OBJECTIVETo report the experience with extraperitoneal laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (EP-LRP) in the treatment of prostate cancer.

METHODSSixty-five patients with diagnosed localized prostate cancer underwent extraperitoneal laparoscopic radical prostatectomy.

RESULTSThe procedures were successful in 64 cases. Mean operating time was 172 min (range 100 to 440 min). Mean blood loss was 340 ml (range 150 to 800 ml). Seven (10.8%) of the 65 patients received transfusion with MAP of 24 units. Rectal injury occurred in 1 patient, 2 developed urethrovesical anastomotic leakage, 6 (9.2%) had positive surgical margins, 58 (89.2%) were fully continent with urination 3 months after the operation.

CONCLUSIONEP-LRP, as a safe and feasible procedure for prostate cancer, which avoides violation of the peritoneal cavity, potentially decreases the risk of intraoperative complications and further reduces postoperative morbidity, is well worth popularizing.