Is a limited lymph node dissection an adequate staging procedure for prostate cancer?

Outcomes of robot-assisted laparoscopic extended pelvic lymph node dissection for prostate Cancer

INTRODUCTION

Extended pelvic lymph node dissection (ePLND) in men undergoing robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RARP) is a widely used procedure. However, little is known about anatomical site-specific yields and subsequent metastatic patterns in these patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Data on a consecutive series of 1107 patients undergoing RARP at our centre between 2004 and 2018 were analysed. In men undergoing LN dissection, the internal, external and obturator nodes were removed and sent in separately. We performed an analysis of LN yields in total and for each anatomical zone, patterns of LN metastases and complications. Oncological outcome in pN+ disease was assessed including postoperative PSA persistence and survival.

RESULTS

A total of 823 ePLNDs were performed in the investigated cohort resulting in 98 men being diagnosed as pN+ (8.9%). The median (IQR) LN yield was 19 (14-25), 10 (7-13) on the right and 9 (6-12) on the left side (P < 0.001). A median of six (4-8) LNs were retrieved from the external, three (1-6) from the internal iliac artery, and eight (6-12) from the obturator fossa. More men had metastatic LNs on the right side compared to the left (41 vs. 19). Symptomatic lymphoceles occurred exclusively in the ePLND group (2.3% vs. 0%, p = 0.04). Postoperatively, 47 (47.9%) of men with pN+ reached a PSA of < 0.1μg/ml. There was no association between a certain pN+ region and postoperative PSA persistence or BCRFS. The estimated cancer specific survival rate at 5 years was 98.5% for pN+ disease.

CONCLUSION

Robot-assisted laparoscopic ePLND with a high LN yield and low complication rate is feasible. However, we observed an imbalance in more removed and positive LNs on the right side compared to the left. A high rate of postoperative PSA persistence and early recurrence in pN+ patients might indicate a possibly limited therapeutical value of the procedure in already spread disease. Yet, these men demonstrated an excellent survival.

Novel Approaches in the Systemic Management of High-Risk Prostate Cancer

Locally advanced prostate cancer comprises approximately 20% of new prostate cancer diagnoses. For these patients, international guidelines recommend treatment with radiotherapy (RT) to the prostate in combination with long-term (2-3 years) androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), or radical prostatectomy in combination with extended pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND) as another treatment option for selected patients as part of multimodal therapy. Improvements in overall survival with docetaxel or an androgen receptor signaling inhibitor have been achieved in patients with metastatic castration sensitive or castration resistant prostate cancer. However, the role of systemic therapy combinations for high risk and/or unfavorable prostate cancer is unclear. In this context, the aim of this review is to assess the current evidence for systemic treatment combinations as part of primary definitive therapy in patients with high-risk localized prostate cancer.

Transperineal template saturation and conventional biopsy for stage prediction in prostate cancer

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the performance of risk calculators (RCs) predicting lymph node invasion (LNI) and extraprostatic extension (EPE) in men undergoing transperineal magnetic resonance imaging/transrectal ultrasound (TRUS)-fusion template saturation biopsy (TTSB) and conventional systematic TRUS-guided biopsy (SB).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The RCs were tested in a consecutive cohort of 645 men undergoing radical prostatectomy with extended pelvic LN dissection between 2005 and 2019. TTSB was performed in 230 (35.7%) and SB in 415 (64.3%) men. Risk of LNI and EPE was calculated using the available RCs. Discrimination, calibration, and clinical usefulness stratified by different biopsy techniques were assessed.

RESULTS

Lymph node invasion was observed in 23 (10%) and EPE in 73 (31.8%) of cases with TTSB and 53 (12.8%) and 158 (38%) with SB, respectively. RCs showed an excellent discrimination and acceptable calibration for prediction of LNI based on TTSB (area under the curve [AUC]/risk estimation: Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center [MSKCC]-RC 0.79/-4%, Briganti (2012)-RC 0.82/-4%, Gandaglia-RC 0.81/+6%). These were comparable in SB (MSKCC-RC 0.78/+2%; Briganti (2012)-RC 0.77/-3%). Decision curve analysis (DCA) revealed a net benefit at threshold probabilities between 3% and 6% when TTSB was used. For prediction of EPE based on TTSB an inferior discrimination and variable calibration were observed (AUC/risk estimation: MSKCC-RC 0.71/+8% and Martini (2018)-RC 0.69/+2%) achieving a net benefit on DCA only at risk thresholds of >17%. Performance of RCs for prediction of LNI and EPE based on SB showed comparable results with a better performance in the DCA for LNI (risk thresholds 1-2%) and poorer performance for EPE (risk threshold >20%). This study is limited by its retrospective single-institution design.

CONCLUSIONS

The potentially more accurate grading ability of TTSB did not result in improved performance of preoperative RCs. Prediction tools for LNI proved clinical usefulness while RCs for EPE did not.

Analysis of the surgical approach in prostate cancer staging: results from the surveillance, epidemiology and end results program

Surgery is not used as a criterion for staging prostate cancer, although there is evidence that the number of analyzed and affected lymph nodes have prognosis value. The aim of this study was to determine whether there are significant differences in staging criteria in patients who underwent prostatectomy compared to those who did not, and whether the number of affected and analyzed lymph nodes (LN) plays a prognostic role. In this retrospective study, a test cohort consisting of 404,210 newly diagnosed men with prostate cancer, between 2004 and 2010, was obtained from the 17 registries (Nov 2021 submission); a validation consisting of 147,719 newly diagnosed men with prostate cancer between 2004 and 2019 was obtained from the 8 registries (Nov 2021 submission). Prostate cancer-specific survival was analyzed by Kaplan-Meier curves, survival tables and Cox regression; overall survival was analyzed only to compare Harrell's C-index between different staging criteria. In initial analyses, it was observed that the prognostic value of lymph node metastasis changes according to the type of staging (clinical or pathological), which is linked to the surgical approach (prostatectomy). Compared with T4/N0/M0 patients, which are also classified as stage IVA, N1/M0 patients had a shorter [adjusted HR: 1.767 (1429-2184), p < 0.0005] and a longer [adjusted HR: 0.832 (0.740-0.935), p = 0.002] specific survival when submitted to prostatectomy or not, respectively. Analyzing separately the patients who were submitted to prostatectomy and those who were not, it was possible to obtain new LN metastasis classifications (N1: 1 + LN; N2: 2 + LNs; N3: > 2 + LNs). This new (pathological) classification of N allowed the reclassification of patients based on T and Gleason grade groups, mainly those with T3 and T4 disease. In the validation group, this new staging criterion was proven to be superior [specific survival C-index: 0.908 (0.906-0.911); overall survival C-index: 0.788 (0.786-0.791)] compared to that currently used by the AJCC [8th edition; specific survival C-index: 0.892 (0.889-0.895); overall survival C-index: 0.744 (0.741-0.747)]. In addition, an adequate number of dissected lymph nodes results in a 39% reduction in death risk [adjusted HR: 0.610 (0.498-0.747), p < 0.0005]. As main conclusion, the surgery has a major impact on prostate cancer staging, mainly modifying the effect of N on survival, and enabling the stratification of pathological N according to the number of affected LN. Such a factor, when considered as staging criteria, improves the prognosis classification.

