Organ-sparing cystectomy vs standard radical cystectomy: A systematic review and meta-analysis

What is it about?

Organ-sparing cystectomy (OSC) techniques are gaining attention as an alternative to the traditional radical cystectomy (RC) procedure for bladder cancer, as they aim to preserve sexual and urinary functions while maintaining oncological outcomes. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 19 studies with 1886 male and 305 female patients found that OSC techniques had similar oncological outcomes to RC, with greater odds of retaining potency and maintaining urinary function in men. However, the number of studies on women was limited. The review highlights the potential benefits of OSC techniques, but further studies are needed to make recommendations based on robust clinical evidence.

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Why is it important?

This research is important because it evaluates the potential advantages of organ-sparing cystectomy (OSC) compared to radical cystectomy (RC) in preserving sexual and urinary function while maintaining oncological outcomes in patients with bladder cancer. RC, the gold standard treatment, has historically resulted in debilitating sexual dysfunction and serious lifestyle implications. OSC techniques offer a promising alternative, but further research is necessary to establish robust clinical evidence. Key Takeaways: 1. OSC techniques have the potential to provide better sexual and urinary function without compromising oncological outcomes in carefully selected patients compared to RC. 2. The studies included in the review demonstrated similar oncological outcomes between the two groups, but the quality of the studies was generally low, and more high-quality studies are needed, especially in females. 3. The odds of retaining potency and daytime and nighttime continence were significantly greater in men who underwent OSC compared to RC. 4. There remains a paucity of OSC studies in females, and further research is necessary to make recommendations based on robust clinical evidence.