (n = 7); group 2, robot trained and kidney transplant experienced (n = 20); and group 3, kidney transplant experienced with limited robot training (n = 14). Intervention: We employed prospective monitoring using SPC techniques, including cumulative summation (CUSUM) and Shewhart control charts, to perform LC analysis and patient safety monitoring, respectively. Outcome measurements and statistical analysis: Outcomes assessed included post-transplant graft function and measures of surgical process (anastomotic and ischemic times). CUSUM and Shewhart control charts are time trend analytic techniques that allow comparative assessment of outcomes following a new intervention (RKT) relative to those achieved with established techniques (open kidney transplant; target value) in a prospective fashion. Results and limitations: CUSUM analysis revealed an initial learning phase for group 3, whereas groups 1 and 2 had no to minimal learning time. The learning phase for group 3 varied depending on the parameter assessed. Shewhart control charts demonstrated no compromise in functional outcomes for groups 1 and 2. Graft function was compromised in one patient in group 3 (p < 0.05) secondary to reasons unrelated to RKT. In multivariable analysis, robot training was significantly associated with improved task-completion times (p < 0.01). Graft function was not adversely affected by either the lack of robotic training (p = 0.22) or kidney transplant experience (p = 0.72). Conclusions: The LC and patient safety of a new surgical technique can be assessed prospectively using CUSUM and Shewhart control chart analytic techniques. These methods allow determination of the duration of mentorship and identification of adverse events in a timely manner. A new operation can be considered learned when outcomes achieved with the new intervention are at par with outcomes following established techniques. Patient summary: Statistical process control techniques allowed for robust, objective, and prospective monitoring of robotic kidney transplantation and can similarly be applied to other new interventions during the introduction and adoption phase. Take Home Message: Techniques of statistical process control (cumulative summation and Shewhart control charts) allowed for robust, objective, and prospective monitoring of robotic kidney transplantation with regional hypothermia and can similarly be applied to other new interventions during the introduction and adoption phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: Pilot studies have demonstrated the utility of indocyanine green (ICG) sentinel lymphadenectomy for prostate cancer. Prior work has used ICG with radiocontrast agents injected at a separate procedure and relied on assistant-controlled fluorescence systems, making the technique costly and cumbersome. Objective: To describe the initial optimization and feasibility of fluorescence-enhanced robotic radical prostatectomy (FERRP) using real-time injection of ICG for tissue marking and identification of sentinel lymphatic drainage visualized by a fully integrated surgeon-controlled system. Design, setting, and participants: Patients with clinically localized prostate cancer at a tertiary referral center were offered FERRP. Ten patients participated in a pilot arm in which ICG dosing and injection technique were optimized. Fifty consecutive patients then underwent FERRP. Surgical procedure: After development of the space of Retzius, 0.4ml of a 2.5mg/ml ICG solution were injected into each lobe of the prostate using a robotically guided percutaneous needle. After ICG was allowed to travel through the pelvic lymphatics, lymphadenectomy was performed from the endopelvic fascia to the aortic bifurcation. Outcome measurements and statistical analysis: Parameters describing the time course of tissue fluorescence and pelvic lymphangiography were systematically recorded. Lymphatic packets containing fluorescent nodes were considered sentinel. Results and limitations: Percutaneous, robotic-guided ICG injection proved superior to cystoscope or transrectal delivery. Tissue marking was achieved in all patients, positively identifying the prostate with uniform fluorescence relative to the obturator nerve, seminal vesicles, vas deferens, and neurovascular pedicles at a mean time of 10min postinjection. Sentinel nodes were identified in 76% of patients at a mean time of 30min postinjection and had 100% sensitivity, 75.4% specificity, 14.6% positive predictive value, and 100% negative predictive value for the detection of nodal metastasis. Conclusions: FERRP is safe, feasible, and allows for reliable prostate tissue marking and identification of sentinel lymphatic drainage in the majority of patients. ICG sentinel nodes are highly sensitive but relatively nonspecific for the detection of nodal metastasis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Context: Abdominal sacrocolpopexy (ASC) represents the superior treatment for apical pelvic organ prolapse (POP) but is associated with increased length of stay, analgesic requirement, and cost compared with transvaginal procedures. Laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy (LSC) and robot-assisted sacrocolpopexy (RSC) may offer shorter postoperative recovery while maintaining equivalent rates of cure. Objective: This review evaluates the literature on LSC and RSC for clinical outcomes and complications. Evidence acquisition: A PubMed search of the available literature from 1966 to 2013 on LSC and RSC with a follow-up of at least 12 mo was performed. A total of 256 articles were screened, 69 