PROSTATE cancer is one of the most common malignancies of the urinary system. Its incidence is influenced by various factors, including age, genetics, obesity, and diet. With the growing awareness of health and the widespread use of advanced screening techniques, the early detection rate of prostate cancer has significantly increased.
Traditionally, early prostate cancer was treated with transabdominal open radical prostatectomy. However, this approach often resulted in significant surgical trauma and a high rate of postoperative complications. With advancements in medical technology, laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP) has become an increasingly preferred alternative, offering reduced trauma, fewer complications, and quicker recovery times.
Compared to open radical prostatectomy, LRP has been associated with improved post-surgical outcomes. Studies indicate that patients who undergo LRP experience better sexual function after one year and improved urinary function at 18 months, with oncological outcomes comparable to those of traditional surgery. Research by Ghavamian et al. suggests that LRP is well tolerated, offering short-term oncologic and functional results similar to open surgery. Furthermore, studies by Anastasiadis et al. indicate that LRP patients tend to recover nocturnal continence earlier than those who undergo open surgery.
Despite its benefits, LRP is technically demanding. Surgeons require advanced skills to navigate the complex pelvic anatomy, which includes a dense network of nerves and blood vessels surrounding the prostate. Additionally, laparoscopic surgery typically has a longer operative time and a higher risk of rectal injuries and urinary leakage during the initial learning curve. However, as surgical expertise and equipment improve, these challenges are expected to decrease.
Recent research comparing laparoscopic and open radical prostatectomy outcomes shows that LRP leads to shorter hospital stays, quicker recovery of gastrointestinal function, and less intraoperative blood loss. Furthermore, long-term follow-up has demonstrated that LRP provides similar tumour control to open surgery, with no significant differences in recurrence rates after one year.
In conclusion, laparoscopic radical prostatectomy represents a promising alternative to traditional open surgery for early prostate cancer. With continuous advancements in surgical techniques and technology, LRP is expected to become even more effective, improving both clinical outcomes and patient quality of life.
Katie Wright, EMJ
Reference
Guan Y et al. Clinical effects of laparoscopic versus open radical prostatectomy in the treatment of early prostate cancer. Afr J Reprod Health. 2025;29(2):106-12.
