Minimizing and managing needle and instrument loss during pediatric robotic surgery.

INTRODUCTION: Lost objects and equipment malfunctions during robotic and laparoscopic cases can lead to an increase in operating time and potential risk to the patient. The literature on the management of foreign bodies during pediatric robotic-assisted surgery is limited. The purpose of the video is to review proper instrument handling to prevent loss of an object and to propose our technique for retrieving lost objects through two pediatric case examples. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The first case is a robotic-assisted laparoscopic left pyeloplasty in a 6-week-old male with congenital uteropelvic junction obstruction during which a needle was lost. In the video, we describe our techniques for safe needle passage, proper suturing technique, and recovering a lost needle. The second case is a robotic-assisted right upper pole heminephrectomy in a 14-month-old female with a duplicated renal collecting system and hydroureteronephrosis. We present the management of a rare case during which a harmonic scalpel jaw malfunctioned leading to a lost foreign body. We describe our technique for retrieving the lost fragment. RESULTS: All objects were safely removed, and patients were discharged post-op day one without complication. CONCLUSION: Our video presents two case examples of foreign bodies lost during pediatric robotic surgeries and approaches to manage each of these incidents.

The LUAA Gundeti Technique for Bilateral Robotic Ureteral Reimplantation: Lessons Learned over a Decade for Optimal (Resolution, Urinary Retention, and Perioperative Complications) Trifecta Outcomes.

Background: Ureteral reimplantation is the gold standard treatment for high-grade vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) in pediatric patients. Robot-assisted laparoscopic extravesical ureteral reimplantation (RALUR-EV) using the LUAA technique has emerged as a viable alternative to traditional open and laparoscopic surgical correction. Objective: To evaluate the outcomes, reflux resolution, urinary retention, and complications associated with bilateral RALUR-EV for primary VUR using the LUAA Gundeti technique in pediatric patients. Design setting and participants: A retrospective study was conducted at a single academic center, involving 34 consecutive pediatric patients who underwent RALUR-EV for bilateral VUR management between December 2008 and December 2022. The study included only patients who were evaluated with postoperative voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG). Surgical procedure: The LUAA extravesical ureteral reimplantation technique was performed, involving the identification and mobilization of the ureter, creation of a peritoneal window, dissection close to the neurovascular bundle, Y dissection at the ureterovesical junction, detrusorotomy, detrusorrhaphy with advential inclusion, and apical alignment suture. Measurements: The primary outcome was radiographic resolution of VUR on VCUG. The secondary outcomes included urinary retention and Clavien-Dindo grade III complications. Results and limitations: The overall radiographic resolution rate was 85.2%, with success rates of 76.7%, 75%, and 96.7% across the three distinct patient cohorts. The overall Clavien-Dindo grade III complication rate was 5.8%, and transient urinary retention was 8.8%. Resolution of urinary retention occurred within 7-28 d. The study's limitations include the small sample size, single-center design, and retrospective nature. Conclusions: The LUAA technique demonstrates sustainable outcomes for VUR resolution with a low incidence of transient urinary retention and complications. A thorough understanding of pelvic anatomy is essential for successful dissection and minimization of the risk of complications. Further studies are needed to evaluate the effectiveness of different approaches in reducing the incidence of transient urinary retention following bilateral extravesical reimplantation. Patient summary: In this study, we examined the results of the Gundeti LUAA surgical technique for treating primary vesicoureteral reflux in children. We identified various essential modifications that increase the likelihood of achieving favorable outcomes.

Pediatric robotic urologic procedures: Indications and outcomes.

