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Delgado-Miguel C, Camps JI. Robotic-assisted versus laparoscopic splenectomy in children: a costeffectiveness study. J Robot Surg 2024; 18:51. [PMID: 38280120 DOI: 10.1007/s11701-023-01783-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
Laparoscopic elective splenectomy is considered as a safe surgical treatment of spleen non-traumatic blood disorders. However, robotic assisted splenectomy is becoming a promising alternative, although there are scarce studies in pediatric patients. Our aim is to compare the effectiveness and associated costs of both procedures in children. A single-institution retrospective study was performed among consecutive children undergoing splenectomy between 2004 and 2021, who were divided according to the surgical approach: LAS group (laparoscopic splenectomy) and RAS group (robotic assisted splenectomy). Demographics, clinical features, intraoperative blood loss, surgery time, length of hospital stay (LOS), postoperative complications, need for postoperative blood transfusion, readmission rate and economic data were compared. A total of 84 patients were included (23 LAS group; 61 RAS group), without demographic or clinical differences between them. RAS patients presented lower intraoperative blood loss (42 ± 15 vs. 158 ± 39 ml; p < 0.021) and shorter surgery time (135 ± 39 vs. 182 ± 68 min; p = 0.043), with no differences in median LOS (3 days in both groups). No intraoperative complications or conversion was reported. Five postoperative complications were observed: 4 in LAS patients (17.4%) versus only one in RAS (1.6%; p = 0.021). One reintervention was required in LAS group due to hemoperitoneum 12 h after splenectomy. RAS patients had lower postoperative blood transfusion requirements (1.6% vs. 13.0%; p = 0.025) and lower readmission rate (3.3 vs. 17.4%; p = 0.042). No differences were observed when comparing the median economic costs ($25,645 LAS vs. $28,135 RAS; p = 0.215). Robotic assisted splenectomy may be considered as a safe and feasible option in children compared to the traditional laparoscopic approach. Level of evidence: III.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Delgado-Miguel
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Prisma Health Children's Hospital, 9 Richland Medical Park Dr, Columbia, SC, 29203, USA.
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, La Paz Children's University Hospital, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Juan I Camps
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Prisma Health Children's Hospital, 9 Richland Medical Park Dr, Columbia, SC, 29203, USA
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Crute W, Wofford A, Powers J, Smith DP. Comprehensive review of a large cohort of outpatient versus inpatient open renal and bladder surgery in children. J Pediatr Urol 2023:S1477-5131(23)00195-X. [PMID: 37210299 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpurol.2023.04.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Outpatient surgery and pediatric ambulatory surgery centers continue to have increasing popularity among pediatric urologist for minor surgeries. Past studies have shown that open renal and bladder surgeries (i.e. nephrectomy, pyeloplasty and ureteral reimplantation) can also be done in an outpatient setting. With health care costs continuing to rise, it may be reasonable to explore performing these surgeries as an outpatient and consider performing them in a pediatric ambulatory surgery center. OBJECTIVE Our study assesses the safety and utility of outpatient open renal and bladder surgeries in children compared to those done as inpatients. STUDY DESIGN IRB-approved chart review was performed on patients undergoing nephrectomy, ureteral reimplantation, complex ureteral reimplantation, and pyeloplasty by a single pediatric urologist between January 2003-March 2020. Procedures were performed at a freestanding pediatric surgery center (PSC) and a children's hospital (CH). Demographics, type of procedures, American Society of Anesthesiologists score, operative times, time to discharge, ancillary procedures, readmission or ER visits within 72 h were reviewed. Home zip codes were used to determine the distance from pediatric surgery center and children's hospital. RESULTS 980 procedures were evaluated. Of these, 94% procedures were performed as an outpatient and 6% procedures were performed as inpatients. 40% of patients underwent ancillary procedures. Outpatients had a significantly lower age, ASA score, operative time, and readmission or return to ER within 72 h (1.5% vs. 6.2%). Twelve patients were readmitted (9 outpatient, 3 inpatient) and six returned to the ER (5 outpatient, 1 inpatient). 15/18 of these patients underwent reimplantations. Four required early reoperation on postoperative day (POD)2-3. Only one outpatient reimplant was admitted one day later. PSC patients lived farther away. DISCUSSION Outpatient open renal and bladder surgery was found to be safely performed in our patients. In addition, it did not matter whether the operation was done in the children's hospital or pediatric ambulatory surgery center. Since outpatient surgery has been shown to be significantly less expensive than inpatient surgery, it is reasonable for pediatric urologist to consider performing these operations in the outpatient setting. CONCLUSIONS Our experience shows that an outpatient approach to open renal and bladder procedures is safe and should be considered when counseling families about treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Winston Crute
- University of Tennessee, Knoxville Department of Urology, USA.
