Editorial Comment

Abstract

The use of the da Vinci Surgical Robotic System (Intuitive Surgical, Sunnyvale, CA) has been growing exponentially. Although, initially, the robotic system was used primarily for radical prostatectomy, its application in other urologic surgeries is now commonplace. The robotic surgical platform has been used for a wide range of kidney operations, including partial nephrectomy, pyelolithotomy, and pyeloplasty. A natural extension of this technology is the use of the surgical robot in the pelvis for reconstructive and extirpative surgery, such as bladder diverticulectomy, cystectomy, ureterectomy, and ureteral reimplantation. Robotic-assisted Bladder Diverticulectomy: Tips and TricksUrologyVol. 77Issue 5PreviewThe da Vinci Surgical System has become extremely popular in the field of urology for procedures requiring complex reconstructive maneuvers, such as radical prostatectomy and pyeloplasty. A natural extension of these procedures is the use of the da Vinci system for complex urinary tract reconstruction deep in the pelvis, such as bladder diverticulectomy. Full-Text PDF ReplyUrologyVol. 77Issue 5PreviewWe agree with the editorial response that robotic-assisted bladder diverticulectomy (RABD) is, in some instances, technically easier than open bladder diverticulectomy. It is not clear, however, whether that justifies the increased costs associated with RABD compared with open bladder diverticulectomy. The “learning curve” for RABD might be nonexistent because of the lack of cases available. Clinically significant bladder diverticula that require excision are not common. For the experienced robotic prostatectomist, RABD should be a natural operation owing to the familiarity with the anatomy and positioning required. Full-Text PDF