Effect of Peritoneal Fixation (PerFix) on Lymphocele Formation in Robot-assisted Radical Prostatectomy with Pelvic Lymphadenectomy: Results of a Randomized Prospective Trial

Impact of peritoneal reconfiguration on lymphocele formation after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy with pelvic lymph node dissection: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Different strategies have been proposed to prevent lymphocele (LC) formation after radical prostatectomy (RARP) with pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND). According to several recently published randomized control trials (RCTs) on the topic, peritoneal reconfiguration appears to be associated with promising results. This systematic review aimed to assess the impact of peritoneal reconfiguration on LC formation in patients undergoing RARP and PLND.

METHODS

A comprehensive bibliographic search was conducted in August 2023. Studies assessing patients with prostate cancer undergoing RARP with PLND (P) and concomitant peritoneal reconfiguration (I) compared or not with other techniques (C) to prevent LC formation (O) were included. Original prospective and retrospective studies (S) were selected. LC and symptomatic LC rates were chosen as co-primary outcomes. Only RCTs were included in the meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Eleven studies investigating 2991 patients were included in the systematic review, and five RCTs evaluating 1712 subjects were deemed eligible for meta-analysis. Peritoneal flap (PF) was the most common surgical technique used for LC prevention (9 studies). A significantly lower likelihood of LC was observed after PF (OR 0.82, 95% CI 0.27-1.37, I2 = 74.54%), with no significant difference in terms of symptomatic LC (OR 0.21, 95% CI -0.41-0.84, I2 = 0%). Probability of LC-related complications (OR 0.36, 95% CI 0.04-0.67, I2 = 0%), Clavien-Dindo ≥ 3 overall complications (OR 0.61, 95% CI 0.21-1.0, I2 = 0%), and Clavien-Dindo ≥ 3 LC-related complications (OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.29-1.67, I2 = 0%) were significantly lower after PF.

CONCLUSIONS

PF after RARP with PLND reduces LC formation, LC-related complications, and severe postoperative adverse events.

Peritoneal interposition flap reduces symptomatic lymphocele following transperitoneal robot-assisted radical prostatectomy and pelvic lymph node dissection: An updated meta-analysis

Background

Robot-assisted radical prostatectomy with intraoperative pelvic lymph node dissection is the criterion standard for surgical treatment of nonmetastatic intermediate- and high-risk prostate cancer. However, this method is associated with symptomatic lymphocele (SLC), which is an important morbidity factor. To overcome this complication, several modifications of the technique have been developed, including the peritoneal interposition flap (PIF). We performed an updated systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the efficacy and safety of this technique for preventing SLC and lymphocele (LC) formation.

Materials and methods

Searches were performed using databases and references from included studies and previous systematic reviews. Only randomized controlled trials and nonrandomized cohorts were included. Primary outcomes were the incidence of SLC and LC formation, and safety outcomes were defined as operation time, estimated blood loss, length of hospital stay, and urinary incontinence. Quality assessment was performed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and Cochrane Collaboration's tool. Pooled treatment effects were estimated using odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for binary endpoints. Heterogeneity was examined using Cochran's Q test and I 2 statistics; p values < 0.10 and I 2 > 25% were considered significant for heterogeneity. We used Mantel-Haenszel fixed-effect models in the analyses with low heterogeneity. Otherwise, the DerSimonian and Laird random-effects model was used.

Results

The initial search yielded 510 results. After the removal of duplicate records and application of the exclusion criterion, 9 studies were fully reviewed for eligibility. Three randomized controlled trials and 5 retrospective cohorts met all the inclusion criteria, comprising 2261 patients, of whom 1073 (47.4%) underwent PIF. Six studies reported a significant reduction in SLC in the PIF group, and 3 of the 4 studies reported LC formation yielded significant results in preventing this complication. The incidence of SLC and LC formation in a follow-up of ≥3 months was significantly different between the PIF and no PIF group (odds ratio, 0.34 [95% CI, 0.16–0.74; p = 0.006] and 0.48 [95% CI, 0.31–0.74; p = 0.0008]), respectively. The safety outcomes did not differ significantly between the 2 groups.

