Abstract
Aim:
The aim of this study was to describe the initial experience with robotic-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) with intracorporeal urinary diversion (ICUD) performed by two robotic surgeons at a single, Australian centre.
Methods:
Retrospective analysis was conducted on 30 consecutive patients who underwent RARC with ICUD with curative intent for muscle-invasive and high-risk non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer between 2017 and 2021. Variables analysed included patient baseline characteristics, operative and peri-operative outcomes, as well as short-term pathological outcomes.
Results:
A total 30 patients were included; 87% were male and the median age was 71 years. Half of patients had muscle-invasive bladder cancer and 93% had ileal conduit formation (with the remaining two patients undergoing neobladder formation). The median operating time was 247 minutes. The median estimated blood loss was 450 mL and 20% of patients received a blood transfusion. A high-grade complication (Clavien III–V) was encountered in 13% of patients post-operatively. At 90 days, 30 overall complications (Clavien I–V) occurred across 67% of the patients.
Conclusion:
This series provides further support for the safe introduction of RARC with ICUD in Australia. Further studies with extended duration of follow-up, including oncological outcomes, are required to support widespread adoption of RARC.
Level of evidence:
Level 4 (case series)
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