Laparoscopic radical prostatectomy: Is it feasible and reasonable?

Laparoscopic radical prostatectomy is a technically feasible procedure with the worldwide experience exceeding 300 cases. It must be evaluated with sc rutiny before it can be advocated as a reasonable alternative to open radic al prostatectomy. Although short-term results are comparable with conventio nal surgery, long-term oncologic equivalency to radical prostatectomy and a dvantages in morbidity remain to be demonstrated. The ability to preserve p otency appears less than with open series. Until the results are equivalent , the procedures steep learning curve and additional expense make it diffic ult to justify laparoscopic radical prostatectomy as an alternative therape utic modality for localized prostate cancer.