Is it worth to perform salvage radical prostatectomy for radio-recurrent prostate cancer? A literature review

Health-related quality of life following salvage radical prostatectomy for recurrent prostate cancer after radiotherapy or focal therapy

BACKGROUND

Salvage radical prostatectomy (sRP) is an important treatment option for patients with recurrent prostate cancer (PCa) after radiotherapy (RT) or focal therapy (FT). However, health-related quality of life (HRQOL) after sRP depending on the primary treatment is understudied.

METHODS

Patients who underwent Salvage RP for recurrent PCa were analyzed. The primary outcome of this study was HRQOL assessed by the quality-of-life questionnaire (QLQ)-C30 and its prostate specific QLQ-PR25 add-on. Secondary outcomes were functional outcome parameters (erectile function, continence) and biochemical recurrence-free survival (BRFS). Statistical analyses employed the chi-square test, Mann-Whitney U test, and Kaplan-Meier method, with a p value < 0.05 denoting significance.

RESULTS

37 patients with RT as primary treatment (RT-sRP) and 22 patients with focal therapy prior sRP (FT-sRP) were analyzed. Mean global health score was not significantly different preoperatively (71.9 vs. 67.3, p = 0.89) as well as after a median of 32 months follow-up (54.9 vs. 50.6, p = 0.63) with impaired HRQOL after sRP in both groups. Baseline erectile dysfunction was more prevalent in the RT-sRP group (mean IIEF-5: 5.0) than in the FT-sRP group (mean IIEF-5: 8.5, p = 0.037). No differences were observed at follow-up for erectile function (IIEF-5-Score: 0.5 vs 2.5, p = 0.199) and continence (continence rate: 48.4% vs 52.9% (p = 0.763) between the RT-sRP and FT-sRP group. 5-year-BRFS was 60% (RT-sRP) and 68% (FT-sRP, p = 0.849).

CONCLUSIONS

sRP impacts HRQOL in patients with PCa after RT and FT with no significant differences. Comparison with HRQOL and BRFS of treatment alternatives is paramount to counsel patients for appropriate treatments.

Long-term Outcomes and Patient Satisfaction Following Salvage Robot-assisted Radical Prostatectomy: A Modern Perspective

Background and objective

Approximately two-thirds of men who undergo primary treatment for prostate cancer (PC) will experience biochemical recurrence (BCR). Salvage robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (sRARP) offers curative treatment in this disease setting and men who choose this option may avoid palliative androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). The purpose of this study was to describe long-term outcomes and patient feedback following sRARP.

Methods

We reviewed data for consecutive men with biopsy-proven localized BCR who underwent sRARP and pelvic lymph node dissection at a single tertiary referral center between 2004 and 2021. Perioperative data, Clavien-Dindo complications, and functional outcomes were recorded. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to estimate prostate-specific antigen-free (≥0.2 ng/ml) survival (PSAFS) and metastasis-free survival (MFS). Three Likert-type items (score 1-5) from the validated Surgical Satisfaction Questionnaire-8 were distributed to patients postoperatively.

Key findings and limitations

We included 78 men, of whom 72 (92%) had undergone primary radiotherapy and six (8%) had received primary prostate ablation. Median follow-up was 10.1 yr (interquartile range 5.8-12.4). Final pathology identified ≥pT3N0M0 in 35 patients (45%) and positive margins in 23 (29%). The overall complication rate was 50%. Of the 26 (33%) major (grade ≥III) complications, anastomotic stricture (32%) was most common. The estimated 3-, 5-, and 10-yr survival rates were 85.6% and 80.2%, 83.5% for PSAFS (n = 11), and 74.1%, 83.5%, and 70.5% for MFS (n = 23), respectively. At last follow-up, postoperative ADT had been administered to 17 patients (22%), and 39 men (50%) remained alive a decade after sRARP. Continence and potency were maintained in 33/62 (53%) and 1/16 (6%) patients, respectively. Thirty-five respondents (45%) reported median questionnaire scores (≥4) in favor of sRARP. Limitations include the small single-center series and a single query point for patient feedback.