Pelvic lymph node dissection in high-risk prostate cancer

INTRODUCTION

The therapeutic role of pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND) in prostate cancer (PCa) is unknown due to absence of randomized trials.

OBJECTIVE

to present a critical review on the therapeutic benefits of PLND in high risk localized PCa patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A search of the literature on PLND was performed using PubMed, Cochrane, and Medline database. Articles obtained regarding diagnostic imaging and sentinel lymph node dissection, PLND extension, impact of PLND on survival, PLND in node positive "only" disease and PLND surgical risks were critically reviewed.

RESULTS

High-risk PCa commonly develops metastases. In these patients, the possibility of presenting lymph node disease is high. Thus, extended PLND during radical prostatectomy may be recommended in selected patients with localized high-risk PCa for both accurate staging and therapeutic intent. Although recent advances in detecting patients with lymph node involvement (LNI) with novel imaging and sentinel node dissection, extended PLND continues to be the most accurate method to stage lymph node disease, which may be related to the number of nodes removed. However, extended PLND increases surgical time, with potential impact on perioperative complications, hospital length of stay, rehospitalization and healthcare costs. Controversy persists on its therapeutic benefit, particularly in patients with high node burden.

CONCLUSION

The impact of PLND on biochemical recurrence and PCa survival is unclear yet. Selection of patients may benefit from extended PLND but the challenge remains to identify them accurately. Only prospective randomized study would answer the precise role of PLND in high-risk pelvis confined PCa patients.

Cancer nanotechnology: current status and perspectives

Modern medicine has been waging a war on cancer for nearly a century with no tangible end in sight. Cancer treatments have significantly progressed, but the need to increase specificity and decrease systemic toxicities remains. Early diagnosis holds a key to improving prognostic outlook and patient quality of life, and diagnostic tools are on the cusp of a technological revolution. Nanotechnology has steadily expanded into the reaches of cancer chemotherapy, radiotherapy, diagnostics, and imaging, demonstrating the capacity to augment each and advance patient care. Nanomaterials provide an abundance of versatility, functionality, and applications to engineer specifically targeted cancer medicine, accurate early-detection devices, robust imaging modalities, and enhanced radiotherapy adjuvants. This review provides insights into the current clinical and pre-clinical nanotechnological applications for cancer drug therapy, diagnostics, imaging, and radiation therapy.

Limited versus Extended Pelvic Lymph Node Dissection for Prostate Cancer: A Randomized Clinical Trial

BACKGROUND

Pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND) is the most reliable procedure for lymph node staging. However, the therapeutic benefit remains unproven; although most radical prostatectomies at academic centers are accompanied by PLND, there is no consensus regarding the optimal anatomical extent of PLND.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate whether extended PLND results in a lower biochemical recurrence rate.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

We conducted a single-center randomized trial. Patients, enrolled between October 2011 and March 2017, were scheduled to undergo radical prostatectomy and PLND. Patients were assigned to limited or extended PLND by cluster randomization. Specifically, surgeons were randomized to perform limited or extended PLND for 3-mo periods.

INTERVENTION

Randomization to limited (external iliac nodes) or extended (external iliac, obturator fossa and hypogastric nodes) PLND.

OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

The primary endpoint was the rate of biochemical recurrence.

RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS

Of 1440 patients included in the final analysis, 700 were randomized to limited PLND and 740 to extended PLND. The median number of nodes retrieved was 12 (interquartile range [IQR] 8-17) for limited PLND and 14 (IQR 10-20) extended PLND; the corresponding rate of positive nodes was 12% and 14% (difference -1.9%, 95% confidence interval [CI] -5.4% to 1.5%; p = 0.3). With median follow-up of 3.1 yr, there was no significant difference in the rate of biochemical recurrence between the groups (hazard ratio 1.04, 95% CI 0.93-1.15; p = 0.5). Rates for grade 2 and 3 complications were similar at 7.3% for limited versus 6.4% for extended PLND; there were no grade 4 or 5 complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Extended PLND did not improve freedom from biochemical recurrence over limited PLND for men with clinically localized prostate cancer. However, there were smaller than expected differences in nodal count and the rate of positive nodes between the two templates. A randomized trial comparing PLND to no node dissection is warranted.

PATIENT SUMMARY

In this clinical trial we did not find a difference in the rate of biochemical recurrence of prostate cancer between limited and extended dissection of lymph nodes in the pelvis. This study is registered on ClinicalTrials.gov as NCT01407263.

Extended Versus Limited Pelvic Lymph Node Dissection During Radical Prostatectomy for Intermediate- and High-risk Prostate Cancer: Early Oncological Outcomes from a Randomized Phase 3 Trial

BACKGROUND

The role of extended pelvic lymph node dissection (EPLND) in the surgical management of prostate cancer (PCa) patients remains controversial, mainly because of a lack of randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether EPLND has better oncological outcomes than limited PLND (LPLND.

DESIGN, SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

This was a prospective, single-center phase 3 trial in patients with intermediate- or high-risk clinically localized PCa.

INTERVENTION

Randomization (1:1) to LPLND (obturator nodes) or EPLND (obturator, external iliac, internal iliac, common iliac, and presacral nodes) bilaterally.

OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

The primary endpoint was biochemical recurrence-free survival (BRFS). Secondary outcomes were metastasis-free survival (MFS), cancer-specific survival (CSS), and histopathological findings. The trial was designed to show a minimal 15% advantage in 5-yr BRFS by EPLND.

RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS

In total, 300 patients were randomized from May 2012 to December 2016 (150 LPLND and 150 EPLND). The median BRFS was 61.4 mo in the LPLND group and not reached in the EPLND group (hazard ratio [HR] 0.91, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.63-1.32; p =  0.6). Median MFS was not reached in either group (HR 0.57, 95% CI 0.17-1.8; p =  0.3). CSS data were not available because no patient died from PCa before the cutoff date. In exploratory subgroup analysis, patients with preoperative biopsy International Society of Urological Pathology (ISUP) grade groups 3-5 who were allocated to EPLND had better BRFS (HR 0.33, 95% CI 0.14-0.74, interaction p =  0.007). The short follow-up and surgeon heterogeneity are limitations to this study.

CONCLUSION

This RCT confirms that EPLND provides better pathological staging, while differences in early oncological outcomes were not demonstrated. Our subgroup analysis suggests a potential BCRFS benefit in patients diagnosed with ISUP grade groups 3-5; however, these findings should be considered hypothesis-generating and further RCTs with larger cohorts and longer follow up are necessary to better define the role of EPLND during RP.

PATIENT SUMMARY

In this study, we investigated early outcomes in prostate cancer patients undergoing prostatectomy according to the anatomic extent of lymph node resection. We found that extended removal of lymph nodes did not reduce biochemical recurrence of prostate cancer in the expected range.