| | - Andrew Wofford
- The University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Medicine, USA.
| | | | - Dean Preston Smith
- East Tennessee Children's Hospital and the University of Tennessee - Knoxville Department of Urology, USA.
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3
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Esposito C, Cerulo M, Lepore B, Coppola V, D'Auria D, Esposito G, Carulli R, Del Conte F, Escolino M. Robotic-assisted pyeloplasty in children: a systematic review of the literature. J Robot Surg 2023:10.1007/s11701-023-01559-1. [PMID: 36913057 PMCID: PMC10374693 DOI: 10.1007/s11701-023-01559-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
Robotic pyeloplasty has become a natural progression from the development of open, then laparoscopic procedures to treat pediatric patients with ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO). Robotic-assisted pyeloplasty (RALP) is now considered a new gold standard in pediatric MIS. A systematic review of the literature retrieved from PubMed and published in the last 10 years (2012-2022) was performed. This review underlines that in all children except the smallest infants, where the open procedure has benefits in terms of duration of general anesthetic and there are limitations in the size of instruments, robotic pyeloplasty is becoming the preferred procedure to perform in patients with UPJO. Results for the robotic approach are extremely promising, with shorter operative times than laparoscopy and equal success rates, length of stay and complications. In case of redo pyeloplasty, RALP is easier to perform than other open or MIS procedures. By 2009, robotic surgery became the most used modality to treat all UPJO and continues to grow in popularity. Robot-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty in children is safe and effective with excellent outcomes, even in redo pyeloplasty or challenging anatomical cases. Moreover, robotic approach shortens the learning curve for junior surgeons, who can readily achieve levels of expertise comparable to senior practitioners. However, there are still concerns regarding the cost associated with this procedure. Further high-quality prospective observational studies and clinical trials, as well as new technologies specific for the pediatric population, are advisable for RALP to reach the level of gold standard.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ciro Esposito
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences (DISMET), Pediatric Surgery Unit, "Federico II" University of Naples School of Medicine, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.
