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Background The uptake of robotic surgery has led to changes in potential operative complications, as many surgeons learn minimally invasive surgery, and has allowed the documentation of such complications through the routine collection of intraoperative video. Objective We documented intraoperative complications from robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) with the aim of reporting the mechanisms, etiology, and necessary steps to avoid them. Our goal was to facilitate learning from these complications to improve patient care. Design, setting, and participants Contributors delivered videos of complications that occurred during laparoscopic and robotic prostatectomy between 2010 and 2015. Surgical procedure Surgical footage was available for a variety of complications during RARP. Outcome measurements and statistical analysis Based on these videos, a literature search was performed using relevant terms ( prostatectomy, robotic, complications ), and the intraoperative steps of the procedures and methods of preventing complications were outlined. Results and limitations As a major surgical procedure, RARP has much potential for intra- and postoperative complications related to patient positioning, access, and the procedure itself. However, with a dedicated approach, increasing experience, a low index of suspicion, and strict adherence to safety measures, we suggest that the majority of such complications are preventable. Conclusions Considering the complexity of the procedure, RARP is safe and reproducible for the surgical management of prostate cancer. Insight from experienced surgeons may allow surgeons to avoid complications during the learning curve. Patient summary Robot-assisted radical prostatectomy has potential for intra- and postoperative complications, but with a dedicated approach, increasing experience, a low index of suspicion, and strict adherence to safety measures, most complications are preventable.

Objective To review the outcomes of robot-assisted laparoscopic nephrectomy (RALN) after 101 consecutive cases, the largest reported series to date. The benefit of adding robotic technology to laparoscopic nephrectomy is unclear and controversial. We used robotics for nephrectomy routinely, including for simpler cases rather than laparoscopy, as well as for the most complex nephrectomies rather than open surgery. Methods We reviewed a prospective database of 101 consecutive nephrectomy procedures by a single surgeon (R.A.). All were initiated as RALN regardless of complexity. Patient characteristics and outcomes were reviewed, including tumor complexity, conversion rate, transfusions, length of stay, and complications. Results Mean age was 60 years (19-86 years), and mean body mass index was 31 kg/m 2 (16-54 kg/m 2 ). Ninety patients had tumors with mean size of 8.2 cm (2.2-25.8 cm). Eighty were malignant, including 31 pT3a tumors (39%), with 9 renal vein thrombi. Eight malignancies had caval tumor thrombi (10%). Local invasion required 1 bowel resection, 1 partial hepatectomy, and 1 distal pancreatectomy, all performed robotically with no conversions to open surgery. Ipsilateral retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy was performed in 40 patients removing 13.7 nodes (4-36). Mean operative time and blood loss were 172 minutes (57-411 minutes) and 67 mL (10-400 mL) with only 1 transfusion (1%). Mean length of stay was 1.1 days (0-7 days), with 94% discharged by postoperative day 1. Clavien grade III-IV complications occurred in 5% without deaths. Conclusion Robotic nephrectomy allows for consistent outcomes regardless of procedure complexity. Completion of procedures without need for open conversion was possible even in the most complex procedures, including those with vascular and contiguous organ invasion.

Robotic technology adds significant capability to laparoscopic surgery but has been typically reserved for more complex procedures, particularly those requiring suturing. Extirpative procedures like radical nephrectomy are felt by some to lack the complexity needed to benefit from robotic instrumentation. While some advocate using robotics in laparoscopic procedures regardless of complexity, there is a subset of radical nephrectomy procedures that have unique challenges and can benefit from the advanced instrumentation and vision that comes with robotic surgery. This chapter will review such situations where patient and tumor characteristics call for the best instrumentation possible to enable a safe and effective minimally-invasive operation.

Robotic radical nephrectomy is now an established procedure with evolving indications. While early controversy regarding whether or not robotics is appropriate for nephrectomy may have obstructed its adoption, the procedure is gaining traction particularly for complex tumors and challenging patient anatomy (Weinberg et al., Urol Pract 3:187–193, 2016). Some advocates of laparoscopic surgery for straight forward nephrectomies and open surgery for very complex nephrectomies still challenge whether robotic radical nephrectomy is a reasonable procedure to perform either selectively or routinely.

OBJECTIVE To assess the incidence and factors affecting conversion from robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) to radical nephrectomy. METHODS Between November 2014 and February 2017, 501 patients underwent attempted RAPN by 22 surgeons at 14 centers in 9 countries within the Vattikuti Collaborative Quality Initiative database. Patients were permanently logged for RAPN prior to surgery and were analyzed on an intention-to-treat basis. Multivariable logistic regression with backward stepwise selection of variables was done to assess the factors associated with conversion to radical nephrectomy. RESULTS Overall conversion rate was 25 of 501 (5%). Patients converted to radical nephrectomy were older (median age [interquartile range] 66.0 [61.0-74.0] vs 59.0 [50.0-68.0], P = .012), had higher body mass index (BMI) (median 32.8 [24.9-40.9] vs 27.8 [24.6-31.5] kg/m(2), P = .031), higher age-adjusted Charlson comorbidity score (median 6.0 [4.0-7.0] vs 4.0 [3.0-5.0], P < .001), higher American Society of Anesthesiologists score (score = 3; 13/25 (52.0%) vs 130/476 (27.3%), P = .021), Preoperative estimated glomerular filtration rate (P = .141), clinical tumor stage (P = .145), tumor location (P = .140), multifocality (P = .483), and RENAL (radius, exophytic/endophytic properties, nearness of tumor to the collecting system or sinus in millimeters, and anterior/posterior location relative to polar lines) nephrometry score (P = .125) were not significantly different between the groups. On multivariable analysis, independent predictors for conversion were BMI (odds ratio [95% confidence interval]; 1.070 [1.018-1.124]; P = .007) and Charlson score (odds ratio [95% confidence interval]; 1.459 [1.179-1.806]; P = .001). CONCLUSION RAPN was associated with a low rate of conversion. Independent predictors of conversion were BMI and Charlson score. Tumor factors such as clinical stage, location, multifocality, or RENAL score were not associated with increased risk of conversion. (C) 2017 Elsevier Inc.

