Robotic-assisted genitourinary reconstruction: current state and future directions

Abstract

With the widespread dissemination of robotic surgical platforms, pathology previously deemed insurmountable or challenging has been treated with reliable and replicable outcomes. The advantages of precise articulation for dissection and suturing, tremor reduction, three-dimensional magnified visualization, and minimally invasive trocar sites have allowed for the management of such diverse disease as recurrent or refractory bladder neck stenoses, and radiation-induced ureteral strictures, with excellent perioperative and functional outcomes. Intraoperative adjuncts such as near-infrared imaging aid in identification and preservation of healthy tissue. More recent developments include robotics via the single port platform, gender-affirming surgery, and multidisciplinary approaches to complex pelvic reconstruction. Here, we review the recent literature comprising developments in robotic-assisted genitourinary reconstruction, with a view towards emerging technologies and future trends in techniques.

Urethral Stricture/Stenosis as a Complication of High Intensity Focused Ultrasound of the Prostate (HIFU): What is the Overall Patient Experience?

“…Currently, all reports of robotic bladder neck and posterior urethral reconstruction involve bladder neck stenosis or VUAS. 16 The 1 patient in our series who presented with isolated bladder neck stenosis was evaluated in 2014 prior to the development of robotic reconstructive techniques. It is possible if he presented today, he may be a candidate for robotic bladder neck repair.…”