Robotic laparoscopic radical prostatectomy: Setup and procedural techniques after 150 cases

Abstract

Objectives. To report our current methods of patient positioning, establishing the pneumoperitoneum, port placement, and helpful maneuvers during the procedure that have been refined over the course of our initial experience with robotic laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RLRP). RLRP is gaining popularity as a minimally invasive technique for treating patients with organ-confined prostate cancer. Because this is a new procedure, strategies to optimize the surgical technique are constantly evolving. Methods. Two genitourinary surgeons experienced in open surgery with no laparoscopic experience began performing RLRP in December 2003 after appropriate training and mentoring. During the course ..