Applied anatomy of pelvic lymph nodes and its clinical significance for prostate cancer:a single-center cadaveric study

Background

Pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND) is one of the most important steps in radical prostatectomy (RP). Not only can PLND provide accurate clinical staging to guide treatment after prostatectomy but PLND can also improve the prognosis of patients by eradicating micro-metastases. However, reports of the number of pelvic lymph nodes have generally come from incomplete dissection during surgery, there is no anatomic study that assesses the number and variability of lymph nodes. Our objective is to assess the utility of adopting the lymph node count as a metric of surgical quality for the extent of lymph node dissection during RP for prostate cancer by conducting a dissection study of pelvic lymph nodes in adult male cadavers.

Methods

All 30 adult male cadavers underwent pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND), and the lymph nodes in each of the 9 dissection zones were enumerated and analyzed.

Results

A total of 1267 lymph nodes were obtained. The number of lymph nodes obtained by limited PLND was 4–22 (14.1 ± 4.5), the number obtained by standard PLND was 16–35 (25.9 ± 5.6), the number obtained by extended PLND was 17–44 (30.0 ± 7.0), and the number obtained by super-extended PLDN was 24–60 (42.2 ± 9.7).

Conclusions

There are substantial inter-individual differences in the number of lymph nodes in the pelvic cavity. These results have demonstrated the rationality and feasibility of adopting lymph node count as a surrogate for evaluating the utility of PLND in radical prostatectomy, but these results need to be further explored.

The underestimated posterior lymphatic drainage of the prostate: An historical overview and preliminary anatomical study on cadaver

BACKGROUND

The evidence of pelvic lymph node metastases after radical prostatectomy (RP) with pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND) is one of the strongest prognostic factors for poor oncologic outcome. The extent of PLND, although representing a crucial step in RP, is still controversial. Currently, there is a critical drawback in clinical practice due to the lack of congruence between the known lymphatic drainage and cancer dissemination despite defined management by a surgical approach. We hypothesized the existence of alternative pathways for the lymphatic drainage of the prostate currently not considered in clinical daily practice.

METHODS

We carried out a literature review of the anatomic description of nodal drainage of prostate reported by online databases (MEDLINE/PubMed, EBSCO, Web of Science, Ovid, and Scopus) and the original texts since the 18th century, with an additional anatomical dissection on a human cadaver to confirm theoretical data.

RESULTS

The anatomical dissection study converged with the historical anatomical treatises in describing three groups of lymphatics devoted to carrying out prostatic nodal drainage. Apart from the ascending ducts from the cranial gland leading to the external iliac nodes; the lateral ducts leading to the hypogastric nodes; small lymphatic vessels from the posterior surface of the prostate, directed to the pararectal lymphatic plexus, in the direction of the lateral sacral lymph nodes and those at the sacral promontory (ie, pararectal and presacral lymph nodes) were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Our preliminary findings demonstrate that lymphatic drainage of the prostate extends beyond standard nodal templates actually considered in surgical daily practice, despite the knowledge reported by historical anatomical treatises. Further anatomical and experimental evidence are needed to investigate anatomical variability in humans, as well as to add more topographical details.

[Prophylactic nodal radiotherapy in prostate cancer]

The risk of lymph node invasion, in case of prostate cancer, increases with the clinical stage of the disease, the Gleason score of prostate biopsies and the value of PSA at diagnosis. Historically, beyond 15% risk of lymph node involvement, irradiation of the pelvic areas was performed with prostate radiotherapy (RT) to take into account the risk of occult lymph node metastasis in patients at risk, but the benefit of this therapeutic approach remains to be demonstrated. The data from surgical lymph node dissection seem to question the risk levels, the escalation of the dose on the prostate increases the survival without relapse, the contribution of image-guided radiotherapy, (IGRT) and modulation of intensity (IMRT), decreases the toxicity of pelvic RT. This article reviews the principles of prophylactic ganglion irradiation for prostate cancer and discusses its relevance, current uncertainties, and prospective trials.

Optical and Cross-Sectional Imaging Technologies for Bladder Cancer

Optical and cross-sectional imaging plays critical roles in bladder cancer diagnostics. White light cystoscopy remains the cornerstone for the management of non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer. In the last decade, significant technological improvements have been introduced for optical imaging to address the known shortcomings of white light cystoscopy. Enhanced cystoscopy modalities such as blue light cystoscopy and narrowband imaging survey a large area of the urothelium and provide contrast enhancement to detect additional lesions and decrease cancer recurrence. However, higher false-positive rates accompany the gain of sensitivity. Optical biopsy technologies, including confocal laser endomicroscopy and optical coherence tomography, provide cellular resolutions combined with subsurface imaging, thereby enabling optical-based cancer characterization, and may lead to real-time cancer grading and staging. Coupling of fluorescently labeled binding agents with optical imaging devices may translate into high molecular specificity, thus enabling visualization and characterization of biological processes at the molecular level. For cross-sectional imaging, upper urinary tract evaluation and assessment potential extravesical tumor extension and metastases are currently the primary roles, particularly for management of muscle-invasive bladder cancer. Multi-parametric MRI, including dynamic gadolinium-enhanced and diffusion-weighted sequences, has been investigated for primary bladder tumor detection. Ultrasmall superparamagnetic particles of iron oxide (USPIO) are a new class of contrast agents that increased the accuracy of lymph node imaging. Combination of multi-parametric MRI with positron emission tomography is on the horizon to improve accuracy rates for primary tumor diagnostics as well as lymph node evaluation. As these high-resolution optical and cross-sectional technologies emerge and develop, judicious assessment and validation await for their clinical integration toward improving the overall management of bladder cancer.

Extended pelvic lymph node dissection during radical prostatectomy: comparison between initial robotic experience of a high-volume open surgeon and his contemporary open series

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to evaluate intra- and perioperative outcomes of a single high volume open radical prostatectomy (ORP) surgeon, during his learning curve period for robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) and extended pelvic lymph node dissection (ePLND).

METHODS

The study included 264 intermediate-high risk prostate cancer patients, treated by ORP + ePLND or RARP + ePLND, prospectively collected. Descriptive statistics compared clinical and pathological variables between groups. Bivariate (Pearson) correlation analysis assessed the relationship between the number of lymph node (LN) removed, positive surgical margins (PSM), surgical time and the number of procedures performed per group.

RESULTS

pT stage and Gleason score (GS) were lower in RARP than in ORP group (both P=0.04), while PSM were more frequent in the RARP group (40% vs. 25%; P=0.02). However, PSM decreased with the increase of RARP procedures. The number of LNs removed was 25 and 22, in RARP and ORP group (P=0.03). However, LN+ rate did not differ between groups (11% vs. 16%; P=0.216). In the RARP group, overall surgical time and ePLND time decreased with the increase of surgical procedures (all P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

RARP requires significant learning curve to reduce operative room time and obtain PSM comparable to those of an ORP high-volume surgeon. On the contrary, the quality of ePLND during RARP seems to be not related to the number of procedures performed, allowing removal of a number of LNs that is clinically comparable to ORP.