Introduction: Robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery (RALS) has revolutionized minimally invasive surgery in pediatric urology. The robotic platform allows surgeons to maintain the benefits of laparoscopic surgery while having enhanced three-dimensional view, dexterity, range of motion, and control of high-resolution cameras. In this review, we summarize the indications and recent outcomes for various pediatric urologic RALS procedures to illustrate the current state of robotics in pediatric urology. Methods: We systematically searched the PubMed and EMBASE databases. We extrapolated and summarized recent evidence on RALS in pediatric urology patients, with an emphasis on indications and outcomes, with regard to the following procedures and search terms: pyeloplasty, kidney stone surgery, partial nephrectomy, nephroureterectomy, ureteral reimplantation, appendico-vesicostomy, augmentation cystoplasty, bladder neck reconstruction, and Malone antegrade continence enema. Additional Medical Subject Headings terms used to augment the search included "Treatment Outcome" and "Robotic Surgical Procedures." Results: Increasing usage of RALS has shown many benefits in perioperative and postoperative outcomes. In addition, there is growing evidence that robotic procedures in pediatric urology result in similar or better surgical outcomes when compared to the standard of care. Conclusions: RALS has shown considerable effectiveness in pediatric urologic procedures and may achieve surgical outcomes comparable to the standard approaches of open or laparoscopic surgery. However, larger case series and prospective randomized controlled trials are still necessary to validate the reported outcomes, in addition to cost analyses and studies on the surgical learning curve. We believe that the continuous evolution of robotic platforms will allow for enhanced care and quality of life for pediatric urology patients.

Robot-assisted pyeloplasty for ureteropelvic junction obstruction in renal anomalies.

The surgical video demonstrates the technical nuances of performing pyeloplasties on complex renal anomalies, including duplex, horseshoe, malrotated, and ectopic kidneys. The video also highlights the anatomic relationships of the affected kidney for proper port placement and positioning during the procedure.

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

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.

Postoperative hydronephrosis following ureteral reimplantation: Clinical significance and importance of surgical technique and experience.

BACKGROUND: Though common, postoperative hydronephrosis (POHN) following ureteroneocystostomy raises concern for an underlying obstruction. We aimed to determine the clinical significance of POHN following open (OUR) or robotic (RALUR) ureteral reimplantation. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed pediatric patients who underwent ureteral reimplantation for vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) from 2008 to 2019 by a single surgeon. Baseline characteristics, operative outcomes, and trends in POHN were assessed. POHN was defined as new onset hydronephrosis or exacerbation of pre existing hydronephrosis. Renal ultrasounds were performed 1, 4, and 12 months postoperatively. Voiding cystourethrograms were performed 4 months postoperatively. Surgical experience for RALUR cases was defined as number of ureters operated over time. RESULTS: Altogether, 93 patients (127 ureters) underwent RALUR and 19 patients (26 ureters) underwent OUR. POHN was found in 27.6% and 30.8% of ureters after RALUR and OUR, respectively. Rate and time to POHN resolution for RALUR (91.4%, 112 days) and OUR (75%, 211 days) were statistically similar. Odds of POHN after RALUR were directly related with preoperative VUR grade (Range OR: 2.82[2.26-3.52]) and surgical experience (Range OR: 8.88[7.16-11.02]). Surgical experience was inversely related with odds of VUR recurrence (Range OR: 0.41[0.32-0.54]). Rates of VUR resolution were comparable for OUR and RALUR patients. No patient required additional intervention for POHN. CONCLUSIONS: Incidence and resolution rate of POHN after OUR and RALUR were similar. Higher VUR grades were associated with increased odds of POHN after RALUR. Increasing RALUR experience improved VUR resolution rate but increased odds of POHN. Surgical success rates were similar for RALUR and OUR. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: II.

Are there disparities in access to robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery among pediatric urology patients? US institutional experience.

OBJECTIVE: Literature suggests access to robotic surgery varies by race and payer status. We seek to investigate whether disparities exist in robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery among the pediatric urology population at our tertiary academic medical center and, if so, to find plausible reasons why. METHODS: Retrospective analysis identified patients who underwent open or robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery by a single surgeon at a tertiary care center between 2008 and 2019. Univariate and multivariate analyses determined the relationship of patient demographic and socioeconomic factors to procedure approach. RESULTS: Among 356 patients, race, age, American Society of Anesthesiologists status, and year of surgery were significant by univariate analysis. Insurance status was not significant (P = 0.066). Multivariate analysis indicated that age, American Society of Anesthesiologists status, and year of surgery were statistically significant (P < 0.001, P = 0.005, P < 0.001). By multivariate logistic regression, Black and Hispanic patient race were not significant with an odds ratio of 0.60 (0.35-1.02) (P = 0.061). In 60.2% of open cases, open approach selection was attributable to complex pathology, limitations of robotic approach, and surgeon's robot-assisted laparoscopic learning curve. CONCLUSIONS: Optimal procedure approach was determined by case complexity and surgeon's robot-assisted laparoscopic learning curve and was independent of patient race and payer status. This study did not find racial or socioeconomic disparities in robotic surgery within pediatric urology at our tertiary medical center, inconsistent with previous literature.

