Robotic-assisted left renal vein transposition with distal gonadal vein anastomosis: A novel technique for dual venous drainage in nutcracker syndrome

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the feasibility and outcomes of a novel robotic-assisted laparoscopic technique-Di's II robotic-assisted left renal vein (LRV) transposition with distal gonadal vein (GV) anastomosis-creating dual venous drainage for treating nutcracker syndrome (NCS). METHODS: Between December 2023 and October 2024, three male patients (median age, 14 years) with NCS underwent robotic-assisted LRV transposition using the Di's II technique. Key procedural innovations included selective occlusion of the infrarenal inferior vena cava (IVC) and LRV without right renal vein clamping, combined with distal GV anastomosis to enhance venous drainage. Operative parameters, including anastomosis time, blood loss, and postoperative outcomes, were analyzed retrospectively. RESULTS: All procedures were successfully completed robotically. Median total operative time was 145 minutes (range, 135-160 minutes), with LRV and GV anastomosis times of 25 minutes (range, 24-27 minutes). The median estimated blood loss was 40 mL (range, 30-50 mL). Postoperative imaging confirmed resolution of LRV compression, with pressure gradients reduced to ≤2.8 mm Hg. Symptoms (hematuria, proteinuria, and varicocele) resolved within 6 months, and no perioperative complications occurred during follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: The Di's II technique represents a safe and effective minimally invasive approach for NCS, combining robotic precision with dual venous drainage to alleviate LRV hypertension and pelvic congestion. Preliminary outcomes demonstrate technical feasibility, a lower ischemia risk, and symptom resolution, supporting further validation in larger cohorts.