This chapter aims to discuss complications associated with robotic ureteral reconstructive procedures. The chapter is outlined by first giving a general overview of common robotic ureteral reconstructive procedures performed, followed by literature review of the complications and an in-depth discussion of various complications and their management options.

To evaluate and compare the accuracy of computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in predicting the final pathologic tumor size of partial nephrectomy specimens.We analyzed a multi-institutional database of 807 patients who underwent robotic partial nephrectomy for a cT1a renal mass from 2006 to 2016. Patients who had a solitary tumor with complete data on the baseline imaging modality and the tumor size (baseline and pathologic) (n = 349) were included for analysis. Baseline tumor size evaluated by both imaging modalities, in addition to the difference between the measurements and final pathologic tumor size (cm) measurements, was compared between patients who received a baseline CT (n = 276, 79.1%) and those who received an MRI (n = 73, 20.9%).There were no statistically significant differences between any baseline characteristics and receipt of a CT versus MRI. In multivariable analysis adjusting for confounders, there was no significant difference in the baseline tumor size between patients receiving an MRI and those receiving a CT (2.3 versus 2.6 cm; β = -0.13; 95% confidence interval [CI] = -0.33 to 0.07; P = .208). Tumor size on imaging was smaller from final pathology by 0.43 cm on average (P = .002). Measurement error for the measured baseline versus actual pathologic tumor size did not significantly differ for patients receiving an MRI versus those receiving a CT (0.38 versus 0.44 cm; β = -0.06; 95% CI = -0.16 to 0.04; P = .232).Baseline renal tumor size measurements were not significantly different for CT scan and MRI. Choice of imaging modality can be based on doctor and patient preference, including cost and exposure to radiation.

Objectives To compare perioperative and functional outcomes of patients with cT1a or cT1b renal masses undergoing robotic partial nephrectomy in a large multi-institutional study. Patients and Methods The present retrospective IRB approved multi-institutional study utilized a prospectively maintained database to identify patients undergoing robotic partial nephrectomy by 6 surgeons for a solitary cT1a (n=1307) or cT1b (n=377) renal mass from 2006 to 2016. Perioperative and renal function outcomes at discharge and median follow-up of 12.2 months were compared in univariable and multivariable regression analyses adjusting for surgeon performing the procedure and date of surgery. Results In univariable analysis, cT1b masses were associated with longer operative time (190.0 vs. 159.0 minutes, p

We evaluated the predictive value of the ACS NSQIP® (American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program®) surgical risk calculator in a tertiary referral cohort of patients who underwent robot-assisted partial nephrectomy.We queried our prospectively maintained, multi-institutional database of patients treated with robot-assisted partial nephrectomy and input the preoperative details of 300 randomly selected patients into the calculator. Accuracy of the calculator was assessed by the ROC AUC and the Brier score.The observed rate of any complication in our cohort was 14% while the mean predicted rate of any complication using the calculator was 5.42%. The observed rate of serious complications (Clavien score 3 or greater) was 3.67% compared to the predicted rate of 4.89%. Low AUC and high Brier score were calculated for any complication (0.51 and 0.1272) and serious complications (0.55 and 0.0352, respectively). The calculated AUC was low for all outcomes, including venous thromboembolism (0.67), surgical site infection (0.51) and pneumonia (0.44).The ACS NSQIP risk calculator poorly predicted and discriminated which patients would experience complications after robot-assisted partial nephrectomy. These findings suggest the need for a more tailored outcome prediction model to better assist urologists risk stratify patients undergoing robot-assisted partial nephrectomy and counsel them on individual surgical risks.

Objective To determine the feasibility of applying a postoperative clinical pathway after robotic nephroureterectomy (RNU) targeting safe omission of a pelvic drain and removal of the bladder catheter on the day after surgery with hospital discharge on postoperative day 1 (POD#1). Methods We reviewed a prospectively collected database of all RNUs performed by a single surgeon (R.A.) since institution of our clinical pathway in 2008 that includes pelvic drain omission, bladder catheter removal the morning after surgery, and discharge on POD#1. Patient demographics, and perioperative and postoperative outcomes were evaluated. Ability to adhere to the pathway and achieving the described parameters and whether any resulting complications occurred were determined. Results RNU was performed in 29 patients with mean age and body mass index of 69 years (50-90 years) and 30 kg/m 2 (19-41 kg/m 2 ), respectively. No patient required a pelvic drain, and 2 were discharged with a catheter. All but 2 patients (93%) were discharged on POD#1. Overall, successful pathway application was achieved in 26 of 29 patients (90%) including no drain, catheter removal on the morning after surgery, and discharge on POD#1. No patient developed urine leak or other complications related to early catheter removal. Conclusion Our clinical pathway after RNU allows safe omission of a pelvic drain with early discontinuation of the bladder catheter and discharge on the POD#1 in most patients. To our knowledge, similar pathways have not been previously achieved with nephroureterectomy by any approach, but should be considered by surgeons treating urothelial carcinoma of the upper urinary tract.

