Abstract: The use of robotic-assisted radical nephrectomy has increased in urological practice over the past decade. From 2003 to 2015, there was a significant increase in the volume of robotic-assisted radical nephrectomies, accompanied by extended operation times and higher costs. This study aims to explore the usage, outcomes, and costs associated with robotic kidney removal. Data were sourced from the Premier Healthcare database, which included patient records from 416 hospitals in the United States of patients undergoing either robotic-assisted or laparoscopic radical nephrectomy between 2003 and 2015.

A retrospective cohort study was conducted to compare perioperative complications, resource utilization, and direct hospital costs between robotic-assisted and laparoscopic radical nephrectomy. The findings indicated that despite longer surgery times and higher hospital costs associated with robotic-assisted surgeries, there was no significant increase in the risk of major complications compared to laparoscopic surgery.

Article Link: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2658321