Technical Aspects and Clinical Outcomes of Robotic Ureteroscopy: Is It Ready for Primetime?

Abstract

Purpose of Review Robotic surgery in urology has already been widely employed in robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery for minimally invasive procedures (MIS). We wanted to analyse rapidly developing robotic ureteroscopy (RoboURS) for the treatment of renal stone disease. Recent Findings A comprehensive literature review was performed for technical aspects and clinical outcomes of RoboURS. RoboURS has made significant breakthroughs with each model proving that this technology improves ergonomics and supports surgeon and instrument longevity while minimising musculoskeletal issues in retrograde intra-renal surgery (RIRS). Further randomised controlled trials are required to compare the efficacy of RoboURS vs manual flexible ureteroscopy (FURS). The cost-effectiveness will also need to be assessed prior to widespread acceptance into urological infrastructure and mainstream practice. Summary RoboURS continues to evolve despite the limitations of infrastructure and cost-effectiveness. It holds the promise of a better future for surgeon longevity, reduced peri-operative morbidity and better workplace environment.

Retrograde intrarenal surgery using the ILY robotic flexible ureteroscope: a single centre experience

“…Up to date, no other studies involving humans regarding the use of ILY robot have been published [ 3 ]. In our research, stone-free rate was satisfactory and the average durations of the procedures were not significantly longer than in the standard approach.…”

“…Robotic assisted flexible ureteroscopy (fURS) and retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) have been developing rapidly in recent years. Classic robotic platforms cannot be used in any minimally-invasive endourological procedures, therefore, new robotic systems such as Sensei, Roboflex Avicenna, EasyUretero, Monarch, Virtuoso and ILY have been developed for kidney stone management [ 1 – 3 ].…”

Comparative efficacy of different surgical techniques for pediatric urolithiasis—a systematic review and meta-analysis

“…Robotic-assisted URS, on the other hand, represents the cutting edge in the evolution of urolithiasis management, incorporating the dexterity and precision of robotic systems into ureteroscopic procedures ( 41 ). Robotic systems, such as the da Vinci surgical platform, provide surgeons with high-definition, three-dimensional visualization, and instruments with enhanced range of motion and stability.…”