Conclusions

These results suggest that PIF is an effective and safe technique for preventing LC and SLC in patients undergoing transperitoneal robot-assisted radical prostatectomy and pelvic lymph node dissection.

The role of lateral pelvic lymph node dissection in advanced rectal cancer: a review of current evidence and outcomes

Metastatic lateral pelvic lymph nodes (LPNs) in rectal cancer significantly impact the prognosis and treatment strategies. Western practices emphasize neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (CRT), whereas Eastern approaches often rely on LPN dissection (LPND). This review examines the evolving role of LPND in the context of modern treatments, including total neoadjuvant therapy (TNT), and the impact of CRT on the management of clinically suspicious LPNs. We comprehensively reviewed the key literature comparing the outcomes of LPND versus preoperative CRT for rectal cancer, focusing on recent advancements and ongoing debates. Key studies, including the JCOG0212 trial and recent multicenter trials, were analyzed to assess the efficacy of LPND, particularly in conjunction with preoperative CRT or TNT. Current evidence indicates that LPND can reduce local recurrence rates compared to total mesorectal excision alone in patients not receiving radiation therapy. However, the benefit of LPND in the context of neoadjuvant CRT is influenced by the size and pretreatment characteristics of LPNs. While CRT can effectively control smaller metastatic LPNs, larger or clinically suspicious LPNs may require LPND for optimal outcomes. Advances in surgical techniques, such as robotic-assisted LPND, offer potential benefits but also present challenges and complications. The role of TNT in controlling metastatic LPNs and improving patient outcomes is emerging but remains underexplored. The decision to perform LPND should be individualized based on patient-specific factors, including LPN size, response to neoadjuvant treatment, and surgeon expertise. Future research should focus on optimizing treatment protocols and further evaluating the role of TNT in managing metastatic LPNs.

Flaps and Grafts in Robotic Reconstructive Surgery

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The robotic approach is increasingly popular in reconstructive urology. Reconstructive surgeons have commonly used flaps and grafts for obliterating dead space including tissue interposition or as an alternative to mesh in addressing lower urinary tract dysfunction. Advantages of the robotic approach are less incisional pain, excellent visualization in the deep pelvis, and improved surgeon ergonomics. In this literature review, we describe flaps and grafts used in lower urinary tract robotic reconstructive urology, serving as an almanac for these techniques.

RECENT FINDINGS

Omental, peritoneal, vertical rectus abdominis musculocutaneous (VRAM), sigmoid epiploica, gracilis flaps, and Alloderm™ have been reported for tissue interposition during fistula repair. Fascia lata has been described as a mesh alternative for robotic sacrocolpopexy. Besides providing interposition, flaps support native tissue healing and blood supply. Grafts are easy to use with low patient morbidity, but rely on the blood supply at the recipient site. Robotic reconstruction is an emerging field, and more studies are needed to define the best uses for each flap and graft as well as strategies to maximize outcomes and minimize morbidity.

A preliminary investigation of precise visualization, localization, and resection of pelvic lymph nodes in bladder cancer by using indocyanine green fluorescence-guided approach through intracutaneous dye injection into the lower limbs and perineum

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the feasibility and effectiveness of using indocyanine green (ICG) injected intracutaneously through the lower limbs and perineum for visualized tracking, localization, and qualitative assessment of pelvic lymph nodes (LNs) in bladder cancer to achieve their accurate resection.

Methods

First, ICG was injected into the LN metastasis model mice lower limbs, and real-time and dynamic in vivo and ex vivo imaging was conducted by using a near-infrared fluorescence imaging system. Additionally, 26 patients with bladder cancer were enrolled and divided into intracutaneous group and transurethral group. A near-infrared fluorescence imaging device with internal and external imaging probes was used to perform real-time tracking, localization, and resection of the pelvic LNs.

