Kidney tumors:
to remove part of the kidney, when it is possible to preserve kidney tissue, or to remove the entire organ when necessary.
Technology and surgical judgment
Urological robotic surgery
The surgeon controls every movement; the platform does not operate alone.
Assessment and indication
Every decision starts with understanding the case.
Robotic surgery is a way of performing operations through small incisions. The surgeon controls the instruments from a console, with an expanded view of the operating field and movements that allow working in delicate spaces.
The platform could be useful in different urological procedures. Its indication depends on the disease, the patient's anatomy and the objective of the surgery.
01
In what situations can it be used?
Prostate tumors:
in radical prostatectomy, indicated for certain cases of prostate cancer.
Bladder tumors:
in surgeries for selected cases of bladder cancer.
Adrenal tumors:
in the removal of the gland when surgery is indicated.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia:
in simple robotic prostatectomy, including via the transvesical route, considered in some large prostates.
Anatomical changes:
in reconstructive surgeries, such as pyeloplasty to correct an obstruction between the kidney and ureter.
Lymphadenectomies:
in the removal of lymph nodes when this step is part of oncological surgery.
02
How do I define the indication
Before choosing the surgical route, I evaluate the diagnosis, imaging exams, the extent of the disease and the patient's clinical conditions. In a kidney tumor, for example, I try to determine whether it is possible to remove the lesion while preserving part of the kidney. In BPH, I consider the size and shape of the prostate, the symptoms and the other techniques available.
Robotic surgery offers important technical capabilities, but it is not the best choice in all situations. During the consultation, I explain the recommended procedure, the alternatives and what can be expected from recovery.
03
My experience with robotic surgery
I am certified by Intuitive and have experience in robotic surgery for over ten years. I trained in Belgium and is part of the team involved in training robotic surgeons in Luanda, in an Angolan government program.
This experience is part of the evaluation of each case. Technology offers possibilities, but it is clinical and surgical judgment that guides when and how to use it.
Consultation and planning
The indication is defined for each patient.
During the consultation, I evaluate the diagnosis, explain the alternatives and organize treatment and follow-up according to the needs of the case.