Robotics in Pediatric Urology- History, Evolution, and Future Directions

• Published in: Current surgery reports (Philadelphia, PA) Vol. 11; no. 11; pp. 291 - 299
• Main Authors: Xing, Monica H., Hou, Sean W., Gundeti, Mohan S.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: New York Springer US 01-11-2023
• Subjects: Medicine; Medicine & Public Health; Section Editor; Surgery; Urology (Michael Phelan; Robotic surgery; Training; Pediatric urology; Pediatric robotic surgery; Da Vinci; Robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery
• ISSN: 2167-4817; 2167-4817
• DOI: 10.1007/s40137-023-00375-8

Purpose of Review
Robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery (RALS) has revolutionized pediatric urology over the last two decades. This review will detail the history and evolution of urologic pediatric robotic surgery from a global perspective and discuss the ways in which this unique surgical platform continues to grow.
Recent Findings
Numerous outcome studies have been performed to compare postoperative complications of robotic-assisted surgery to its laparoscopic and open counterparts, with promising results. Still, the cost efficacy, training, and dissemination of such new techniques remain a challenge. Further, there are unique opportunities to continue to advance the field with new technology including 3D printing and fluorescent imaging.
Summary
The integration of RALS into pediatric urology has advanced minimally invasive care across multiple surgical procedures, and continues to gain traction internationally. This technology is still in its youth as future iterations will continue to provide added benefits to patients, surgeons and medical institutions.