Impact of a Single-surgeon Learning Curve on Complications, Positioning Injuries, and Renal Function in Patients Undergoing Robot-assisted Radical Prostatectomy and Extended Pelvic Lymph Node Dissection

ObjectiveTo assess the impact of a single-surgeon learning curve on complications, positioning injuries, and renal function in patients undergoing robot-assisted radical prostatectomy and extended pelvic lymph node dissection for intermediate- or high-risk clinically localized prostate cancer.MethodsFrom November 2008 to October 2012, a total of 233 consecutive patients were treated by a single surgeon experienced in open and laparoscopic procedures. Four subgroups of patients (1: cases 1-59; 2: 60-117; 3: 118-175; and 4: 176-233) were compared. Complications were classified according to the modified Clavien system. Serum creatine kinase, as an indicator of tissue injury, was measured before, during, and for 5 days after surgery. Renal function monitoring was started preoperatively and ended at discharge. Minimum follow-up was 3 months. Variables were compared using chi-square and Wilcoxon tests.ResultsOverall, 115 complications were reported in 98 of 233 patients (42%) and significantly decreased after 175 procedures (P = .028). Minor complications (Clavien grades 1-2) represented the most frequent events (86 of 115 [75%]), with a significant drop in group 4 (P <.01). Similarly, the rate of positioning injuries (groups 1-4: 31%, 29%, 29%, and 7%, respectively) showed a significant improvement in group 4 (P = .023). Creatine kinase levels significantly decreased with increased experience (group 1 vs groups 2-4: P <.01). Renal function was unaltered postoperatively.ConclusionA surgeon with extensive open and laparoscopic experience presents a safe learning curve in regard to robot-assisted radical prostatectomy and extended pelvic lymph node dissection. With increasing experience, the rates of overall and positioning-related complications significantly decrease after 175 procedures. No detrimental effect on renal function is to be expected.