Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy: An Approach in Evolution

Abstract

Laparoscopic radical prostatectomy has become an attractive and exciting approach for the surgical treatment of localized prostate cancer. Two main routes are mainly used, namely the transperitoneal and the extraperitoneal approach. Minimal bleeding, shorter hospitalization and recovery time are unquestionable advantages for laparoscopic procedures. Oncological and functional results of laparoscopic prostatectomies today are comparable to those of the open retropubic standard technique. However, laparoscopic radical prostatectomy remains technically a difficult intervention and should be performed in selected centers with experienced teams. Robot assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy facilitates the procedure and in plus, it seems to improve oncological and functional results. Laparoscopic prostatectomy today is nearly equal to traditional retropubic prostatectomy, with certain outstanding advantages.