[Robotics and intraoperative navigation]

Urology has always been closely linked to technological progress. In the last few decades, we have witnessed increasing implementation of various technologies and innovations in subdisciplines of urology. While conventional laparoscopy is increasingly being replaced by robot-assisted procedures and the introduction of new robotic systems from various manufactures will continue for years, the field of endourolgy is still not dominated by robotic systems. However, new systems (e.g., autonomous, robot-controlled aquablation of the prostate) are becoming increasingly popular and numerous development projects will also probably change clinical care in coming years. In addition, further advancements in the combination of robotics with intraoperative navigation through the integration of imaging and augmented-reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technology can be expected. This combination of navigation and robotic technology is already being used successfully in prostate biopsy.