Robotic-assisted laparoscopic ureterocalicostomy.

INTRODUCTION: Ureterocalicostomy is a well-established treatment option for patients with recurrent ureteropelvic junction obstruction or proximal ureteral stricture refractory to endoscopic management in the setting of diminutive or intrarenal pelvis or significant peripelvic fibrosis. We report a case of robotic-assisted laparoscopic ureterocalicostomy using the da Vinci robotic system in a patient with proximal ureteral stricture refractory to endoscopic management. TECHNICAL CONSIDERATIONS: All techniques described to date for ureterocalicostomy have been either open or purely laparoscopic. We report a case of robotic-assisted laparoscopic ureterocalicostomy in a patient with refractory proximal ureteral stricture secondary to multiple interventions for stones. We used laparoscopy for the initial dissection and exposure and robotic techniques for lower pole amputation and ureterocaliceal anastomosis. Intraoperative nephroscopy was also performed through the lower pole calix. The patient had resolution of the obstruction at 10 weeks postoperatively with the stent out and radiographic confirmation of excretion and drainage.
CONCLUSIONS: Robotic-assisted laparoscopic ureterocalicostomy is a feasible alternative to open or laparoscopic techniques for treating refractory proximal ureteral stricture or ureteropelvic junction obstruction. To our knowledge, this is the first described case of robotic-assisted laparoscopic ureterocalicostomy with intraoperative nephroscopy.