Robot-Assisted Laparoscopic Ureterocalicostomy in the Setting of Ureteropelvic Junction Obstruction: A Multi-Institutional Cohort.

PURPOSE: Recurrent ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) after failed pyeloplasty is a complex surgical dilemma. The robot-assisted laparoscopic ureterocalicostomy (RALUC) is a potential surgical approach, but widespread adoption is limited due to the perceived technical challenge of the procedure. We present a multi-institutional pediatric cohort undergoing RALUC for recurrent or complex UPJO, and hypothesize that the procedure is reproducible, safe and efficacious. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A 3-center multi-institutional collaboration was initiated and medical records of children undergoing RALUC between 2012 and 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. The details on baseline demographics, perioperative characteristics and postoperative outcomes were aggregated. RESULTS: During the study period 24 patients, 7 (29%) females and 17 (71%) males, were identified. Of the patients 21 (86%) had a history of previous pyeloplasty prior to RALUC, of whom 5 (24%) had 2 prior failed ipsilateral pyeloplasties. The reason for performing RALUC was short ureter in 3 (13%), intrarenal pelvis in 5 (21%) and extensive scarring at the ureteropelvic junction locus in 16 (67%) patients. The median age of patients at time of surgery was 5.1 years (IQR: 1.9, 14.7). Of the patients 9 (38%) had percutaneous nephrostomy prior to surgery; if percutaneous nephrostomy tubes were placed for relief of obstruction, an antegrade contrast study was done postoperatively to confirm resolution of obstruction. No 30-day Clavien-Dindo Grade III-V complications were noted. During the median followup of 16.1 months (IQR: 6, 47.5), 22 (92%) had improved symptoms and hydronephrosis with no further intervention; 2 (8%) patients underwent endoscopic interventions after RALUC and both ultimately underwent nephrectomy. CONCLUSIONS: This multi-institutional cohort demonstrates that RALUC is a safe and efficacious salvage option for failed pyeloplasty or complex anatomy with an acceptable success profile, especially in cases of extensive scarring at the UPJO or an intrarenal pelvis.

Upper or lower tract approach for duplex anomalies? A bi-institutional comparative analysis of robot-assisted approaches.

Optimal management of duplication anomalies may include an upper or lower tract surgical approach. In the contemporary era, the robot-assisted laparoscopic heminephrectomy (RALHN) and robot-assisted laparoscopic ipsilateral ureteroureterostomy (RALIUU) are viable interventions predicated on clinical, institutional and surgeon preferences. We present a multi-institutional comparative analysis aiming to compare the outcomes of RALHN and RALIUU to see if either of the approaches confers an advantage over the other in treating duplex renal anomalies needing intervention. We completed a retrospective review of consecutive children undergoing RALIUU at Hospital A and RALHN at Hospital B from January 2009 to March 2017. The primary outcome was 'surgical success' defined by the resolution of clinical symptoms, improved radiological parameters, and no unplanned subsequent interventions till the time of study completion. Secondary outcomes included operative parameters, complications, and subsequent urinary infections. There were 39 RALIUU and 28 RALHN. Baseline demographic and clinical parameters across two cohorts were similar. The primary outcome of 'surgical success' was 100% across both cohorts. There were no major surgical complications, and the incidence of postoperative urinary tract infection was minimal and similar for both groups. Operative time favored RALHN; blood loss and analgesic requirements were minimal in both cohorts. Both RALIUU and RALHN are definitive surgical interventions in children with complex duplex moieties, delivering satisfactory surgical outcomes with a low complication profile and marginal differences in the postoperative patient outcomes. This pilot bi-institutional study provides the basis for a larger collaboration to further define optimal techniques, standardize surgical care pathways, and interrogate long-term outcomes.

Antegrade Colonic Enema Channels in Pediatric Patients Using Appendix or Cecal Flap: A Comparative Robotic vs Open Series.

