Laparoscopic surgery, both free-hand and robotic-assisted, has proved to be a transformational technology with a major impact on urologic oncology. While academic urologists today vigorously debate whether a procedure done laparoscopically yields better outcomes than the comparable open procedure, urologic surgeons are voting with their feet: they are performing more and more laparoscopic surgeries every year. The overwhelming interest in lapa- scopic surgery is apparent at every urological meeting, but it is perhaps most evident in urologic training programs. Young urologists clearly understand that they must learn minimally invasive techniques if they are to be compe- tive in practice, particularly in the field of oncology. Regardless of the outcome of this debate, the development of laparoscopic surgery has wrought a major resurgence of interest in the importance of sur- cal technique. A decade ago, surgeons themselves seemed bored by presen- tions or publications that described a surgical technique. There was a general sense that it had all been worked out long ago. That attitude seems oddly out of place today, when our literature and our meetings are filled with intense debates about the differences between surgical approaches and the importance of technique. We now know, for example, that with regard to all important outcomes of major cancer, the skill and experience of the surgeon have a p- found impact on the results of surgery. We know that there is a learning curve, sometimes remarkably prolonged, for crucial outcomes such as cancer control after prostatectomy.
Reviews

From the reviews:

"Written by four pioneers in laparoscopic urologic surgery, this book's 10 chapters illustrate various techniques used in urologic oncology. ... The descriptions of these surgical procedures are designed to allow urologists the ability to offer minimally invasive techniques in the treatment of urologic malignancies. ... Designed for urologic surgeons who want to expand their minimally invasive practice to more complex oncology procedures ... . This is an excellent resource for laparoscopic surgeons interested in expanding their practice to minimally invasive urologic oncology techniques." (Peter Pinto, Doody's Review Service, October, 2009)

Book Information
ISBN 9781447168188
Author Bertrand Guillonneau
Format Paperback
Page Count 163
Imprint Springer London Ltd
Publisher Springer London Ltd