Background: We developed a novel surgical technique: dissection of the retrotrigonal layer from a posterior approach in robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP). This approach enables earlier access to the posterior space during bladder neck dissection and helps preserve the bladder neck. We evaluated the safety and efficacy of this technique in terms of bladder neck preservation Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 238 consecutive patients who underwent RARP using this technique from August 2021 to September 2023. Key metrics included the success rate of accessing the posterior space prior to bladder neck opening during the dissection and the rate of bladder neck preservation. In addition, oncological and surgical safety, as well as continence recovery, were assessed.
Results: The median age and prostate-specific antigen level were 72 (65-75) years and 7.35 (5.40-11.5) ng/mL, respectively. In 153 (64%) patients, the posterior space was successfully accessed before bladder neck opening, with the success rate increasing from 56% in the series' first half to 72% in the second half (p = 0.015). The bladder neck was preserved in 120 (53%) patients, and this rate increased from 39% in the first half to 63% in the second half (p = 0.0004). Positive surgical margins at the junction between the prostate and bladder were observed in 10 cases (4%). Bladder neck preservation correlated with early continence recovery (hazard ratio 1.37 [95% confidence interval 1.03-1.83], p = 0.030). The grade 3 complication associated with this technique occurred in one case (0.5%).
Conclusion: Retrotrigonal layer dissection from a posterior approach in RARP enhances the safety and ease of bladder neck dissection and aids in its preservation, potentially leading to improved continence recovery.
Keywords: bladder neck dissection; bladder neck preservation; retrotrigonal layer; robot-assisted radical prostatectomy.