Technique for nerve dissection

Nerve-sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy is a reasonable treatment option in localized prostate cancer with minimal morbidity. Recent techniques in neurovascular bundle preservation could lead to an overall improvement in postoperative quality of life without compromising cancer control in the appropriately selected patient. Different techniques for neurovascular bundle preservation have been described by most major centers. This brief article describes the updated technique of nerve-sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy for clinically localized prostate cancer. Our technique of nerve dissection starts at the lateral aspect of the prostate with secondary urethral dissection. We believe this technique is easy to learn and decreases dissection around the striated sphincter. Copyright (C) 2000 by W.B. Saunders Company.