The current landscape of single-port robotic surgery in urology.
Publication Title
Nat Rev Urol
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
9-2-2025
Keywords
california; sjci; santa monica
Abstract
The advent of the purpose-built da Vinci single-port robotic platform marks a pivotal advancement in minimally invasive urological surgery. Designed to overcome the ergonomic and technical limitations of prior single-site approaches, the single-port system enables complex procedures through a single incision, with enhanced dexterity, optimized use of confined spaces and improved cosmetic and peri-operative outcomes. The single-port system has been increasingly used across a wide range of urological indications, including robot-assisted radical prostatectomy, partial nephrectomy, nephroureterectomy and reconstructive surgeries such as pyeloplasty and ureteral re-implantation. Innovative access strategies, such as the single-port transvesical and low anterior access approaches, have facilitated regionalized and multi-quadrant surgeries without the need for repositioning or robot re-docking. These advances have translated into reduced morbidity, faster recovery and increased feasibility of opioid-sparing, same-day discharge protocols. As surgical expertise deepens and technology evolves, the single-port robotic platform stands as a refinement of minimally invasive surgery, and also as a potential paradigm shift in urological practice.
Specialty/Research Institute
Urology
DOI
10.1038/s41585-025-01081-z
