Robotic Simultaneous Repair of Rectovesical Fistula With Vesicourethral Anastomotic Stricture after Radical Prostatectomy: Step-by-Step Technique and Outcomes

Abstract

ObjectiveTo report our experience and outcomes using a novel robotic technique for the simultaneous repair of rectovesical fistula (RVF) with vesicourethral anastomotic stricture (VUAS) after radical prostatectomy (RP). MethodsBetween 2019 and 2021, four consecutive patients who underwent robotic-assisted simultaneous repair of RVF with concurrent VUAS after RP were retrospectively reviewed. Baseline characteristics and perioperative outcomes were examined and reported. Complications were graded using the modified Clavien-Dindo classification system and the European Association of Urology Complications Panel Assessment and Recommendations. ResultsFour cases with a median age of 68.5 (63.3-72.3) years were treated. Interposition omentum flaps were used in all our cases. One case had perineal urethral mobilization to reach healthy urethral margins and tension-free vesicourethral anastomosis. Surgeries were uneventful, with no intraoperative complications reported. Median operative time, estimated blood loss, and length of hospital stay were 370 (291.3-453) minutes, 255 (175-262.5) mL, and 2.5 (2-3) days, respectively. Median Jackson-Pratt drains, Double-J stents and Foley catheter removal days were 6 (6-10), 38 (32-43), and 30 (27-41) days, respectively. No postoperative complications were reported. The median follow-up time was 16.25 (12-26) months, and no fistula recurrence was shown. ConclusionRobotic-assisted laparoscopic repair could represent an effective approach for the simultaneous repair of RVF with concomitant VUAS. More studies and management standardization are needed to assess the role of the robotic platform in the simultaneous repair of RVF with VUAS after radical prostatectomy.