Laparoendoscopic single-site surgery was developed to minimize the morbidity associated with laparoscopic surgery. Application of robotics in urologic surgery has been widely adopted given the advantages it provides over standard laparoscopy including 3-dimensional vision, improved ergonomics, enhanced precision and dexterity. The real benefit of robotic laparoendoscopic single-site surgery is still unbalanced by the limitations of this approach and the sole applicability by highly skilled surgeons. The ideal robotic platform for single-port surgery should have the possibility of being deployed through a single access site restoring intracorporeal triangulation for precise instrument maneuvers. This manuscript reviews the potential applications of R-1 new surgical robot, highlighting its added value in allowing new surgical approaches.

Positive surgical margins (PSMs) may reflect incomplete surgical resection, while extraprostatic extension (EPE) could suggest that complete tumor resection is more difficult. This study evaluated cases with both EPE and PSMs in robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) specimens to determine the respective locations of each. A single institutional retrospective review of RARP performed between 2007 and 2009 was conducted to identify cases with both EPE and PSM. Prostates were entirely submitted and processed in whole mount format. All locations of EPE and PSM were recorded as was the size of the largest focus of EPE and PSM. About 8.5 % (112/1,315) of RARP had both EPE and PSM. Analysis of cases with concurrent EPE and PSM revealed that EPE occurred most commonly in the mid-gland, particularly in the posterolateral mid-prostate. In contrast, PSM was most frequent at the base (bladder neck), specifically the anterior base. 51.8 % of the cases had EPE and PSM in discordant locations, 19.6 % had EPE and PSM in the same location, and 28.6 % had areas of EPE and PSM both in the same location as well as in different locations. Cases with both concordant and discordant locations of EPE and PSM had significantly more high-risk features including higher tumor volume, more frequent positive nodes, and more frequent Gleason score ≥ 8 compared to concordant or discordant subgroups. PSMs frequently did not occur in the same location as EPE. A better understanding of where EPE and PSMs occur may help guide surgical technique to decrease residual tumor.

Robotic surgical technology has been adopted by surgeons with and without previous standard laparoscopic experience. The necessity or benefit of prior training and experience in laparoscopic surgery is unknown. We hypothesized that laparoscopic training enhances performance in robotic surgery.Fourteen medical students with no surgical experience were instructed to incise a spiral using the da Vinci(®) surgical robot with time to completion and errors recorded. Each student was then trained for 1 month in standard laparoscopy, but with no further robotic exposure. Training included a validated laparoscopic training program, including timed and scored parameters. After completion of the month-long training, the students repeated the cutting exercise using the da Vinci robot as well as with standard laparoscopic instruments and were scored within the same parameters.The mean time to completely incise the spiral robotically before training was 16.72 min with a mean of 6.21 errors. After 1 month of validated laparoscopic training, the mean robotic time fell to 9:03 min (p=0.0002) with 3.57 errors (p=0.02). Laparoscopic performance after 1 month of validated laparoscopic training was 13.95 min with 6.14 errors, which was no better than pretraining robotic performance (p=0.20) and worse than post-training robotic performance (p=0.01).Formal laparoscopic training improved the performance of a complex robotic task. The initial robotic performance without any robotic or laparoscopic training was equivalent to standard laparoscopic performance after extensive training. Additionally, after laparoscopic training, the robot allowed significantly superior speed and precision of the task. Laparoscopic training may improve the proficiency in operation of the robot. This may explain the perceived ease with which robotics is adopted by laparoscopically trained surgeons and may be important in training future robotic surgeons.

Acute urinary retention after catheter removal is a recognized complication following open or robot-assisted radical prostatectomy. We evaluated patient and surgery related risk factors to determine whether acute urinary retention could be prevented. To our knowledge this has not previously been investigated for prostatectomy done by any technique.We reviewed a single surgeon, robot-assisted radical prostatectomy database of patients treated between February 2008 and June 2011 for acute urinary retention after catheter removal, which was routinely performed 3 to 7 days postoperatively. We compared the characteristics of patients with and without acute urinary retention.Of 1,026 patients 25 (2.4%) experienced acute urinary retention. There was no difference between patients with and without acute urinary retention in mean age, body mass index, blood loss or prostate size, and no difference in the frequency of bladder neck reconstruction or nerve sparing. The catheter was removed an average of 4.1 vs 5.7 days postoperatively in patients with vs without acute urinary retention. Of 25 patients with acute urinary retention 22 (88%) underwent catheter removal on postoperative day 3 or 4. Although only 3 of 381 patients (0.8%) had a leak on cystogram on postoperative day 3 or 4, the acute urinary retention rate when the catheter was removed on day 3 or 4 was 5.8% (22 of 381). This was several times higher than the rate in patients who retained the catheter for greater than 4 days (3 of 645 or 0.5%).Acute urinary retention develops infrequently after robotic prostatectomy. No patient related risk factors were identified beyond catheterization time. Although the catheter may be removed after 3 or 4 days with rare leaks, the acute urinary retention risk was much less when the catheter was left in place at least 5 days.

