Urology at UTMB Health was an early adopter of the robotic platform with the development of the robotic assisted prostatectomy. As use of
the surgical robot became more widespread, its use was expanded to treat a number of different complex surgical problems. Robotic surgery has many of the same benefits of laparoscopic surgery including smaller incisions, less pain and quicker recovery
time. Procedures that require more delicate dissection, or complex reconstructive maneuvers can be facilitated by the robot, as it allows for exact and precise reproduction of surgeon hand and wrist movements.
Robotic Prostatectomy
Robotic Prostatectomy is a common treatment for clinically localized prostate cancer. The procedure involves complete removal of the prostate and seminal vesicles, as well as reconnecting the bladder to the urethra. The robotic platform allows for improved
3D visualization of the anatomy, and the ability to perform complex reconstruction in the confined space of the pelvis. It is usually performed using five or six tiny incisions in the lower abdomen. Potential advantages over the robotic approach,
as compared to a traditional open approach, include decreased blood loss, decreased post operative pain, quicker discharge from the hospital post procedure, and quicker overall recovery from surgery. There are studies suggesting that return of urinary
continence and erectile function may be quicker using the robotic approach. [Read more]
Robotic Pyeloplasty
Robotic Pyeloplasty is a treatment for congenital or acquired obstruction of the ureteropelvic junction. It involves removal of a diseased portion of the ureter as it exits the kidney, followed by reattachment of healthy ureter to the kidney. Traditionally
this procedure has been done using an open approach through an incision in the flank or side. Laparoscopic approaches were then developed that allowed for the procedure to be performed through small incisions. With the introduction of the robotic
platform, the procedure can be completed through small incisions, but with the added advantages of 3D vision and instruments that mimic the wrist movements of the surgeon. This can allow for more precise dissection and reconstruction of the diseased
kidney.
Robotic Partial Nephrectomy
Robotic Partial Nephrectomy is a treatment option for small, localized kidney tumors. It can usually be performed through four of five tiny incisions. It allows for removal of kidney tumors, without the need to remove the entire kidney. The procedure
involves exposure of the tumor, clamping of the renal artery and vein (to minimize bleeding), removal of the tumor, followed by suturing the defect in the kidney that is left after the tumor is removed. Fluorescence imaging is available on the robotic
camera and may be used to help localize renal vessels as well as tumors. [Read More]
Laparoscopy:
UTMB’s laparoscopic service line is proud to have three Urologists who are highly trained in the skills of laparoscopic surgery. Laparoscopic surgery offers great benefits to our patients because of decreased recovery time, decreased pain, and a
more cosmetic surgical outcome. The procedures are performed through tiny holes made on the abdomen that our instruments are passed through. Through these tiny holes we are able to achieve the same surgery as we can while making a large incision.
This avoids a large surgical scar and the associated pain and convalescence from that incision.
They offer the following laparoscopic surgeries:
- Laparoscopic Nephrectomy (removal of the kidney)
- Laparoscopic Nephroureterectomy (removal of the kidney, ureter, and a cuff of the bladder.)
Laparoscopic kidney surgery is performed for removal of the kidney due to cancer, or due to a nonfunctioning kidney. Our patients are usually able to go home from surgery within 1-2 days after the surgery.