Feasibility and early outcomes of robotic-assisted laparoscopic Mitrofanoff appendicovesicostomy in patients with prune belly syndrome.

OBJECTIVES • To evaluate the feasibility and report our initial experience with Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Mitrofanoff Appendicovesicostomy (RALMA) in patients with prune belly syndrome. • The Mitrofanoff appendicovesicostomy procedure uses the appendix to create an easily accessible continent, catheterizable channel into the urinary bladder. Historically, the procedure is performed by an open surgical approach in prune belly patients. We describe our initial experience herein. • Between October 2008 and February 2010 three patients with prune belly syndrome underwent RALMA. • The appendicovesicostomy anastomosis was performed on the anterior bladder wall and the stoma was brought to the umbilical site or right lower quadrant. • At least 4 cm of detrusor backing was ensured. • The appendicovesicostomy stent was left in place for 4 weeks postoperatively before initiation of catheterization. RESULTS • Mean age at surgery was 9.7 years (range 5-14 years). • Blood loss volume was 20 mL in each case. Overall mean operative time was 352 min (range 319-402 min). There were no intraoperative complications and no open conversions. • There was one postoperative complication in the form of wound infection. • All patients are catheterizing their stomas and are continent at an average follow-up of 14.7 months (range 5-21 months). • In our initial experience, RALMA is a feasible option with encouraging early experience for creating a continent catheterizable channel into the urinary bladder in patients with prune belly syndrome.