Robotic Partial and Radical Nephrectomy in Renal Allograft: Demonstration of Technique

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: Renal tumors in allografts are rare but a serious condition. It presents a challenging clinical scenario where proper radiologic evaluation is commonly hindered by the suboptimal renal function. When surgical intervention is indicated, nephron sparing approaches are confronted with a risk of metastasis in an immunocompromised host, whereas graft nephrectomy results in significant postoperative morbidity and mortality as dialysis is reinitiated. Regardless of the surgical plan, graft surgery can be associated with significant vascular morbidities secondary to the dense desmoplastic reaction surrounding the anastomotic areas. Robotic surgery allows meticulous anastomotic dissection due to benefits of magnification, three-dimensional vision, and enhanced seven degrees of freedom of the robotic instruments. This may increase the chances of graft preservation. Moreover, it offers the benefits of minimally invasive surgery with less pain, shorter hospitalization, and less blood loss if to...