Can preoperative vitamin D level be a predictive factor for continence after radical prostatectomy?

Introduction: This study examined whether there is a relationship between vitamin D levels and post-prostatectomy incontinence (PPI).

Methods: Patients who underwent robotic radical prostatectomy in a tertiary center constituted the population of this study. Patients whose serum vitamin D levels were measured three months before robotic radical prostatectomy were included. Continence status was recorded at one, three, six, and 12 months postoperatively. Urinary continence was defined as either no urine leak or using a pad to feel secure against potential minimal leakage. Patients were divided into groups according to continence status at the 12^th postoperative month (group 1: continent patients, group 2: PPI patients). Groups were compared in terms of patient characteristics, previously known PPI risk factors, and serum vitamin D levels.

Results: The entire study cohort consisted of 318 patients. The rate of PPI was 14.5%. Since mean age, body mass index, and prostate volume were significantly higher in group 2 than in group 1, propensity score matching was applied. Before and after propensity score matching, serum vitamin D levels were higher in group 1 than in group 2 at the 12^th postoperative month but no statistically significant difference was observed; however, after propensity score matching, serum vitamin D levels were significantly higher in continent patients than in incontinent patients at one, three, and six months postoperatively.

Conclusions: Serum vitamin D may be an essential marker in regaining continence in the early period after radical prostatectomy.