cope : Plant polyphenols are widespread in the American diet, yet estimated intake is uncertain. We examine the application of the Polyphenol Explorer® (PED) to quantify polyphenol and ellagitannin (ET) intake of men with prostate cancer and tested the implementation of diets restricted in polyphenols or ETs. Methods and results : Twenty-four men enrolled in a 4-week trial were randomized to usual, low-polyphenol or low-ET diet. Estimated polyphenol and ET intakes were calculated from 3-day diet records utilizing the PED. Urine and plasma metabolites were quantified by UPLC-MS. Adherence to the restricted diets was 95% for the low-polyphenol and 98% for low-ET diet. In the usual diet, estimated dietary polyphenol intake was 1568 ± 939 mg/day, with coffee/tea beverages (1112 ± 1028 mg/day) being the largest contributors and estimated dietary ET intake was 12 ± 13 mg/day. The low-polyphenol and low-ET groups resulted in a reduction of total polyphenols by 45% and 85%, respectively and omission of dietary ETs. UPLC analysis of urinary host and microbial metabolites reflect ET intake. Conclusion : PED is a useful database for assessing exposure to polyphenols. Diets restricted in total polyphenol or ET intake are feasible and UPLC assessment of ET metabolites is reflective of dietary intake. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved

This chapter describes a standardized transperitoneal technique for robotic radical nephrectomy for left- and right-sided pathology. Robotic technology may enable a minimally invasive approach in avoidance of open surgery by surgeons who would otherwise be uncomfortable with standard laparoscopic nephrectomy. Particularly for larger and more challenging tumors such as those with inferior vena caval tumor thrombi as illustrated in this chapter, the advantages of robotic instrumentation and three-dimensional vision can facilitate such complex operations.

Introduction: Hilar clamping is often performed to facilitate robotic partial nephrectomy (RPN). Minimal clamping techniques may reduce renal ischemia, including early unclamping, selective clamping, and off-clamp RPN. We assess the utilization of clamping techniques in a large international consortium of surgeons performing RPN for complex tumors. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated 721 patients with complex tumors, who underwent RPN at 11 centers worldwide between 2008 and 2014. Complex tumors were defined as renal masses with a nephrometry score > 6. Total clamping was defined as complete clamping of the main renal artery. Minimal clamping techniques included early unclamping, selective clamping, and off-clamp RPN. Clamping techniques were additionally assessed in patients with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 60 and in patients with a solitary kidney. Two-tailed t-tests (p < 0.05) were used to statistically analyze differences in mean warm ischemia time (WIT). Results: Most patients underwent complete clamping (75.1%). Minimal clamping (24.9%) included early unclamping (10.8%), selective clamping (8.7%), and off-clamp (5.4%). Mean WIT of total clamping, selective clamping, and early unclamping was 22.2, 21.2, and 17.3 minutes, respectively. Of patients with an eGFR < 60 (n = 90), 26.6% underwent minimal clamping, including 15.5% early unclamping, 4.4% selective clamping, and 6.7% off-clamp. Of patients with solitary kidneys (n = 12), 10 (83%) were performed with total clamping with mean WIT of 14.9 minutes. Conclusions: In this large international series of RPN for complex tumors, most patients underwent total clamping of the main renal artery. Minimal clamping techniques, including early unclamping, selective clamping, and off-clamp techniques, were used in a minority of cases. There was no significant increase in use of minimal clamping, even in patients with chronic kidney disease or solitary kidneys. However, mean WIT was low (< 23 minutes) in all patient groups.

Objectives To develop a scoring tool, Pelvic Lymphadenectomy Appropriateness and Completion Evaluation (PLACE), to assess the intraoperative completeness and appropriateness of pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND) following robot-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC). Patients, Subjects and Methods A panel of 11 open and robotic surgeons developed the content and structure of PLACE. The PLND template was divided into three zones. In all, 21 de-identified videos of bilateral robot-assisted PLNDs were assessed by the 11 experts using PLACE to determine inter-rater reliability. Lymph node (LN) clearance was defined as the proportion of cleared LNs from all PLACE zones. We investigated the correlation between LN clearance and LN count. Then, we compared the LN count of 18 prospective PLNDs using PLACE with our retrospective series performed using the extended template (No PLACE). Results A significant reliability was achieved for all PLACE zones among the 11 raters for the 21 bilateral PLND videos. The median (interquartile range) for LN clearance was 468 (431–545). There was a significant positive correlation between LN clearance and LN count (R2 = 0.70, P < 0.01). The PLACE group yielded similar LN counts when compared to the No PLACE group. Conclusions Pelvic Lymphadenectomy Appropriateness and Completion Evaluation is a structured intraoperative scoring system that can be used intraoperatively to measure and quantify PLND for quality control and to facilitate training during RARC.

Introduction For the treatment of patients with end-stage renal disease, kidney transplantation is preferred to renal replacement modalities such as hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. Although open surgery remains the gold standard, minimally invasive approaches have recently been applied in transplant kidney surgery. Despite growing enthusiasm and potential benefits of robotic kidney transplant, many aspects of this novel technique remain controversial. Aim of this study was to analyze the current status and future developments in robotic-assisted surgery for kidney transplantation. Evidence acquisition A systematic PubMed search for peer-reviewed studies was performed using keywords such as "Minimally invasive surgery" or "Robotic" or "Robot assisted" AND "Kidney transplantation". Eligible articles were reviewed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) criteria. Evidence synthesis Eleven studies evaluated reported the feasibility, safety, and reproducibility of robotic kidney transplantation using either a transperitoneal or an extraperitoneal approach. The graft kidney is usually introduced via a periumbilical or Gibson incision. The functional outcomes of the robotic approach are equivalent to those of open kidney transplantation in terms of mean serum creatinine at 6 month and delayed graft function. The benefits of robotic kidney transplantation include easier vascular anastomosis, better cosmetic results, and a lower complication rate, including in the obese population. Many concerns remain over the potential impairment of graft function due to pneumoperitoneum and warm ischemia and the technical difficulties related to the vascular anastomosis. Refinement of the robotic tactile feedback and development of a cold ischemia device may lead to further improvement in this novel technique. Conclusions Robotic surgery allows kidney transplantation to be performed under optimal operative conditions, reducing complications while maintaining the functional results achieved by the open approach. The evolution of this technique is in progress.

