Robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgeries in functional and reconstructive urology

Abstract

The adoption of robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery in urology is becoming increasingly frequent. Initially, its use was essentially limited to oncological surgery, such as radical prostatectomy. Its success lies in the enhanced dexterity, the three-dimensional vision, and the ability to easily suture intracorporeally. All these advantages have enabled many pioneer surgeons to develop techniques in the field of functional surgery, such as artificial urinary sphincter implantation and sacrocolpopexy, and as for reconstructive surgery, ureteral reconstructions and enterocystoplasties. This article provides a brief yet rich review of the recently innovated techniques and the now minimally invasive feasibility of previously highly complex procedures in conventional laparoscopy.