Robot-Assisted Bladder Diverticulectomy with Concurrent Management of Bladder Outlet Obstruction

Robot-assisted bladder diverticulectomy (RABD) through a technique for easier identification of diverticulum along with concomitant management of bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) utilizing a combination of transurethral prostatectomy (TUR-P) and photoselective vaporization of prostate (PVP) is presented.

Between 2008 and 2015, 9 patients underwent RABD with concurrent treatment of BOO. Diverticula were identified by a technique of catheterizing the diverticulum and the bladder simultaneously and individually.

Mean patient age was 62 ± 9.8 and prostate volume was 70 ± 26 ml. Mean time for endourological procedure was 77 ± 35, mean console and total operative times were 108 ± 38 and 186 ± 56 min, respectively. Mean estimated blood loss was 71 ± 37 ml. All diverticula were excised and BOO treated successfully. Bladder irrigation was not necessary in any patient. Mean hospitalization and catheter removal time was 5 ± 3 and 8 ± 3 days, respectively. No complications were observed.

BOO is the main cause of acquired bladder diverticula and is largely due to benign prostatic hyperplasia. Concomitant performance of TUR-P and PVP along with RABD is feasible and safe. Individual catheterization of the diverticulum and bladder facilitates the identification of diverticulum even in the presence of multiple diverticula.