Objectives To evaluate trends in peri-operative outcomes of 250 consecutive cases beyond the initial learning curve (LC) of robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) among multiple surgeons. Patients and Methods A multi-institutional database was used to evaluate trends in patient demographics (e.g. age, gender, comorbidities), tumour characteristics (e.g. size, complexity) and peri-operative outcomes (e.g. warm ischaemia time [WIT], operating time, complications, estimated blood loss [EBL], trifecta achievement) in consecutive cases 50–300 (n = 960) from 2008 to 2016 among four experienced surgeons. Trends in outcomes were assessed using multivariable regression models adjusted for demographic and tumour-specific variables. Outcomes for cases 50–99 were compared with those for cases 250–300. Results In the study period RAPN was increasingly performed in patients with larger tumours (β = 0.001, P = 0.048), hypertension (odds ratio [OR] 1.003; P = 0.008) diabetes (OR 1.003; P = 0.025) and previous abdominal surgery (OR 1.003; P = 0.006). Surgeon experience was associated with more trifecta achievement (OR 1.006; P < 0.001), shorter WIT (β = −0.036, P < 0.001), less EBL (β = −0.154, P = 0.009), fewer blood transfusions (OR 0.989, P = 0.024) and a reduced length of hospital stay (β = −0.002, P = 0.002), but not with operating time (P = 0.243), complications (P = 0.587) or surgical margin status (P = 0.102). Tumour size and WIT in cases 50–99 vs 250–300 were 2.7 vs 3.2 cm (P = 0.001) and 21.4 vs 16.2 min (P < 0.001), respectively. Conclusion Refinement of RAPN outcomes, concomitant with the treatment of a patient population with larger tumours and more comorbidities, occurs after the initial LC is reached. Although RAPN can consistently be performed safely with acceptable outcomes after a small number of cases, improvement in trifecta achievement, WIT, EBL, blood transfusions and a shorter hospitalization continues to occur up to 300 procedures.

Context Robotic surgery has significantly advanced the minimally-invasive management of kidney tumors with extension into the inferior vena cava requiring caval cross-clamping and tumor thrombectomy. Additional techniques have recently been developed to continue the evolution of this complex procedure and extend its indications. Objective To review the current state of the art as regards robotic nephrectomy with inferior vena cava thrombectomy (RNIT). Evidence acquisition A systematic review of the Medline database was performed. All literature available through October 2016 was included. Evidence synthesis RNIT has been successfully adopted at select centers, but the number of patients reported to date remains limited. Modifications in clamping and tumor thrombus management have been described allowing for multiple options in surgical technique. Early perioperative outcomes appear favorable in comparison with traditional, open surgery, but further experience is needed. Conclusions Feasibility and reproducibility of RNIT has been demonstrated, but longer-term outcomes and larger patient numbers are necessary before the role of this procedure is established. Patient summary Kidney cancers invading the largest vein in the body, the vena cava, require complex surgery for removal. Traditionally this has required a large incision, but newer techniques with robotic surgery that continue to evolve have allowed for a minimally-invasive approach.

To assess the association between the R.E.N.A.L. Nephrometry score, the amount of non-neoplastic parenchymal volume (NNPV) removed, and the renal function decline in patients undergoing robotic partial nephrectomy (RPN).The Multi-institutional Mount Sinai Kidney Cancer Database was used to identify 1235 patients who underwent RPN between January 2008 and February 2016, of whom 366 had complete data, including NNPV removed. Mann-Whitney U tests and univariable linear regression models were used to assess the relationships between R.E.N.A.L. Nephrometry score, warm ischemia time (WIT), and NNPV removed. Univariable and multivariable regression models were then used to assess the independent relationships of each of these variables with percent change in estimated glomerular filtration rates (eGFR) and acute kidney injury (AKI) within the first 30 postoperative days in addition to percent change in eGFR and progression to chronic kidney disease at a median follow-up of 6.9 months.Increasing R.E.N.A.L. Nephrometry score was shown to be a predictor of WIT (β = 0.92, p 0.001) and of NNPV removed (β = 6.21, p 0.001) in univariable analyses. In multivariable analysis, postoperative reduction in eGFR within the first 30 days of surgery was associated with both R.E.N.A.L. Nephrometry score (β = -2.02, p 0.001) and NNPV removed (β = -5.19, p = 0.015). R.E.N.A.L. Nephrometry score (OR = 1.21, p = 0.013) and NNPV removed (OR = 1.90, p = 0.013) were also associated with an increased likelihood of AKI within the first 30 days. No significant association in this cohort was found between R.E.N.A.L. Nephrometry score, NNPV removed, or WIT and renal function decline at 6.9 months.The preoperative R.E.N.A.L. Nephrometry score can be used to predict postoperative pathologically determined healthy renal volume loss or NNPV removed. Removal of not just the tumor but also the healthy surrounding parenchyma is important in determining renal function decline. As our understanding of the importance of renal volume loss grows, NNPV removed gains increasing utility as an easily determinable postoperative variable.