Acute and Late Toxicity after Moderate Hypofractionation with Simultaneous Integrated Boost (SIB) Radiation Therapy for Prostate Cancer. A Single Institution, Prospective Study

ASBTRACT

To evaluate the acute and late toxicity using moderately hypofractionated, intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) with a simultaneous integrated boost (SIB) to prostate for patients with intermediate and high risk prostate cancer. From 2015 to 2017, 162 patients were treated with IMRT with SIB to the prostate. IMRT plans were designed to deliver 50.4Gy in 28 fractions (1.8 Gy/fraction) to the pelvic lymph nodes (whole pelvis radiotherapy, WPRT) while simultaneously delivering 57.4 Gy in 28 fractions (2.05 Gy/fraction) to the seminal vesicles and 70 Gy in 28 fractions (2.5 Gy/fraction) to the prostate for high risk patients. For intermediate risk patients the same technique was applied, without WPRT. Acute and cumulative late genitourinary (GU) and gastrointestinal (GI) toxicities were scored according to the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) scoring system. Of the 162 patients enrolled, 156 (96%) completed the treatment as planned. The median follow-up time was 30 months. Seventy-eight patients (48.2%) were treated with WPRT. The rate of acute grade ≥ 2 GI and GU toxicities in all patients were 22% and 58%, respectively. The rate of cumulative late grade ≥ 2 GI and GU toxicities were 11% and 17%, respectively. Acute grade 3 GI and GU toxicities occurred in 1% and 1%. Late grade 3 GI and GU side effects occurred in 5% and 4%, respectively. None of the patients developed grade ≥ 4 toxicity. IMRT with SIB technique using moderate hypofractionation to the prostate is feasible treatment option for intermediate and high risk patients, associated with low rate of severe GU and GI toxicities.

Contribution of Radiology to Staging of Prostate Cancer

Accurate tumor detection and establishment of disease extent are important for optimal management of prostate cancer. Disease stage, beginning with identification of the index prostate lesion, followed by primary tumor, lymph node, and distant metastasis evaluation, provide crucial clinical information that not only have prognostic and predictive value, but guide patient management. A wide array of radiological imaging modalities including ultrasound, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging have been used for the purpose of prostate cancer staging with variable diagnostic performance. Especially, the last years have seen remarkable technological advances in magnetic resonance imaging technology, enabling referring clinicians and radiologists to obtain even more valuable data regarding staging of prostate cancer. Marked improvements have been seen in detection of the index prostate lesion and evaluation of extraprostatic extension while further improvements are still needed in identifying metastatic lymph nodes. Novel approaches such as whole-body MRI are emerging for more accurate and reproducible assessment of bone metastasis. Post-treatment assessment of prostate cancer using radiological imaging is a topic with rapidly changing clinical context and special consideration is needed for the biochemical setting, that is, the relatively high serum prostate-specific antigen levels in studies assessing the value of radiological imaging for post-treatment assessment and emerging therapeutic approaches such as early salvage radiation therapy. The scope of this review is to provide the reader insight into the various ways radiology contribute to staging of prostate cancer in the context of both primary staging and post-treatment assessment. The strengths and limitations of each imaging modality are highlighted as well as topics that warrant future research.

Developing a personalized template for lymph node dissection during radical prostatectomy

Lymph node dissection (LND) represents a critical step in order to determine lymph node invasion (LNI), not only for prognostic means but also as a therapeutic strategy in the management of patients with prostate cancer (CaP). Indications for performing LND are inconsistent with the American Urologic Association (AUA), European Association of Urology (EAU), and National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) recommendations differing. A thorough appreciation of lymph node drainage patterns and extent of LND has reshaped our understanding of this disease. Moreover, newer research into this field has directly resulted in refinements to current nomograms with utilization of various prostate-specific antigen (PSA) parameters and genomic medicine. Lastly, the application of newer imaging modalities in combination with molecular-guided robotic surgery has personalized the approach of LND espousing excellent safety, efficacy, and oncologic outcomes in these patients.

Sentinel lymph node imaging in urologic oncology

Lymph node (LN) metastases in urological malignancies correlate with poor oncological outcomes. Accurate LN staging is of great importance since patients can benefit from an optimal staging, accordingly aligned therapy and more radical treatments. Current conventional cross-sectional imaging modalities [e.g., computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)] are not accurate enough to reliably detect early LN metastases as they rely on size criteria. Radical lymphadenectomy, the surgical removal of regional LNs, is the gold standard of invasive LN staging. The LN dissection is guided by anatomic considerations of lymphatic drainage pathways of the primary tumor. Selection of patients for lymphadenectomy heavily relies on preoperative risk stratification and nomograms and, as a result a considerable number of patients unnecessarily undergo invasive staging with associated morbidity. On the other hand, due to individual variability in lymphatic drainage, LN metastases can occur outside of standard lymphadenectomy templates leading to potential understaging and undertreatment. In theory, metastases from the primary tumor need to pass through the chain of LNs, where the initial node is defined as the sentinel LN. In theory, identifying and removing this LN could lead to accurate assessment of metastatic status. Radiotracers and more recently fluorescent dyes and superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPION) are injected into the primary tumor or peritumoral and the sentinel LNs are identified intraoperatively by a gamma probe, fluorescent camera or a handheld magnetometer. Preoperative imaging [e.g., single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT)/CT or MRI] after tracer injection can further improve preoperative planning of LN dissection. While sentinel LN biopsy is an accepted and widely used approach in melanoma and breast cancer staging, its use in urological malignancies is still limited. Most data published so far is in penile cancer staging since this cancer has a typical echelon-based lymphatic metastasizing pattern. More recent data is encouraging with low false-negative rates, but its use is limited to centers with high expertise. Current guidelines recommend sentinel LN biopsy as an accepted alternative to modified inguinal lymphadenectomy in patients with pT1G2 disease and non-palpable inguinal LNs. In prostate cancer, a high diagnostic accuracy could be demonstrated for the sentinel approach. Nevertheless, due to lack of data or high false-negative rates in other urological malignancies, sentinel LN biopsy is still considered experimental in other urological malignancies. More high-level evidence and longitudinal data is needed to determine its final value in those malignancies. In this manuscript, we will review sentinel node imaging for urologic malignancies.

Effectiveness of extended pelvic lymphadenectomy in the survival of prostate cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Introduction

To determine the effectiveness and safety of extended pelvic lymphadenectomy compared with standard lymphadenectomy in the overall, cancer-specific survival and biochemical recurrence-free survival of patients with localized prostate cancer who underwent radical prostatectomy.

Material and methods

Clinical trials and cohort studies were included without language restrictions with the following participants: men older than 40 years of age diagnosed with localized prostate cancer who received radical prostatectomy plus pelvic lymphadenectomy. Standard vs. extended pelvic lymphadenectomy were compared. The primary outcomes were overall and cancer-specific survival. A search strategy in MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, LILACS, and other databases was conducted to obtain published and unpublished literature. The risk of bias was evaluated with the Cochrane Collaboration tool. The statistical analysis was performed in STATA 14.

