The LUAA Gundeti Technique for Bilateral Robotic Ureteral Reimplantation: Lessons Learned over a Decade for Optimal (Resolution, Urinary Retention, and Perioperative Complications) Trifecta Outcomes

Abstract

Background: Ureteral reimplantation is the gold standard treatment for high-grade vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) in pediatric patients. Robot-assisted laparoscopic extravesical ureteral reimplantation (RALUR-EV) using the LUAA technique has emerged as a viable alternative to traditional open and laparoscopic surgical correction. Objective: To evaluate the outcomes, reflux resolution, urinary retention, and complications associated with bilateral RALUR-EV for primary VUR using the LUAA Gundeti technique in pediatric patients. Design setting and participants: A retrospective study was conducted at a single academic center, involving 34 consecutive pediatric patients who underwent RALUR-EV for bilateral VUR management between December 2008 and December 2022. The study included only patients who were evaluated with postoperative voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG). Surgical procedure: The LUAA extravesical ureteral reimplantation technique was performed, involving the identification and mobilization of the ureter, creation of a peritoneal window, dissection close to the neurovascular bundle, Y dissection at the ureterovesical junction, detrusorotomy, detrusorrhaphy with advential inclusion, and apical alignment suture. Measurements: The primary outcome was radiographic resolution of VUR on VCUG. The secondary outcomes included urinary retention and Clavien-Dindo grade III complications. Results and limitations: The overall radiographic resolution rate was 85.2%, with success rates of 76.7%, 75%, and 96.7% across the three distinct patient cohorts. The overall Clavien-Dindo grade III complication rate was 5.8%, and transient urinary retention was 8.8%. Resolution of urinary retention occurred within 7-28 d. The study's limitations include the small sample size, single-center design, and retrospective nature. Conclusions: The LUAA technique demonstrates sustainable outcomes for VUR resolution with a low incidence of transient urinary retention and complications. A thorough understanding of pelvic anatomy is essential for successful dissection and minimization of the risk of complications. Further studies are needed to evaluate the effectiveness of different approaches in reducing the incidence of transient urinary retention following bilateral extravesical reimplantation. Patient summary: In this study, we examined the results of the Gundeti LUAA surgical technique for treating primary vesicoureteral reflux in children. We identified various essential modifications that increase the likelihood of achieving favorable outcomes.