| | - Mariapina Cerulo
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences (DISMET), Pediatric Surgery Unit, "Federico II" University of Naples School of Medicine, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Benedetta Lepore
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences (DISMET), Pediatric Surgery Unit, "Federico II" University of Naples School of Medicine, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Coppola
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences (DISMET), Pediatric Surgery Unit, "Federico II" University of Naples School of Medicine, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Daniela D'Auria
- Faculty of Computer Science, Free University of Bolzano, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Giorgia Esposito
- Internal Medicine Unit, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Roberto Carulli
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences (DISMET), Pediatric Surgery Unit, "Federico II" University of Naples School of Medicine, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Fulvia Del Conte
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences (DISMET), Pediatric Surgery Unit, "Federico II" University of Naples School of Medicine, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Escolino
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences (DISMET), Pediatric Surgery Unit, "Federico II" University of Naples School of Medicine, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
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Retrograde stent with external string for pediatric robotic pyeloplasty: does it reduce cost and complications? J Robot Surg 2023; 17:185-189. [PMID: 35488080 DOI: 10.1007/s11701-022-01411-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Robotic-assisted pyeloplasty (RAP) is a mainstay in the treatment of ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) in children. At our institution, to limit planned operating rooms visits we have placed a ureteral stent with an external string (SWES) immediately prior to RAP. In this study, we sought to quantify the operative time, complications, and costs associated with this approach compared to the traditional approach, requiring subsequent stent removal in the operating room. We hypothesized the SWES cohort would have decreased cost, yet with similar operative time and complications. We retrospectively collected all RAPs performed at our institution using the SWES approach (Aug 2012-July 2017). We excluded those with a redo pyeloplasty, and/or a percutaneous nephrostomy tube for post-operative drainage. We collected 30-day costs linked to the patients' MRN using the Pediatric Health Information System (PHIS) database. We compared 30-day healthare costs for all patients following RAP. We compared our SWES group to a national cohort of all pediatric RAP during the same time period. Lastly, we sent an anonymous, electronic survey to urologists of all PHIS institutions to identify the predominant postoperative drainage, nationally. Within our institution, we reviewed all those treated with SWES (n = 85) (Table 1). The median 30-day cost was $10,548 among those with SWES (Table 2). This was significantly less than the overall, national cohort of all pediatric RAP during the same period ($14,119, p < 0.001). There was a 15.5 % rate of unplanned return to the hospital in the SWES group. Of those unplanned returns, 8.2 % (7/85) had unplanned return for a procedure (3 for unplanned stent removal, 2 for nephrostomy tube for persistent obstruction, 1 for omental hernia, and 1 for stent replacement). With a 42.5 % (37/87) response rate, our nationwide survey found 84.6 % primarily leave stents WITHOUT a string, 7.7 % left nephrostomy tubes, and 7.7 % stents with strings. During pediatric RAP, placement of a SWES takes little time, carries a risk of unplanned visit to the operating room, saves the patient a certain, second anesthetic for stent removal, and amounts to a cost savings of approximately 25 %.
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DaJusta DG. Minimally invasive surgery for pyeloplasty poised to become The preferred surgical technique irrespective of age. Int Braz J Urol 2022; 48:969-970. [DOI: 10.1590/s1677-5538.ibju.2022.0194.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Mpody C, Willer B, Owusu-Bediako E, Kemper AR, Tobias JD, Nafiu OO. Economic Trends of Racial Disparities in Pediatric Postappendectomy Complications. Pediatrics 2021; 148:peds.2021-051328. [PMID: 34531291 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2021-051328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite unparalleled advances in perioperative medicine, surgical outcomes remain poor for racial minority patients relative to their white counterparts. Little is known about the excess costs to the health care system related to these disparities. METHODS We performed a retrospective analysis of data from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample between 2001 and 2018. We included children younger than 18 years admitted with appendicitis who underwent an appendectomy during their hospital stay. We examined the inflation-adjusted hospital costs attributable to the racial disparities in surgical complications and perforation status, focusing on differences between non-Hispanic white patients and non-Hispanic Black patients. RESULTS We included 100 639 children who underwent appendectomy, of whom 89.9% were non-Hispanic white and 10.1% were non-Hispanic Black. Irrespective of perforation status at presentation, surgical complications were consistently higher for Black compared with white children, with no evidence of narrowing of the racial disparity gap over time. Black children consistently incurred higher hospital costs (median difference: $629 [95% confidence interval: $500-$758; P < .01). The total inflation-adjusted hospital costs for Black children were $518 658 984, and $59 372 044 (11.41%) represented the excess because of the racial disparities in perforation rates. CONCLUSIONS Although all patients had a progressive decline in post appendectomy complications, Black children consistently had higher rates of complications and perforation, imposing a significant economic burden. We provide an empirical economic argument for sustained efforts to reduce racial disparities in pediatric surgical outcomes, notwithstanding that eliminating these disparities is simply the right thing to do.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Mpody
