Outcome analysis of robotic pyeloplasty: a large single-centre experience

OBJECTIVE To present our experience and outcomes of robot-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty (RALP) for pelvi-ureteric junction obstruction (PUJO). PATIENTS AND METHODS This was a prospective study of 85 consecutive patients who had RALP for PUJO at our institute from July 2006 to December 2008. The preoperative evaluation included intravenous urography (IVU) and diuretic renography. The type of pyeloplasty was decided based on the size of the pelves, presence of crossing vessel, level of ureteric insertion and the length of obstruction. All surgery was done through a transperitoneal approach using four or five ports. The follow-up comprised IVU and renal dynamic scintigraphy. Relevant data were collected and analysed for perioperative morbidity, complications and long-term functional outcomes. RESULTS In all, 86 RALPs were performed, including one bilateral, 41 right-sided and 43 left-sided cases. The mean operative time was 121 min, including an anastomosis time of 47 min. The mean estimated blood loss was 45 mL. The drain was removed within 48 h. The mean hospital stay was 2.5 days. Three patients had stents that migrated upwards, and prolonged drainage. The success rate was 97% (82/85) with a mean follow-up of 13.6 months. CONCLUSIONS RALP is highly effective for managing PUJO, with low morbidity, quick recovery and a durable success rate.