Robot-Assisted Surgery Helps Cancer Patients Lead Normal Lives

The quality of life of bladder cancer patients treated with robot-assisted cystectomy returned to normal within six months, according to a new study.

Researchers at Roswell Park Cancer Institute (RPCI, Buffalo, NY, USA) conducted a prospective study to examine the quality-of-life (QOL) benefits of robot-assisted cystectomy; QOL was examined using the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy questionnaire in 34 patients who underwent robot-assisted surgery between January 2006 and December 2007. The patients were monitored according to U.S. National Comprehensive Cancer Center (NCCN, Fort Washington, PA, USA) guidelines. The average age of the patients was 65 years, and 88% were men. Of all patients, 13% received chemotherapy after surgery. QOL issues were assessed at 1-, 3-, and 6-month intervals.

The researchers found that physical well-being decreased significantly in the first follow-up visit due to the immediate impact of surgery. However, six months later, patients reported their physical activities were comparable with their activities prior to surgery. Emotional scores were statistically higher after surgery, indicating that feelings of sadness and anxiety appeared to be alleviated by the minimally invasive surgery and rapid postrecovery. Scores for social and family support remained uniformly high. The study was published in the March 2009 issue of the British Journal of Urology International (BJUI).

"Patients have indicated that the overall quality of their life after cancer surgery is as important as how long they survive. This study helps us to understand the patient's physical, social, emotional, and functional well-being after surgery," said lead author Khurshid Guru, M.D., director of the department of robotic surgery at RPCI. "Robot-assisted surgery continues to demonstrate its efficacy as a treatment for bladder cancer patients and has now shown its value to patients as they return to life after cancer."

Robot assisted surgery removal of the bladder provides patients with a less invasive treatment option that has several potential advantages over traditional open surgery, including less postoperative pain and fewer days spent in the hospital.

Related Links:
Roswell Park Cancer Institute
U.S. National Comprehensive Cancer Center