Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 13, 2025
Robot-Assisted Kidney Transplantation
Published on: July 19, 2021
Training fellows in robot-assisted partial nephrectomy under expert surgeon supervision: Insights from a
Erica Gallner1, Franck Bruyère1, Ali Bourgi1
1Service d'urologie, CHRU de Tours, 2, boulevard Tonnellé, 37044 Tours, France.
Background:
Robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) is a preferred technique for treating localized renal tumors due to its potential to preserve renal function. This study aimed to assess the impact of young surgeon's training on perioperative outcomes of RAPN.
Methods:
This retrospective study described the outcomes of RAPN performed by surgical fellows under the supervision of experienced surgeons at a single center. A total of 298 RAPN procedures were analyzed, comparing 130 performed by fellows (Junior group) and 168 by expert surgeons (Senior group).
Results:
While operative time (203 vs. 130minutes) and warm ischemia time (17 vs. 15minutes) were longer in Junior group, there were no significant differences in intraoperative blood loss, postoperative complications, or positive surgical margins between the two groups.
Conclusion:
These results suggest that with proper supervision, fellows can safely perform RAPN with outcomes comparable to those of more experienced surgeons.