articles selected, and outcomes from 26 presented. A review, not meta-analysis, was conducted due to the quality of the articles. Evidence synthesis: LSC has become a mature technique with results from 11 patient series encompassing 1221 patients with a mean follow-up of 26 mo. Mean operative time was 124min (range: 55–185) with a 3% (range: 0–11%) conversion rate. Objective cure was achieved in 91% of patients, with similar satisfaction rates (92%). Six patient series encompassing 363 patients treated with RSC with a mean follow-up of 28 mo have been reported. Mean operative time was 202min (range: 161–288) with a 1% (range: 0–4%) conversion rate. Objective cure rate was 94%, with a 95% subjective success rate. Overall, early outcomes and complication rates for both LSC and RSC appeared comparable with open ASC. Conclusions: LSC and RSC provide excellent short- to medium-term reconstructive outcomes for patients with POP. RSC is more expensive than LSC. Further studies are required to better understand the clinical performance of RSC versus LSC and confirm long-term efficacy. Patient summary: Laparoscopic and robot-assisted sacrocolpopexy represent attractive minimally invasive alternatives to abdominal sacrocolpopexy. They may offer reduced patient morbidity but are associated with higher costs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Background: Surgical innovation is essential for progress of surgical science, but its implementation comes with potential harms during the learning phase. The Balliol Collaboration has recommended a set of guidelines (Innovation, Development, Exploration, Assessment, Long-term study [IDEAL]) that permit innovation while minimizing complications. Objective: To utilize the IDEAL model of surgical innovation in the development of a novel surgical technique, robotic kidney transplantation (RKT) with regional hypothermia, and describe the process of discovery and development. Design, setting, and participants: Phase 0 (simulation) studies included the establishment of techniques for pelvic cooling, graft placement in a robotic prostatectomy model, and simulation of the RKT procedure in a cadaveric model. Phase 1 (innovation) studies began in January 2013 and involved treatment of a highly selective small group of patients (n =7), using the principles utilized in the phase 0 studies, at a tertiary referral center. Intervention: IDEAL model implementation in the development of RKT with regional hypothermia. Outcome measurements and statistical analysis: For phase 0 studies, the outcomes evaluated included pelvic and body temperature measurements, and technical feasibility assessment. The primary outcome during phase 1 was post-transplant graft function. Other outcomes measured were operative and ischemic times, perioperative complications, and intracorporeal graft surface temperature. Results and limitations: Phase 0 (simulation phase): Pelvic cooling to 15–20oC was achieved reproducibly. Using the surgical approach developed for robotic radical prostatectomy, vascular and ureterovesical anastomoses could be done without redocking the robot. Phase 1 (innovation phase): All patients underwent live-donor RKT in the lithotomy position. All grafts functioned immediately. Mean console, anastomotic, and warm ischemia times were 154min, 29min, and 2min, respectively. One patient was re-explored on postoperative day 1. Conclusions: Adherence to the IDEAL guidelines put forth by the Balliol Collaboration provided a practical framework for the establishment of a novel surgical procedure, RKT with regional hypothermia, without exposing the initial patients to unacceptable risk. Patient summary: The IDEAL model allows safe introduction of new surgical techniques without compromising patient outcomes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Background: We recently reported on preclinical and feasibility studies (Innovation, Development, Exploration, Assessment, Long-term study [IDEAL] phase 0–1) of the development of robotic kidney transplantation (RKT) with regional hypothermia. This paper presents the IDEAL phase 2a studies of technique development. Objectives: To describe the technique of RKT with regional hypothermia developed at two tertiary care institutions (Vattikuti Urology Institute and Medanta Hospital). We report on the safety profile and early graft function in these patients. Design, setting, and participants: This is a prospective study of 50 consecutive patients who underwent live-donor RKT at Medanta Hospital following a 3-yr planning/simulation phase at the Vattikuti Urology Institute. Demographic details, and perioperative and postoperative outcomes are reported for the initial 25 recipients who have completed a minimum 6-mo follow-up. Surgical procedure: Positioning and port placement were similar to that used for robotic radical prostatectomy. Allograft cooling was achieved by ice slush delivered through a GelPOINT device. The accompanying video details the operative technique. Outcome measurements and statistical analysis: The primary outcome was posttransplant graft function. Secondary outcomes included technical success or failure and complication rates. Results and limitations: Fifty patients underwent RKT successfully, 7 in the phase 1 and 43 in the phase 2 stages of the study. For the initial 25 patients, mean console, warm ischemia, arterial, and venous anastomotic times were 135, 2.4, 12, and 13.4min, respectively. All grafts were cooled to 18–20°C with no change in core body temperature. All grafts functioned immediately posttransplant and the mean serum creatinine level at discharge was 1.3mg/dl (range: 0.8–3.1mg/dl). No patient developed anastomotic leaks, wound complications, or wound infections. At 6-mo of follow-up, no patient had developed a lymphocele detected on CT scanning. Two patients underwent re-exploration, and one patient died of congestive heart failure (1.5 mo posttransplant). Conclusions: RKT with regional hypothermia is safe and reproducible when performed by a team skilled in robotic surgery. Patient summary: RKT is safe and effective when performed by surgeons experienced in robotic techniques. