Step-by-step approach to robotic cystectomy and extracorporeal urinary diversion

Abstract Robot-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) is an evolving approach for the treatment of bladder cancer. The technique of RARC allows for the following potential advantages: minimal blood loss, decreased fluid shifts, and smaller surgical incisions, which will theoretically translate into less patient morbidity. Herein, we describe the operative technique of RARC, robot-assisted extended pelvic lymph node dissection, and extracorporeal urinary diversion, along with a brief review of the published literature. The potential advantages of robot-assisted surgery can be transferred into advanced uro-oncologic surgery such as bladder cancer surgery. However, long-term oncological and functional outcomes are yet awaited.