Results

The mice normal LNs and the metastatic LNs exhibited fluorescence. The metastatic LNs showed a significantly higher signal-to-background ratio than the normal LNs (3.9 ± 0.2 vs. 2.0 ± 0.1, p < 0.05). In the intracutaneous group, the accuracy rate of fluorescent-labeled LNs was 97.6%, with an average of 11.3 ± 2.4 LNs resected per patient. Six positive LNs were detected in three patients (18.8%). In the transurethral group, the accuracy rate of fluorescent-labeled LNs was 84.4%, with an average of 8.6 ± 2.3 LNs resected per patient. Two positive LNs were detected in one patient (12.5%).

Conclusion

Following the intracutaneous injection of ICG into the lower limbs and perineum, the dye accumulates in pelvic LNs through lymphatic reflux. By using near-infrared fluorescence laparoscopic fusion imaging, physicians can perform real-time tracking, localization, and precise resection of pelvic LNs.

Long-Term Follow-Up of Peritoneal Interposition Flap in Symptomatic Lymphocele Reduction following Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy: Insights from the PIANOFORTE Trial

The available randomised controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the influence of peritoneal interposition flaps (PIF) on the reduction of symptomatic lymphoceles (sLCs) post robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) do not constitute a sufficient follow-up (FU) to assess the long-term effects. The PIANOFORTE trial was the first of these RCTs, showing no sLC reduction at the 3-month FU. Therefore, all 232 patients from the PIANOFORTE trial were invited for long-term FU. One hundred seventy-six patients (76%) presented themselves for FU and constituted the study group (SG). The median FU duration was 43 months. No significant differences in group allocation or LC endpoints at 90 days were observed between SG patients and patients not presenting themselves for the FU. During the FU period, four patients (2.3%) in the SG developed sLCs, and six patients (3.4%) developed asymptomatic lymphoceles (aLCs), which persisted in five patients (2.9%). There were no significant differences between PIF and non-PIF regarding sLC/aLC formation or persistence, newly developed complications, stress urinary incontinence or biochemical/clinical tumour recurrence. Therefore, this long-term FU confirms the primary outcomes of the PIANOFORTE trial that, while PIF does not impact complications or functionality, it does not reduce sLC/aLC rates. Furthermore, it shows the potential occurrence of LC after the third postoperative month.

Comparison of peritoneal interposition flaps and sealants for prevention of lymphocele after robotic radical prostatectomy and pelvic lymph node dissection: a systematic review, meta-analysis, Bayesian network meta-analysis, and meta-regression

Lymphocele is one of the most common complications after radical prostatectomy. Multiple authors have proposed the use of vessel sealants or peritoneal interposition techniques as preventive interventions. This study aimed to aggregate and analyze the available literature on different interventions which seek to prevent lymphocele through a Bayesian Network. A systematic review was performed to identify prospective studies evaluating strategies for lymphocele prevention after robot assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy + pelvic lymph node dissection. Data was inputted into Review Manager 5.4 for pairwise meta-analysis. Data was then used to build a network in R Studio. These networks were used to model 200,000 Markov Chains via MonteCarlo sampling. The results are expressed as odds ratios (OR) with 95% credible intervals (CrI). Meta-regression was used to determine coefficient of change and adjust for pelvic lymph node dissection extent. Ten studies providing data from 2211 patients were included. 1097 patients received an intervention and 1114 patients served as controls. Interposition with fenestration had the lowest risk of developing a lymphocele (OR 0.14 [0.04, 0.50], p = 0.003). All interventions, except sealants or patches, had significant decreased odds of lymphocele rates. Meta-analysis of all the included studies showed a decreased risk of developing a lymphocele (OR 0.42 [0.33, 0.53], p < 0.00001) for the intervention group. Perivesical fixation and interposition with fenestration appear to be effective interventions for reducing the overall incidence of lymphocele.

