Outcomes of robotic-assisted laparoscopic upper urinary tract reconstruction: 250 consecutive patients

Objective To evaluate the long-term outcomes of robotic-assisted laparoscopic (RAL) upper urinary tract (UUT) reconstruction performed at a tertiary referral centre. Materials and Methods Data from 250 consecutive patients undergoing RAL UUT reconstruction, including pyeloplasty with or without stone extraction, ureterolysis, uretero-ureterostomy, ureterocalicostomy, ureteropyelostomy, ureteric reimplantation and buccal mucosa graft ureteroplasty, were collected at a tertiary referral centre between March 2003 and December 2013. The primary outcomes were symptomatic and radiographic improvement of obstruction and complication rate. The mean follow-up was 17.1 months. Results Radiographic and symptomatic success rates ranged from 85% to 100% for each procedure, with a 98% radiographic success rate and 97% symptomatic success rate for the entire series. There were a total of 34 complications, none greater than Clavien grade 3. Conclusion Robotic-assisted laparoscopic UUT can be performed with few complications, with durable long-term success, and is a reasonable alternative to the open procedure in experienced robotic surgeons.