Robotic prostatectomy: The rise of the machines or judgment day

摘要

Utilization of robotic prostatectomy has increased since its introduction in 2000 [1]. Trinh et al provide a national snapshot of the current trends in surgical treatment of prostate cancer (PCa) [2]. Although the enthusiasm for robotic prostatectomy is driven by surgeons, consumers, and the robot manufacturer, the size of the shift is presented clearly in this manuscript. In 2008 and 2009, >60% of all prostatectomies were performed using robotics, with substantial growth from 2003 (9.3%) to 2007 (43%) [3]. The trend toward robot-assisted surgery for PCa is obvious, but the benefits for patients are not as clear cut.