Long-term Complications of Laparoscopic or Robotic Lateral Pelvic Node Dissection After Preoperative Chemoradiotherapy for Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer

BACKGROUND

Patients with rectal cancer who underwent lateral pelvic node dissection might be at a higher risk of postoperative complications derived from technical complexity. However, little is known regarding the long-term complications after lateral pelvic node dissection.

OBJECTIVES

The study aimed to investigate the long-term complications of preoperative chemoradiotherapy, followed by total mesorectal excision with lateral pelvic node dissection for locally advanced rectal cancers.

DESIGN

A retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected database.

SETTINGS

This study was conducted in a tertiary cancer center.

PATIENTS

Patients with rectal cancer who underwent total mesorectal excision with lateral pelvic node dissection after preoperative chemoradiotherapy between 2011 and 2019 were analyzed. All operations were performed via a laparoscopic or robotic approach.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Long-term complications were defined as adverse events that persisted or newly appeared ≥90 days after surgery and could be related to the surgery.

RESULTS

A total of 164 patients underwent total mesorectal excision with lateral pelvic node dissection after preoperative chemoradiotherapy. Short-term and long-term complication rates were 36.0% and 36.6%, respectively. Lymphocele was the most common long-term complication (17.7% of patients), and 11.6% had anastomotic leakage with chronic sinus. Of the patients with long-term complications, 20.7% of patients needed readmission for treatment. Of the 29 patients with lymphocele, 13 (41.0%) experienced spontaneous absorption and 11 (37.9%) required surgical or percutaneous catheter drainage or antibiotics use. Multivariate analysis showed pathologic pelvic node metastases ( p = 0.008), and a higher number of unilateral harvested pelvic nodes ( p = 0.001) were significantly associated with long-term complications. At the last follow-up (median duration of 43 months), 15.9% of patients had unresolved complications.

LIMITATIONS

The retrospective design.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients undergoing lateral pelvic node dissection experienced a higher frequency of long-term complications, but half of them had asymptomatic lymphoceles, most of which resolved spontaneously. However, further efforts should be paid to reduce anticipated complications related to lateral pelvic node dissection. See Video Abstract .

COMPLICACIONES A LARGO PLAZO DE LA DISECCIN DE LOS GANGLIOS LIFTICOS PLVICOS LATERALES LAPAROSCPICA O ROBTICA DESPUS DE LA QUIMIORRADIOTERAPIA PREOPERATORIA CONTRA EL CNCER DEL RECTO LOCALMENTE AVANZADO

ANTECEDENTES:Los pacientes con cáncer del recto sometidos a disección ganglionar linfática pélvica lateral podrían tener mayor riesgo de complicaciones postoperatorias derivadas de la complejidad técnica. Sin embargo, se sabe poco sobre las complicaciones a largo plazo después de la disección de los ganglios linfáticos pélvicos laterales.OBJETIVOS:Investigar las complicaciones a largo plazo de la quimiorradioterapia preoperatoria, seguida de escisión mesorrectal total con disección de los ganglios linfáticos pélvicos laterales contra el cáncer de recto localmente avanzado.DISEÑO:Un análisis retrospectivo de una base de datos recopilada prospectivamente.AJUSTES:Este estudio se llevó a cabo en un centro oncológico terciario.PACIENTES:Se analizaron pacientes con cáncer de recto que se sometieron a escisión mesorrectal total con disección de ganglios linfáticos pélvicos laterales después de quimiorradioterapia preoperatoria entre 2011 y 2019. Todas las operaciones se realizaron mediante abordaje laparoscópico o robótico.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE RESULTADO:Las complicaciones a largo plazo se definieron como eventos adversos que persistieron o aparecieron recientemente ≥ 90 días después de la cirugía y podrían estar relacionados con la cirugía.RESULTADOS:Un total de 164 pacientes se sometieron a escisión mesorrectal total con disección de los ganglios linfáticos pélvicos laterales después de quimiorradioterapia preoperatoria. Las tasas de complicaciones a corto y largo plazo fueron del 36,0% y 36,6%, respectivamente. El linfocele fue la complicación a largo plazo más común (17,7% de los pacientes) y el 11,6% tuvo fuga anastomótica con seno crónico. De los pacientes con complicaciones a largo plazo, el 20,7% de los pacientes necesitaron reingreso para recibir tratamiento. De 29 pacientes con linfocele, 13 (41,0%) experimentaron absorción espontánea y 11 (37,9%) requirieron drenaje quirúrgico o percutáneo con catéter o uso de antibióticos. El análisis multivariado mostró metástasis patológicas en los ganglios linfáticos pélvicos ( p = 0,008) y un mayor número de ganglios pélvicos extraídos unilateralmente ( p = 0,001) se asociaron significativamente con complicaciones a largo plazo. En el último seguimiento (mediana de 43 meses), el 15,9% de los pacientes tuvieron complicaciones no resueltas.LIMITACIÓN:El diseño retrospectivo.CONCLUSIONES:Los pacientes sometidos a disección de ganglios pélvicos linfáticos laterales experimentaron una mayor frecuencia de complicaciones a largo plazo, pero la mitad de ellos tuvieron linfoceles asintomáticos, la mayoría de los cuales se resolvieron espontáneamente. Sin embargo, se deben realizar mayores esfuerzos para reducir las complicaciones previstas relacionadas con la disección de los ganglios linfáticos pélvicos laterales. (Traducción-Dr. Aurian Garcia Gonzalez ).

