The current status of robot-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy

Purpose of review To review the recent urologic literature with a focus on refinements of surgical technique in robot-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP) and to discuss the impact of these developments on the 'trifecta' of prostate cancer management: oncologic, continence, and potency outcomes. Recent findings Refinements in the surgical technique during the established steps of radical prostatectomy have led to improved functional outcomes following RALP. Early continence rates have increased, and potency, with evolving respect for the neurovascular bundle and neural anatomy, has further promise. 'Long-term' outcomes demonstrate favorable results in continence and potency. Oncologic outcomes, specifically low positive margin rates, have been maintained and even improved in many series during the evolution of this widely accepted procedure. Summary RALP has continued to rapidly disseminate through the urologic community, but the ultimate impact remains under scrutiny. The procedure has seen birth from open and laparoscopic prostatectomy, and its success has been measured against contemporary open prostatectomy series during its infancy. Short and long-term oncologic outcomes must be followed carefully. The assessment of functional outcomes of continence and potency requires honest and, as best possible, objective analysis. Prospective, randomized clinical trials with long-term follow-up utilizing validated instruments are necessary to evaluate RALP and all associated technical modifications.