Robot-Assisted Versus Open Radical Prostatectomy: The Differential Effect of Regionalization, Procedure Volume and Operative Approach

Abstract

Regionalization has occurred to a greater extent for robot-assisted than for open radical prostatectomy with an associated benefit in overall outcomes. Nonetheless, low volume institutions experienced inferior outcomes relative to the highest volume centers irrespective of approach. These findings demonstrate the importance of accounting for hospital volume when examining the benefit of a surgical technique.