Robotic Radical Nephroureterectomy

Robotic-assisted nephroureterectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat upper tract urothelial cancer, a cancer that develops in the lining of the kidney (renal pelvis) or ureter. This type of cancer is closely related to bladder cancer.

Using advanced robotic technology and a keyhole surgical approach, the affected kidney and the entire ureter (the tube connecting the kidney to the bladder) are removed. Complete removal of both structures is essential to minimise the risk of cancer recurrence.

At Urology SA, Dr Jimmy Lam is an experienced urologist who perform robotic-assisted nephroureterectomy using the da Vinci robotic surgical system, a world-leading platform for precision urological surgery.

Benefits of Robotic-Assisted Nephroureterectomy

Compared with open surgery or conventional laparoscopic surgery, robotic-assisted nephroureterectomy offers significant advantages for suitable patients. The procedure is performed entirely through small keyhole incisions, avoiding the need for a large abdominal incision or open bladder surgery.

Patient Benefits:

• Minimally invasive surgery with smaller incisions
• Reduced blood loss
• Less post-operative pain
• Shorter hospital stay
• Faster recovery and return to normal activities

Surgical Advantages:

• High-definition, 3D visualisation of the surgical field
• Greater precision and control
• Advanced robotic instruments with a wider range of motion than the human hand

How Robotic-Assisted Nephroureterectomy Is Performed?

• The procedure is carried out under general anaesthesia and typically takes approximately three hours
• Three to five small incisions are made in the abdomen to allow insertion of the robotic instruments and camera
• Carbon dioxide gas is used to gently inflate the abdomen, improving visibility and access
• The affected kidney and the entire length of the ureter are carefully removed
• The ureter is detached from the bladder, and the bladder opening is meticulously closed to create a watertight seal
• The kidney is removed from the body
• The gas is released, instruments are withdrawn, and all incisions are closed to minimise scarring and reduce the risk of hernia

Robotic Urological Surgery with Dr Jimmy Lam

Dr Lam offers advanced robotic urological surgery using the da Vinci system, providing patients with access to modern, minimally invasive treatment options for kidney and ureter cancers.

If you have been diagnosed with urothelial cancer and would like to discuss whether robotic-assisted nephroureterectomy is suitable for you, please contact Urology SA to arrange a consultation.