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine .,College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Brittany Willer
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine.,College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Ekua Owusu-Bediako
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine.,College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Alex R Kemper
- College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.,Division of Primary Care, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Joseph D Tobias
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine.,College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Olubukola O Nafiu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine.,College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
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Stern N, Wang P, Dave S. Instituting robotic pediatric urologic surgery in the Canadian healthcare system: Evaluating the feasibility and outcomes of robot-assisted pyeloplasty and ureteric reimplantation. Can Urol Assoc J 2020; 15:E215-E220. [PMID: 33007176 DOI: 10.5489/cuaj.6604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Robotic pediatric urologic surgery has gained wide-spread adoption over the last decade. This article describes our experience in instituting the first pediatric urologic robotic surgery program in Canada. We evaluated the feasibility and safety of instituting pediatric robot-assisted urologic surgery and report our early outcomes for robot-assisted pyeloplasty (RAP) and ureteric reimplantation (RUR). METHODS We prospectively evaluated all patients undergoing RAP and RUR by a single surgeon from June 2013 to March 2019. Demographic and clinical data were prospectively collected and included sex, age, and preoperative grade of hydronephrosis or reflux. Descriptive statistics were performed, and comparisons were made using Student's t-tests where appropriate. Success was defined as resolution or significant improvement of hydronephrosis following RAP and absence of recurrent urinary tract infection (UTI) and/or persistent vesicoureteric reflux (VUR) following RUR. Complications were described using the Clavien-Dindo system. RESULTS A total of 52 RAPs and 24 RURs were performed with a minimum of six months followup. Forty-five RAP patients met criteria for success, while diagnostic imaging of success in the form of MAG-3 Lasix renograms was documented in the remaining seven for an overall success of 100%. Sixteen RUR patients met criteria for success and seven showed resolution of VUR on imaging following their first UTI, for an overall success rate of 96%. Operative times progressively improved from 204±35 minutes to 121±15 minutes in the RAP group and from 224±52 to 132±39 minutes in the RUR group. In the RAP cohort, one Clavien grade II and four Clavien grade III complications were noted, while three Clavien grade III complications were noted in the RUR cohort. CONCLUSIONS Despite limited case volumes, robotic pediatric urologic surgery can be integrated into the Canadian healthcare system with success rates comparable to reported literature. However, compared to open surgery, RAP, and especially RUR, warrant further study to ensure lack of significant complications noted in our study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noah Stern
- London Health Sciences Centre, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Peter Wang
- London Health Sciences Centre, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Sumit Dave
- London Health Sciences Centre, Western University, London, ON, Canada
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Boia ES, David VL. The Financial Burden of Setting up a Pediatric Robotic Surgery Program. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 55:medicina55110739. [PMID: 31739631 PMCID: PMC6915423 DOI: 10.3390/medicina55110739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2019] [Revised: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Robotic surgery is currently at the forefront of both adult and pediatric treatment. The main limit in the wide adoption of this technology is the high cost of purchasing and running the robotic system. This report will focus on the costs assessment of running a robotic program in a pediatric surgery center in Romania. Materials and Methods: In 12 months we performed 40 robot-assisted procedures in children. We recorded and analyzed data regarding their age, gender, pathological condition and comorbidities, surgical procedure, time of surgery, complications, hospital stay and related costs, medication, robotic instruments and consumables, additional cost, and income per case received from the National Insurance Company (NIC). Results: Mean cost per case was €3260.63 (€1880.07 to €9851.78) and was influenced by type of the procedure, intraoperative incidents, postoperative complication, and non-scheduled reinterventions (p < 0.05). The direct costs for operating the surgical robot were relatively constant, regardless of the surgical procedure (mean €1579.81). The reimbursement from the NIC ranged from 5% to 56% (mean 16.9%) of the total cost per case. Conclusion: In Romania, a pediatric surgery robotic program is not cost-efficient and cannot operate relying solely onto the health insurance system.