Introduction: We present perioperative outcomes of a single-center experience with robot-assisted antegrade colonic enema (ACE) channel creation for the treatment of chronic constipation refractory to medical therapy and compare it to the traditional open surgical approach. We also demonstrate a step-by-step video presentation of the robotic approach for cecal flap ACE performed as part of a dual continence procedure in patients with short length of appendix. Methods: A retrospective chart review of pediatric patients who underwent ACE channel creation between 2008 and 2020 was performed. We compared demographics and intraoperative and postoperative variables of the open vs robotic approach. Results: Among 28 patients, 15 were open and 13 robotic. To construct the ACE channel, a cecal flap was utilized in 36%, split appendix in 50%, full-length appendix in 11%, and sigmoid colon in 3% of patients. Both approaches showed equivalent estimated blood loss (50 mL [interquartile range; IQR = 20-100]), median length of hospital stay (7 days vs 8 days, p = 0.7), and median time to return to regular diet (4 days vs 5 days, p = 0.5) (Table 1). Patients in the open group were more likely to have a history of prior abdominal surgeries than those in the robotic group (80% vs 38.5%, p = 0.02). The risk of Clavien-Dindo grade 3 or more complications (40% vs 23.1%, p = 0.04) and the rate of ACE channel stenosis (46.7% vs 7.7%, p = 0.02) were significantly higher in the open approach. Channel stenosis was significantly higher in patients with an appendix ACE channel (87.5% vs 12.5%, p < 0.05) compared to those with cecal flap ACE. [Table: see text] Conclusion: Robot-assisted ACE channel creation is a safe and acceptable alternative with a significantly lower rate of channel stenosis and other clavien dindo grade 3 complications compared to the traditional open approach. Cecal flaps are also at a lower risk of stomal stenosis than appendix.

Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Pediatric Robot-Assisted Laparoscopic Pyeloplasty.

Introduction: To perform a systematic review (SR) and meta-analysis (MA) of outcomes of robot-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty (RALP) for ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) obstruction in children. Evidence Acquisition: A SR of the English-language literature on surgical techniques and perioperative outcomes of RALP for UPJ obstruction in children was performed without time filters using the MEDLINE (through PubMed), EMBASE, and Cochrane databases in July 2020 according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis statement recommendations. Evidence Synthesis: Overall, 58 studies were selected for qualitative analysis, 46 of which were included in the MA. Nearly all studies included were observational and retrospective, either cohort or case-control. The quality of evidence was assessed using Modified Newcastle-Ottawa Scoring, with the majority of studies scoring medium or high quality. The mean success rate was 95.4% (confidence interval 91.0%-99.3%), over a wide age range. There was a noticeable heterogeneity in reported follow-up length and definitions of success rate. The majority of studies reported length of stay of ∼1 day. The mean overall complication rate was 12%. For studies that reported complication rate by grade, the mean low Clavien grade (Grade 2 or less) complication rate was 9.3% and the mean high Clavien grade (Grade 3 or more) complication rate was 6.5%. Conclusions: Robot-assisted surgery is technically feasible and has been shown to achieve very favorable outcomes for pyeloplasty in children. The evidence, however, is mostly retrospective and from single sites, which introduces potential biases. Further research is needed to further elucidate RALP benefits compared with the open and laparoscopic approach. As a randomized control trial may not be practical in this space, perhaps a prospective multi-institutional design with a uniform reporting system of pediatric RALP is the next step to define its benefits and limits.

Ureteroneocystostomy without ureteral remodeling for grade III-V vesicoureteral reflux treatment.