Conclusions and clinical implications

Long-term outcomes of sRARP suggest that the technical challenges and morbidity of the procedure are qualified by patient feedback and the opportunity to evade the morbidity and mortality of biochemically recurrent PC.

Patient summary

We reviewed the cancer outcomes and side effects of robot-assisted surgical removal of the prostate after treatment failure with radiation or ablation for prostate cancer. We found that this type of treatment has substantial risks and long-term side effects, but the surgery provides an opportunity to cure prostate cancer and/or avoid the consequences of indefinite hormonal treatment. Overall, most men who underwent this surgery were not disappointed with their decision despite the higher risks and consequences.

Salvage Radical Prostatectomy after Primary Focal Ablative Therapy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

CONTEXT

Focal therapy (FT) has been gaining popularity as a treatment option for localized intermediate-risk prostate cancer (PCa) due to the associated lower morbidity compared to whole-gland treatment. However, there is an increased risk of local cancer recurrence requiring subsequent treatment in a small proportion of patients.

OBJECTIVE

To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to better describe and analyze patient postoperative, oncologic, and functional outcomes for those who underwent salvage radical prostatectomy (sRP) to manage their primary FT failure.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A systematic review was completed using three databases (PubMed, Embase, and CINAHL) from October to December 2021 to identify data on outcomes in patients who received sRP for cancer recurrence after prior focal treatment.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

12 articles (482 patients) were included. Median time to sRP was 24 months. Median follow-up time was 27 months. A meta-analysis revealed a postoperative complication rate of 15% (95% CI: 0.09, 0.24), with 4.6% meeting criteria for a major complication Clavien (CG) grade ≥3. Severe GU toxicity was seen in 3.6% of the patients, and no patients had severe GI toxicity. Positive surgical margins (PSM) were found in 27% (95% CI: 0.19, 0.37). Biochemical recurrence (BCR) after sRP occurred in 23% (95% CI: 0.17, 0.30), indicating a BCR-free probability of 77% at 2 years. Continence (pad-free) and potency (ability to have penetrative sex) were maintained in 67% (95% CI: 0.53, 0.78) and 37% (95% CI: 0.18, 0.62) at 12 months, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Our evidence shows acceptable complication rates and oncologic outcomes; however, with suboptimal functional outcomes for patients undergoing sRP for recurrent PCa after prior FT. Inferior outcomes were observed for salvage treatment compared to primary radical prostatectomy (pRP). More high-quality studies are needed to better characterize outcomes after this sequence of PCa treatments.

PATIENT SUMMARY

We looked at treatment outcomes and toxicity for men treated with sRP for prior FT failure. We conclude that these patients will have significant detriment to genitourinary function, with outcomes being worse than those for pRP patients.

Salvage radical prostatectomy

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Salvage radical prostatectomy (sRP) is underutilized because of fear of historical high rates of peri-operative morbidities. However, there has been significant improvements in complication rates as well as oncologic outcomes in the recent years.

RECENT FINDINGS

Complication rates have significantly declined for both open and robotic approach in the past decade. Rectal injury is now reported around 2%, which is down from 30% in the historic series. Similarly, the current risk of major vascular injury is low. About 75% of patients report social continence (up to one pad per day). However, erectile function recovery remains poor and patients should be counselled accordingly. Long-term durable oncologic response is achievable with 10-year recurrence-free survival reported in about 40-50% of well selected patients.

SUMMARY

Recent improvements in oncologic and peri-operative outcomes make sRP a desirable option for local control. sRP treats the whole gland as opposed to focal therapies and allows for pelvic lymph node dissection and removal of seminal vesicles, which can be sanctuary site of disease. In experienced hands, regardless of the surgical approach, sRP can achieve a durable response resulting in delaying or avoiding androgen deprivation therapy and its associated morbidities.

Topography of Prostate Cancer Recurrence: A Single-centre Analysis of Salvage Radical Prostatectomy Specimens and Implications for Focal Salvage Treatments

Background

Most prostate cancer (PCa) recurrences after nonsurgical first-line treatment are managed with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). When local treatment is indicated, salvage focal treatment (FT) may achieve outcomes similar to those after salvage radical prostatectomy (sRP), with lower morbidity. However, descriptions of the topography of PCa recurrence are scarce.

