Robot-assisted Supratrigonal Cystectomy and Augmentation Cystoplasty with Totally Intracorporeal Reconstruction in Neurourological Patients: Technique Description and Preliminary Results

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Augmentation cystoplasty as a third-line therapy for neurogenic detrusor overactivity performed by an open approach has long been studied. Few laparoscopic and robot-assisted series have been reported. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the feasibility, safety, and functional outcomes of completely intracorporeal robot-assisted supratrigonal cystectomy and augmentation cystoplasty (RASCAC) in patients with refractory neurogenic detrusor overactivity. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: We identified all patients undergoing RASCAC, as treatment for refractory neurogenic detrusor overactivity, from August 2016 to April 2018. SURGICAL PROCEDURE: RASCAC was performed in all cases using a standardized technique with the da Vinci Surgical System (Intuitive Surgical, Sunnyvale, CA, USA) in a four-arm configuration. MEASUREMENTS: Perioperative data, and functional and urodynamic results at 1-yr follow-up were assessed. Statistical analysis was performed using Stata version 15.1. RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS: Ten patients were identified. No conversion to open surgery was needed. The median operative time was 250 (interquartile range 210-268) min, the median estimated blood loss was 75 (50-255) ml, and the median hospitalization time was 12 (10.5-13) d. The 30-d major complication rate was 10%. Two patients presented a late urinary fistula; in one of the cases, surgical revision was needed. In both cases, low compliance to intermittent self-catheterization was identified. At 1-yr follow-up, functional and urodynamic outcomes were excellent. CONCLUSIONS: Robot-assisted augmentation cystoplasty has been shown to be safe and feasible, with a reasonable operative time and low complication rate in experienced hands. A higher number of patients and longer follow-up are, however, warranted to draw definitive conclusions. PATIENT SUMMARY: In this report, we look at the outcomes of robot-assisted supratrigonal cystectomy and augmentation cystoplasty in neurourological patients. Perioperative, functional, and urodynamic results are promising. Further studies with a longer follow-up are needed to confirm these findings.