Radiation therapy (RT) is one of the treatment options for prostate cancer (PCa).
Transperineal low-dose rate brachytherapy (BT) is another safe and effective technique for low-risk PCa. Recurrence after RT for localized PCa can be defined by a PSA value of 2 ng/mL above the nadir after RT, and biochemical recurrence (BCR) rate after RT is 40-60 %. In case of radiorecurrent PCa, treatment options include salvage radical prostatectomy (RP), cryotherapy, high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), and salvage BT. Only salvage RP has cancer control results for over 10-year follow-up in a substantial portion of patients (30-40 %). However, salvage RP is technically demanding, and experienced surgeons are needed; in fact, RT-induced cystitis, fibrosis, and tissue plane obliteration can lead to significant complications, such as rectal injuries, anastomotic stricture, and urinary incontinence. This review describes indications, oncologic and functional outcomes, surgical techniques, and complications of salvage robot-assisted RP.
Written by:
Rocco B, Cozzi G, Spinelli MG, Grasso A, Varisco D, Coelho RF, Patel VR. Are you the author?
Clinica Urologica I, Università degli Studi di Milano, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda - Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.
Reference: Curr Urol Rep. 2012 Mar 20. Epub ahead of print.
doi: 10.1007/s11934-012-0245-1
PubMed Abstract
PMID: 22430278
UroToday.com Prostate Cancer Section