Our Summary

This study looked at the benefits of using a particular type of stitch, known as a barbed suture, during a type of prostate surgery performed with a robot (RARP). The researchers focused on four types of these barbed sutures produced by different companies.

They looked at how long the operation and the stitching of the urethra and bladder took, how long a catheter was needed after surgery, how long the hospital stay was, and the rate of complications after surgery.

The results suggest that using these barbed sutures during RARP is safe and might offer advantages such as improved control of urine, a shorter time needing a catheter, and other improved surgical results. The researchers say that more studies, particularly prospective trials, are needed to confirm whether these barbed sutures are really better than traditional sutures.

FAQs

  1. What type of suture was the study focused on and what kind of surgery was it used in?
  2. What were the potential advantages of using barbed sutures during RARP according to the study?
  3. What further research do the researchers suggest to confirm the benefits of barbed sutures in prostate surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor may tell a patient undergoing a prostatectomy that using barbed sutures during the surgery may offer advantages such as improved control of urine, shorter time needing a catheter, and other improved surgical outcomes. However, more studies, particularly prospective trials, are needed to confirm the benefits of using barbed sutures compared to traditional sutures. It is important for patients to discuss the use of barbed sutures with their surgeon and make an informed decision based on their individual case.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for prostatectomy include those with localized prostate cancer that has not spread beyond the prostate gland, those with high-risk prostate cancer, those with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) that causes severe symptoms such as urinary retention or recurrent urinary tract infections, and those with prostate enlargement that is causing significant symptoms such as urinary urgency, frequency, or incontinence.

Timeline

Before the prostatectomy:

  1. Patient is diagnosed with prostate cancer and discusses treatment options with their healthcare provider.
  2. Patient decides to undergo a prostatectomy and schedules the surgery.
  3. Patient undergoes pre-operative testing and preparation for the surgery.
  4. Patient meets with their surgeon to discuss the procedure and ask any questions they may have.

After the prostatectomy:

  1. Patient undergoes the prostatectomy procedure using a robot (RARP) with the use of barbed sutures.
  2. Surgeon stitches the urethra and bladder using the barbed sutures.
  3. Patient is monitored in the recovery room before being transferred to a hospital room.
  4. Patient may need a catheter for a period of time after surgery to help with urination.
  5. Patient is discharged from the hospital once they are stable and able to care for themselves at home.
  6. Patient follows up with their healthcare provider for post-operative care and monitoring of their recovery.
  7. Patient may experience improvements in urinary control and other surgical outcomes due to the use of the barbed sutures.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential benefits of using barbed sutures during a prostatectomy compared to traditional sutures?
  2. Are there any specific risks or complications associated with using barbed sutures during this type of surgery?
  3. How does the use of barbed sutures affect the length of the operation and the recovery time after surgery?
  4. Will I still need to have a catheter after surgery if barbed sutures are used?
  5. What type of follow-up care or monitoring will be needed if barbed sutures are used during the prostatectomy?
  6. Are there any specific guidelines or restrictions I should follow after surgery if barbed sutures are used?
  7. Are there any other alternatives to using barbed sutures during the prostatectomy that I should consider?
  8. What is the success rate or outcome of using barbed sutures in this type of surgery based on your experience or research?
  9. Are there any ongoing clinical trials or studies related to the use of barbed sutures during prostatectomy that I should be aware of?
  10. How will the use of barbed sutures affect my overall recovery and long-term outcomes after the prostatectomy?

Reference

Authors: Porreca A, Salvaggio A, Dandrea M, Cappa E, Zuccala A, Del Rosso A, D’Agostino D. Journal: Surg Technol Int. 2017 Jul 25;30:39-43. PMID: 28695968