Objective

To describe the characteristics and topography of recurrent PCa at sRP.

Design setting and participants

We performed a review of the final pathology for consecutive men undergoing sRP at a single centre between 2007 and 2021.

Outcome measurements and statistical analysis

Clinical and pathological outcomes and recurrence localisation (standardised map) were recorded. Suitability for salvage FT was evaluated using criteria defined a priori.

Results and limitations

We included 41 men who underwent sRP after whole-gland treatment (82.9% primary radiotherapy). Of these, 68.3% had grade group ≥3 and 46.3% had pT3 disease, including nine men (22%) with seminal vesicle involvement >1 cm. The pN+ rate was 29.3%. Surgical margins were positive in 39% (mostly at the apex, 21.9%). PCa was located at <3 mm from the apex in 68% of cases. The segment most frequently involved was the mid-gland (93%). The median prostate and index lesion (IL) volume was 31.4 cm³ (interquartile range [IQR] 23-37) and 2 cm³ (IQR 0.5-6), respectively. A solitary IL was present in 63.4% of cases, while 7.3% had whole-gland PCa involvement. Overall, 56% of the men (n = 23) were deemed suitable for salvage FT (although seven had pN+ disease). The sample size, single-centre retrospective design, and unavailability of magnetic resonance imaging data are the main limitations.

Conclusions

According to sRP pathology, radiorecurrent PCa is an aggressive disease, frequently showing extraprostatic extension, positive margins, and apical involvement. The majority of cases still harbour a solitary index lesion and a consistent proportion may be suitable for a gland-preserving strategy.

Patient summary

In this report we looked at the location of prostate cancer recurrence within the prostate gland after radiotherapy or ablation, in which energy (such as heat, cold, or laser energy) is used to kill cells. We found that although these recurrences are often high-grade locally advanced disease, around half of cases might be suitable for a gland-preserving salvage treatment.

Nightmares in Salvage Robot-assisted Radical Prostatectomy After Primary Radiation Therapy for Prostate Cancer: A Step by Step Tutorial

Salvage radical prostatectomy after primary radiotherapy (sRP) is considered a challenging procedure. We highlight the complications of sRP and detail critical surgical steps to help prevent them. A nonsystematic literature review in PubMed using the term “salvage radical prostatectomy” was performed on December 1, 2021. Salvage robot-assisted RP (sRARP) cases and imaging materials were used to create an educational video providing practical examples. Owing to radiation-induced changes in the prostate and surrounding tissues after radiotherapy, sRP is typically more challenging than primary RP. Among its critical steps are incision of the endopelvic fascia, bladder neck dissection with attempts at sparing the neck, development of posterior planes between the prostate and rectum, and dissection of the prostatic apex. Complication rates are significant, in particular for bladder neck contracture (0–16%) and anastomotic leakage (10–33%). Rectal injury is now rare (<2%) but still feared; careful adherence to surgical principles is required to avoid this complication. Functional outcomes are nonoptimal, with a high risk of urinary incontinence (severe incontinence in ∼25% of men). sRARP is a challenging urological procedure and should be performed by experienced surgeons. Thorough knowledge of the surgical anatomy and a meticulous technique for the most difficult surgical steps are crucial to minimise complications and to improve patient outcomes.

Patient summary

In patients with prostate cancer, removal of the prostate because of cancer recurrence after primary treatment with radiotherapy can be difficult because of radiation-induced tissue damage. This challenging procedure should be performed by experienced surgeons to minimise the risk of complications.

The SAFE Pilot Trial—SAlvage Focal Irreversible Electroporation—For Recurrent Localized Prostate Cancer: Rationale and Study Protocol

Introduction

Currently, the majority of prostate cancer (PCa) recurrences after non-surgical first-line treatment are managed with androgen-deprivation therapy (ADT). Salvage radical prostatectomy (sRP) is a curative alternative to ADT but yields significant morbidity. Preliminary evidence from focal salvage treatments shows similar oncological control but lower morbidity compared to sRP. Among available ablative focal energies, irreversible electroporation (IRE) is a treatment modality that proved promising, especially in treating apical lesions, where PCa most often recurs. Our aim is to test the safety of salvage IRE for recurrent PCa.

