Bilateral Robotic Nephrectomy in a Pediatric Female Patient: A Case Report

Abstract

Background: We present a report of a robotic bilateral native nephrectomy (BNN) performed on a pediatric patient awaiting kidney transplantation. We describe this rarely performed minimally invasive procedure, especially in the pediatric population. Case Summary: The procedure was performed on a six-year-old girl suffering from worsening kidney function secondary to focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). The patient's disease was refractory to all medical management and incurred many complications throughout her course. Because of the complicated course and worsening proteinuria, it was decided to perform a robotic BNN while the patient awaited kidney transplantation. Conclusion: Heavy proteinuria carries a greater risk of severe complications in children with FSGS. Synchronized BNN has significantly reduced these risks, specifically thromboembolisms. In addition, these children could benefit from implementing robotic-assisted BNN with the techniques described. Minimally invasive robotic surgery provides a feasible approach to managing this problematic clinical condition.