Review of robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery in management of infant congenital urology: Advances and limitations in utilization and learning

Abstract

As robotic-assisted (RAL) surgery expanded to treat pediatric congenital disease, infant anatomy and physiology posed unique challenges that prompted adaptations to the technology and surgical technique, which are compiled and reviewed in this manuscript. From the beginning, collaboration with anesthesia is critical for a safe, efficient case including placement of an endotracheal tube rather than a laryngeal mask (LMA) and placement of a nasogastric tube and/or rectal tube to relieve distended stomach or bowel, respectively. Furthermore, end-tidal CO2 (EtCO2) is important for monitoring and predicting the effects of pneumoperitoneum on caridiovascular physiology, incranial pressure, and risk of acidosis and hypercarbia. Positioning can further exacerbate these effects and affect intra-abdominal working space. For infant robotic pyeloplasty and heminephrectomy, a “beanbag” is commonly used for stabilization in the lateral decubitus position. We advise against the use of a “baby bump” because it brings the bowels and vasculature more anterior than expected. Pnuemoperitoneum pressure of 8–10 mmHg during port placement maximizes safety, but thereafter, the pneumoperitoneum pressure can be minimized to 6–8 mmHg during the procedure without compromising the visual field. Port sites should be marked after insufflation, followed by the open Hasson technique for peritoneal access and port placement under direct vision with intussusception of the trocars to avoid vascular or bowel injury. Additional tips can be obtained through this manuscript, immersive fellowships, and mini-fellowships. Ulitmately, infant robotic surgery has the potential to benefit many children but is presently limited by the lack of pediatric-specific robotic technology and its associated costs.