Single- versus dual-console robot-assisted radical prostatectomy: impact on intraoperative and postoperative outcomes in a teaching institution

Objective: To compare the outcomes of robotic-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP) using a dual versus single-console system in a resident training program using intraoperative, perioperative and postoperative measures. Methods: Patients with PCa who underwent RALP prior to and after implementing a dual-console system at an academic institution were reviewed from 2006–2012. All surgeries were performed by a single-faculty surgeon well after the learning curve was established. In all cases, chief residents participated in the surgery and performed progressively more portions. Demographic, intraoperative and pathologic parameters were obtained. Continence and erectile function were assessed at 6 and 12 months. Postoperative complications were graded using the Clavien–Dindo classification. Predictors of outcomes on univariate analysis were included in multivariate logistic or linear models. Results: Of 381 patients, 185 and 196 underwent single- or dual-console RALP, respectively. There was a significant decrease in mean operative time using the dual-console system (222 vs. 171 min, p < 0.0001) as well as in the incidence of intraoperative complications (8.65 vs. 1.53 %, p < 0.0001) and postoperative complications (14.1 vs. 6.63 %, p = 0.03.) Complications of Clavien grade ≥3a occurred more frequently with a single-console system (7 vs. 1 %, p = 0.003.) Differences persisted when controlling for potential confounders by multivariate regression. Postoperative measures of continence, erectile function and the rate of biochemical recurrence were similar between cohorts. Conclusions: When training resident surgeons to perform RALP, a dual-console system may improve intraoperative and perioperative outcomes. The dual-console may represent a safer, more efficient modality for robotic surgical education as compared to a single-console system.