Urethral-Sparing Robotic Prostate Surgery for Large BPH

What is it about?

A new technique for robotic-assisted simple prostatectomy, called trans-rectovesical pouch urethral-sparing robotic-assisted simple prostatectomy (usRASP), has been developed to make handling the gland protruding into the bladder neck easier and preserve the urethra and ejaculation function. The technique was performed on 17 male patients with large volume (>80 mL) benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The results showed that the technique significantly improved urinary function outcomes, with a median intravesical prostatic protrusion of 19.3 mm and a median operative time of 100 min. The technique also preserved ejaculation function in 58% of patients. This study suggests that usRASP may be a safe and effective treatment for BPH patients with large volumes.

Featured Image

Photo by Europeana on Unsplash

Photo by Europeana on Unsplash

Why is it important?

This research is important because it presents a new technique for performing robotic-assisted simple prostatectomy that can improve the handling of glands protruding into the bladder neck and preserve the urethra while retaining ejaculation function. This technique, called trans-rectovesical pouch urethral-sparing robotic-assisted simple prostatectomy (usRASP), can potentially be a safe and effective treatment for patients with large-volume benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Key Takeaways: 1. The usRASP technique is a novel approach to performing robotic-assisted simple prostatectomy that can improve voiding function and maintain antegrade ejaculation while not increasing postoperative complications. 2. The technique is particularly useful for patients with large-volume BPH and prostate glands that protrude into the bladder neck. 3. The study had a small sample size, lacked a control group, and had a relatively short follow-up period, which are limitations that should be addressed in future studies.