Results

Six studies were included, of which only one was experimental; the other studies were cohort studies. The surgical technique was robot-assisted in three studies. Two studies only had information concerning the adverse effects. It was not possible to include one clinical trial that met the criteria because an erratum was published in which falsification of the experimental data was proven. There was a biochemical recurrence-free survival hazard ratio (HR) = 0.62 and a 95% confidence interval (CI) (0.36 to 0.87).

Conclusions

According to current literature, a mild difference was evident favoring the extended lymphadenectomy in biochemical recurrence-free survival. Additionally, there was no evidence to draw a conclusion regarding the overall survival since we did not find any studies concerning this outcome.

Robot-assisted extended lymphadenectomy in prostate cancer

INTRODUCTION

The extent of lymph node dissection (LND) and its potential survival benefit are still a matter of debate. Aim of our review was to summarize the latest literature data regarding the surgical templates, the potential oncological benefits, the functional outcomes and the complications of extended lymph node dissection (eLND) during robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP).

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

We systematically reviewed all relevant studies using PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, American Urological Association (AUA), European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) and European Association of Urology (EAU) guidelines.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

A narrative synthesis of all relevant publications on surgical templates, complications, oncological and functional outcomes of robot assisted eLND was undertaken.

CONCLUSIONS

A great deal of evidence supports that an extended template of LND is not only technically feasible but also safe in the context of RARP. It is really promising that in the era of minimally invasive surgery, parameters like the lymph node yield and the detection rates of positive lymph nodes during LND have become highly comparable with open series. The extended approach has already proved its benefits in terms of proper patient staging but more studies are needed with regard to functional outcomes and oncological benefits of this procedure.

Metastatic Involvement of the Prostatic Anterior Fat Pad: Implications for the Pathologist

OBJECTIVES

There is little information regarding the utility of pathologic evaluation of the prostatic anterior fat pad (PAFP) in patients with a low preoperative probability of recurrence. Our study aimed to determine the utility of PAFP pathologic examination, especially for this group of patients.

METHODS

We analyzed a tertiary care academic center's radical prostatectomy (RP) specimens from 2009 to 2017.

RESULTS

Of 602 RP specimens, 420(70%) included the PAFP; four of 420 (1%) had lymph node involvement (LNI) in the PAFP. In two of four cases with LNI in the PAFP, this was the only site of LNI. Of these two cases, one occurred in a patient with low probability of recurrence and involved a nonpalpable PAFP lymph node.

CONCLUSIONS

Pathologic evaluation of the PAFP may be useful even in patients with low probability of recurrence because it may change staging by detecting metastatic involvement of small PAFP lymph nodes.

Anatomical localization and clinical impact of sentinel lymph nodes based on patterns of pelvic lymphatic drainage in clinically localized prostate cancer

BACKGROUND

Although sentinel lymph node in prostate has been generating renewed interest, its significance remains controversial due to inadequate evidence.

METHODS

We reviewed a prospective cohort of 50 consecutive patients with intermediate- to high-risk localized prostate cancer who had undergone laparoscopic radical prostatectomy. Sentinel lymph node biopsy by fluorescence detection using intraoperative imaging with indocyanine green and backup extended pelvic lymph node dissection were conducted prior to prostatectomy. Intraoperative and pathological findings were elaborated and compared for confirmation.

RESULTS

Sentinel lymph nodes were successfully identified in 47 patients (94%). A median of four sentinel lymph nodes was detected per patient. Lymph node metastasis was confirmed in six patients (12%), all of whom had positive sentinel lymph nodes. Three typical pathways of lymphatic drainage related to sentinel lymph nodes from the prostate were recognized. Ninety-one percent of the positive sentinel lymph nodes (10/11) were located at two predominant sites along these characteristic lymphatic pathways. One site was the junctional nodes, located at the junction between internal and external iliac vessels. The other was the distal internal iliac nodes, located along the inferior vesical artery.

CONCLUSIONS

Over 90% of positive sentinel lymph nodes were identified at two predominant sites. Priority should be given to the removal of these sentinel lymph nodes, which are located closer to the prostate, in pelvic lymph node dissection. Particular attention should be paid to identifying these nodes to reduce the possibility of overlooking lymph node metastasis.

Can pelvic node dissection at radical prostatectomy influence the nodal recurrence at salvage lymphadenectomy for prostate cancer?

Purpose

To verify the quality of pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND) performed at radical prostatectomy (RP) and its impact on nodal recurrence in patients undergoing salvage lymph node dissection (sLND).

Materials and Methods

Retrospective review of 48 patients who underwent sLND for presumed nodal recurrence, to describe the PLND characteristics at RP and correlate the anatomical sites and number of suspicious nodes reported in radiological imaging and final pathology of sLND.

Results

Overall, at RP, 8 (16.7%) did not undergo PLND, 32 (66.7%) and 8 (16.7%) received a “limited” (between external iliac vein and obturator nerve) and an “extended” (external iliac, hypogastric, and obturator) dissection, respectively. Median nodes removed during limited and extended dissection were 2 and 24, respectively. At sLND, the mean age was 61.3 years and median prostate specific antigen (PSA) was 1.07 ng/mL. Median nodes removed at sLND were 17 with a median of 2 positive nodes. Recurrent nodes were identified within the template of an extended PLND in 62.5%, 50.0% and 12.5% patients, respectively, following prior no, limited and extended dissection at RP. Recurrence outside the expected lymphatic drainage pathway was noted in 37.5% patients with prior extended dissection at RP. There was a correlation between imaging and pathology specimen in 83% for node location and 58.3% for number of anatomical sites involved.

Conclusions

In prostate cancer patients undergoing sLND, most had inadequate PLND at the original RP. Pattern of nodal recurrence may be influenced by the prior dissection and pre sLND imaging appears to underestimate the nodal recurrence.

Predictive factors of biochemical recurrence after radical prostatectomy for high-risk prostate cancer

OBJECTIVE

To identify risk factors of biochemical recurrence after radical prostatectomy in high-risk patients.

METHODS

A total of 191 high-risk prostate cancer patients according to the D'Amico classification treated with radical prostatectomy at a single institution between April 2000 and December 2013 were enrolled. The pathological evaluation including intraductal carcinoma of prostate was reassessed, and the clinical and pathological risk factors of biochemical recurrence were analyzed.

RESULTS

The median follow up after radical prostatectomy was 49 months. The 5-year biochemical recurrence-free survival rate after radical prostatectomy in high-risk prostate cancer patients was 41.6%. Initial prostate-specific antigen, pathological Gleason score, seminal vesicle invasion, extraprostatic extension and intraductal carcinoma of the prostate were significantly associated with biochemical recurrence-free survival. The 5-year biochemical recurrence-free survival rates in patients with zero, one, two and three of these risk factors were 92.9%, 70.7%, 38.3% and 28.8%, respectively. In patients with four or more factors, the biochemical recurrence-free survival rate was 6.1% after 18 months.

CONCLUSIONS

In D'Amico high-risk patients treated with radical prostatectomy, risk factors for biochemical recurrence can be identified. Patients with fewer risk factors have longer biochemical recurrence-free survival, even among these high-risk cases.