Methods

We performed a single-arm pilot feasibility study (IDEAL stage 2a): SAFE, SAlvage Focal irreversible Electroporation for recurrent localized PCa. Twenty patients with biopsy-proven PCa recurrence after primary non-surgical (radiation or ablation) treatment were included. All men will undergo mpMRI ± targeted biopsies, pre-operative PSMA-PET staging before inclusion and sIRE. Outcomes will be evaluated through internationally validated questionnaires and morbidity scales. All men will undergo a control biopsy at one year.

Results

Primary objectives were the evaluation of the safety of sIRE (and patients’ quality of life) after treatment. Secondary objectives were the evaluation of functional outcomes, namely, continence and erectile function changes and evaluation of short-term oncological efficacy.

Conclusions

SAFE is the second pilot study to evaluate sIRE and the first one performed according to the most recent diagnostic and staging imaging standards. sIRE may provide a curative option for recurrent PCa together with lower comorbidities compared to sRP.

Salvage local treatment for localized radio-recurrent prostate cancer: a narrative review and future perspectives

Although dose escalation protocols have improved biochemical control in prostate cancer radiotherapy, 10-45% of patients will experience disease recurrence. The prostate and seminal vesicles are the most frequent site of the first relapse. Traditionally, these patients have been managed with hormonal therapy, which is not curative. Recent improvements in diagnostic tests (e.g., multiparametric magnetic resonance and molecular imaging, including PET/CT scan with choline or Ga-PSMA) and new treatment techniques (e.g., stereotactic body radiation therapy or other minimally invasive alternatives like high-intensity focus ultrasound, cryoablation or high-dose-rate brachytherapy) offer new therapeutic strategies with the potential to cure some patients with limited adverse effects. In this narrative review, the authors present the most recent evidence to help identify the most suitable candidates for salvage treatment.

Salvage Robotic-assisted Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy Following Focal High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound for ISUP 2/3 Cancer

OBJECTIVE

To report feasibility and outcome of salvage robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (S-RALP) after focal therapy using high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) treatment compared to primary robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (pRALP).

METHODS

In this bicentric trial patients undergoing S-RALP for detection of WHO2016/ISUP Grade Group 2 or 3 prostate cancer were previously treated in prospective focal HIFU trials. Perioperative data, complications, oncological and functional outcome were analysed. Patients who underwent pRALP were matched in a ratio 2_(pRALP):1_(S-RALP) according to preoperatively functional, oncological and clinical parameters.

RESULTS

A total of 39 patients were included in the study (13S-RALP, 26pRALP). Median operative time in the S-RALP group was 260minutes (pRALP: 257minutes), blood loss was 230ml (pRALP: 300ml). Complications occurred in 46.2% (6/13) of S-RALP patients (pRALP: 26.9%), including four Clavien-Dindo III complications (pRALP: 2/26). In S-RALP adverse histological outcome (≥pT3a, pN+ or R1) was detected in 23.1% (3/13) (pRALP: 26.9%). There was one patient with PSA-persistence (pRALP: 2/26). Regarding functional outcomes there was no difference between the two groups observed (incontinence P=.71, erectile function P=.21).

CONCLUSION

S-RALP should be offered to patients with an early relapse after focal HIFU. The early oncological outcome is satisfactory and functional outcome one year postoperatively is similar to pRALP. However, S-RALP is associated with a higher rate of Clavien-Dindo III complications (mainly, placement of a drainage), of which patients should be informed beforehand.

Can quantitative analysis of multi-parametric MRI independently predict failure of focal salvage HIFU therapy in men with radio-recurrent prostate cancer?

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Quantitative mpMRI parameters predict failure of salvage HIFU in radiorecurrent prostate cancer

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Tumour microenvironment might produce heat-sinks which counter the effect of HIFU

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Ve value measured in the DCE sequence of the mpMRI is an independent predictor of treatment failure

Objectives

Focal salvage HIFU is a feasible therapeutic option in some men who have recurrence after primary radiotherapy for prostate cancer. We aimed to determine if multi-parametric quantitative parameters, in addition to clinical factors, might have a role in independently predicting focal salvage HIFU outcomes.

