Login to Access Video or Poster Abstract: MP93-14
Sources of Funding: none

Introduction

When operating deep in the abdomen and pelvis, excess fat can interfere with accessing key anatomical structures and create difficulty in dissection and reconstruction. Since intraperitoneal fat is avoided during extraperitoneal robot assisted radical prostatectomy (eRARP), some Urologists have advocated this approach over its transperitoneal counterpart (tRARP) when operating on morbidly obese men (BMI>40). Herein, we aim to compare outcomes of eRARP vs. tRARP in the morbidly obese.

Methods

A chart review of patients who have undergone robot assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) at a tertiary care academic center from July 1, 2003 through April 30, 2016 was undertaken. Patients with BMI >40 were identified. Those with concomitant inguinal hernia repair were excluded. The resulting eRARP and tRARP groups were compared for demographic, clinical and pathologic characteristics. Regression analysis was performed between the groups with Age, BMI, ASA score and D'Amico classification as selected covariates.

Results

3168 patients underwent RARP during this time period, of which 82 patients met our inclusion and exclusion criteria; each group comprised 41 patients. No differences were noted in age, BMI, ASA score or pre-operative PSA. The tRARP group had a higher clinical stage (p=0.016), biopsy Gleason score (p=0.007) and D'Amico risk category (p<0.00001). The tRARP group had a higher rate of pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND, p<0.00001). No differences were noted in rate of nerve sparing. No differences were noted in OR time, estimated blood loss (EBL), length of stay (LOS) or time to catheter removal (TCR). No differences were noted in surgical margin status or overall complications (either calculated as binary or total number). On regression analysis, no differences were noted in complications, OR time, LOS, TCR or EBL.

Conclusions

In this cohort, surgical approach (eRARP vs. tRARP) did not affect intra- or peri-operative outcomes in morbidly obese men undergoing RARP so surgeons should tailor their approach based on comfort level.

Funding

none