The Association of a Peritoneal Interposition Flap With Lymphocele Formation After Pelvic Lymph Node Dissection During Robotic-assisted Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the association of a peritoneal interposition flap (PIF) with lymphocele formation following robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RALP) with pelvic lymph node dissection.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic search of MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials through August 30, 2023, to identify randomized and nonrandomized studies comparing RALP with pelvic lymph node dissection with and without PIF. A random effects meta-analysis was then performed to evaluate the associations of PIF with 90-day postoperative outcomes.

RESULTS

Five randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and four observational studies, including a total of 2941 patients, were included. The use of PIF was associated with a reduced risk of 90-day symptomatic lymphocele formation after RALP when examining only RCTs (pooled odds ratios [OR] 0.44, 95% CI 0.28-0.69; I2 =3%) and both RCTs and observational studies (OR 0.35, 95% CI 0.22-0.56; I2 =17%). Similarly, use of PIF was associated with a reduced risk of 90-day any lymphocele formation (OR 0.40, 95% CI 0.28-0.56, I2 =39%). There were no statistically significant differences in postoperative complications between the two groups (OR 0.89; 95% CI 0.69-1.14; I2 =20%).

CONCLUSION

Use of the PIF is associated with an approximately 50% reduced risk of symptomatic and any lymphocele formation within 90-days of surgery, and it is not associated with an increase in postoperative complications.

The efficacy of peritoneal flap fixation on symptomatic lymphocele formation following robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy with pelvic lymph node dissection: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Pelvic lymphocele is the most common complication after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) with pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND), of which symptomatic lymphocele (sLC) ranges up to 10% and is associated with poorer perioperative outcomes. Peritoneal flap fixation (PFF) is a promising intraoperative modification to reduce sLC formation but the clinical evidence failed to reach consistency.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Randomized and nonrandomized comparative studies comparing postoperative sLC occurrence with or without PFF after RARP with PLND were identified through a systematic literature search via MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and CENTRAL up to July 2023. Outcome data of sLC occurrence (primary) and major perioperative events (secondary) were extracted. Mean difference and risk ratio with 95% CI were synthesized as appropriate for each outcome to determine the cumulative effect size.

RESULTS

Five RCTs and five observatory studies involving 3177 patients were finally included in the qualitative and quantitative analysis. PFF implementation significantly reduced the occurrence of sLC (RR 0.35, 95% CI: 0.24-0.50), and the specific lymphocele-related symptoms, without compromised perioperative outcomes including blood loss, operative time, and major nonlymphocele complications. The strength of the evidence was enhanced by the low risk of bias and low inter-study heterogeneity of the eligible RCTs.

