Robotic-Assisted Kidney Transplantation Showcases Favourable Outcomes

Strategic Insights -

Researchers from Fortis Hospitals have conducted a study evaluating the surgical outcomes of robot-assisted kidney transplantation (RAKT), including experiences with deceased donor and pediatric transplants. The study, published in the Journal of Robotic Surgery, found that RAKT is a safe and effective alternative to open kidney transplantation when performed by experienced surgeons. The research analyzed 92 patients undergoing RAKT between August 2021 and December 2024 and demonstrated favorable outcomes, including low rates of perioperative complications and high graft survival rates.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study included 92 patients undergoing RAKT between August 2021 and December 2024, with a median follow-up duration of 21 months.
  • The mean warm ischemia time was 3.6 ± 1.8 min, cold ischemia time 48.4 ± 12.4 min, and total operative time 258.6 ± 46.4 min.
  • Prompt diuresis occurred in 88 patients, while three had delayed graft function (one live donor and two deceased donors), and one graft loss was noted.
  • Paediatric and deceased donor RAKTs demonstrated favorable outcomes, with an average serum creatinine of 1.2 ± 0.8 mg/dL at 1 year and a graft survival rate of 98.9% at 2 years.
  • RAKT was found to be a safe and effective alternative to open kidney transplantation when performed by experienced surgeons.
  • The study extended RAKT indications to deceased donor, pediatric, and complex cases, emphasizing management of uncommon complications and learning curve considerations.

Statistics:

  • Mean warm ischemia time: 3.6 ± 1.8 min
  • Mean cold ischemia time: 48.4 ± 12.4 min
  • Total operative time: 258.6 ± 46.4 min
  • Percent of patients with prompt diuresis: 88%
  • Number of patients with delayed graft function: 3
  • Number of graft losses: 1
  • Average serum creatinine at 1 year: 1.2 ± 0.8 mg/dL
  • Graft survival rate at 2 years: 98.9%

Sources:

  • Journal of Robotic Surgery, 2025;19(1):685
  • NewsRx, Research Conducted at Fortis Hospitals Has Provided New Information about Ischemia (Robotic assisted kidney transplantation and its nuances: experience of a high-volume tertiary care centre). Pediatrics Week. November 1, 2025; p 1454.