Robotic microsurgical spermatic cord denervation for chronic orchialgia: a case series

Abstract

CONTEXT: Chronic orchialgia is a frustrating urologic condition that is commonly refractory to conservative modes of therapy. Microscopic spermatic cord denervation is a proven solution for patients who do not achieve relief from nonsurgical treatments. However, current widely used techniques require additional training in microsurgery. OBJECTIVE: To describe an adaptation and improvement of spermatic cord microdenervation technique that leveraged the robotic surgical training common for new urologists and is also accessible for urologists not specifically trained in microsurgery. METHODS: Robotic-assisted microdenervation of the spermatic cord was performed in three patients using a fluorescence vascular imaging tool to improve visualization of vascular structures (Firefly™; Innovative Surgical, Sunnyvale, CA, USA), along with a tissue matrix allograft to allow for better healing (AminoFix™; MiMedx®, Marietta, GA, USA). RESULTS: All three patients (100%) experienced postoperative resolution of their chronic orchialgia, and none reported any new pain. CONCLUSION: Utilization of robotic-assisted surgery offers more urologists the ability to use familiar techniques to treat chronic orchialgia when conservative measures are unsuccessful.