CONCLUSION

PFF warrants routine implementation after RARP with PLND to prevent or reduce postoperative sLC formation.

Peritoneal Flap for Lymphocele Prophylaxis Following Robotic-assisted Radical Prostatectomy with Lymph Node Dissection: The Randomised Controlled Phase 3 PELYCAN Trial

BACKGROUND

Symptomatic lymphoceles (SLCs) after transperitoneal robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy with pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND) are common. Evidence from randomised controlled trials (RCTs) on the impact of peritoneal flaps (PFs) on lymphocele (LC) reduction is inconclusive.

OBJECTIVE

To show that addition of PFs leads to a reduction of postoperative SLCs.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

An investigator-initiated, prospective, parallel, double-blinded, adaptive, phase 3 RCT was conducted. Recruitment took place from September 2019 until December 2021; 6-month written survey-based follow-up was recorded. Stratification was carried out according to potential LC risk factors (extended PLND, diabetes mellitus, and anticoagulation) and surgeons; 1:1 block randomisation was used. Surgeons were informed about allocation after completion of the last surgical step.

INTERVENTION

To create PFs, the ventral peritoneum was incised bilaterally and fixated to the pelvic floor.

OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

The primary endpoint was SLCs. Secondary endpoints included asymptomatic lymphoceles (ALCs), perioperative parameters, and postoperative complications.

RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS

In total, 860 men were screened and 551 randomised. Significant reductions of SLCs (from 9.1% to 3.7%, p = 0.005) and ALCs (27.2% to 10.3%, p < 0.001) over the follow-up period of 6 mo were observed in the intention-to-treat analysis. Operating time was 11 min longer (p < 0.001) in the intervention group; no significant differences in amount (80 vs 103, p = 0.879) and severity (p = 0.182) of postoperative complications (excluding LCs) were observed. The survey-based follow-up might be a limitation.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the largest RCT evaluating PF creation for LC prevention and met its primary endpoint, the reduction of SLCs. The results were consistent among all subgroup analyses including ALCs. Owing to the subsequent reduction of burden for patients and the healthcare system, establishing PFs should become the new standard of care.

PATIENT SUMMARY

A new technique-creation of bilateral peritoneal flaps-was added to the standard procedure of robotic-assisted prostatectomy for lymph node removal. It was safe and decreased lymphocele development, a common postoperative complication and morbidity. Hence, it should become a standard procedure.

Impact of Peritoneal Interposition Flap on Patients Undergoing Robot-assisted Radical Prostatectomy and Pelvic Lymph Node Dissection: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

CONTEXT

Symptomatic lymphocele (sLC) occurs at a frequency of 2-10% after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) with pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND). Construction of bilateral peritoneal interposition flaps (PIFs) subsequent to completion of RARP + PLND has been introduced to reduce the risk of lymphocele, and was initially evaluated on the basis of retrospective studies.

OBJECTIVE

To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the impact of PIF on the rate of sLC (primary endpoint) and of overall lymphocele (oLC) and Clavien-Dindo grade ≥3 complications (secondary endpoints) to provide the best available evidence.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

In accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Meta-Analyses statement for observational studies in epidemiology, a systematic literature search using the MEDLINE (PubMed), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and EMBASE databases up to February 3, 2023 was performed to identify RCTs. The risk of bias (RoB) was assessed using the revised Cochrane RoB tool for randomized trials. Meta-analysis used random-effect models to examine the impact of PIF on the primary and secondary endpoints.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Four RCTs comparing outcomes for patients undergoing RARP + PLND with or without PIF were identified: PIANOFORTE, PerFix, ProLy, and PLUS. PIF was associated with odds ratios of 0.46 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.23-0.93) for sLC, 0.51 (95% CI 0.38-0.68) for oLC, and 0.41 (95% CI 0.21-0.83) for Clavien-Dindo grade ≥3 complications. Functional impairment resulting from PIF construction was not observed. Heterogeneity was low to moderate, and RoB was low.

