Robotic-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy with the Use of Barbed Sutures.

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study is to analyze the principal advantages of posterior muscolo-fascial reconstruction using knotless barbed sutures (BS) during robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP). MATERIALS AND METHODS: We analyzed the available evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of principal BS (Quill™ SRS Angiotech Pharmaceuticals Inc., Vancouver, Canada; V-Loc™ Medtronic, Dublin, Ireland; STRATAFIX™ Ethicon Inc., Somerville, New Jersey; Filbloc® Assut Europe S.p.A., Rome, Italy). RESULTS: We analysed the principal outcomes (operative time and suturing time of urethra-vesical anastomosis, length of catheterization, hospital stay, and postoperative complications rate) reported in literature. CONCLUSIONS: In light of our experience, we believe that the utilization of BS during RARP is safe as the development of a new surgical technique of urethrovesical anastomosis offers advantages in terms of continence rate, length of catheterization, and other surgical outcomes. Other studies (prospective trials) are necessary to investigate the real benefits of BS in comparison to conventional sutures (CS).