Robotic radical prostatectomy may offer advantages over the laparoscopic approach

In an article published by Porpiglia et al in Eur Urol, the authors studied outcomes in a group of men randomised to either laparoscopic or robotic prostatectomy. Surgery was carried out by a single surgeon with large experience of both approaches. Robotic surgery was associated with better continence at various time points up to 12 months, better erectile function and similar margin rates.

Both laparoscopic and robotic radical prostatectomies have undoubted advantages over the open approach, but there is continued debate whether the extra cost of robotic surgery can be justified compared to laparoscopic surgery. This study, although small and easily criticised for being the experience of a single surgeon will add to the debate.