BACKGROUND: Ureteral remodeling (tapering or tailoring) is often performed alongside ureteroneocystostomy (ureteric reimplantation) procedures despite limited evidence on its role in promoting reflux resolution. OBJECTIVES: To investigate the efficacy of ureteroneocystostomy in the absence of adjuvant ureteral remodeling for promoting reflux resolution in grade III-V vesicoureteral reflux. STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective analysis identified pediatric patients who underwent open or robotic assisted ureteroneocystostomy (OUN and RAUN, respectively) without ureteral remodeling (tailoring or tapering) at a single tertiary care center. The primary endpoint of reflux resolution was defined as no reflux on latest follow up postoperative voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG). Ureteral dilation was analyzed using the ureteral diameter ratio (UDR), which normalized for image characteristics. Inclusion criteria was as follows: grade III-V reflux, accessible postoperative VCUG scan, RAUN after June 2013 following technique optimization, and no other structural urologic abnormality or associated neurogenic bladder. RESULTS: A total of 68 ureters were analyzed (Grade III = 28, Grade IV = 27, Grade V = 13, OUN = 23, RAUN = 45). Complete reflux resolution was achieved postoperatively in 96% (27/28) of grade III, 100% (27/27) of grade IV and 100% (13/13) grade V cases, for a combined resolution rate of 99%. In the one failed case, the preoperative UDR was in the second quartile and postoperatively, reflux diminished from grade III to grade I. Notably, no cases with UDRs in the largest quartile required tapering/tailoring for complete reflux resolution. DISCUSSION: Ureteral tapering and tailoring were unnecessary to achieve reflux resolution in grade III-V VUR by both OUN and RAUN. Additionally, the unsuccessful case was classified as grade III with a UDR value in the second quartile, suggesting that high grade reflux (IV-V) can be repaired without tapering with equal success rates to that of grade III VUR repair, which is classically not tapered. Tapering was unnecessary for complete reflux resolution in the cases with the largest ureteral diameter ratios (UDR). These findings are limited by the single center retrospective nature of the study. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that vesicoureteral reimplantation for resolution of grade III-V reflux is successful in the absence of ureteral remodeling techniques.

Infant Robot-assisted Laparoscopic Pyeloplasty: Outcomes at a Single Institution, and Tips for Safety and Success.

BACKGROUND: Since its first description, multiple reports proved efficacy and safety of the robotic platform. Further progress has been made allowing for the application of robotic surgery to smaller patients, including infants. Despite the early favorable results, the use of robot surgery in infants is still controversial and more studies are needed to confirm its benefits. OBJECTIVE: To our knowledge, we present the largest single-institution case series of robot-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty (RAL-P) in infants, aiming to contribute to the current literature with a guide for key technical steps and safety tips for infant RAL-P. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: We performed a retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database. The study protocol was approved by the institutional review board. SURGICAL PROCEDURE: Only infants (≤12 mo of age) with a diagnosis of congenital ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) undergoing primary robotic dismembered pyeloplasty were included in the study. MEASUREMENTS: We critically reviewed the clinical outcomes, described the main steps of the operation, and shared tips for a safe approach. RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS: From January 2012 to August 2019, 44 infants underwent RAL-P for UPJO--33 (75%) males and 11 (25%) females. All robotic cases were completed successfully, with no laparotomic conversions. The median age and weight were 4 (1-12) mo and 6.8 (3.8-10.5) kg, respectively. The mean operative time was 142 (±25) min. The mean estimated blood loss was 7 (±3.6) ml, and no intraoperative complications occurred. The mean length of hospital stay (LOS) was 1.4 (±0.7) d. Seven (15.6%) patients had postoperative complications-one (2%) ileus (Clavien-Dindo grade [CDG] I), four (9%) urinary tract infections (CDG II), and two (4.5%) port-site hernias (CDG III). At a median follow-up of 19 mo, the success rate was 100%. CONCLUSIONS: Given the successful outcomes, benefits of decreased LOS, and improved cosmesis, RAL-P is an appealing management option for UPJO in infants. Market release of new systems, further miniaturization of instruments, and more affordable costs will hopefully be shedding light on more complex applications. PATIENT SUMMARY: Infants (≤12 mo of age) diagnosed with ureteropelvic junction obstruction undergoing primary robotic dismembered pyeloplasty were selected and included in this study. No intraoperative complications or conversion to an open approach occurred. Seven patients (16%) developed postoperative complications-one (2%) postoperative ileus, four (9%) urinary tract infections, and two (4.5%) port-site hernias. At a median follow-up of 19 (7-66) mo, the success rate was 100%.

Comparative Outcomes of Double-J and Cutaneous Pyeloureteral Stents in Pediatric Robot-Assisted Laparoscopic Pyeloplasty.

