Minimally Invasive & Robotic Urologic Surgery

Urologists at the University of Chicago Medicine have performed more robotic urologic surgery procedures than any other program in Illinois.

We are experts in robotic surgery, using the most advanced techniques to treat urinary tract disorders and urologic cancers while sparing patients' urinary and sexual function. Like other minimally invasive procedures, surgeries performed using the robotic da Vinci surgical systems allow patients to return home faster — and with less pain and scarring — than traditional, open surgeries. In addition, robot-assisted techniques provide the operating physician with enhanced visibility and increased range of motion, resulting in fewer complications and better patient outcomes.

Committed to the Best Outcomes

Since 2002, our surgeons have performed more than 5,100 robotic urologic procedures and 200 pediatric robotic urologic surgeries.

As leaders in our field, we are committed to training surgeons around the world. Our robotic surgeons help advance patient care by directing live courses on robotic urologic surgery and annual meetings around the globe.

Robotic Urologic Procedures

Our surgeons are able to perform about 90 percent of all urologic abdominal surgeries using robotic/laparoscopic techniques. Some of the robotic procedures we offer include:

• Radical prostatectomy and lymph node dissection for prostate cancer, including salvage prostatectomy following radiation
• Partial nephrectomy, radical nephrectomy, nephroureteretomy and cryo- and radiofrequency ablation for kidney cancer
• Radical cystectomy for bladder cancer
• Partial bladder resection for benign bladder tumors
• Pyeloplasty for ureteropelvic (UPJ) obstruction
• Adrenalectomy for adrenal tumors
• Cyst ablation and nephrectomy for cystic kidney disease
• Ureterolysis for retroperitoneal fibrosis
• Resection or biopsy for retroperitoneal mass
• Ablation for seminal vesicle cyst

UChicago Medicine urologists were the first to perform many types of robotic procedures, including the first-ever robotic neurogenic bladder reconstruction on a baby. Today, we continue to be at the forefront of robotic treatment approaches and comprehensive patient care.