Robotic Anderson–Hynes dismembered pyeloplasty: initial experience

Introduction The introduction of the da Vinci® robotic system in 2000 has been a new step forward in the treatment of ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO). The aim of this study was to analyse our initial experience with robot-assisted dismembered Anderson–Hynes pyeloplasty and to perform a bibliographic review on the topic. Patients and methods We performed 11 robot-assisted pyeloplasties between March 2007 and April 2011. UPJO diagnosis was made on clinical presentation and imaging techniques (CT scan and intravenous urography). All patients underwent basal and diuretic isotopic renograms to evaluate the degree of obstruction and impaired renal function. Median follow-up was 10 (range 1–26) months. Results Mean patient age was 38.8 (range 23-62) years. There were six women (55%) and five men (45%). All cases were primary surgeries. In four patients the cause of UPJO was a crossing vessel; the other seven patients had intrinsic obstruction. One case was associated with extraction of a calyceal lithiasis. Mean operative time was 189.4 min (125-270 min). Average time from robotic arms docking was 116.5 (range 55–180) min. Average hospital stay was 4.18 (range 2–8) days. Conversion to open or laparoscopic surgery was not necessary in any case and there were no postoperative complications. Postoperative radiological evaluation and renograms showed good results in all cases. Conclusions Robotic surgery offers better ergonomics, enhanced three-dimensional (3D) vision and more precise movements, easing intracorporeal suturing.These advantages make robotic pyeloplasty a reproducible technique that combines the high success rates of open surgery and the benefits of laparoscopic surgery. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.