Editorial Comment

Abstract

In this video article, Wake et al described their workflow for creating a “novel” 3-dimensional (3D) printing and augmented reality methods aimed to facilitate surgical planning during robot-assisted partial nephrectomy. 1 Wake N. Bjurlin M. Rostami P. Chandarana H. Huang W. Three dimensional printing and augmented reality: enhanced precision for robotic assisted partial nephrectomy. Urology. 2018; (accepted for publication) Crossref Google Scholar The feasibility of such technologies was demonstrated on the single case of a pelvic kidney with complex vascular anatomy affected by a renal mass. Nevertheless, authors stated that up to date they performed 15 cases using this technology, observing an influence on surgical decision-making. The authors have to be congratulated on their efforts toward the right direction of “precision surgery.” 2 Autorino R. Porpiglia F. Dasgupta P. et al. Precision surgery and genitourinary cancers. Eur J Surg Oncol. 2017; 43 (Epub 2017 Feb 20; Review): 893-908https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejso.2017.02.005 Abstract Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (44) Google Scholar Indeed, the detailed understanding of the surgical anatomy of the kidney is undoubtedly not possible by solely using standard 2D computed tomography scan with angiography, and this is particularly true in cases of complex renal anatomy. Actually, the present report adds to a growing literature regarding the development of surgical “navigation” technologies. 3 Ukimura O. Gill I.S. Imaging-assisted endoscopic surgery: Cleveland Clinic experience. J Endourol. 2008; 22: 803-810 Crossref PubMed Scopus (92) Google Scholar , 4 Shao P. Tang L. Li P. et al. Application of a vasculature model and standardization of the renal hilar approach in laparoscopic partial nephrectomy for precise segmental artery clamping. Eur Urol. 2013; 63: 1072 Abstract Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (48) Google Scholar