Methods

A retrospective registry analysis included 150 consecutive men who underwent focal salvage HIFU (Sonablate500) (2006-2015); 89 had mpMRI available. Metastatic disease was excluded by nodal assessment on pelvic MRI, a radioisotope bone-scan and/or choline or FDG PET/CT scan. All men had mpMRI and either transperineal template prostate mapping biopsy or targeted and systematic TRUS-biopsy. mpMRI included T2‐weighted, diffusion‐weighted and dynamic contrast‐enhancement. Pre-HIFU quantitative mpMRI data was obtained using Horos DICOM Viewer v3.3.5 for general MRI parameters and IB DCE v2.0 plug-in. Progression-free survival (PFS) was defined by biochemical failure and/or positive localized or distant imaging results and/or positive biopsy and/or systemic therapy and/or metastases/prostate cancer‐specific death. Potential predictors of PFS were analyzed by univariable and multivariable Cox-regression.

Results

Median age at focal salvage HIFU was 71 years (interquartile range [IQR] 65–74.5) and median PSA pre-focal salvage treatment was 5.8ng/ml (3.8-8). Median follow-up was 35 months (23-47) and median time to failure was 15 months (7.8–24.3). D-Amico low, intermediate and high-risk disease was present in 1% (1/89), 40% (36/89) and 43% (38/89) prior to focal salvage HIFU (16% missing data). 56% (50/89) failed by the composite outcome. A total of 22 factors were evaluated on univariable and 8 factors on multivariable analysis. The following quantitative parameters were included: Ktrans, Kep, Ve, Vp, IS, rTTP and TTP. On univariable analysis, PSA, prostate volume at time of radiotherapy failure and Ve (median) value were predictors for failure. Ve represents extracellular fraction of the whole tissue volume. On multivariable analysis, only Ve (median) value remained as an independent predictor.

Conclusions

One pharmacokinetic quantitative parameter based on DCE sequences seems to independently predict failure following focal salvage HIFU for radio-recurrent prostate cancer. This likely relates to the tumor microenvironment producing heat-sinks which counter the heating effect of HIFU. Further validation in larger datasets and evaluating mechanisms to reduce heat-sinks are required.

Salvage radical prostatectomy after local radiotherapy in prostate cancer

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Salvage surgeries are rarely offered and performed in prostate cancer except for isolated lymph node metastases. Meanwhile, data are sufficient that salvage radical prostatectomy is recommended by the guidelines. In the following review, we focus on different treatment strategies comparing open and DaVinci laparoscopic approach with regard to functional and oncologic outcome. Of further interest are palliative surgeries.

RECENT FINDINGS

Salvage radical prostatectomy is mainly performed in high volume centres. Data are increasing on minimal invasive surgery, although data on functional outcome are conflicting. As patients with prostate cancer have longer life expectancy even in metastasized disease, the possibility of developing symptomatic progression increases as well. We need to be aware that the confrontation with symptomatic prostate cancer patients will be more frequent in the future and that there are surgical approaches to palliate these patients sufficiently.

SUMMARY

Data on minimal invasive salvage radical prostatectomy are getting more valid and are an option in experienced centres. Salvage radical prostatectomy is a definitive curative option for the patients. To avoid local progression, palliative local surgeries need to be discussed with the patients.

Male sexual dysfunction and rehabilitation strategies in the settings of salvage prostate cancer treatment

Male sexual dysfunction, a common sequela following primary prostate cancer (PC) treatment, is likely to be more significant following salvage PC therapy. In general, these impairments in sexual domains can be divided into three groups, namely (1) sexual desire, sexuality and masculinity; (2) erectile function (EF); and (3) ejaculation and orgasm. However, there is considerable overlap between these sexual domains and male sexual response cycle, and various factors such as cancer status, mental well-being, medical conditions and social circumstances can adversely impact on the male sexual function. While several preventive and treatment strategies for the preservation and recovery of sexual function are available, there is limited consensus guidelines exist regarding the optimal rehabilitation or treatment protocol for men with sexual dysfunction following salvage therapy. While penile rehabilitation may be effective to restore erectile function and the ability to have coital sex, there is lack of effective treatments in other domains of male sexual function, thereby underscoring the importance of psychological and sexual counselling in sexual rehabilitation. Indeed, a comprehensive multidisciplinary approach is necessary to better understand and optimally assist and manage the men and their respective partners for better sexual health and activity.