Review of optimal techniques for robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy has been rapidly adopted and is now the standard of care in the surgical management of prostate cancer. Since the initial description in 2001, the technique has evolved to optimize oncological functional outcomes. Herein, we review key techniques for the robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy.

RECENT FINDINGS

With the current influx of new technology such as focal therapy, stereotactic body radiation therapy and prostate-sparing treatments, there is greater emphasis on maximizing outcomes of robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy. The evidence-based techniques of optimizing oncological outcomes including the lymph node dissection and improving cancer control through minimizing positive surgical margins are reviewed. Improvements in functional recovery has also been seen with technical modifications such as nerve sparing, preservation of the urethral support structures and the bladder neck and the urethra-vesical reconstruction.

SUMMARY

Robotic prostatectomy has demonstrated adequate long-term oncologic success and satisfactory functional recovery. As technology and techniques in robotic-assisted surgery evolve, surgeons will continue to optimize techniques to maximize functional outcome recovery and cancer control. Further studies are actively being conducted to provide level one evidence in multiple aspects of the robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy.

Detection of Lymph Node Metastases with SERRS Nanoparticles

PURPOSE

The accurate detection of lymph node metastases in prostate cancer patients is important to direct treatment decisions. Our goal was to develop an intraoperative imaging approach to distinguish normal from metastasized lymph nodes. We aimed at developing and testing gold-silica surface-enhanced resonance Raman spectroscopy (SERRS) nanoparticles that demonstrate high uptake within normal lymphatic tissue and negligible uptake in areas of metastatic replacement.

PROCEDURES

We evaluated the ability of SERRS nanoparticles to delineate lymph node metastases in an orthotopic prostate cancer mouse model using PC-3 cells transduced with mCherry fluorescent protein. Tumor-bearing mice (n = 6) and non-tumor-bearing control animals (n = 4) were injected intravenously with 30 fmol/g SERRS nanoparticles. After 16-18 h, the retroperitoneal lymph nodes were scanned in situ and ex vivo with a Raman imaging system and a handheld Raman scanner and data corroborated with fluorescence imaging for mCherry protein expression and histology.

RESULTS

The SERRS nanoparticles demonstrated avid homing to normal lymph nodes, but not to metastasized lymph nodes. In cases where lymph nodes were partially infiltrated by tumor cells, the SERRS signal correctly identified, with sub-millimeter precision, healthy from metastasized components.

CONCLUSIONS

This study serves as a first proof-of-principle that SERRS nanoparticles enable high precision and rapid intraoperative discrimination between normal and metastasized lymph nodes.

Microbiological evaluation of infected pelvic lymphocele after robotic prostatectomy: potential predictors for culture positivity and selection of the best empirical antimicrobial therapy

OBJECTIVES

To examine symptomatology and microbiology of infected lymphocele (LC) post-robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy and pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND) and to assess for potential predictors for LC fluid culture positivity. Secondly, to provide general recommendations about use of select antimicrobial therapy.

METHODS

This was a single-center, IRB-approved, retrospective, case series review conducted between October 2008 and October 2014. Data included symptomatology, microbiology of symptomatic LC in men post-robotic prostatectomy and PLND. Those with infected LC were compared to those men with symptomatic LC in the absence of infection.

RESULTS

Symptomatic LC was seen in 7% of men, and among those, infected LC was seen in 42%. Infected LC cultures showed predominance of G+ cocci such as S. aureus, coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species, S. pyogenes, S. fecalis and S. viridans. Monomicrobial infection was seen in 85%. Multivariate logistic regression showed leukocytosis [Odds: 12.3, p = 0.03, 95% CI (1.2-125)] was significant predictor for culture positivity, whereas trend toward significance for factors such CT findings of thickened walls around the LC +/- air.

CONCLUSIONS

LC infection following PLND for prostate cancer is usually monomicrobial and caused by Gram+ cocci. GI tract and skin flora are the main habitat. High index of suspicion of infected LC is undertaken in the presence of leukocytosis, fever and abnormal CT findings. Based upon our local hospital antibiogram, combination of IV ampicillin/sulbactam and vancomycin is suggested as the best initial empiric therapy in treating these patients.

18F-Choline PET/CT scan in staging and biochemical recurrence in prostate cancer patients: Changes in classification and radiotherapy planning

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the role of the ¹⁸F-Choline PET/CT in prostate cancer management when detecting distant disease in planning radiotherapy and staging and to evaluate the therapy changes guided by PET/TC results.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A retrospective evaluation was performed on ¹⁸F-Choline PET/CT scans of patients with prostate cancer. Staging and planning radiotherapy scans were selected in patients with at least 9 months follow up. There was a total of 56 studies, 33 (58.93%) for staging, and 23 (41.07%) for planning radiotherapy. All scans were obtained using a hybrid PET/CT scanner. The PET/CT acquisition protocol consisted of a dual-phase procedure after the administration of an intravenous injection of 296-370MBq of ¹⁸F-Choline.

RESULTS

There were 43 out of 56 (76.8%) scans considered as positive, and 13 (23.2%) were negative. The TNM staging was changed in 13 (23.2%) scans. The PET/CT findings ruled out distant disease in 4 out of 13 scans, and unknown distant disease was detected in 9 (69.3%) scans.

CONCLUSIONS

¹⁸F-Choline PET/CT is a useful technique for detecting unknown distant disease in prostate cancer when staging and planning radiotherapy. The inclusion of ¹⁸F-choline PET/CT should be considered in prostate cancer management protocols.

Determination of adequate pelvic lymph node dissection range for Japanese males undergoing radical prostatectomy

The present study aimed to determine the adequate pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND) range for Japanese males undergoing radical prostatectomy. A total of 467 Japanese patients who underwent antegrade radical prostatectomy at the National Kyushu Cancer Center (Fukuoka, Japan) were retrospectively reviewed. The patients were divided into two groups according to the PLND extent: The standard (obturator + internal iliac nodes) group and the expanded (standard + additional nodes) group, which accounted for 64.5% (301/467) and 35.5% (166/467) of the patients, respectively. No differences were observed in the preoperative and postoperative characteristics of the two groups. In addition, there was no difference in PSA recurrence between the two groups. There were no differences between the standard and expanded groups in the low-, intermediate- and high-risk groups (P=0.1456, P=0.1581, P=0.2125, respectively). The median number of lymph node dissection was 13 and 19, in the standard and expanded groups respectively (P<0.0001). However, regarding the number of lymph node metastases and the rate of patients with lymph node metastasis, no significant difference was observed between the standard and expanded groups (P=0.4219 and P=0.4257, respectively). According to multivariate analysis, a significant difference in the presence of lymph node metastasis (hazard ratio 3.547; P=0.0247), but not in the PLND extent, was detected in patients with prostate specific antigen failure (P=0.0655). When expanding the dissection extent, the number of dissected lymph nodes increases, but is not associated with the number or rate of positive lymph nodes. Thus, the current dissection range is considered to be appropriate for Japanese men undergoing radical prostatectomy.