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9
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Robot-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty in infants and children: is it superior to conventional laparoscopy? World J Urol 2019; 38:1827-1833. [PMID: 31506749 DOI: 10.1007/s00345-019-02943-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2019] [Accepted: 08/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Open pyeloplasty (OP) has been the first-line treatment for ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) since it was first described by Anderson and Hynes. The use of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) to treat UPJO in the pediatric population has increased in recent years, due to decreased morbidity and shorter recovery times. Recently, robot-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty (RALP) has seen a steady expansion. Unlike laparoscopic pyeloplasty (LP), RALP comes with a more manageable learning curve aided by specialized technological advantages such as high-resolution three-dimensional view, tremor filtration with motion scaling, and highly dexterous wrist-like instruments. With this review, we aim to highlight the trend toward robotic pyeloplasty over laparoscopy and current available evidence on outcomes. METHODS We systematically searched the PubMed and EMBASE databases, and we critically reviewed the available literature on the use of laparoscopy and robotic technology in pediatric patients with UPJO. RESULTS Overall, we selected 19 original articles and 5 meta-analyses. The available literature showed that the robotic approach to the UPJO allowed for decreased operative times, shorter length of hospital stay, lower complication rates, with success rates comparable to LP. Conflicting results persist regarding robotic platform and equipment costs. CONCLUSION While laparoscopy requires advanced skills for complex reconstructive procedures, such as pyeloplasty, robot-assisted surgery offers the valuable potential of making MIS more accessible to these types of procedure. Robotic technology has contributed to shortening the learning curve by acting as a bridge between open and endoscopic approach. There is still a strong need for higher quality evidence in the form of prospective observational studies and clinical trials, as well as further cost-effectiveness analyses. As robotic surgical technology spreads, future systems will be developed, offering smaller and more flexible tools, allowing enhanced applications on pediatric patients.
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10
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Gaboardi F, Mantica G, Smelzo S, Pini G, Marchi DD, Passaretti G, Saitta G, Rigatti L, Suardi N. Robotic-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty with the use of the Contour™ stent: description of the technique and analysis of outcomes after the first 30 cases. Cent European J Urol 2019; 72:51-53. [PMID: 31011440 PMCID: PMC6469006 DOI: 10.5173/ceju.2018.1844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2018] [Revised: 12/29/2018] [Accepted: 12/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction We present a technical variation of robot-assisted pyeloplasty (RAP) using the Contour™ stent that allows a minimal incision of the retroperitoneum. Material and methods The main difference from the standard robot-assisted pyeloplasty (RAP) is the preventive retrograde insertion of a Contour™ stent, which is a single J stent subsequently easily convertible in a double J stent. Results The mean operative time was 141.2 minutes. Blood losses were negligible, median length of stay was 4 days. Conclusions The use of a Contour™ stent showed to be a safe and feasible technical variation while performing a RAP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franco Gaboardi
- Department of Urology, San Raffaele Turro Hospital, San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Guglielmo Mantica
- Department of Urology, San Raffaele Turro Hospital, San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Salvatore Smelzo
- Department of Urology, San Raffaele Turro Hospital, San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Giovannalberto Pini
- Department of Urology, San Raffaele Turro Hospital, San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Davide De Marchi
- Department of Urology, San Raffaele Turro Hospital, San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Giovanni Passaretti
- Department of Urology, San Raffaele Turro Hospital, San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Saitta
- Department of Urology, San Raffaele Turro Hospital, San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Rigatti
- Department of Urology, San Raffaele Turro Hospital, San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Nazareno Suardi
- Department of Urology, San Raffaele Turro Hospital, San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
