Intensive laparoscopic training: the impact of a simplified pelvic-trainer model for the urethrovesical anastomosis on the learning curve.

We prospectively evaluated the learning curve (LC) for laparoscopic urethrovesical anastomosis (L-UVA) in an operator-training model and program using an innovative simplified pelvic-trainer model. Over a period of 12 months, 30 LRP were performed by one urologist skilled in open surgery but inexperienced in laparoscopy. During the first 15 procedures no systematic training was done.

Laparoscopic radical prostatectomy: prospective evaluation of the learning curve.

Objective: We prospectively evaluated the learning curve (LC) of laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (L-RPE) regarding the improvements in operative times (OT) and technical difficulty in one-operator-practice as it compares with open RPE.

Methods: Over 18 months, 50 L-RPE were performed by an inexperienced surgeon in laparoscopy but skilled in open surgery. Difficulty scores were obtained at the completion of each L-RPE comparing L-RPE to open RPE.

Quality of life after surgery for localized renal cell carcinoma: comparison between radical nephrectomy and nephron-sparing surgery.

Objectives: To compare the impact of radical nephrectomy and nephron-sparing surgery (NSS) for localized renal cell carcinoma on quality of life (QOL).

Methods: Retrospectively, 357 patients who had undergone NSS (n = 158) or radical nephrectomy (n = 199) for localized renal cell carcinoma completed postal questionnaires, including measures of QOL with validated instruments (SF-36, European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire C30 [EORTC QLQ-C30]), the impact of the stress of cancer, fear of recurrence, and worry about having fewer than two normal kidneys. A subset of 51 patients diagnosed after 2000 were followed up prospectively for at least 1 year.