Beyond the Briganti nomogram: Individualisation of lymphadenectomy using selective sentinel node biopsy during radical prostatectomy for prostate cancer

OBJECTIVE

To validate the technique of selective sentinel node biopsy for diagnosing and staging intermediate to high-risk prostate cancer by comparing the technique with conventional extended lymphadenectomy (eLFD) in a prospective, longitudinal comparative study.

METHODS

We applied the technique to 45 patients. After an intraprostatic injection of ^99mTc-nanocolloid and preoperative single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT/CT), we extracted the sentinel lymph nodes, guided by a portable Sentinella® gamma camera and a laparoscopic gamma-ray detection probe. The eLFD was completed to establish the negative predictive value of the technique.

RESULTS

SPECT/CT showed radiotracer deposits outside the eLFD territory in 73% of the patients and the laparoscopic gamma probe in 60%. The mean number of active foci per patient was 4.3 in the SPECT/CT and 3.2 in the laparoscopic gamma probe. The mean number of extracted sentinel lymph nodes was 4.3 (0-14), with 26% outside the eLFD territory. The lymph nodes were metastatic in 10 patients (22%), 6/40 (15%) when the prostatectomy was the primary treatment. In all cases with metastatic lymph nodes, there was at least one positive sentinel node. Metastatic sentinel lymph nodes were found outside the eLFD territory in 3/10 patients (30%). The sensitivity was 100%, the specificity was 94.73%, the positive predictive value was 81.81%, and the negative predictive value was 100%.

CONCLUSION

Selective sentinel node biopsy is superior to eLFD for diagnosing lymph node involvement and can avoid eLFD when metastatic sentinel lymph nodes are not found (85%), with the consequent functional advantages.

Impact of Lymph Node Burden on Survival of High-risk Prostate Cancer Patients Following Radical Prostatectomy and Pelvic Lymph Node Dissection

AIM

To determine the impact of the extent of lymph node invasion (LNI) on long-term oncological outcomes after radical prostatectomy (RP).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In this retrospective study, we examined the data of 1,249 high-risk, non-metastatic PCa patients treated with RP and pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND) between 1989 and 2011 at eight different tertiary institutions. We fitted univariate and multivariate Cox models to assess independent predictors of cancer-specific survival (CSS) and overall survival (OS). The number of positive lymph node (LN) was dichotomized according to the most informative cutoff predicting CSS. Kaplan-Meier curves assessed CSS and OS rates. Only patients with at least 10 LNs removed at PLND were included. This cutoff was chosen as a surrogate for a well performed PNLD.

RESULTS

Mean age was 65 years (median: 66, IQR 60-70). Positive surgical margins were present in 53.7% (n = 671). Final Gleason score (GS) was 2-6 in 12.7% (n = 158), 7 in 52% (n = 649), and 8-10 in 35.4% (n = 442). The median number of LNs removed during PLND was 15 (IQR 12-17). Of all patients, 1,128 (90.3%) had 0-3 positive LNs, while 126 (9.7%) had ≥4 positive LNs. Patients with 0-3 positive LNs had significantly better CSS outcome at 10-year follow-up compared to patients with ≥4 positive LNs (87 vs. 50%; p < 0.0001). Similar results were obtained for OS, with a 72 vs. 37% (p < 0.0001) survival at 10 years for patients with 0-3 vs. ≥4 positive LNs, respectively. At multivariate analysis, final GS of 8-10, salvage ADT therapy, and ≥4 (vs. <4) positive LNs were predictors of worse CSS and OS. Pathological stage pT4 was an additional predictor of worse CSS.

CONCLUSION

Four or more positive LNs, pathological stage pT4, and final GS of 8-10 represent independent predictors for worse CSS in patients with high-risk PCa. Primary tumor biology remains a strong driver of tumor progression and patients having ≥4 positive LNs could be considered an enriched patient group in which novel treatment strategies should be studied.

Current technique and results for extended pelvic lymph node dissection during robot-assisted radical prostatectomy

The practice of extended pelvic lymph node dissection (ePLND) remains one of the most controversial topics in the management of clinically localized prostate cancer. Although most urologists agree on its benefit for staging and prognostication, the role of the ePLND in cancer control continues to be debated. The increased perioperative morbidity makes it unpalatable, especially in patients with low likelihood of lymph node disease. With the advent of robotic assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy, many surgeons were slow to adopt ePLND in the robotic setting. In this study, we summarize the evidence for the prognostic and therapeutic roles of ePLND, review the clinical tools used for lymph node metastasis prediction and survey the numerous experiences of ePLND compiled by robotic urologic surgeons over the years.

Sentinel lymph node detection during radical prostatectomy for prostate cancer: current evidence and results of our experience

PURPOSE

A sentinel lymph node (SNL) is the primary landing zone of cancer cells that spreads through the lymphatic vessels. The rational of the detection of sentinel node (SLN) during radical prostatectomy (RP) for prostate cancer (PCa) is the removal of the first nodal stations to provide a restriction of the template of node dissection. A review of the outcomes of SNL detection during RP for PCa was performed.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic review of the literature was conducted, searching on PubMed and Web of Science, using the following keywords: lymph node dissection, prostatic neoplasm, sentinel node.

RESULTS

Twenty articles were selected and analyzed including over 2000 PCa patients. Although promising and technically feasible, many points remain to be clarified before clinical application can be recommended.

CONCLUSIONS

The technique of SNL detection is feasible and provides a higher sensitivity and detection rate than standard lymphadenectomy, especially for organ-confined tumors. Larger series and long-term follow-up data are mandatory to assess the oncologic effectiveness of the detection of SNL for PCa.

Robotic radical prostatectomy in high-risk prostate cancer: current perspectives

Around 20%–30% of patients diagnosed with prostate cancer (PCa) still have high-risk PCa disease (HRPC) that requires aggressive treatment. Treatment of HRPC is controversial, and multimodality therapy combining surgery, radiation therapy, and androgen deprivation therapy have been suggested. There has been a trend toward performing radical prostatectomy (RP) in HRPC and currently, robot-assisted laparoscopic RP (RARP) has become the most common approach. Number of publications related to robotic surgery in HRPC is limited in the literature. Tissue and Tumor characteristics might be different in HRPC patients compared to low-risk group and increased surgical experience for RARP is needed. Due to the current literature, RARP seems to have similar oncologic outcomes including surgical margin positivity, biochemical recurrence and recurrence-free survival rates, additional cancer therapy needs and lymph node (LN) yields with similar complication rates compared to open surgery in HRPC. In addition, decreased blood loss, lower rates of blood transfusion and shorter duration of hospital stay seem to be the advantages of robotic surgery in this particular patient group. RARP in HRPC patients seems to be safe and technically feasible with good intermediate-term oncologic results, acceptable morbidities, excellent short-term surgical and pathological outcomes and satisfactory functional results.