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Kawal T, Sahadev R, Srinivasan A, Chu D, Weiss D, Long C, Van Batavia J, Bodar Y, Shah J, Shukla AR. Robotic surgery in infants and children: an argument for smaller and fewer incisions. World J Urol 2019; 38:1835-1840. [PMID: 31016450 DOI: 10.1007/s00345-019-02765-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Robotic-assisted laparoscopic (RAL) surgery has gained momentum in pediatric urology. Technological adaptations such as the development of 5 mm instruments have led to robotic procedures being performed on younger children and those having smaller body habitus, with improved cosmesis. However, concerns have been raised regarding decreased intra-abdominal working space and the absence of monopolar curved scissors (hot endoshears®) when using 5 mm instruments. The aim of this study is to examine the overall experience at a single pediatric urology center using 5 mm instruments with no planned additional assistant ports during common robotic procedures. We hypothesized this approach is safe and feasible for a variety of pediatric urologic reconstructive procedures. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed all major robotic procedures entered into an IRB approved data registry. The analysis was performed only for procedures in which 5 mm instruments were used exclusively with hook diathermy. Procedures that utilized 8 mm instrumentation were excluded from the study. Data were abstracted according to patient age, weight and robotic surgery performed. Outcomes included post-operative complications (Clavien-Dindo classification), operative time, operative blood loss, need for assistant port placement and conversion rates to open or pure laparoscopic surgery. RESULTS From 2012 to 2016, 220 consecutive pediatric RAL urological surgical cases were performed on 201 patients. These comprised pyeloplasty (n = 102) 46.4%, ureteral reimplants (n = 84) 38.2% and ipsilateral ureteroureterostomy (n = 34) 15.5%. Median age at surgery was 4 years (3 months to 18 years). There were no conversions to open or laparoscopic surgery. Placement of an additional Assist port was documented in seven cases. Severe (Clavien grade 4) complications occurred in two patients requiring ICU admission: one for sepsis and one ventilator-dependent patient having increased work of breathing post-op. Intra-operative blood loss was minimal ( < 50 ml) in 97% of cases. Patients ≤ 1 year of age comprised 28.6% of the study population. Univariate analysis revealed no association between age and occurrence of complications (p = 0.957) CONCLUSIONS: This study represents one of the largest series of consecutive RAL surgery using 5 mm instruments in pediatric urology. Acceptable complication rates, OR times and blood loss were achieved using this technique. We conclude that the use of 5 mm instruments gives excellent operative outcomes in pediatric reconstructive procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trudy Kawal
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Ravindra Sahadev
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Arun Srinivasan
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - David Chu
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Dana Weiss
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Christopher Long
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Jason Van Batavia
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Yves Bodar
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Jay Shah
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Aseem R Shukla
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
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Fernandez N, Farhat WA. A Comprehensive Analysis of Robot-Assisted Surgery Uptake in the Pediatric Surgical Discipline. Front Surg 2019; 6:9. [PMID: 30915338 PMCID: PMC6422870 DOI: 10.3389/fsurg.2019.00009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2018] [Accepted: 02/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Robotic assisted surgery (RAS) is one of the most recent surgical approaches that has quickly been adopted by the pediatric urology community. Over the last decade, a vast amount of manuscripts has been published, supporting the safety and applicability of RAS in the pediatric population. The quality of published literature about this innovative technology remains supported by case-reports and retrospective case-series. Historical behavior of literature productivity and implementation of laparoscopy followed a similar trend. We present the historical publication uptake of RAS in pediatric urology and other surgical disciplines using a bibliometric comparison of the most cited manuscripts. Materials and Methods: A systematic search and review of the literature was undertaken by the authors. Literature search was performed in OVID, PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. The search period included all publications between 1985 and June 2018. All languages were included. Data analysis for graphical representation was performed using VOSviewer® version 