Precise Prediction of Long-Term Urinary Incontinence after Robot-Assisted Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy by Readily Accessible "Everyday" Diagnostics during Post-Surgical Hospitalization

We aimed to test the predictive value of readily accessible and easily performed post-surgical "bedside tests" on their validity of long-term urinary incontinence (UI) (≥12 months) in patients following robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RALP). Patients undergoing RALP between July 2020 and March 2021 were prospectively included and subdivided into two groups based on their pad usage after 12 months (0 vs. ≥1 pad). After catheter removal, patients performed a 1 h pad test, documented the need for pad change in a micturition protocol and received post-voiding residual urine volume ultrasound. Univariate and multivariable analyses were used to demonstrate the predictive value of easily accessible tests applied after catheter removal for UI following RALP. Of 109 patients, 47 (43%) had to use at least one pad (vs. 62 (57%) zero pads) after 12 months. Univariate testing showed a significant difference in urine loss between both groups evaluated by the 1 h pad test performed within 24 h after catheter removal (70% < 10 mL, vs. 30% ≥ 10 mL, = 0.004) and in the need for pad change within the first 24 h after catheter removal (14% dry pads vs. 86% wet pads, = 0.003). In multivariable analyses, the combination of both tests (synoptical incontinence score) could be confirmed as an independent predictor for UI after 12 months ( = 0.011). Readily accessible "everyday" diagnostics (pad test/change of pads after catheter removal) following RALP seem to be associated with a higher rate of long-term UI. This finding is crucial since patients with a potentially higher need for patient education and counselling can be identified using these readily accessible tests. This could lead to a higher patient satisfaction and improved outcomes.