Robotic Pyeloplasty
Robotic pyeloplasty is a minimally invasive surgery used to correct ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) obstruction — a condition where urine flow from the kidney to the ureter is blocked. UPJ is more commonly diagnosed in younger or middle aged patients. The procedure utilises robotic-assisted instruments for enhanced precision, allowing for a smoother recovery and improved outcomes.
Medically reviewed by Dr Ho Siew Hong
Senior Consultant Urologist
MBBS (NUS), FRCS (Edinburgh, Glasgow), FAMS (Urology), Singapore Board Certified Urologist
Robotic pyeloplasty involves the reconstruction of the ureter at the junction with the kidney (renal pelvis) using robotic technology. The da Vinci surgical system provides a high-definition 3D view and enhanced instrument control, improving surgical accuracy. The goal is to relieve obstruction and preserve kidney function.
- Ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) obstruction
- Recurrent flank pain or urinary tract infections
- Worsening kidney function
- Hydronephrosis (swelling of the kidney due to urine build-up)
- Failed previous surgery for UPJ obstruction
- General anaesthesia is administered
- 5-6 small incisions are made for robotic and assistant instruments
- Obstructed segment of the ureter is carefully dissected and removed
- Ureter is reconnected to the renal pelvis using fine sutures
- A temporary internal stent (double J stent) is placed to ensure proper healing
- Enhanced precision and dexterity in tight anatomical spaces
- Smaller incisions, leading to less postoperative pain and scarring
- Reduced blood loss and lower transfusion rates
- Shorter hospital stay and faster return to daily activities
- Improved preservation of healthy kidney tissue and function
- Hospital stay of 2-3 days
- Return to light activity in 1–2 weeks
- Full recovery expected within 4–6 weeks
- Stent is removed after 4–6 weeks in the clinic
- Follow-up imaging (e.g. ultrasound or MAG3 renal scan) at 3 months to assess success
- Long term follow up is required
- Bleeding or infection at surgical site
- Urine leakage or persistent obstruction
- Injury to surrounding structures
- Displacement of the ureteric stent
- Long term recurrence of obstruction/stricture
Personalised Kidney Care Starts Here
Each patient’s condition is unique. Dr Ho Siew Hong provides tailored treatment plans using advanced laparoscopic and robotic techniques to optimise kidney outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Symptoms of flank (back) pain which may not be very intense, kidney infection, kidney stones.
Ultrasound or CT scan will show obstruction in kidney. The diagnosis is confirmed by MAG 3 scan, which is a radionuclide scan.
Robotic pyeloplasty has a success rate of over 90% in relieving UPJ obstruction and relapse rates are very low.
No. Stent removal is done in the clinic or Endoscopy Centre and is usually quick and well-tolerated.
In most cases the kidney function will improve or at least preserved at the current level.
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