1.6.8 and Impact Index Analysis was used to adjust the citations by the time since publication. Results: A total of 1,014 titles were identified. After applying exclusion criteria, 200 papers were included for the RAS arm and 402 for the laparoscopic one. Case-series was the most common type of publication. Average citations for laparoscopic manuscripts was 23 (SD ± 31) and for RAS was 20 (SD ± 31.5). The impact index analysis showed an average of 95 (SD ± 167) for laparoscopic manuscripts vs. 66 (SD ± 101) for RAS. The laparoscopic manuscript with the highest citation count had 199 citations with an impact index of 12.1. And the RAS manuscript with the highest citation count had 280 citations and an impact index of 4.3. Conclusion: Literature productivity in pediatric laparoscopic and RAS has quickly grown. Pediatric Urologists play a key role in the introduction of this innovative tool. Literature supporting its implementation and future consolidation requires to focus on increasing the level of evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Fernandez
- Division of Urology, Hospital for SickKids, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Urology, Fundación Santa Fe de Bogota, Bogota, Colombia.,Division of Urology, Hospital Universitario San Ignacio, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogota, Colombia
| | - Walid A Farhat
- Division of Urology, Hospital for SickKids, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Kawal T, Srinivasan AK, Shrivastava D, Chu DI, Van Batavia J, Weiss D, Long C, Shukla AR. Pediatric robotic-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty: Does age matter? J Pediatr Urol 2018; 14:540.e1-540.e6. [PMID: 29909190 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpurol.2018.04.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2017] [Accepted: 04/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although shown to be safe in infancy, robotic-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty (RALP) for ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) is most commonly performed in older children and adolescents. OBJECTIVE This study examined a contemporary RALP experience at a single tertiary pediatric center and compared outcomes in infants aged ≤1 year with an older cohort. METHODS AND DESIGN All RALP procedures were entered into an Institutional Review Board-approved data registry from 2012 to 2016. Patients were retrospectively grouped according to age. The primary outcome was success rate. Secondary outcomes included complications and length of hospital stay. Failure was defined as the need for secondary surgical intervention for UPJO or worsening urinary tract dilation on imaging. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 20. Mann-Whitney U testing was used for comparison. RESULTS A total of 138 patients underwent RALP during 2012-2016, with a median age of 6 years (IQR 1, 13.25) and a male:female ratio of approximately 2:1. Of these, 34 (24.6%) were aged ≤1 year. Of all patients, 60 (43.5%) presented with a history of prenatal hydronephrosis, and 32% had a crossing vessel causing obstruction. An indwelling stent was placed in antegrade fashion in 71% of cases, and 18% had a percutaneously placed externalized stent. There were six (4%) failures requiring reoperation. Multivariate and comparative analysis demonstrated that the infant cohort utilized less morphine equivalents and more often had a percutaneous stent placed compared to the older cohort. Of the complications that occurred, 60% were minor (Clavien grades 1 and 2) and 40% were Clavien grade 3 in the infant cohort, and 70.1% and 29.9% in the older cohort, respectively. No studied criteria predicted failure in either cohort. CONCLUSION This study presented one of the largest contemporary series of consecutive pediatric RALPs, and showed an overall success rate of 96%. There were no significant differences in length of hospital stay, and complications or failure rates in infants compared to older children. This study substantiated the ongoing trend towards the adaptation of robotic-assisted surgery for the entire pediatric patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Kawal
- Division of Pediatric Urology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, USA
| | - A K Srinivasan
- Division of Pediatric Urology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, USA
| | - D Shrivastava
- Division of Pediatric Urology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, USA
| | - D I Chu
- Division of Pediatric Urology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, USA
| | - J Van Batavia
- Division of Pediatric Urology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, USA
| | - D Weiss
- Division of Pediatric Urology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, USA
| | - C Long
- Division of Pediatric Urology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, USA
| | - A R Shukla
- Division of Pediatric Urology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, USA.
