Greater surgeon experience is associated with lower recurrence rates following laparoscopic radical prostatectomy for prostate cancer. A new study shows that the learning curve for this procedure is slower than that for open surgery, and highlights the challenges of developing the unique skills that are required to master each technique.
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Mark L. Gonzalgo declares that he has received honoraria for participating in a speakers' bureau organized by Intuitive Surgical. Steven L. Chang declares no competing interests.
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Chang, S., Gonzalgo, M. Laparoscopic prostatectomy: learning curve and cancer control. Nat Rev Urol 6, 361–362 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1038/nrurol.2009.107
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/nrurol.2009.107
