Robot-assisted laparoscopic varicocelectomy in a pediatric population
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Read the article on link.springer.com ↗Article · May 2023 · 1 min read
In brief
In brief
This study reports outcomes of robot-assisted laparoscopic varicocelectomy in 49 pediatric patients (ages 10-17), demonstrating feasibility with short operative times (median 48 min) and same-day discharge in most cases. While the procedure successfully resolved scrotal pain and achieved testicular catch-up growth in 95% of cases, a 16% recurrence rate at 6 months suggests need for technique refinement.
Written by the GCMD Library team from the article.
Abstract
Purpose
To present our experience with robot-assisted laparoscopic varicocelectomy in a pediatric population.
Methods
We reviewed 49 consecutive cases performed by the same experienced surgeon. One-to-four veins were ligated at the internal ring of the inguinal canal, while the testicular artery and lymphatics were spared. Information on patient characteristics, surgical time, complications, and recurrences were collected.
Results
Median patient age was 14 (range 10–17) years. Forty-eight had left-sided varicoceles and one had a bilateral varicocele. Forty-five were grade 3. All patients were referred due to discomfort/pain and 20 also had reduced testicular size. The median operating time from skin incision was 48 min (31–89 min) and the median console time was 18 min (7–55 min). Forty-seven patients were discharged the same day. Two patients experienced pain and problems urinating, respectively. These issues had resolved by the first post-operative day. There were no other complications, but at 6 months, eight recurrences were noted (16%). Scrotal complaints had subsided in all patients. Catch-up growth of the affected testicles was seen in 19/20 cases.
Conclusion
Robot-assisted laparoscopic varicocelectomy is feasible and safe in a pediatric population but with a relatively high recurrence rate.