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Müller PF, Schlager D, Hein S, Bach C, Miernik A, Schoeb DS. Robotic stone surgery - Current state and future prospects: A systematic review. Arab J Urol 2017; 16:357-364. [PMID: 30140470 PMCID: PMC6104666 DOI: 10.1016/j.aju.2017.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2017] [Revised: 09/19/2017] [Accepted: 09/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To provide a comprehensive review of robot-assisted surgery in urolithiasis and to consider the future prospects of robotic approaches in stone surgery. Materials and methods We performed a systematic PubMed© literature search using predefined Medical Subject Headings search terms to identify PubMed-listed clinical research studies on robotic stone surgery. All authors screened the results for eligibility and two independent reviewers performed the data extraction. Results The most common approach in robotic stone surgery is a robot-assisted pyelolithotomy using the da Vinci™ system (Intuitive Surgical Inc., Sunnyvale, CA, USA). Several studies show this technique to be comparable to classic laparoscopic and open surgical interventions. One study that focused on ureteric stones showed a similar result. In recent years, promising data on robotic intrarenal surgery have been reported (Roboflex Avicenna™; Elmed Medical Systems, Ankara, Turkey). Initial studies have shown its feasibility and high stone-free rates and prove that this novel endoscopic approach is safe for the patient and comfortable for the surgeon. Conclusions The benefits of robotic devices in stone surgery in existing endourological, laparoscopic, and open treatment strategies still need elucidation. Although recent data are promising, more prospective randomised controlled studies are necessary to clarify the impact of this technique on patient safety and stone-free rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe F Müller
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Medical Centre, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Daniel Schlager
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Medical Centre, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Simon Hein
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Medical Centre, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Christian Bach
- Department of Urology, University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Arkadiusz Miernik
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Medical Centre, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Dominik S Schoeb
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Medical Centre, Freiburg, Germany
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15
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Boysen WR, Gundeti MS. Robot-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty in the pediatric population: a review of technique, outcomes, complications, and special considerations in infants. Pediatr Surg Int 2017; 33:925-935. [PMID: 28365863 DOI: 10.1007/s00383-017-4082-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Ureteropelvic junction obstruction is a common condition encountered by the pediatric urologist, and treated with pyeloplasty when indicated. Recent technological advancements and a shift across all surgical fields to embrace minimally invasive surgery have led to increased utilization of minimally invasive pyeloplasty. Conventional laparoscopy is a reasonable choice, but its use is limited by the technical challenges of precise suturing in a confined space and the associated considerable learning curve. Robotic technology has simplified the minimally invasive approach to pyeloplasty, offering enhanced visualization and improved dexterity with a fairly short learning curve. As utilization of robotic pyeloplasty continues to increase, we sought to critically assess the literature on this approach. We begin with a review of the technical aspects of robot-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty including tips for surgical proficiency and patient safety. Outcomes and complications from the contemporary literature are reviewed, as well as special considerations in the pediatric population including infant pyeloplasty, cost concerns, training, and postoperative diversion/drainage.
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Affiliation(s)
- William R Boysen
- Pediatric Urology, Comer Children's Hospital, The University of Chicago Medicine and Biological Sciences, 5841 S. Maryland, P-217, MC 7122, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Mohan S Gundeti
- Pediatric Urology, Comer Children's Hospital, The University of Chicago Medicine and Biological Sciences, 5841 S. Maryland, P-217, MC 7122, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
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16
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Murthy PB, Schadler ED, Orvieto M, Zagaja G, Shalhav AL, Gundeti MS. Setting up a pediatric robotic urology program: A USA institution experience. Int J Urol 2017; 25:86-93. [DOI: 10.1111/iju.13415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2017] [Accepted: 06/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Prithvi B Murthy
- Section of Urology; Comer Children's Hospital; The University of Chicago Medicine and Biological Sciences; Chicago Illinois USA
| | - Eric D Schadler
- Section of Urology; Comer Children's Hospital; The University of Chicago Medicine and Biological Sciences; Chicago Illinois USA
| | - Marcelo Orvieto
- Section of Urology; Comer Children's Hospital; The University of Chicago Medicine and Biological Sciences; Chicago Illinois USA
| | - Gregory Zagaja
- Section of Urology; Comer Children's Hospital; The University of Chicago Medicine and Biological Sciences; Chicago Illinois USA
| | - Arieh L Shalhav
- Section of Urology; Comer Children's Hospital; The University of Chicago Medicine and Biological Sciences; Chicago Illinois USA
| | - Mohan S Gundeti
- Section of Urology; Comer Children's Hospital; The University of Chicago Medicine and Biological Sciences; Chicago Illinois USA
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