Background: Comparative outcome studies investigating internal Double-J (DJ) and externalized stents have primarily been performed for open and laparoscopic pyeloplasty, with a paucity of literature surrounding outcomes in robot-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty (RALP). Furthermore, outcomes of a modified external stent inserted into the renal pelvis, termed cutaneous pyeloureteral (CPU) stent, remain unexamined. This study investigates outcomes of DJ and CPU stents as methods of trans-anastomotic drainage. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis identified pediatric patients who underwent RALP between December 2007 and January 2020 at a single tertiary center, where CPU stents were introduced in June 2012. Operative success was defined as improved or stable hydronephrosis without subsequent redo pyeloplasty. Secondary outcomes included stent reinsertion, anesthesia requirements, opioid administration, urinary tract infection (UTI), and bladder spasms. Results: A total of 103 pediatric RALP procedures were analyzed (DJ = 70, CPU = 33). Operative success (DJ = 95.7%, CPU = 100%, p = 0.55), Society for Fetal Urology (SFU) grade improvement, and length of stay were comparable. Accidental stent expulsion was only seen with CPU stents (9%; p = 0.03). Intracorporeal stent migration also occurred more frequently in CPU stents (DJ = 3%, CPU = 15%, p = 0.03). Stent reinsertion, when needed, used a DJ stent with rates of 4% and 9% for DJ and CPU stents, respectively (p = 0.38). DJ stents were removed at a later postoperative day (DJ = 45.2 ± 25.0, CPU = 8.3 ± 4.2; p < 0.001) with increased general anesthesia (DJ = 99%, CPU = 3%; p < 0.001) and intravenous (IV) opioid (DJ = 27%, CPU = 9%; p = 0.04) requirements. Finally, DJ stents had nonsignificant increased rates of UTI (DJ = 17%, CPU = 3%, p = 0.06) and bladder spasms necessitating postoperative medication (DJ = 26%, CPU = 9%, p = 0.07). Conclusions: DJ and CPU stents display equivalent success rates in pediatric RALP and similar stent reinsertion rates. Appreciable differences can inform stent selection, including higher general anesthesia requirements and IV opioid administration among DJ stents and a higher incidence of accidental stent expulsion among CPU stents. In addition, DJ stents were associated with nonsignificant increased rates of UTI and bladder spasm necessitating medication.

Pediatric urology amidst SARS-CoV-2 pandemic: Building the future with current knowledge.

INTRODUCTION: The COVID-19 pandemic has ripped around the globe, stolen family members and forced healthcare systems to operate under an unprecedented strain. As of December 2020, 74.7 million people have contracted COVID-19 worldwide and although vaccine distribution has commenced, a recent rise in cases suggest that the pandemic is far from over. METHODS: This piece explores how COVID-19 has explicitly impacted the field of pediatric urology and its patients with a focus on vulnerable subpopulations. RESULTS: Various medical and surgical associations have published guidelines in reaction to the initial onset of the pandemic in early 2020. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: As the number of patients with COVID-19 increases, long-term recovery and future preparedness are imperative and should be cognizant of patient subpopulations that have been subject to disproportionate morbidity and mortality burden. Development of a dedicated response team would aid in achieving preparedness by drafting and implementing plans for resource allocation during scarcity, including logistic and ethical considerations of vaccine distribution. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.

Continent Cutaneous Catheterizable Channels in Pediatric Patients: A Decade of Experience with Open and Robotic Approaches in a Single Center.