Yttrium-90 Radioembolization to the Prostate Gland: Proof of Concept in a Canine Model and Clinical Translation

PURPOSE

To investigate the feasibility, safety, and absorbed-dose distribution of prostatic artery radioembolization (RE) in a canine model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fourteen male castrated beagles received dihydroandrosterone/estradiol to induce prostatic hyperplasia for the duration of the study. Each dog underwent fluoroscopic prostatic artery catheterization. Yttrium-90 (⁹⁰Y) microspheres (TheraSphere; Boston Scientific, Marlborough, Massachusetts) were delivered to 1 prostatic hemigland (dose escalation from 60 to 200 Gy), with the contralateral side serving as a control. Assessments for adverse events were performed throughout the follow-up (Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events v5.0). Positron emission tomography/magnetic resonance (MR) imaging provided a confirmation after the delivery of absorbed-dose distribution. MR imaging was performed before and 3, 20, and 40 days after RE. Tissue harvest of the prostate, rectum, bladder, urethra, penis, and neurovascular bundles was performed 60 days after RE.

RESULTS

All the animals successfully underwent RE. Positron emission tomography/MR imaging demonstrated localization to and good coverage of only the treated hemigland. No adverse events occurred. The MR imaging showed a significant dose-dependent decrease in the treated hemigland size at 40 days (25%-60%, P < .001). No extraprostatic radiographic changes were observed. Necropsy demonstrated no gross rectal, urethral, penile, or bladder changes. Histology revealed RE-induced changes in the treated prostatic tissues of the highest dose group, with gland atrophy and focal necrosis. No extraprostatic RE-related histologic findings were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Prostate ⁹⁰Y RE is safe and feasible in a canine model and leads to focal dose-dependent changes in the gland without inducing unwanted extraprostatic effects. These results suggest that an investigation of nonoperative prostate cancer is warranted.

Oncological outcomes of salvage radical prostatectomy for recurrent prostate cancer in the contemporary era: A multicenter retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Salvage radical prostatectomy (sRP) historically yields poor functional outcomes and high complication rates. However, recent reports on robotic sRP show improved results. Our objectives were to evaluate sRP oncological outcomes and predictors of positive margins and biochemical recurrence (BCR).

METHODS

We retrospectively collected data of sRP for recurrent prostate cancer after local nonsurgical treatment at 18 tertiary referral centers in United States, Australia and Europe, from 2000 to 2016. SM and BCR were evaluated in a univariate and multivariable analysis. Overall and cancer-specific survival were also assessed.

RESULTS

We included 414 cases, 63.5% of them performed after radiotherapy. Before sRP the majority of patients had biopsy Gleason score (GS) ≤7 (55.5%) and imaging negative or with prostatic bed involvement only (93.3%). Final pathology showed aggressive histology in 39.7% (GS ≥9 27.6%), with 52.9% having ≥pT3 disease and 16% pN+. SM was positive in 29.7%. Five years BCR-Free, cancer-specific survival and OS were 56.7%, 97.7% and 92.1%, respectively. On multivariable analysis pathological T (pT3a odds ratio [OR] 2.939, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.469-5.879; ≥pT3b OR 2.428-95% CI 1.333-4.423) and N stage (pN1 OR 2.871, 95% CI 1.503-5.897) were independent predictors of positive margins. Pathological T stage ≥T3b (OR 2.348 95% CI 1.338-4.117) and GS (up to OR 7.183, 95% CI 1.906-27.068 for GS >8) were independent predictors for BCR. Limitations include the retrospective nature of the study and limited follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

In a contemporary series, sRP showed promising oncological control in the medium term despite aggressive pathological features. BCR risk increased in case of locally advanced disease and higher GS. Future studies are needed to confirm our findings.

