Our Summary

This research paper is about the best ways to train surgeons to use robotic surgery to treat prostate cancer. The authors looked at all the current studies and information on this topic. They found that a surgeon generally needs to do between 18 to 45 surgeries to really get the hang of this technique.

The researchers suggest that the best training method is for the surgeon to watch a mentor use a virtual reality simulator to perform the surgery, then try it themselves on the simulator, and review any mistakes by watching a video recording. After this, the surgeon should watch real surgeries, then perform some steps of the surgery that they’ve already practiced on the simulator, under the supervision of the mentor.

The authors also highlight that it’s not just the surgeons that need to be trained, but the whole surgical team. They point out that there isn’t a universally agreed-upon way to measure a surgeon’s progress in learning this technique. This is something that needs to be addressed in order to ensure that surgeons are adequately trained to perform this kind of surgery.

FAQs

  1. How many surgeries does a surgeon typically need to perform before they are proficient in using robotic surgery for prostate cancer?
  2. What is the recommended training method for surgeons learning to use robotic surgery for prostate cancer?
  3. Does the research suggest any methods for measuring a surgeon’s progress in learning this technique?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient undergoing a prostatectomy that the surgeon performing the procedure has likely undergone extensive training, including practice on virtual reality simulators and supervised real surgeries. This training process helps ensure that the surgeon is skilled and experienced in using the robotic surgery technique for the best possible outcome.

Suitable For

Prostatectomy, which is the surgical removal of the prostate gland, is typically recommended for patients with prostate cancer that has not spread beyond the prostate gland. This type of surgery may be recommended for patients with localized prostate cancer who are healthy enough to undergo surgery and have a life expectancy of at least 10 years.

Patients who are younger and have a longer life expectancy, as well as those with more aggressive forms of prostate cancer, may also be recommended for prostatectomy. Additionally, patients who have not responded well to other treatments such as radiation therapy or hormone therapy may be candidates for prostatectomy.

It’s important for patients to discuss their individual situation with their healthcare provider to determine if prostatectomy is the best treatment option for them. Each patient’s case is unique and should be evaluated by a healthcare team to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.

Timeline

Before prostatectomy:

  1. Patient is diagnosed with prostate cancer through a biopsy or imaging tests.
  2. Patient discusses treatment options with their healthcare provider, including robotic prostatectomy.
  3. Patient undergoes pre-operative testing and evaluation to determine if they are a suitable candidate for surgery.
  4. Patient receives counseling on the potential risks and benefits of prostatectomy.
  5. Patient schedules the surgery and prepares for it by following pre-operative instructions.

After prostatectomy:

  1. Patient undergoes the robotic prostatectomy procedure, which involves the removal of the prostate gland.
  2. Patient is closely monitored in the post-operative period for any complications or side effects.
  3. Patient may experience pain, urinary incontinence, erectile dysfunction, and other side effects following the surgery.
  4. Patient follows a recovery plan that includes physical therapy, medications, and lifestyle changes to aid in the healing process.
  5. Patient undergoes follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider to monitor their progress and address any concerns or complications.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. How many robotic prostatectomies have you performed?
  2. What is your success rate with this procedure?
  3. What are the potential risks and complications associated with robotic prostatectomy?
  4. Will I need any additional treatments or follow-up care after the surgery?
  5. How long is the recovery process after robotic prostatectomy?
  6. How soon can I resume normal activities, such as work and exercise, after the surgery?
  7. Are there any alternative treatment options for my prostate cancer?
  8. What should I expect during the surgery and hospital stay?
  9. Will I need a catheter after the surgery, and for how long?
  10. How often will I need follow-up appointments after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Rapoport LM, Bezrukov EA, Tsarichenko DG, Martirosyan GA, Sukhanov RB, Krupinov GE, Slusarenco RI, Morozov AO, Avakyan SK, Sargsyan NA. Journal: Khirurgiia (Mosk). 2019;(1):89-94. doi: 10.17116/hirurgia201901189. PMID: 30789615