Robot-assisted partial nephrectomy using the novel Hugo™ RAS system: Feasibility, setting and perioperative outcomes of the first off-clamp series

Introduction: Hugo Robot-Assisted Surgery (RAS) System has been conceived with enhanced modularity but its role for nephron-sparing surgery setting still remains poorly explored. We aimed to describe our experience in robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) with a three-arms setting for the first off-clamp series using the new Hugo RAS System.

Methods: Patients were placed on an extended flank position at the margin of the surgical bed with a slightly flexion (45°). The first 11 mm robotic trocar (camera port) was placed along the pararectal line 14 ± 2 cm far from the umbilicus. The pneumoperitoneum was then induced through the AirSeal system (SurgiQuest, Milford, Connecticut, USA©). Two more 8 mm operative robotic ports were placed under direct vision, either 8 ± 1 cm far from optic's port. Two 12 mm laparoscopic ports for bed-assistant were placed between robotic ports. Monopolar curved shears, fenestrated grasper, and large needle driver were used in a three-instruments configuration.

Results: Off-clamp RAPN was successfully performed in seven patients with cT1 renal masses using a trans-peritoneal route. Median port placement and docking time was 6 min (IQR, 4-8 min). Hemostasis was achieved through renorraphy using a single transfix stitch with sliding clips technique. There was no need for additional ports placement. No intraoperative complications occurred, no clashing of robotic instruments or between the robotic arms was observed. No technical failures of the system occurred. Median console time was 83 min (IQR, 68-115 min). Median estimated blood loss were 200 ml (IQR, 50-400 ml). All patients were discharged between post-operative day 2 and 3, without the need of hospital readmission. No complications were recorded within the first 30 post-operative days.

Conclusions: We performed the first series of off-clamp RAPN using the novel HUGO RAS System. This novel robotic platform showed an easy-friendly docking system, providing excellent perioperative outcomes with a simple three-arms configuration.