Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Extended Pelvic Lymph Node Dissection for Transitional Cell Carcinoma of the Bladder

In the researchers' words

The goal of this clinical research study is to evaluate how many lymph nodes are left behind after robotic-assisted removal and are then found after a wider incision is made, in patients who are having their bladder removed for the treatment of bladder cancer. The primary objective is to compare the lymph node yield achieved by performing a robotic-assisted laparoscopic extended pelvic lymph node dissection (RA-PLND) compared to a second-look open lymph node dissection (O-PLND) among patients undergoing radical cystectomy for transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder. The secondary objectives will be to collect prospective outcomes data related to the performance of RA-PLND and robotic-assisted cystectomy (RA-C) including operative times, estimated blood loss, transfusions, complications, return to diet, utilization of pain medication, hospital length, return to regular activities.