Blood Loss Comparison
Laparoscopic and robotic surgeons make keyhole incisions, which are much smaller, much less invasive and nearly bloodless. The equivalent of a few tablespoons of blood is lost during robotic prostatectomies. When a large incision is made, blood loss is significant and transfusions are sometimes required.
Complication Rates
Complication rates are far higher in open than robotic prostatectomies. Because far more tissue is exposed during open surgery, infection rates are higher.
Evolution of Surgical Technique
With experience, robotic surgery techniques have become more refined. In Dr. Samadi’s case, the endopelvic fascia is no longer severed and the bladder neck is cut narrowly instead of wide.
Gleason Score
A Gleason score is given to prostate cancer based on its microscopic makeup. Cancers with a higher Gleason score are more aggressive.
Time in OR
There’s been a significant decrease in operating room time with the use of robotic technology. Dr. Samadi is performs most surgeries in 1 ½ to 2 hours.
Postoperative Stay
Robotic prostatectomy patients are released from the hospital after one day in nearly 100% of cases.
Robotic Surgery Volume Growth
Just 6 years ago, laparoscopic surgeries exceeded robotic operations. Now, very few laparoscopic prostatectomies are performed.
Positive Surgical Margin
Positive surgical margins indicate the progression of prostate cancer. The lower the positive margin, the less likely it is that cancer will recur.