Role of robotics for ureteral pelvic junction obstruction and ureteral pathology

To review the role of robotics for the management of ureteral pathology, in particular, ureteropelvic junction obstruction and ureteric stricture disease.

Minimally invasive surgery has an expanding role in the management of ureteric pathology. Minimally invasive surgery modalities are associated with decreased morbidity when compared with open reconstructive techniques. Robotics solves many of the technical complexities that may be prohibitive with standard laparoscopic surgery such as intracorporeal suturing. Several studies have demonstrated equivalent or superior short-term outcomes in comparison to traditional open techniques. Encouraging long-term data are now emerging for robotic pyeloplasty.

In 2008, robotic surgery appears to be a feasible and effective alternative to laparoscopy for reconstructive procedures of the ureter and may represent a potential solution to some of the drawbacks associated with ureteric reconstruction.