Abstract
BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to share our experiences with robot-assisted laparoscopic nephrectomy (RALN) for WT in children and to discuss the technical points and indications. METHODS: Patients with WT undergoing RALN between May 2020 and December 2022 were retrospectively analysed. Patient demographics, operative details, postoperative outcomes and follow-up were recorded. RESULTS: A total of 10 patients with WT who underwent RALN were enrolled in this study. The tumour diameter at operation was 70.2 ± 26.1 mm. The median tumour-abdominal volume ratio (TAVR) was 6.8% (range, 1.9%-14.8%). RALN was successfully performed in all the 10 patients without conversion, tumour rupture or operative complications. No local recurrence or death occurred during the follow-up period. CONCLUSION: RALN for the treatment of WT in children appears to be safe and feasible in selected patients. Robotic surgery offers an effective alternative to laparoscopic surgery, appropriately expanding indications when performed by experienced surgeons.