Laparoscopic radical prostatectomy: Initial experience of robotic surgery in Taiwan

Background: The incidence of prostate cancer is lower in Taiwan compared to Europe and North America. Only a few urologists have been trained to perform laparoscopic radical prostatectomies (LRP). The initial experience of robotic LRP in Taiwan is reported. Patients and Methods: Twenty-four patients with localized prostate carcinomas underwent robotic LRP between November 2004 and December 2006. Data collection included basic demographics, prostate specific antigen (PSA), stages, Gleason scores, operative time, estimated blood loss (EBL), catheterization time, pathology, complications and return of continence. Results: The mean operative time was 310 minutes, the mean EBL was 234 mL and the average urethral catheterization time was 7.1 days. Three patients had a total of three complications. Continence was 20.8% at one week, 59.1% at six weeks and 75% at three months postoperatively. Conclusion: Our initial experience with robotic LRP indicated that the procedure was safe and effective. Six case experiences were required to establish a standard operating procedure. Eighteen operations were needed to complete the learning curve and achieve stable results.