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Robotic Urological Surgery

What is Robotic Urological Surgery?

Robotic urological surgery is a minimally invasive surgical technique that employs robotic-assisted technology to perform complex urological procedures with enhanced precision, dexterity, and control.
Contrary to popular belief, the procedure isn’t done by a robot. It is carried out by your surgeon using a sophisticated system, the da Vinci Surgical System, a robotic platform that translates a surgeon’s hand movements into highly precise, scaled motions of robotic instruments inside the patient’s body.
This approach is widely used for treating various urological conditions, including prostate cancer, kidney tumours, kidney cancer, bladder cancer, and ureteric strictures, as well as other disorders affecting the urinary tract and reproductive organs. Compared to traditional open or laparoscopic surgery, robotic urological surgery offers superior visualisation through high-definition, magnified 3D imaging, and precision tools, which enables surgeons to operate with greater accuracy while minimising trauma to surrounding tissues.
The robotic system comprises three key components:

Surgeon console

The surgeon sits at a console, controlling the robotic arms while viewing a magnified, high-resolution 3D image of the surgical site.

Patient cart

This component holds the robotic arms and surgical instruments, which are inserted through small incisions in the patient’s body. The instruments replicate the surgeon’s hand movements with a greater range of motion than the human hand.

Vision system

A high-definition 3D camera provides a detailed, magnified view of the surgical area, which allows for meticulous dissection and suturing.
Robotic Urological Surgery Singapore
Robotic urological surgery is a minimally invasive, precision-driven procedure that uses robotic-assisted technology to treat various urological conditions with enhanced accuracy, reduced complications, and faster recovery.
Robotic-assisted surgery enhances a surgeon’s ability to perform delicate procedures with smaller incisions, minimal blood loss, a reduced risk of complications, and quicker recovery times compared to conventional open surgery. This technology has helped the field of urology, particularly in procedures such as robotic prostatectomy, robotic partial nephrectomy, and robotic cystectomy, significantly improving patient outcomes.

How does robotic urological surgery work?

Robotic urological surgery is performed using a robotic-assisted surgical system, most commonly the da Vinci Surgical System. The procedure begins with the patient being placed under general anaesthesia. Small incisions, typically ranging from 5 to 12 millimetres, are made in the abdomen, through which specialised robotic instruments and a high-definition 3D camera are inserted. These instruments are mounted on robotic arms, which are controlled by the surgeon from a console located within the operating theatre.
From the console, the surgeon operates the robotic arms using hand and foot controls while viewing a highly magnified, 3D visualisation of the surgical site. Unlike conventional laparoscopy, where instruments have limited range, the robotic system allows for wristed movements that mimic the natural motion of the human hand but with greater dexterity and stability. The robotic arms filter out any hand tremors, ensuring precise and steady movements during the procedure.
During the surgery, the miniaturised instruments perform intricate manoeuvres such as cutting, suturing, and tissue dissection with high accuracy, which helps minimise damage to surrounding healthy tissues. The surgeon remains in full control at all times, with the robotic system enhancing, rather than replacing, human expertise.
The complex imaging system provides real-time magnification, allowing for better identification of critical structures such as nerves and blood vessels, which is particularly crucial in procedures like robotic prostatectomy and robotic partial nephrectomy. Once the surgery is complete, the robotic instruments are carefully removed, and the small incisions are closed with sutures or surgical glue. .

What are the benefits of robotic urological surgery?

Robotic-assisted surgery offers several advantages over traditional open and laparoscopic techniques. Some key benefits include:
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Minimally invasive approach

Small incisions result in reduced tissue trauma, less scarring, and a lower risk of infection and other complications.

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Enhanced precision and dexterity

The robotic system allows for highly controlled and tremor-free movements, which helps ensure meticulous surgical techniques.

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Superior visualisation

High-definition, magnified 3D imaging helps surgeons identify and preserve critical structures, such as nerves and blood vessels.

Reduced blood loss and lower risk of complications

The precision of robotic-assisted surgery minimises damage to surrounding tissues, which helps ensure reduced intraoperative bleeding and fewer postoperative complications.

Less postoperative pain

Smaller incisions and minimal tissue disruption result in less pain and a decreased need for pain medication.

Shorter hospital stay

Most patients recover faster and are discharged sooner compared to those undergoing open surgery.

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Faster recovery and quicker return to normal activities

The minimally invasive nature of robotic surgery allows patients to resume daily activities, including work, in a shorter time frame.

Better functional outcomes

For procedures such as robotic prostatectomy, the precision of robotic surgery improves the chances of preserving urinary continence and erectile function; thereby, contributing to a better quality of life post-surgery.

What conditions can robotic urological surgery treat?

With robotic-assisted surgery, we aim to provide minimally invasive, more effective, and faster-recovering treatment options for our patients. If you are facing a urological condition that may require surgery, we are here to discuss your options and develop a treatment plan that suits your needs.
Prostate Cancer Singapore
Robotic urological surgery can help treat prostate cancer by precisely removing the prostate gland while preserving surrounding nerves, reducing complications, and promoting faster recovery.

Conditions that can be treated with robotic urological surgery include:

Robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy for the removal of the prostate while preserving nerve function.

