Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Bladder Augmentation

Abstract

The application of minimally invasive surgery continues to expand in the urological community. However, more complex reconstructive laparoscopic procedures are often performed by experienced surgeons mainly due to difficulties with intra-corporeal suturing. Limitations with standard laparoscopy have now been overcome with the introduction of the robotic surgical platform. Robotic assistance allows surgeons to perform complex procedures with greater comfort, visibility, and flexibility. Robotic-assisted pediatric procedures now include ureteral reimplantation, pyeloplasty, orchiopexy, and nephrectomy. Recently, bladder augmentation with robotic assistance has been made possible for the pediatric patient.