Objectives To assess the benefit of selective arterial clamping (SAC) as an alternative to main renal artery clamping (MAC) during robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) in patients without underlying chronic kidney disease (CKD). Patients and Methods Our study cohort comprised 665 patients without impaired renal function undergoing MAC (n = 589) or SAC (n = 76) during RAPN from four medical institutions in the period 2008–2015. We compared complication rates, positive surgical margin (PSM) rates, and peri-operative and intermediate-term renal functional outcome between 132 patients undergoing MAC and 66 undergoing SAC after 2-to-1 nearest-neighbour propensity-score matching for age, sex, body mass index, RENAL nephrometry score, tumour size, baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score, Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) and warm ischaemia time (WIT). Results In propensity-score-matched patients, PSM (5.7 vs 3.0%; P = 0.407) and complication rates (13.8 vs 10.6%; P = 0.727) did not differ between the MAC and SAC groups. The incidence of acute kidney injury for MAC vs SAC (25.0 vs 32.0%; P = 0.315) within the first 30 days was similar. At a median follow-up of 7.5 months, the percentage reduction in eGFR (−9.3 vs −10.4%; P = 0.518) and progression to CKD ≥ stage 3 (7.2 vs 8.5%; P = 0.792) showed no difference. Conclusions Our study findings show no difference in PSM rates, complication rates or intermediate-term renal functional outcomes between patients with unimpaired renal function who underwent SAC vs those who underwent MAC. When expected WIT is low, the routine use of SAC may not be necessary. Further studies will need to determine the role of SAC in patients with a solitary kidney or with significantly impaired renal function.

Objective To compare renal function outcome between a contemporary cohort of propensity score-matched patients undergoing main renal artery clamping (MAC) alone and those undergoing main renal artery clamping with renal vein clamping (MVAC) during robotic partial nephrectomy. Materials and Methods Patients with a solitary T1 renal mass undergoing robotic partial nephrectomy were propensity score-matched on American Society of Anesthesiologists score, RENAL Nephrometry score, tumor size, tumor laterality, and operating surgeon to provide 66 patients undergoing MAC and 66 patients undergoing MVAC for analysis. Demographic and tumor-specific characteristics in addition to perioperative and renal function outcomes at discharge and 9 months were compared. Results No differences in any baseline characteristics including age ( P = .847), baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ( P = .358), RENAL Nephrometry score ( P = .617), and tumor size ( P = .551) were identified. Warm ischemia time was longer in patients undergoing MVAC than in patients undergoing MAC (21.0 minutes vs 15.0, P P = .413), length of hospitalization ( P = .112), and postoperative complications (overall [ P = .251], by Clavien-Dindo classification [ P = .119]). No differences in the percent change in eGFR ( P = .866) or acute kidney injury ( P = .493) at discharge and no differences in the percent change in eGFR ( P = .401) or progression to chronic kidney disease ( P = .594) at 9 months were identified. Conclusion Compared with MAC, clamping of the renal vein in addition to the main renal artery does not appear to adversely affect postoperative renal function. Future studies comparing MAC with MVAC partial nephrectomy in patients with baseline chronic kidney disease, a solitary kidney and complex tumors with prolonged warm ischemia time are necessary.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Partial nephrectomy (PN) is offered to patients with small renal masses to preserve renal function and does not compromise cancer specific outcomes. Hypertension (HTN) and diabetes (DM) are the leading medical causes of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and many patients undergoing PN have these conditions. The present study therefore sought to assess the influence of DM or HTN on renal function outcomes following robotassisted PN (RPN). METHODS: Using an IRB approved multi-institution kidney cancer database, subjects who underwent RPN for a clinical stage T1 renal mass with normal baseline kidney function (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] >60 mL/min/1.73m) and follow-up of > 2 weeks were included in the analysis. Patients were categorized based on the presence of either HTN or DM (Group 1) or neither (Group 2). Postoperative eGFR was categorized into 3-month intervals with maximum follow-up limited to 18 months. Renal function outcomes were compared using a mixed effects ANOVA model adjusting for age, body mass index (BMI) and RENAL nephrometry score. A Wilcoxon rank sum test was used to compare distribution of continuous variables and Chi-square test to compare the CKD upstaging between groups. RESULTS: We identified 324 patients with a baseline eGFR>60 mL/min/1.73m (198 with either DM or HTN, 126 with neither). There was no difference in baseline eGFR and median follow up between groups. Following RPN, there was no difference in eGFR, CKD upstaging or renal function recovery over time (figure 1). The rate of progression to CKD stage 3 did not differ between groups 1 and 2 (19% vs. 18%, p1⁄40.84). In a similar analysis of 159 patients with an eGFR >90 mL/min/ 1.73m (92 with either DM or HTN, 67 with neither) no difference in baseline eGFR, length of follow up, eGFR following RPN, CKD upstaging or renal function recovery was found (figure 1). The rate of progression to CKD stage 2 or higher did not differ between groups (48% vs. 55%, p1⁄40.34). CONCLUSIONS: In patients with a normal baseline renal function (eGFR > 60 mL/min/1.73m), the presence of DM or HTN are not independent predictors of worse renal function outcomes following RPN.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: As with any oncologic surgery, the surrogate for determining a complete tumor resection during a partial nephrectomy (PN) is a negative surgical margin (NSM). Although a PN prevents the loss of function in the renal functional mass, it carries the risk of incomplete tumor excision. With the introduction of the robotic surgical approach, which provided three-dimensional, highdefinition magnified vision, robotic partial nephrectomy (RPN) is increasingly being performed PN for the management of small renal masses.10,11 With the advantage of articulated robotic instruments and wider vision, it is possible to excise closer to the tumor and preserve more renal parenchymal tissue during RPN compared with an open partial nephrectomy (OPN). Thus, we compared the pathologic outcomes, including width of peritumoral surgical margin and margin positivity, after OPN and RPN in T1a RCC using propensity score matching analysis. METHODS: This was a propensity score-matched study including 702 patients with cT1a RCC treated with PN between May 2003 and July 2015. Perioperative parameters, including surgical margin width after PN, were compared between two surgical methods. After determining propensity score for tumor size and location, the width of peritumoral surgical margin was investigated. Multivariate logistic analysis to predict peritumoral surgical margin less than 1mm was analyzed. RESULTS: The mean width of peritumoral surgical margin was 2.61 2.15 mm in OPN group (n1⁄4385), significantly wider than the 2.29 2.00 mm of RPN group (n1⁄4317) (p1⁄40.042). The multivariate analysis showed surgical methods was significant factors to narrow surgical margin less than 1mm (p1⁄40.031). After propensity score matching, the surgical margin width was significantly longer in OPN (2.67 2.14 mm) group than RPN (2.25 2.03 mm) group (p1⁄40.016). A positive resection margin occurred in 7 (1.8%) patients in the OPN group and 4 (1.3%) in the RPN group. During the median follow-up of 48.3 months, two patients who underwent OPN had tumor bed recurrence. CONCLUSIONS: RPN may result in a narrower peritumoral surgical margin than OPN. Further investigation on the potential impact of such a phenomenon should be performed in a larger-scale study.