Evaluation of Lymphorrhea and Incidence of Lymphoceles: 4DryField® PH in Radical Retropubic Prostatectomy

Purpose. To investigate impact of polysaccharide hemostat 4DryField PH (4DF) applied on lymph node dissection area after radical retropubic prostatectomy (RRP) on lymphorrhea and lymphocele (LC) formation. Methods. 104 consecutive patients underwent RRP, 51 without 4DF treatment (CT-group) and 53 with 4DF treatment (4DF-group). Groups were comparable (age, risk profile, and lymph node numbers). Postoperative drain loss (PDL) and development of early and late LC were analyzed (mean follow-up at 7 months: 100%). Results. PDL was 452.5 ± 634.2 mL without and 308.5 ± 214 mL with 4DF treatment. PDL > 1000 mL only occurred in CT-group (5/51). Overall, 45 LC (26 in CT- versus 19 in the 4DF-group) were diagnosed. At day 8, LC were equally distributed between groups. Incidence of late LC, however, was twice in controls (16/51) versus 4DF-patients (8/53). Symptomatic LC (4 in untreated patients, 2 in 4DF-patients) were treated with percutaneous drainage (duration: 45 days in untreated patients versus 12 days in 4DF-patients). Conclusion. Application of 4DF on lymph node dissection areas lessened total drain loss and significantly lowered high volume drain loss. Furthermore, 4DF reduced frequency of late lymphoceles and lymphoceles requiring treatment by half, as well as duration of percutaneous drainage by more than two-thirds.

Lymph node parameters and complications following laparoscopic extended pelvic lymphadenectomy for prostate cancer in 1000 consecutive patients

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to investigate the short-term results of extended pelvic lymphadenectomy (ePLND) during laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP).

Patients and methods:

Of 1330 consecutive patients undergoing LRP during a 90-month period 1000 (75%) had an ePLND for d’Amico intermediate- or high-risk prostate cancer.

Results:

Operating time, blood loss, conversion and transfusion rates and hospital stay were similar in patients having standard pelvic lymphadenectomy (sPLND) and ePLND. Median lymph node count was significantly greater following ePLND vs sPLND (17 vs 6; p⩽0.0001). Complication rates were also similar but trended ( p=0.06) towards a greater rate after ePLND vs sPLND: 9.0% and 5.5%. Lymph node involvement (LNI) was detected more frequently following ePLND in patients with: prostate specific antigen (PSA)=0–9.9 ( p=0.01) and PSA=10–19.9 ( p⩽0.0001); biopsy Gleason sum ⩽8 ( p⩽0.0001 to 0.03); intermediate- ( p⩽0.0001) and high-risk ( p⩽0.0001) cancer; pathological Gleason grade 7 ( p⩽0.0001) and pathological stage T3 ( p=0.0009 for pT3a and p⩽0.0001 for pT3b).

Conclusion:

ePLND is a more effective tool than sPLND in detecting LNI for patients in all prognostic clinical groups. This can be achieved without significant penalty with respect to operating time or complication rates.

Extended lymph node dissection in robotic radical prostatectomy: Current status

Introduction:

The role and extent of extended pelvic lymph node dissection (ePLND) during radical prostatectomy (RP) for prostate cancer patients remains unclear.

Materials and Methods:

A PubMed literature search was performed for studies reporting on treatment regimens and outcomes in patients with prostate cancer treated by RP and extended lymph node dissection between 1999 and 2013.

Results:

Studies have shown that RP can improve progression-free and overall survival in patients with lymph node-positive prostate cancer. While this finding requires further validation, it does allow urologists to question the former treatment paradigm of aborting surgery when lymph node invasion from prostate cancer occurred, especially in patients with limited lymph node tumor infiltration. Studies show that intermediate- and high-risk patients should undergo ePLND up to the common iliac arteries in order to improve nodal staging.

Conclusions:

Evidence from the literature suggests that RP with ePLND improves survival in lymph node-positive prostate cancer. While studies have shown promising results, further improvements and understanding of the surgical technique and post-operative treatment are required to improve treatment for prostate cancer patients with lymph node involvement.

Diagnostic yield and complications of extended lymphadenectomy versus limited lymphadenectomy combined with radical prostatectomy

BACKGROUND

Lymphadenectomy for prostate cancer (PC) is the most reliable procedure for detecting lymphatic metastases. The optimal extension of this procedure is still a topic of debate.

OBJECTIVE

To analyse the diagnostic performance and complications of extended lymphadenectomy (ELD) and limited lymphadenectomy (LLD) in a series of patients with high-risk PC who underwent radical prostatectomy (RP).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted on patients with high d'Amico risk who underwent RP with lymphadenectomy between 1999 and 2014. A comparative analysis was performed of the diagnostic capacity of lymphatic metastases of ELD and LLD and of postoperative complications at 90 days.

RESULTS

Ninety-three patients were analysed, 20 (21.5%) and 73 (78.5%) of whom underwent ELD and LLD, respectively. The mean age of the series was 65.26 years (SD, 5.51). The median follow-up was 1.51 (0.61-2.29) years in the ELD group and 5.94 (3.61-9.10) in the LLD group. The median number of nodes obtained was 13 (9-23) in the ELD group compared with 5 (2-8) in the LLD group (p <.001). The percentages of patients with positive nodes in the ELD and LLD groups were 35% and 5.47%, respectively (p <.001). The overall complication rate at 90 days was 35.5% (33 patients). In the ELD group, 12 patients (60%) had complications, compared with 21 patients (28.8%) in the LLD group (p=.016), with no significant differences in severity according to the Clavien scale (p=.73).

CONCLUSIONS

In our series, the detection of metastatic nodes was significantly greater with ELD. ELD increases the number of complications, with no differences compared with LLD in severity according to the modified Clavien scale.

The incidence and sequela of lymphocele formation after robot-assisted extended pelvic lymph node dissection

OBJECTIVE

To determine an accurate incidence of lymphocele formation and its sequela after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) and extended lymph node dissection (eLND) in a contemporary prostate cancer cohort.

PATIENTS AND METHOD

Consecutive patients who underwent RARP and eLND and had a minimum follow-up of 3 months were included. All surgeries were performed by one surgeon via a transperitoneal approach, with patients uniformly receiving low-molecular-weight heparin. Patients were followed with serial ultrasonography (US) based on a predetermined schedule for lymphocele surveillance. Incidence and sequelae of lymphoceles were retrospectively assessed.

RESULTS

In all, 521 patients were analysed. The mean (sd) follow-up was 33.5 (22.8) months. Lymphocele developed in 9% and became symptomatic in 2.5%. All except one were detected at the 1-month postoperative US; however, 76% regressed by the 3-month US. If lymphocele persisted at 3 months, 64% developed symptoms associated with infection and required drainage. Having diabetes mellitus was significantly associated with a higher risk of developing an infected lymphocele. Other symptoms related to lymphocele were rare. Comparisons of patient characteristics between patients with and without lymphoceles did not show any significant prognostic indicators to predict the occurrence of lymphocele in neither univariate nor multivariate analysis in the present cohort.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of symptomatic lymphocele after transperitoneal RARP and eLND is rare. However, during follow-up, US imaging at 3 months after surgery appears advisable. If a lymphocele is detected at the 3-month follow-up US discussing percutaneous external drainage with the patient appears to be wise, as it may prevent the development of a symptomatic lymphocele in two-thirds of such patients.