Robotically assisted surgery in pediatric urology

Robotically assisted laparoscopic surgery likely will be a part of pediatric urologic surgery. It will look different than it does now because of technologic and procedural innovations. The inherent value of precise visualization, tissue handling, and reconstruction, coupled with the reduced morbidity of laparoscopic surgery, suggests the potential value of these technologies and methods. Although there is much development to be done, the early results are encouraging. Pediatric urologists specifically, and pediatric surgical practitioners in general, must be involved in the evolution of these techniques and devices, to prevent having to adapt adult surgery-oriented systems to pediatric patients. Pediatric urologists need to be involved in this development actively to guide its course.