Our Summary

This research paper discusses a study that looked at the safety of using robots to perform reconstructive surgery on the upper urinary tract in children, without using tubes or stents, and allowing the patients to go home the same day. The surgeries were performed to correct congenital obstructions in the urinary tract. The study reviewed the cases of 19 patients (14 boys and 5 girls) who underwent these surgeries between July 2015 and January 2017. The researchers found that none of the patients experienced complications, needed to visit the emergency room, or had to be readmitted to the hospital within 30 days of the surgery. The study concludes that this type of surgery seems to be safe, but more research is needed to confirm these results and to see how patients fare in the long term.

FAQs

  1. What is the purpose of using robots to perform reconstructive surgery on the upper urinary tract in children?
  2. What were the results of the study that looked at the safety of using robotic surgery in pediatric urologic reconstruction?
  3. Is the robotic surgical approach safe for treating congenital obstructions in the urinary tract of children, and can they go home the same day of the surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about pediatric urologic reconstruction is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully, including taking prescribed medications, attending follow-up appointments, and avoiding strenuous activities. It is also important to communicate any concerns or changes in symptoms to the healthcare provider. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including staying hydrated and following a balanced diet, can support the healing process.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for pediatric urologic reconstruction are those with congenital obstructions in the upper urinary tract, such as ureteropelvic junction obstruction, ureterovesical junction obstruction, or posterior urethral valves. These conditions can lead to symptoms such as urinary tract infections, kidney stones, kidney damage, and urinary retention. Surgery may be recommended to correct these obstructions and improve kidney function and urinary flow.

Children who have failed other conservative treatment options, such as medication or catheterization, may also be candidates for pediatric urologic reconstruction. Additionally, patients who have recurrent urinary tract infections, kidney stones, or other complications related to their urinary obstruction may benefit from surgical intervention.

Overall, pediatric urologic reconstruction is recommended for children who have significant urinary tract obstructions that are causing symptoms or complications, and who have not responded to other treatment options. The surgery aims to improve kidney function, prevent further damage to the urinary tract, and improve the child’s quality of life.

Timeline

Before pediatric urologic reconstruction:

  1. Patient is diagnosed with a congenital obstruction in the urinary tract.
  2. Consultation with a pediatric urologist to discuss treatment options.
  3. Preoperative testing and preparation for surgery.

After pediatric urologic reconstruction:

  1. Surgery is performed using robots to correct the obstruction in the urinary tract.
  2. Patient is monitored closely in the immediate postoperative period for any complications.
  3. Patient is discharged home the same day of surgery.
  4. Follow-up appointments with the pediatric urologist to monitor recovery and long-term outcomes.
  5. Long-term follow-up to assess the success of the surgery and any potential complications.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with pediatric urologic reconstruction surgery?

  2. How long will the recovery process take for my child after undergoing this type of surgery?

  3. What type of follow-up care will be needed after the surgery?

  4. Are there any alternative treatment options available for my child’s condition?

  5. How experienced are you in performing pediatric urologic reconstruction surgeries using robotic techniques?

  6. What is the success rate of this type of surgery in children with similar conditions to my child?

  7. Will my child need to have any additional surgeries in the future as a result of this procedure?

  8. How will my child’s quality of life be impacted after undergoing this surgery?

  9. What can we expect in terms of long-term outcomes and potential complications?

  10. Are there any specific lifestyle changes or restrictions my child will need to follow post-surgery?

Reference

Authors: Fichtenbaum EJ, Strine AC, Concodora CW, Schulte M, Noh PH. Journal: J Robot Surg. 2018 Jun;12(2):257-260. doi: 10.1007/s11701-017-0722-0. Epub 2017 Jun 21. PMID: 28639117