Robotic reconstruction of necrosed ileal ureter: Technical challenges, intra-operative difficulty, and learning points

Abstract

This video explores the challenges faced during a re-do robotic intra-corporeal ileal ureter reconstruction in a previously operated case. A 24-year-old woman presented with a 12-cm long stricture after robotic ileal ureter replacement surgery. A proper preoperative evaluation in the form of ureteroscopy and a nephrostogram is essential and the key steps include adhesiolysis, identification of the necrotic ileal ureter, and meticulous dissection. A 13-cm long segment of the ileum was isolated and was anastomosed to the renal pelvis and the bladder. The surgery lasted for 420 min with 300 ml of blood loss. Post-operatively, the patient recovered well and had a normal drainage with no complications at 1-year of follow-up. The factors such as a broad mesentery, a tension-free anastomosis, and avoiding the twisting of the pedicle are crucial for success of robotic ileal ureter replacement surgery.