Robotic-assisted renal transplantation with total extraperitonealization of the graft: experience of 34 cases

The aim of the study is to elucidate the method of complete extraperitonealization of the graft while performing transperitoneal robotic renal transplant recipient operation. This is a retrospective study of 34 robotic-assisted kidney transplant (RAKT) utilizing our technique from July 2015 to June 2017. The study is performed in a quaternary private hospital setting. The surgery was performed using our novel peritoneal flap technique allowing complete extraperitonealization of the kidney. Total of 34 patients underwent RAKT in our hospital. Mean age was 40.6 ± 8.1 years, there were 25 males and 9 females. 30 had single vessel and four had double vessels. 27 patients received living donor graft while seven had deceased donor. The mean blood loss was 88 ± 51 mL, mean anastomotic time was 32 ± 3.3 min, mean total operative time was 145 ± 15 min, mean hospital stay was 5.8 ± 2.3 days, time to nadir creatinine was 4.3 ± 1.9 days, median creatinine level at the end of 6 months was 1.3 mg/dL. There were three open conversions in our series, one of which had delayed graft function requiring hemodialytic support. Total extraperitonealization of the graft reproduces closely the technique of open kidney transplant with good graft function. This would be a step toward the ultimate goal of performing a complete extraperitoneal robotic transplant. Further refinements in robotic instruments would make this a reality in near future.