Robotic partial or radical nephrectomy for removing cancerous or non-cancerous kidney growths while preserving kidney function when possible.

Robotic cystectomy for partial or complete removal of the bladder, often combined with urinary reconstruction.

Robotic pyeloplasty or ureteral reimplantation to correct blockages or narrowing of the ureter.

Robotic sacrocolpopexy to restore support to the bladder and pelvic organs.

Treatment of conditions such as ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJ obstruction) to improve urine flow.

Robotic simple prostatectomy for severe cases of enlarged prostate causing urinary retention.

Are there any side effects of robotic urological surgery?

While robotic urological surgery is considered safe and minimally invasive, like any surgical procedure, it carries some potential side effects and risks. These may vary depending on the specific procedure, the patient’s overall health, and individual healing capacity. Possible side effects include:

Temporary pain and discomfort

Mild to moderate pain around the incision sites, which usually subsides within a few days.

Swelling or bruising

Some swelling in the abdomen or groin area due to gas inflation used during surgery.

Bleeding

Although robotic surgery minimises blood loss, there is still a small risk of postoperative bleeding.

Infection

As with any surgery, there is a slight risk of infection at the incision sites or internally.

Urinary Issues

Some patients may experience temporary urinary incontinence or difficulty urinating, especially after prostate or bladder surgery.

Blood clots

In rare cases, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can occur due to reduced mobility post-surgery.
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Robotic Urological Surgery
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What can I expect during robotic urological surgery?

From the moment you step into Allen Sim Urology for your robotic-assisted surgery consultation, our team is committed to providing comprehensive care according to your needs.

Assessing your suitability

Your journey begins with a detailed consultation, where we assess your condition, discuss treatment options, and address any concerns you may have. If robotic surgery is recommended, we will guide you through the preoperative preparation and ensure you understand the procedure, expected outcomes, and necessary lifestyle adjustments before surgery.

During your minimally invasive procedure

On the day of the procedure, you will be placed under general anaesthesia, and our surgical team will utilise the latest robotic-assisted technology to perform your surgery with precision, minimal tissue damage, and reduced blood loss. The duration of the surgery depends on the complexity of the procedure, but most robotic urological surgeries take between two to four hours. Due to the minimally invasive nature of robotic surgery, postoperative discomfort is significantly reduced compared to traditional open surgery.

Post-surgical recovery

Following the procedure, you will be closely monitored in the recovery area, with most patients staying one to two nights in the hospital before being discharged. Our team will provide comprehensive aftercare instructions, including wound care, activity restrictions, and medication guidance, to ensure a smooth recovery. While some minor discomfort, swelling, or fatigue may be experienced in the first few days, most patients can resume light activities within a week and return to normal daily routines within two to four weeks. Full recovery varies depending on the type of surgery, but many patients see a return to optimal function within four to six weeks.
As for long-term results, robotic-assisted surgery has been shown to offer excellent surgical precision, leading to better functional outcomes and faster healing. For patients undergoing procedures such as robotic prostatectomy, our goal is to preserve urinary continence and erectile function whenever possible. Those treated for kidney or bladder conditions can expect minimal scarring, reduced postoperative pain, and a quicker return to daily life.
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How many sessions are generally needed for robotic urological surgery?

Robotic urological surgery is typically performed as a single-session procedure, meaning that most patients require only one surgical session to address their condition effectively.
In some cases, additional follow-ups or procedures may be needed, such as in patients with complex conditions requiring staged surgeries or those undergoing reconstructive procedures. However, for most urological conditions, robotic surgery is a one-time treatment that provides long-term relief and excellent functional outcomes.
If you’re considering robotic urological surgery and want to explore ideal treatment options for your condition, schedule a consultation (link to ‘Contact Us’ page) with us today for detailed diagnosis and personalised treatment plan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Yes, robotic urological surgery is considered safe. The robotic system enhances the surgeon’s precision and control, which helps contribute to successful outcomes. As with any surgical procedure, it’s essential to discuss potential risks with your healthcare provider.

While both robotic and traditional laparoscopic surgeries are minimally invasive, robotic surgery provides the surgeon with enhanced 3D visualisation, greater dexterity, and improved precision.

Patients undergoing robotic-assisted surgery often report experiencing less postoperative pain compared to traditional open surgery. The minimally invasive nature of robotic surgery, involving smaller incisions and reduced tissue disruption, typically leads to decreased discomfort during recovery.

The length of hospital stay after robotic urological surgery varies depending on the specific procedure and individual patient factors. Many patients are able to return home within one to two days following the surgery. Your healthcare team will provide personalised guidance based on your recovery progress.

While robotic surgery offers numerous advantages, it may not be suitable for all patients or all types of urological conditions. Factors such as the size and location of a tumour, previous surgical history, or specific anatomical considerations may influence the decision. It’s important to have a thorough discussion with your urologist to determine the most appropriate treatment approach for your situation.

In Singapore, most integrated shield plans (IPs) and private health insurance policies cover robotic urological surgery if it is deemed medically necessary. Coverage depends on your specific insurance provider, plan type, and whether the procedure is performed in a private or restructured hospital. It is advisable to check with your insurer or speak to our team at Allen Sim Urology for assistance in understanding your coverage options.