Ureteroileal anastomosis strictures are well-known complications of ileal conduit urinary diversion that occur in 4% to 8% of patients. Open surgical repair is the standard definitive treatment with minimally invasive, endoscopic approaches developed to prevent the need for major surgery when possible. Robot-assisted surgery has been applied to most primary urologic procedures, but the role of this surgery in the management of complications is undefined. We report our experience with two cases of robotic repair of ureteroileal anastomotic strictures after robot-assisted cystectomy, the first such cases to our knowledge, and review the literature regarding management of these strictures.Two patients underwent robot-assisted ureteroileal anastomosis revision for left-sided strictures of 1 and 6 cm in length after failed endoscopic management. Three ports were used in the first and four in the second procedure. The diseased segment was identified, and the healthy end of the ureter anastomosed to a new site on the conduit with a temporary stent. In the second case, the conduit was mobilized and brought to the end of the ureter for a tension-free anastomosis because of the length of the stricture.Both patients were discharged on the first postoperative day without complications and are without recurrence after nearly 2 and 3 years since the robotic procedure.Minimally invasive definitive revision of ureteroileal anastomotic strictures is feasible with a robotic surgical approach. The advantages of robotic instrumentation allowed successful repair in two patients after previous robot-assisted cystectomy and avoided major open surgery.

Extended lymph node dissection for bladder cancer provides better staging, cancerous node removal and potentially survival. Minimally invasive techniques have been criticized about the ability to adequately perform extended lymph node dissection. We compared the extended lymph node dissection quality of robotic and open cystectomy by assessing node yield and positivity.We compared extended lymph node dissection in 120 open and 35 robotic cystectomy cases. Extended lymph node dissection included skeletonization of structures in each nodal group below the aortic bifurcation (common iliac, external iliac, obturator, hypogastric and presacral nodes). Nodes were processed identically but submitted as 1 or 2 packets for robotic cases and as 10 or more packets for open surgery cases.The mean±SD node count in the open group was 36.9±14.8 (range 11 to 87) and in the robotic group the mean yield was 37.5±13.2 (range 18 to 64). Only 12 of 120 open (10%) and 2 of 35 robotic (6%) cases had fewer than 20 nodes. A total of 36 open (30%) and 12 robotic (34%) cases were node positive. Open extended lymph node dissection identified 80% and 90% confidence of accurate staging as pN0 when obtaining 23 and 27 nodes, respectively. A node count of 23 or 27 was achieved in 87% and 77% of open cases, and in 91% and 83% of robotic cases, respectively. Of patients with open surgery 36% received neoadjuvant chemotherapy compared to 31% of those with robotic surgery.No difference was identified in the lymph node yield or the positive node rate when comparing open and robotic extended lymph node dissection. Local recurrence and survival data are needed to confirm whether the 2 techniques are oncologically equivalent.

Li-Fraumeni Syndrome (LFS) is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder associated with mutations in the TP53 gene and characterized by a propensity to develop a variety of malignancies resulting in a shortened lifespan. We report a case of prostate cancer in a 50 year old male with LFS. Experimental studies suggest that TP53 mutations in prostate cancer are associated with therapeutic resistance to radiation, chemotherapy, and anti-androgens, implying that LFS men may experience more aggressive cancer biology with implications for therapeutic decisions. The potential of prostate cancer to develop earlier in LFS favors institution of screening at earlier ages.

