Role of robotics for prostate cancer

Abstract

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To describe how robotics became involved in prostate cancer as well as to highlight the most important developments in robotic prostate cancer treatment during the last year. RECENT FINDINGS: Refinements in technique during robotic-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy have improved the early return of continence postoperatively. Mean positive surgical margin rates were lowest for robotic-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy as compared to pure laparoscopic or open radical prostatectomy series. Sexual potency rates were similar among all surgical treatments of prostate cancer. SUMMARY: As the implementation of robotic technologies to treat prostate cancer continues to grow, randomized controlled trials will eventually provide a better comparison of results. The role of robotics in prostate cancer treatment is established, and continued technical advancements will ultimately improve patient outcomes.