Robot-Assisted Laparoscopic Pyeloplasty in Infants Under 3 Months: Single-Institution Study Findings, Safety...

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Urology
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Surgical Outcomes

Background:

• Ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) is a common cause of congenital hydronephrosis in infants.
• Robot-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty (RALP) is increasingly used, but data on its use in very young infants (<3 months) is limited.
• Understanding the safety and efficacy of RALP in this specific population is crucial for surgical decision-making.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of robot-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty (RALP) for ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) in infants younger than 3 months.
• To compare the outcomes of RALP in infants under 3 months with those aged 3 months to 3 years.
• To assess perioperative details, postoperative complications, and renal function recovery.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of clinical data from January 2019 to June 2022.
• Two groups were formed: RA group (infants <3 months, n=25) and RB group (infants 3 months to 3 years, n=25).
• Comparison of baseline data, operative time, hospitalization, hydronephrosis improvement (APD), and split renal function (SRF).

Main Results:

• All RALP procedures were successful without conversion to open surgery in both groups.
• No significant differences in operative time or hospitalization duration between the RA and RB groups.
• Both groups showed significant improvement in APD and SRF post-surgery, with no significant differences between groups. No significant variations in postoperative complications were observed.

Conclusions:

• Robot-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty (RALP) is a safe and effective treatment for ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) in infants under 3 months of age.
• The technique yields favorable therapeutic outcomes comparable to older children.
• RALP offers a mature and stable surgical option for this young infant population.