Robotic-assisted radical cystectomy.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the emerging role of robotic-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) in the management of bladder cancer.


METHODS
Review of the published literature on robotic-assisted radical cystectomy, including data from our cystectomy series of 30 patients.


RESULTS
Nearly 150 procedures have been performed worldwide. The benefits of robotic-assisted operations are similar to those of laparoscopically-performed procedures. RARC appears to be technically safe, oncologically and functionally equivalent to open (ORC) and laparoscopic radical cystectomy (LRC). However, RARC offers superior ergonomics and better vision. These benefits come at extra initial capital expenditure and subsequent higher maintenance costs.


CONCLUSIONS
With the rapid spread of robotics, it is likely that RARC will become the standard of care in units with access to the technology.
Khan
Mohammad Shamim
MS
Department of Urology, King's College School of Medicine, Guy's & Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK. shamim.khan@gstt.nhs.uk <shamim.khan@gstt.nhs.uk>
Shah
Shahzad Saleem
SS
Hemel
Ashok
A
Rimington
Peter
P
Dasgupta
Prokar
P
D015653:Cystectomy / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods*; D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D012371:Robotics / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods*; D025321:Surgery, Computer-Assisted / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods*; D013673:Technology Assessment, Biomedical; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D001749:Urinary Bladder Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery*