Laparoscopic radical prostatectomy

Laparoscopic radical retropubic prostatectomy (LRRP) is a new technique for treating organ-confined prostate carcinoma. The procedure was first descri bed and proven to be feasible in 1997. To date, the results from over 150 c ases have been reported ill the literature. LRRP appears to be an efficacio us procedure and deserves careful consideration. However, open radical retr opubic prostatectomy (RRP) is routinely performed with excellent results an d minimal morbidity. Whether LRRP offers any compelling benefit over open R RP remains to be determined, and will require a systematic comparison of te chnical advantages, morbidity, and long-term functional outcomes.