A rare aetiology for increased drain output following a robotic-assisted prostatectomy

Abstract

Robotic prostatectomies are being performed increasingly, with greater visualisation and improved precision, resulting in fewer postoperative complications. Despite advances in surgical techniques, drain output still remains one of the first signs of potential complications. We present the case of an iatrogenic cause for high drain output postoperatively, in order to highlight the potential problems of the drain itself. A 69-year-old man presented with a pelvic drain output of over 2 L a day as a result of the drain tip being placed at the site of the anastomosis. Here we discuss the rates of the three main causes of increased drain outputs following robotic prostatectomy, as well as highlighting the resulting complications. Overall, this case highlights the potential complications arising from the drain, which could potentially be avoided by either routine evaluation of the drain position postoperatively or by omitting the drain entirely if the anastomosis is performed well.