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.


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.


CONCLUSIONS
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.
Wu
Sheng-Tang
ST
Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC.
Tsui
Ke-Hung
KH
Tang
Shou-Hung
SH
Char
Dai-Lung
DL
Yu
Dah-Shyong
DS
Yen
Chung-Yran
CY
Chang
Sun-Yran
SY
Chen
Hong-I
HI
Sun
Guang-Huan
GH
D000368:Aged; D006801:Humans; D010535:Laparoscopy / Q000379:methods; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009367:Neoplasm Staging; D011468:Prostatectomy / Q000379:methods*; D011471:Prostatic Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D012371:Robotics / Q000379:methods