Robot-assisted partial nephrectomy in complex renal tumors using the Versius platform: An initial but promising experience.

Abstract

Background and objectives: The widespread utilization of robotic surgeries in urology encouraged several teams to explore the option of performing robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN), taking advantage of its magnified stereoscopic vision and the articulating instruments that facilitate tumor resection and the reconstructive steps of hemostasis and renorrhaphy. The implementation of the CMR Versius system in RAPN, especially in complex masses, has not been explored yet. Herein, we present our initial experience in performing RAPN in complex renal masses using this novel platform.

Methods: Between July 2022 and November 2023, thirty patients who had complex renal masses and were candidates for RAPN were enrolled in this study. Tumor complexity was assessed using the preoperative aspects of the dimension used for anatomic (PADUA) nephrometry scores. Perioperative data were prospectively collected and analyzed. 'TRIFECTA' was defined as free surgical margins, warm ischemia time (WIT)< 30 minutes, and no major complications (>Clavien-Dindo II).

Results: All cases were successfully completed with no conversion to radical, open, or laparoscopic surgery. The median PADUA score was 9.5 (8-11). The mean docking time, console time, and total operative time were 9.17 ± 0.91, 149 ± 14.27, and 177.17 ± 29.53 minutes, respectively. The mean WIT was 26.67 ± 3.66 minutes. Surgical margins were free in all cases. TRIFECTA was fulfilled in 25/30 patients (83.33%). Five patients (16.66%) did not fulfill TRIFECTA; two patients had prolonged WIT > 30 minutes, two had prolonged WIT with prolonged urine leakage necessitating DJ stent insertion, and the fifth patient had only prolonged urine leakage and DJ insertion. None of the patients developed tumor recurrence or acute kidney injury during follow-up.

Conclusion: Performing RAPN with the CMR Versius platform is a feasible option in complex renal masses with slightly increased but accepted WIT and total operative time. It should be wisely restricted to well-experienced teams.