Robot-Assisted Laparoscopic Pyeloplasty in Infants Under 3 Months: Single-Institution Study Findings, Safety Measures, and Success Strategies

Background: At present, there is a lack of cohort studies on robot-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty (RALP) for the treatment of ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) in infants under 3 months of age. This study aims to enhance the understanding of the safety and efficacy of RALP in this specific infant population. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of children with UPJO who underwent unilateral pyeloplasty at our center from January 2019 to June 2022. We categorized the children based on their ages: those younger than 3 months old comprised the RA group (25 cases), whereas those aged 3 months to 3 years old formed the RB group (25 cases). We collected and statistically analyzed the baseline data, perioperative details, postoperative complications, and the recovery of split renal function (SRF) along with the improvement in hydronephrosis for both patient groups. Result: Both age groups successfully underwent the operation without requiring conversion to open surgery. There were no significant differences observed in the operation time or postoperative hospitalization duration between the two groups (P > 0.05). Following surgery, both groups showed significant improvements in anteroposterior diameter (APD) and SRF (P < 0.05). However, there was no significant discrepancy noted in the recovery of APD and SRF between the two groups postoperatively (P > 0.05). Additionally, there were no significant variations in postoperative complications between the two groups (P > 0.05). Conclusion: Given the mature and stable nature of the surgical technique, RALP proves effective in treating UPJO in infants younger than 3 months, yielding favorable therapeutic outcomes.