Typical lengths of stay after open cystectomy are 5 to 7 days, without dramatic differences reported for laparoscopic or robot-assisted cystectomy. We developed a clinical pathway for early discharge after robot-assisted cystectomy, attempting to take advantage of potentially decreased morbidity with this minimally invasive procedure and analyzed our initial outcomes.The initial 30 consecutive patients undergoing robot-assisted cystectomy who were treated on a clinical pathway developed at our institution were reviewed. This included an extraction incision of ≤3 inches also used for urinary diversion, no intensive care unit stay, no nasogastric tube, and avoidance of intravenous narcotics. Ambulation is begun on postoperative day (POD) zero, with clear liquids uniformly on POD 1, then regular diet on passing flatus. Patients are discharged when tolerating diet, with a target of POD 3.Mean age was 67 years (45-87 y), and mean operative time was 411 minutes. All ambulated by POD 1. Only 4 of 30 needed any intravenous narcotics. Twenty-one patients were discharged on POD 3 and 8 on POD 4 for an overall mean of 3.3 days, including 2 who were discharged on POD 2 and 1 on POD 7. One was seen in the emergency department on POD 6 for emesis, and one was readmitted on POD 7 for candidal infection. No others returned to the clinic or hospital within a week after discharge (POD 10).Our clinical pathway after robot-assisted cystectomy allows shorter hospital stays than typical and is, to our knowledge, the shortest reported after cystectomy by any technique. Only two unplanned visits occurred during the first 10 days. Further experience will be necessary to confirm the initial success.

The motivation to preserve sexual function can vary widely among patients before prostatectomy. Increasing patient involvement may allow a more personalized experience and may improve satisfaction. We assessed a strategy of surgeon deference to patient choice in regard to nerve sparing to determine to what degree patients are rational actors and capable of active decision making.A total of 150 patients treated with prostatectomy participated in a standardized preoperative discussion regarding the concept of nerve sparing, extracapsular extension and the potential need for adjuvant radiation in the event of local recurrence. Each patient was given his nomogram predicted risk of extracapsular extension and then elected nerve sparing or nonnerve sparing. The corresponding procedure was performed unless grossly invasive disease was encountered.Of the 150 patients 109 chose nerve sparing (73%) and 41 chose nonnerve sparing (27%). In patients with a nomogram predicted risk of extracapsular extension less than 20%, 20% to 50% and greater than 50%, nerve sparing was elected by 88%, 41% and 25%, respectively. Patients with lower risks of extracapsular extension electing nonnerve sparing were older and had higher rates of erectile dysfunction.Empowering patients to decide on their nerve sparing status is a reasonable strategy that did not lead to a high rate of patients with a high risk of extracapsular extension electing nerve sparing. With proper counseling informed patients made reasonable decisions, and appeared to be conservative, prioritizing cancer control in the majority of instances where extracapsular extension risk was high. In addition, they may have been overly conservative in electing nonnerve sparing when the risk was low.

Laparoscopy has become a standard modality for most renal tumors but not as yet for renal cell carcinoma (RCC) involving the inferior vena cava (IVC). Robotic technology may facilitate such complex procedures. We report the first series of robotic nephrectomy with IVC tumor thrombectomy including the first cases requiring cross-clamping of the IVC in a minimally invasive fashion. Five patients underwent robotic nephrectomy with IVC tumor thrombectomy including one patient having two renal veins, each with an IVC thrombus, for a total of six IVC thrombi. The IVC was opened in all patients, and tumor thrombi were delivered intact, followed by sutured closure. The mean patient age was 64 yr (53-70 yr) with a mean body mass index of 36.6 kg/m(2) (22-43 kg/m(2)). Thrombi protruded 1 cm, 2 cm, 4 cm, and 5 cm into the IVC in five patients and 3 cm and 2 cm in the patient with two thrombi. The mean estimated blood loss was 170 ml (50-400 ml). Mean operative time was 327 min (240-411 min). Mean length of stay was 1.2 d. There were no complications, transfusions, or readmissions. This early series represents a limited experience by a single surgeon with a new procedure and may not be reproducible in larger numbers or by all surgeons. Further experience is necessary to validate this application.

Study Type – Therapy (case series) Level of Evidence 4 OBJECTIVE • To review and compare intraoperative outcomes for robotic prostatectomy procedures performed on two generations of the da Vinci robotic surgery platform. MATERIAL AND METHODS • We reviewed 100 consecutive robotic prostatectomy cases and compared intraoperative outcomes for procedures randomly performed on either the da Vinci S robot or first-generation standard robot. • Baseline demographic data and intra-operative variables potentially impacting outcomes were reviewed and compared between the two groups. RESULTS • Mean total operative time was 191 min using the standard da Vinci robot (range 132–266) versus 169 min with S robot (range 98–230), representing a mean difference of 22 min (P = 0.002). • This difference was statistically significant despite no difference in mean patient BMI of 30.6 (range 19–51) for standard versus 29.3 (range 21–37) for S (P = 0.31), no difference in mean prostate size of 54.6 g (range 26–101) for standard versus 57.3 g (range 32–151) for S (P = 0.55), and no difference in frequency of nerve-sparing (P = 0.99). • There was also no difference in the portions of procedues performed by residents, which in some cases was none and some the entire procedure, but the standard was more often used for the surgeon’s first case of the day (P = 0.006). • There was no difference in blood loss (P = 0.08), positive margins (P = 0.87), or mean number of lymph nodes removed (10.7 vs 10.6). CONCLUSIONS • Both generations of da Vinci robotic technology are equally effective for PALP, but the S robot appears to allow shorter procedure times. • Further such evaluations are necessary to guide institutions and public policy decision-makers on investments in newer generations of robotic technology as incremental advances continue.