Salvage robot-assisted radical prostatectomy after carbon ion radiotherapy: a case report

Salvage radical prostatectomy is a therapeutic option for the biochemical recurrence of prostate cancer after radiotherapy. However, only one case report of salvage radical prostatectomy after carbon ion radiotherapy has been reported. We report a case of salvage robot-assisted radical prostatectomy for local recurrence of prostate cancer after carbon ion radiotherapy with surgical video. Owing to adhesion and degeneration after radiotherapy, difficulties in surgery and post-operative complications have been anticipated. However, surgery was feasible without severe peri- and post-operative complications. Salvage robot-assisted radical prostatectomy after carbon ion radiotherapy may be a reasonable therapeutic option.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13691-020-00464-w.

Comparing open and robotic salvage radical prostatectomy after radiotherapy: predictors and outcomes

Introduction

In the present study, we aim to provide more evidence about benefits of salvage radical prostatectomy (SRP). Our main objective is to assess prostatic-specific antigen control and postoperative urinary incontinence in open and robotic approaches as primary outcomes.

Materials and methods

After the Institutional Review Board approval (IRB00010193), we retrospectively analyzed 76 consecutive patients who underwent open or robot-assisted SRP for locally relapsed prostate cancer between 2004 and 2019 at the Urology Department of Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires, Argentina. Data were collected from our electronic medical record and prospective database.Postoperative variables, such as urinary incontinence, erectile function preservation, and vesicourethral anastomosis stricture development, were analyzed.

Results

Before SRP, 59 patients (76.6%) were treated with 3D external beam radiotherapy, 11 (14.3%) with brachytherapy, and 6 (7.8%) with intensity-modulated radiotherapy. Fifty patients underwent open SRP, and 26, robot-assisted SRP. Comparing surgical approaches, the global incontinence rate was 34.2% versus 9.1% in open versus robot-assisted approach, respectively (p: 0.01).Vesicourethral anastomosis stricture occurred in six patients (8.7%), all in the open approach group (p: 0.07). Five patients of 69 (7.2%) preserved erectile function with/without use of phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors. Two patients in the open approach group needed blood transfusion. Estimated 2-year biochemical recurrence-free survival rate in the open approach group and robot-assisted group was 67% (95% confidence interval: 53.7-80.3) and 60.9% (95% confidence interval: 40.5-81.3), respectively, with no statistical difference (log-rank test p: 0.873).

Conclusions

Robot-assisted SRP is a reliable procedure to treat local recurrences after external beam radiotherapy or brachytherapy, reducing the risk of anastomotic strictures and blood loss and improving continence outcomes.

Candidates to salvage therapy after external-beam radiotherapy of prostate cancer: Predictors of local recurrence volume and metastasis-free survival

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to assess the predictors of metastasis-free survival (MFS) and of the volume of the local recurrence in patients with rising prostate-specific antigen (PSA) serum level after radiotherapy for prostate cancer and referred for prostate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and biopsy in view of salvage treatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 132 consecutive men (median age, 70 years; IQR, 66-77 years) with rising PSA after prostate radiotherapy who underwent prostate MRI and biopsy in view of salvage treatment between January 2010 and July 2017 were retrospectively evaluated at a single center. MFS predictors were assessed with Cox models. Predictors of the volume of the local recurrence (number of invaded prostate sectors at biopsy) were assessed using Poisson regression among variables available at PSA relapse.

RESULTS

At multivariate analysis, an initial Gleason score≥8 (OR=7 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.2-40]; P=0.03), a recent radiotherapy (OR=17 [95% CI: 3.9-72]; P<0.0001), the use of androgen deprivation therapy at PSA relapse (OR=12.5 [95% CI: 2.8-57]; P=0.001) and the number of invaded prostate sectors (OR=1.5 [95% CI: 1.1-2]; P=0.007) and maximum cancer core length (OR=0.7 [95%CI: 0.6-0.9]; P=0.002) at biopsy performed at PSA relapse were significant MFS predictors. The PSA level at relapse was significant independent predictor of the volume of local recurrence only when used as a continuous variable (P=0.0002) but not when dichotomized using the nadir+2 threshold (P=0.41).

CONCLUSION

Pathological and clinical factors can help predict MFS in patients with rising PSA after prostate radiotherapy and candidates to salvage treatment. The PSA level at relapse has strong influence on the local recurrence volume when used as a continuous variable.