Open retropubic nerve-sparing radical prostatectomy

Retropubic radical prostatectomy is the most commonly used therapeutic option for the treatment of clinically localized prostate cancer. An ongoing stage migration toward organ-confined cancers allows performance of a nerve-sparing procedure in a growing number of patients. Key elements for achieving convincing functional results are a sphincter-preserving ligation of the distal part of the Santorini plexus and the subtle preparation of the neurovascular bundle. This article gives a detailed description of the operative technique, which is demonstrated in the attached DVD. Furthermore, indication, oncologic outcome, and functional results addressing postoperative urinary continence and potency are discussed. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.