CONCLUSIONS

PIF should be performed in patients undergoing RARP and simultaneous PLND to prevent or reduce postoperative sLC.

PATIENT SUMMARY

A significant proportion of patients undergoing prostate cancer surgery have regional lymph nodes removed. This part of the surgery is associated with a risk of postoperative lymph collections (lymphocele). The risk of lymphocele can be halved via a complication-free surgical modification called a peritoneal interposition flap.

Robot-assisted Surgery in the Field of Urology: The Most Pioneering Approaches 2015-2023

Robot-assisted surgery has emerged as a transformative technology, revolutionizing surgical approaches and techniques that decades ago could barely be imagined. The field of urology has taken charge in pioneering a new era of minimally invasive surgery with the ascent of robotic systems which offer enhanced visualization, precision, dexterity, and enabling surgeons to perform intricate maneuvers with improved accuracy. This has led to improved surgical outcomes, including reduced blood loss, lower complication rates, and faster patient recovery. The aim of our review is to present an evidence-based critical analysis on the most pioneering robotic urologic approaches described over the last eight years (2015-2023).

Effect of Peritoneal Interposition Flap to Prevent Symptomatic Lymphoceles in Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy with Pelvic Lymphadenectomy: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review

Background: This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated whether peritoneal interposition flap (PIF) prevent lymphocele formation after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy with extended pelvic lymph node dissection. Materials and Methods: We performed a systematic review and cumulative meta-analysis of the primary outcomes according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses, Assessing the Methodological Quality of Systematic Reviews guidelines and risk-of-bias tool. Five databases, including Medline, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science, were systematically searched. The time frame of the search was set from the creation of the database to February 2023. Results: Meta-analysis of symptomatic lymphoceles (sLCs) rates revealed significant difference between PIF and no PIF group (eight studies pooled; p = 0.005), The sLCs rates account for 2.6% (28/1074) and 7.1% (85/1186) in the PIF and no PIF group, respectively. The resulting odds ratio was 0.34 (95% confidence interval: 0.16-0.73), taking into account the heterogeneity of these studies (Q = 14.32, p = 0.05; I2 = 51%). Conclusion: PIF is an effective intraoperative modification on the prevention or reduction of sLC, which is worthy of further clinical promotion. Systematic Review Registration: National Institute for Health and Care Research, identifier CRD42022364461.

High BMI and Surgical Time Are Significant Predictors of Lymphocele after Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy

Lymphoceles (LC) occur in up to 60% after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) and pelvic lymphadenectomy (PLND). In 2-10%, they are symptomatic and may cause complications and require treatment. Data on risk factors for the formation of lymphoceles after RARP and PNLD remain sparse in the urologic literature and are inconclusive to date. The underlying data of this secondary analysis were obtained from the prospective multi-center RCT ProLy. We performed a multivariate analysis to focus on the potential risk factors that may influence lymphocele formation. Patients with LC had a statistically significant higher BMI (27.8 vs. 26.3 kg/m², p < 0.001; BMI ≥ 30 kg/m²: 31 vs. 17%, p = 0.002) and their surgical time was longer (180 vs. 160 min, p = 0.001) In multivariate analysis, the study group (control vs. peritoneal flap, p = 0.003), BMI (metric, p = 0.028), and surgical time (continuous, p = 0.007) were independent predictors. Patients with symptomatic lymphocele presented with higher BMI (29 vs. 26.6 kg/m², p = 0.007; BMI ≥ 30 kg/m²: 39 vs. 20%, p = 0.023) and experienced higher intraoperative blood loss (200 vs. 150 mL, p = 0.032). In multivariate analysis, BMI ≥ 30 kg/m² vs. < 30 kg/m² was an independent predictor for the formation of a symptomatic lymphocele (p = 0.02). High BMI and prolonged surgical time are general risk factors for the development of LC. Patients with a BMI ≥ 30 kg/m² had a higher risk for symptomatic lymphoceles.