Robotic-Assisted Excision of a Urachal Diverticulum

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Robotic Surgery

Background:

• Vesicourachal diverticula are rare congenital urachal anomalies (3-5%).
• They can lead to complications like UTIs, stones, and increased cancer risk post-puberty.
• Symptomatic or infected diverticula require surgical intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate a combined robotic-assisted laparoscopic technique with cystoscopy for urachal diverticulum excision.
• To ensure complete resection of the diverticulum and bladder cuff.
• To highlight a minimally invasive surgical approach for symptomatic urachal anomalies.

Main Methods:

• A step-by-step video demonstration of the combined robotic-assisted laparoscopic and cystoscopic procedure.
• Robotic-assisted dissection and partial cystectomy to excise the urachal diverticulum.
• Concomitant cystoscopy to confirm complete resection and ensure watertight bladder closure.

Main Results:

• Successful robotic-assisted excision of a symptomatic urachal diverticulum in a 68-year-old female.
• Complete resection of the urachal diverticulum and bladder cuff confirmed by pathology.
• No intraoperative or postoperative complications; patient symptoms resolved post-surgery.

Conclusions:

• Robotic-assisted excision with cystoscopy is a safe and effective technique.
• This combined approach offers successful, minimally invasive management of symptomatic urachal diverticula.
• The technique ensures complete resection and watertight closure, leading to symptom resolution.