BACKGROUND: To allow patients with bladder and bowel dysfunctions to achieve social continence, continent catheterizable channels (CCCs) are effective alternatives to intermittent self-catheterization and enema. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to describe our progressive advancement from open to robotic construction of CCCs, reporting outcomes and comparing the two approaches. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: We retrospectively reviewed electronic medical records of pediatric patients who underwent construction of CCCs between 2008 and 2019. The inclusion criteria were age ≤18 yr, and CCCs with or without bladder augmentation or bladder neck surgery. We compared open versus robotic approaches for demographics, and intra- and postoperative outcomes; operative time was calculated as incision-to-closure time. SURGICAL PROCEDURE: Channels performed were appendicovesicostomy (APV), Monti with tapered ileum, and antegrade colonic enema (ACE). A Monti channel with tapered ileum was preferred to a spiral Monti or double Monti, as it has more robust blood supply and it was performed only with an open approach. MEASUREMENTS: The primary outcome was success rate, defined as postoperative stomal continence. Stomal incontinence was defined as the presence of urine leakage noted by caregivers or patients and confirmed by the surgeon. Secondary outcomes were stomal stenosis (supra- and subfascial), incontinence, need for surgical revision, and surgical site infection. RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS: A total of 69 patients were included in the study, with 35 open and 34 robotic procedures. The robotic approach showed a significant decrease in length of hospital stay (LOS) compared with the open approach. Six primary subfascial revisions were performed in five patients--three Monti, two ACE, and one APV. Continence rates were 91.4% and 91.2% for open and robotic approaches, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Robotic surgery for CCCs showed acceptable postoperative functional outcomes and complication rates, which are comparable with those of the traditional open approach. Additionally, due to its minimally invasive nature, it offers advantages such as decreased postoperative pain, LOS, and time to full diet, and better cosmesis. PATIENT SUMMARY: Robotic surgery for continent catheterizable channels showed acceptable postoperative functional outcomes and complication rates, which are comparable with those of the traditional open approach.

Pediatric Modification of the Medically Necessary, Time-Sensitive Scoring System for Operating Room Procedure Prioritization During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic forced surgeons to reconsider concepts of "elective" operations. Perceptions about the time sensitivity and medical necessity of a procedure have taken on greater significance during the pandemic. The evolving ethical and clinical environment requires reappraisal of perioperative factors, such as personal protective equipment conservation; limiting the risk of exposure to COVID-19 for patients, families, and healthcare workers; preservation of hospital beds and ICU resources; and minimizing COVID-19-related perioperative risk to patients. STUDY DESIGN: A scaffold for the complex decision-making required for prioritization of medically necessary, time-sensitive (MeNTS) operations was developed for adult patients by colleagues at the University of Chicago. Although adult MeNTS scoring can be applied across adult surgical specialties, some variables were irrelevant in a pediatric population. Pediatric manifestations of chronic diseases and congenital anomalies were not accounted for. To account for the unique challenges children face, we modified the adult MeNTS system for use across pediatric subspecialties. RESULTS: This pediatric MeNTS scoring system was applied to 101 cases both performed and deferred between March 23 and April 19, 2020 at the University of Chicago Comer Children's Hospital. The pediatric MeNTS scores provide a safe, equitable, transparent, and ethical strategy to prioritize children's surgical procedures. CONCLUSIONS: This process is adaptable to individual institutions and we project it will be useful during the acute phase of the pandemic (maximal limitations), as well as the anticipated recovery phase.

Live-case demonstrations in pediatric urology: Ethics, patient safety, and clinical outcomes from an 8-year institutional experience.

Purpose: Live case demonstrations have become a common occurrence at surgical meetings around the world. These demonstrations are meant to serve as an educational medium for teaching techniques, promote discussion, improve interventions and outcomes. Despite the valuable educational benefits, many authors still question the ethics of this approach. We present our 8-year experience in live surgery, discuss the ethical issues, and provide recommendations. Materials and Methods: We reviewed records of patients who underwent live robotic surgery during broadcasting events. Procedures performed were robot-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty (RAL-P), ureteral reimplantation (RALUR), and hemi-nephrectomy (RAL-HN). Peri- and post-operative outcomes were compared to our previously published case series. Results: From October 2011 to May 2019, the senior author (MSG) performed all live surgery demonstrations on 22 patients: 9 RAL-P, 9 RALUR, and 4 RAL-HN. Live RAL-Ps had a 100% success rate and lower 30-day Clavien-Dindo grade (CDG) III complications when compared to our previous case series (11.1% vs. 21.2%). RALURs performed during live demonstrations had a higher success rate than our previously published cohort (100% vs. 82%). RAL-HN operative time and length of stay were comparable to our non-live control group. Conclusions: Live surgery is a valuable didactic tool, but even experienced surgeons may be adversely affected by inappropriate case selection, technical difficulty, and anxiety associated with particular settings, such as operating at different institutions or working with unfamiliar surgical teams. We suggest consultation of an ethics review board and formulation of standard guidelines for patient selection, surgical equipment, and operative team.