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Context: Robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RALP) has been rapidly adopted as a new approach for radical prostatectomy (RP) in patients with prostate cancer (PCa). The use of new technology may increase costs for RP. Objective: To summarize data on direct costs of various approaches to RP and to discuss the consequences of cost differences. Evidence acquisition: A systematic literature search was performed in March 2012 using the PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases. A complex search strategy was applied. Articles were selected according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses criteria. Articles reporting on direct costs of RP (open retropubic [RRP], radical perineal [RPP], laparoscopic [LRP], RALP) in men with clinically localized PCa were eligible for study inclusion. Evidence synthesis: Of 1218 articles initially screened by title, the multistep, systematic search identified 11 studies presenting direct costs of different approaches to RP. Of the 11 studies, 7 compared the costs of different RP approaches. Minimally invasive RP (MIRP) (ie, LRP or RALP) was more expensive than RRP in most studies, mainly due to increased surgical instrumentation costs. In the comparative studies, costs ranged from (in US dollars) $5058 to $11806 for MIRP and from $4075 to $6296 for RRP, with RALP having the highest direct costs. In one study applying standardized, health economic-evaluation criteria, RALP was not found to be cost effective. Limitations of this review include significant differences in observational study designs and an absence of prospective comparative studies. Moreover, there are limited post-RP data on the costs of adjuvant treatments and other health care–related expenses after PCa surgery. Conclusions: Few studies compared direct costs of different approaches to RP. The use of new technology, particularly RALP, results in added costs for the procedure. Cost effectiveness of new technologies should be assessed before widespread adoption. To date, in the lone study to evaluate this, RALP was not found to be cost effective from a health care, economic standpoint. However, longer follow-up of patients is required to better evaluate its impact on overall costs and quality of PCa care. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Background: Although open radical cystectomy (ORC) remains the gold standard of care for muscle-invasive bladder cancer, robot-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) continues to gain wider acceptance. In this article, we focus on the steps of RARC, describing our approach, which has been developed over the past 10 yr. Totally intracorporeal RARC aims to offer the benefits of a complete minimally invasive approach while replicating the oncologic outcomes of open surgery. Objective: We report our outcomes of a totally intracorporeal RARC procedure, describing step by step our technique and highlighting the variations on this standard template of nerve-sparing and female organ–preserving approaches in men and women. Design, setting, and participants: Between December 2003 and October 2012, a total of 113 patients (94 male and 19 female) underwent totally intracorporeal RARC. Surgical procedure: We performed RARC, extended pelvic lymph node dissection, and a totally intracorporeal urinary diversion (UD) in all patients. In the accompanying video, we focus on the standard template for RARC, also describing nerve-sparing and female organ–preserving approaches. Outcome measurements and statistical analysis: Complications and oncologic outcomes are reported, including overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) using Kaplan-Meier analysis. Results and limitations: RARC with intracorporeal UD was performed in 113 patients. Mean age was 64 yr (range: 37–84). Forty-three patients underwent intracorporeal ileal conduit, and 70 had intracorporeal neobladder. On surgical pathology, 48% of patients had ≤pT1 disease, 27% had pT2 disease, 13% had pT3 disease, and 12% had pT4 disease. The mean number of lymph nodes removed was 21 (range: 0–57). Twenty percent of patients had lymph node–positive disease. Positive surgical margins occurred in six cases (5.3%). Median follow-up was 25 mo (range: 3–107). We recorded a total of 70 early complications (0–30 d) in 54 patients (47.8%), with 37 patients (32.7%) having Clavien grade ≥3. Thirty-six late complications (>30 d) were recorded in 30 patients (26.5%), with 20 patients (17.7%) having Clavien grade ≥3. One patient (0.9%) died within 90 days of operation from pulmonary embolism. Using Kaplan-Meier analysis, CSS was 81% at 3 yr and 67% at 5 yr. Conclusions: Our structured approach to RARC has enabled us to develop this complex service while maintaining patient outcomes and complication rates comparable with ORC series. Our results demonstrate acceptable oncologic outcomes and encouraging long-term CSS rates. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]