antigen (PSA) level of ≤ 10 ng/mL, a Gleason sum of ≤ 7 and a prostate volume of ≤ 50 mL. This group was randomly divided in those having SV-RPP (147 men) and a classical RPP (171); men in the third group with adverse factors were offered a classical RRP (190). The main endpoint of the trial was the early continence rate at 4 weeks after surgery.
RESULTSThe oncological outcome of patients treated with SV-RPP was no different from that of RPP or RRP. Continence rates (0-1 pad/day) at 4 weeks and 12 months after SV-RPP were 61.7% and 96.3%, respectively, and significantly higher than with RPP ( P < 0.023) and RRP ( P < 0.005). The transfusion rates (3.4%), anastomotic leaks (6.6%) and mean operative duration (90 min) were significantly lower.
CONCLUSIONSSV-RPP is a better technique in reducing complications during and after surgery for selected patients. Leaving the SV in place did not increase the short-term PSA relapse rates. As the operation was significantly faster and with better early recovery, SV-RPP might be justified if the long-term oncological data confirm the efficacy of the approach.
KEYWORDSprostate cancer, radical prostatectomy, perineal, nerve-sparing, seminal vesiclesparing Study Type -Therapy (RCT) Level of Evidence 1b
OBJECTIVETo report a new and improved seminal vesicle-sparing (SV) technique of radical perineal prostatectomy (RPP) as an option for patients with localized prostate cancer, which is currently competing with the retropubic RP (RRP), endoscopic and robotic approaches.