Predictors of trainees' proficiency during the learning curve of robot-assisted radical prostatectomy at high--volume institutions: results from a multicentric series

Introduction The aim of this series was to evaluate predictors of Proficiency score (PS) achievement on a multicentric series of robot-assisted radical prostatectomies (RARP) performed by trainee surgeons with two different surgical techniques at four tertiary-care centers.Material and methods Four institutional datasets were merged and queried for RARPs performed by surgeons during their learning curve (LC) between 2010 and 2020 using two different approaches (Group A, Retzius-sparing RARP, n = 164; Group B, standard anterograde RARP, n = 79). Logistic regres-sion analysis was performed to identify predictors of PS achievement for the overall trainee cohort. For all analyses, a two-sided p <0.05 was considered significant.Results Group B showed significantly increased median operative time, positive surgical margins (PSM) status, increased number of nerve-sparing procedures, shorter LC time (each p <0.04). PS, continence status, potency, biochemical recurrence and 1-year trifecta rates were comparable between groups (each p >0.3). On multivariable analysis, time from LC starting >= 12 months (OR = 2.79; 95%IC [1.15- 6.76]; p = 0.02) and a nerve-sparing intent (OR = 3.18; 95%IC [1.15-8.77]; p = 0.02) were independent predictors of PS score achievement (Table 3).Conclusions Higher PS rates for RARP trainees may be expected after 12 months from LC beginning. Short-term training courses are unlikely to confer proper surgical training, while long-term structured training programs seem to be beneficial on perioperative outcomes.

Automated summary

The study aimed to evaluate predictors of Proficiency score (PS) achievement in robot-assisted radical prostatectomies (RARP) performed by trainee surgeons with two different surgical techniques. The results showed significant differences in operative time, positive surgical margins, nerve-sparing procedures, and learning curve time between the two groups. PS, continence status, potency, biochemical recurrence, and 1-year trifecta rates were comparable. Multivariable analysis identified time from learning curve starting >= 12 months and a nerve-sparing intent as independent predictors of PS score achievement.